Huayna Picchu: everything you need to know about its ascension

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An adventure would not be complete without the pleasurable thrill that comes from discovering a new place and enjoying all the wonders it holds. Huayna Picchu will fulfill all your expectations, as it is a magical place that you must visit.

In today’s post we talk about Huayna Picchu, the mountain with the best views in the world.

Huayna Picchu

Huayna Picchu is the neighbor mountain of Machu Picchu. This mountain also called Wayna Picchu, is one of the hills belonging to the Salkantay massif, in the Peruvian Andes.

This place has archaeological remains that are also related to the main monument. That is, it is a must-do activity on the tour to Machu Picchu if you want to learn all about the history of the Incas and Machu Picchu.

As opposed to Machu Picchu, it means ancient mountain, while Huayna Picchu means young mountain. This is because it is about 300 meters smaller.

It can be said that it is connected in a unique way to the archaeological monument Machu Picchu, because from its top you can observe all the beauty that surrounds the citadel.

Visit to the sacred mountain of Huayna Picchu

Many people, once they have already visited all the places to see in Machu Picchu, decide to climb up to Huayna Picchu, since the best views and the best photographs are obtained from its peak.

It has an altitude of 2,667 meters above sea level, and it is said that due to its strategic location, it served as a watchpoint.

Huayna Picchu is steep and has a lot of vegetation, but it is not complex to climb, people describe the landscape and the journey as really beautiful. The path up the young mountain is narrow and the steps serve as an aid in the ascent.

There is no age that prevents you from living this experience to the fullest, you just have to take some recommendations and prepare for one of the most intense moments of your life.

Climb to Huayna Picchu

There is a path that connects the two mountains called the Huayranas or sacred rocks, starting from the north of the citadel to a point where the vegetation becomes denser. It is not an easy trail, as you must have at least certain physical conditions, but nothing that you have not already overcome on the Inca Trail or on the Salkantay Trek, whichever you have chosen.

It is estimated that the ascent can last 1 hour and the descent 45 minutes, but it will always depend on the physical condition of each person.

After passing through different obstacles, such as a rock which has a narrow passage or the famous stone steps, which lead to a precipice not suitable for those who suffer from vertigo, you will finally reach the summit.

The impressive panoramic view that awaits you at the top will allow you to see all the splendor of the Inca city. It is the perfect moment to posturear, and take the best pictures of your life.

But that’s not all. From the high of Huayna Picchu you can see the entire Sacred Valley, the Vilcanota River, and in the distance, the snow-capped Salkantay.

The air, the landscape, that contact with nature is worth enjoying and is the perfect reward for the best Machu Picchu experience.

What to see in Huayna Picchu?

But that’s not all. Once there, there is a detour that leads to The Temple of the Moon, located at the back of the mountain.

It is a kind of cave that has several constructions. It can be appreciated as if they were doors and windows, however, they are made in the wall itself. Although they are somewhat strange constructions, experts believe that they could be ancient tombs.

Recommendations for the ascent of Huayna Picchu

• If you suffer from vertigo, avoid climbing.
• Because it is a very steep slope, it is not recommended to go with luggage. You can only carry a backpack with little weight.
• Make sure to bring water, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a raincoat in case it rains.
• Wear comfortable clothes and water-resistant hiking shoes.
• Check when purchasing your ticket that it includes the visit to Huayna Picchu as reservations are made several months in advance.
• Listen to all recommendations from your guide and abide by all the rules.
• Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the view is so breathtaking that you won’t be able to let every moment slip away.
• And last but not least, don’t forget to bring your camera.

Did you know the name of this famous mountain so present in the photos of Machu Picchu? Do you dare to walk the path to the top of Huayna Picchu?