The Huayna Picchu hike in Peru can be a bit challenging and scary at times, but it’s hands down one of the best things to do in Machu Picchu, the legendary lost city of the Incas.

This is a bucket list hiking trail that takes you to the top of Wayna Picchu (the iconic mountain behind Machu Picchu), where you can see original Inca buildings and enjoy panoramic views.

Don’t be too scared by the nickname — although these have been dubbed the ‘stairs of death’ (for their steepness and narrowness), there have been very few accidents here over the years. Overall, it’s quite safe as long as you remain cautious.

This travel guide will explain how to get to Huayna Picchu mountain, how to safely hike the ‘stairs of death’, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Huayna Picchu: Quick Facts

• Distance: 4 kilometers (2.5 mi) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 305 meters (1,000 ft)
• Top Elevation: 2,693 meters (8,835 ft)
• Duration: 2 – 3 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

What Does Huayna Picchu Mean?

The name ‘Wayna Picchu’ comes from the Quechua language, meaning ‘young mountain’ (‘wayna’ is young and ‘picchu’ is mountain). An alternative spelling for the same name is ‘Huayna Picchu,’ which is more commonly used online today.

Where Is It?

Huayna Picchu is the mountain located behind the famous Machu Picchu citadel in Cusco, Peru, which was home to the Incas in the 15th century. This mountain is sometimes confused with Montana Machu Picchu, which is another nearby peak you can hike. However, Huayna is the iconic mountain you see directly behind the ruins when you first enter the citadel.

To reach Huayna Picchu and start the hike, you first walk through the ruins of Machu Picchu, since the trail starts on the north side of the park.

Huayna Picchu Hike: What To Expect

The Huayna Picchu hike is a scenic trail that takes you up a jungle-covered mountainside on stone stairways built by the medieval Inca empire.

It’s a bit challenging but entirely non-technical, and fit hikers can reach the top of the mountain in 1 hour or less. The steepest staircases are at the end, near the summit.

In spite of its difficulty, this trail is in high demand and limited to only 400 hikers per day, so it often requires several months’ advance planning to secure a spot.

The details below will explain each part of the hike and what to expect. It’s an unforgettable experience!

• Trail Beginning

Scenery starts almost immediately on the Huayna Picchu hike, providing clear views of Putucusi mountain and the Urubamba river, framed by dramatic green peaks in the distance.

From here on, there is only one path leading to the top of Huayna Picchu, with many other hikers headed in the same direction, so you won’t get lost.

The remainder of the hike is an uphill trek on Inca stone stairways, where many switchbacks have enough plant cover to provide shade from the sun.

While the stone steps aren’t in perfect condition, they still help make the hike easier compared to those without stairways.

• Inca Buildings

After about 20 to 30 minutes of hiking, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Machu Picchu citadel in the distance, reminding you of your altitude!

At this point, the stairway becomes steeper and narrower with a steel cable for added balance. The steps are secure enough, but their small size can feel awkward.

You’ll also encounter the first Inca buildings and terraces along the path, believed to have been inhabited by the priests of Machu Picchu.

Many of these Inca structures are open to the public for exploration, and a few have windows with stunning views of the Andes mountains.

Although we wanted to explore these fascinating ruins longer, our excitement drove us onward to the grand finale of the hike — the Huayna Picchu ‘Stairs of Death’ and the final summit!

• Machu Picchu Stairs of Death

It’s time for the ‘stairs of death’! This epic stone staircase presents your final challenge before reaching the summit of Huayna Picchu mountain.

Despite the alarming name, you’re not in imminent danger here. The path is adequately wide, although the views can be dizzying!

There are steep drop-offs, but these are not as close as they appear. Even if you were to fall, you would land on a grassy terrace with plenty of space.

The total number of steps is unknown, but many are irregularly shaped and quite short, so your entire foot may not fit on them at times.

Traffic on the stairway flows in one direction (up), with several spots to step aside and allow other hikers to pass, so there’s no need to rush through it.

These stairs were arguably my favorite part of the Huayna Picchu hike. We spent nearly an hour absorbing the views and trying to capture the vertigo-inducing scenery in photographs.

• Huayna Picchu Summit

After a brief walk past the last stone step, you reach the summit of Huayna Picchu mountain!

The peak stands at an elevation of 2,693 meters (8,835 ft) and provides breathtaking views of Machu Picchu and the winding bus road leading to the citadel.

Surrounded by the Andes mountains, you may even spot Huchuy Picchu mountain (which appears small below) and the striking peak of Montana Machu Picchu.

In my opinion, this spot offers some of the best views in Peru, and if you arrive during peak times, you might have to wait in line for photo opportunities.

Exercise caution at the mountain’s summit as there are steep drop-offs to navigate. Rangers are usually on duty to ensure safety remains a priority.

• Temple of the Moon

Shortly after reaching the Huayna Picchu summit, look for a spur trail that leads around the backside of the mountain.

This pathway leads to the Temple of the Moon (Huaca de la Luna), an ancient ceremonial temple inside a cave that may have housed mummies in antiquity.

This intriguing cave temple is an optional detour from the main path at Huayna Picchu, and though it’s not always open to hikers, it’s worth the visit if accessible. Budget an additional 2 hours for total hiking time if you choose to explore this side trail.

• The Tunnel

On the way down from the Huayna Picchu summit, there’s a short, narrow tunnel to cross before returning to the main trail.

This entrance is quite small, requiring you to remove your backpack and crawl at times. It’s a unique feature of the hike that adds to the adventure.

After passing through this tunnel, the path loops back to the original trail, allowing you to descend back to the start of the Huayna Picchu hike.

Huayna Picchu Difficulty

This hike is challenging, yet it’s not extremely hard or perilous. It’s akin to utilizing a stairmaster, rather than tackling a via ferrata. We expected a greater challenge based on online descriptions.

The main difficulty at Huayna Picchu is the steepness of the stairs coupled with altitude, which can make breathing feel harder. However, if you’ve acclimatized for a few days in Peru, altitude may not pose a significant issue.

If you want to prepare for this hike, consider doing stair climbs!

Is Huayna Picchu Safe?

Huayna Picchu is generally a safe hike if you exercise caution. Nonetheless, I wouldn’t advise it for young children, unfit older adults, or anyone uncomfortable with heights.

Safety has improved in recent years. Previously, the loop section near the summit was hiked in the opposite direction, requiring hikers to descend the ‘stairs of death’ instead of ascending. This setup was understandably scarier!

Each day, hundreds of people successfully hike the mountain, and accidents are rare. No technical skills are necessary to accomplish the hike, only a good fitness level.

This hike may not be for everyone, but if you appreciate adventure, photography, and adrenaline, then make sure to incorporate it into your Peru bucket list!

Wayna Picchu Accidents & Deaths

The internet is filled with exaggerated claims about the death rate at Wayna Picchu, but many of these accounts appear inaccurate.

Nonetheless, there have been a few confirmed accidents:

• In 1997, a 68-year-old American tourist fell and died near the summit of the Huayna Picchu hike. (Source: UPI)
• In 2004, a Russian tourist tragically died after being struck by lightning on the mountain. (Source: Washington Post)
• In 2009, a 66-year-old American tourist passed away due to “massive internal injuries” after falling from “a mountain above Machu Picchu,” though the specifics remain unclear. (Source: ABA Journal)
• In 2014, a Belgian tourist reportedly perished on the Huayna Picchu hike, but additional details remain elusive. (Source: Washington Post)
• In 2016, a German tourist fell 200 meters and died while ‘jumping in the air’ for a stunt photo near a cliff edge. Again, specifics on the location remain ambiguous. (Source: NY Daily News)

Many other deaths at Machu Picchu have occurred over the years, but most incidents transpired on the Inca Trail or within the citadel itself, with extraordinary circumstances involved.

The primary causes of fatalities at Machu Picchu over the years have included heart attacks, falls, lightning strikes, rockfalls, and selfie-related accidents — seemingly in that order.

These incidents are unfortunate, yet keep in mind that millions visit Machu Picchu yearly, with typically zero deaths per annum at both Machu and Huayna Picchu.

How To Safely Hike Huayna Picchu

To minimize risks and ensure your safety at Huayna Picchu, consider the following:

As illustrated by the accounts mentioned earlier, it’s essential to respect the mountain. Goofing off or attempting selfies near cliff edges can make a hike like this dangerous.

Wear appropriate footwear, avoid hiking during thunderstorms, and don’t attempt trails beyond your physical capabilities.

If unsure, think about hiring a private tour guide to enhance your experience. An experienced guide can provide insights and assistance along the way.

What To Bring

• Shoes. This trail is not suitable for flip flops. Hiking boots are ideal, but shoes with good grip are essential for Wayna Picchu.
• Water. Aim to carry at least 1 liter of water per person. Staying hydrated at higher altitudes is important.
• Snacks. We brought granola bars and shared them at the mountain’s peak after climbing the stairs.
• Sunscreen. The sun’s intensity is heightened by altitude, so bring sunscreen and a hat to prevent burns.
• Poncho. A raincoat is wise to have, especially if you visit during the rainy season.
• Bug Spray. We encountered a few bug bites, so repellant could be beneficial.

Huayna Picchu Tickets: How To Get Them

A permit is required to hike Wayna Picchu, and only 400 permits are issued each day, reducing congestion on the trail. These can only be purchased online.

This regulation, combined with the trail’s immense popularity, means you will likely need to secure your tickets several months in advance, as they tend to sell out.

Visit the official Machu Picchu ticket website (https://tuboleto.cultura.pe), or the GetYourGuide tour website for reservations. The official site is somewhat cheaper, but it’s entirely in Spanish and can be confusing.

The advantage of booking with GetYourGuide is that tickets are fully refundable if you change your mind before the hike. In our experience, the official Machu Picchu website is sometimes stingy with refunds, while GYG is user-friendly and in English.

Both websites are reliable for ticket purchases. A local tour guide isn’t necessary for the hike; just secure your tickets. However, you can always hire a guide at the entrance of Machu Picchu for added context and assistance.

Hours & Fees

The entire Machu Picchu area is open from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.

While stays are supposedly limited to a few hours, enforcement is lax, allowing you to remain on-site as long as you behave accordingly.

For the Huayna Picchu hike, tickets are divided into four entry times to alleviate trail congestion. Each time slot accommodates 100 tickets (400 total per day).

Choose a time slot that fits your schedule, but remember it only affects your entry time. Once you’re past the control gate for Huayna Picchu, you’re free to stay for as long as you like.

The current adult ticket price for Huayna Picchu is 200 soles (~$52 USD) as of 2024. This grants you entry to the mountain and also Circuit 4 of the Machu Picchu ruins, with students and minors (ages 3-17) receiving a 50 percent discount.

How To Get To Huayna Picchu Mountain

The hiking trail for Huayna Picchu is situated on the north side of the Machu Picchu citadel, accessible through a control gate that you also pass to reach the Huchuy Picchu hike.

The route map above offers a general guideline, yet be prepared to inquire with staff for directions, as it can be slightly tricky to navigate in a rush.

Arrive at the main entrance gate of Machu Picchu at least 1 hour prior to your designated entry time on your hiking ticket. Expect possible lines at the entrance, along with a walk of 15-30 minutes from the citadel’s starting point to the Huayna Picchu control gate.

This step is crucial since arriving late means risking your tickets. The staff is quite strict and won’t permit entry at Huayna Picchu if you’re even a minute late according to your printed hiking ticket.

After reaching the control gate, you’ll need to sign a guest list (before and after the hike) in case any hiker goes missing on the mountain.

From there, the trail is well-marked with signs directing you to Huayna Picchu, which diverges from the path to Huchuy Picchu. At this point, navigation becomes relatively simple.

Is Wayna Picchu Worth It?

Absolutely! This hike is worth every moment!

It offers a remarkable blend of scenery, history, excitement, and difficulty. We thoroughly enjoyed this hike, and I hope to repeat it someday. The experience feels like a page out of Indiana Jones.

Moreover, it’s gratifying to look at the iconic photos of Machu Picchu and realize you’ve hiked the mountain directly behind it.

When To Hike Wayna Picchu

Typically, the best period for hikes at Machu Picchu lies during Peru’s dry season from May to October. The days tend to be sunnier with considerably less rain.

Nonetheless, don’t completely rule out the rainy season. We completed this hike and others in January with pleasant weather. Rain usually falls in the afternoons or evenings, so it’s beneficial to carry a poncho just in case.

Personally, I believe the most ideal time to climb Huayna Picchu is late morning, as this is usually when the morning mist dissipates, enhancing visibility of the Andes mountains.

Best Machu Picchu Tours

If you’re interested in a prearranged tour for your visit to Machu Picchu, there are several reputable options available online.

GetYourGuide provides full-day tours of Machu Picchu starting from Cusco (offered privately or as part of a group), alongside exciting mountain hikes like Huayna Picchu, which requires advance booking due to its popularity.

We utilized this company for multiple tours and activities in Peru, highly recommending their services!

Machu Picchu Hike List

This hike stands as one of many within the Machu Picchu citadel in Peru.

• Machu Picchu Mountain: The tallest mountain in the area and the most challenging climb, standing at 3,082 meters (10,111 ft).
• Huchuy Picchu Mountain: A shorter, relatively easy hike leading to the peak of a small mountain behind the citadel.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain: This hike, the most famous and spectacular at Machu Picchu, stands at 2,693 meters (8,835 ft), with the challenging ‘Machu Picchu Stairs of Death’ to summit.
• Inca Sun Gate: Known as Inti Punku, this moderate trek leads to a scenic viewpoint at an Inca gate, historically the main entrance to Machu Picchu.
• Inca Bridge: A short and simple detour to view a bridge that once served as a secret back entrance to Machu Picchu.
• Inca Trail: For a grand entrance to Machu Picchu, tackle the Inca Trail. This iconic multi-day trek takes 1-7 days (depending on your starting point) and culminates at the Machu Picchu citadel, following ancient Inca routes.
• Putucusi Mountain: A precarious, unmaintained ladder trail leading to the top of Putucusi, an arrowhead-shaped mountain visible from Machu Picchu. Unfortunately, the main ladder was damaged by severe weather over 4 years ago, making this hike rather infrequent.

Machu Picchu Hotels

Thank you for viewing! I hope you found this travel guide for the ‘stairs of death’ on Huayna Picchu mountain in Peru enjoyable.