Machu Picchu entrance ticket Circuit 3 Huayna Picchu

How long does it take to climb Huayna Picchu?

Huayna Picchu has 2 trails: short trail and long trail. The short trail takes 3 hours round trip to complete the entire hike. This takes into account 1 hour to reach the summit, 30 minutes to take pictures and rest on some of the terraces that give you amazing views of Machupicchu, 1 hour to climb down as well as 30 minutes to compensate for those who need to go slowly due to physical fitness and altitude.

The long trail takes 4.5 hours round trip to complete the entire hike. The long trail is for those who want to visit the Temple of the Moon. This takes into account 1.5 hours to reach the summit, 30 minutes to take pictures and rest on some of the terraces that give you amazing views of Machupicchu, 1.5 hours to climb down, 30 minutes to spend time at the Temple of the moon as well as 30 minutes to compensate for those who go at a slow pace due to physical fitness and altitude

Can I visit Machupicchu after my hike to Huaynapicchu or before

You can visit Machupicchu for about 45 minutes maximum before your hike to Huaynapicchu or for 1 hour after your hike to Huaynapicchu. But the Huaynapicchu ticket only allows you to visit the lower section of Machupicchu (Circuit 4). Machupicchu has 4 circuits. Two in the upper section (circuits 1 and 2) and two other circuits in the lower section (circuits 3 and 4). The best section of Machupicchu is the upper section (Circuits 1 and 2).

Is Huayna Picchu worth it?

Huayna Picchu is worth it if you are seeking to see amazing Inca terraces and Inca ruins that will challenge your imagination as these Inca structures were built right at the edge of the cliff. Additionally, Huayna Picchu will give you great photo opportunities of the Machupicchu main ruins below also known as Machupicchu citadel.

How difficult is Huayna Picchu

Huaynapicchu can be climbed by most people of all ages as long as you have a normal fitness level. There will be areas during the climb that you will need to use both your hands and legs to climb up. It is recommended that you bring gloves to protect you hands as well as non-slip hiking shoes. Even if you are under a normal fitness level, as long as you take your time and have the mindset to reach the summit, most people can do it. Just take your time, let others pass you by and rest along the way. The long trail however, may require a much higher fitness level as it is very demanding due to the steepness of the trail and the increased climbing time. In summary we can say that the short trial difficulty is moderate and the long trail difficulty is challenging.

What time is best to climb Huayna Picchu 7am, 8am, 9am or 10am?

This depends on the type of experience you are looking for. Machupicchu is typically cloudy until 8:30am. Some travelers prefer climbing Huayna Picchu at 7am because when they reach the top, the clouds will be on the summit and it looks like you are literally walking on clouds. An additional benefit of the early morning hours is that the clouds will protect you from the sun as you climb because UV is very high in the Peruvian Andes. Sitting at the summit in one of the Inca view points while you wait for the clouds to dissipate is an amazing experience for many travelers.
There are those however who prefer to climb up after 8am because they prefer to have the best visibility hiking up. This makes it for a much more scenic hike. However UV is very high, so hiking with sun beating on you the entire time needs to be taken into consideration. The 10am hike will allow you to see the Machupicchu citadel more clearly as you climb up.

Do you need a guide for Huayna Picchu?

You do not need a guide to climb Huaynapicchu. The trail is easy to find by simply following the signs. However, it is recommended hiring a tour guide if you want to reach the Temple of the Moon because there is a safety concern to reach this amazing temple. It is also recommended hiring a tour guide if you have children and or you simply need a helping hand to help you in the most physically demanding parts.

Is Huayna Picchu Dangerous?

Huayna Picchu is not dangerous for those who apply simple common sense. As long as you follow the trail with caution, you can safely reach the top without any safety concerns. However, if you suffer from Vertigo or you are scared of heights, this may not be a suitable hike for you. There are some areas where the edge of the cliff is a few feet from the trail and this can be visually impairing for some travelers. For example, there is a section called the stairs of death, not because people have died, in fact, there are no recorded deaths on this section, but simply because these stairs visually gives you the impression that if you misstep you may fall down the cliff.

All Machupicchu tickets are non-transferrable and non-refundable. All Machupicchu tickets are valid only for 1 day, only for the date and times indicated on the ticket. You can NOT re-enter Machupicchu once you exit, so please make sure you are prepared to remain inside the entire time. There are no bathrooms or food allowed inside Machupicchu, so plan accordingly.

Cancellations or refunds of Machu Picchu tickets are not allowed by Peru's Ministerio de Cultura. The Ministry of Culture. You can not change the date of your ticket once is has been issued. No exceptions.