Huayna Picchu, or a young mountain in Spanish, is the steep natural formation on the side of Machu Picchu, the sacred city. It has 1700 m above sea level and its foot is surrounded by the Urubamba River; It is by far one of the most visited tourist destinations in Peru.
One of the main reasons is the spectacular panoramic view. From there you can see the Andean mountains, the glorious ruins of Machupicchu, and the meandering Urubamba River.
In addition, it has buildings on the top, adjacent to its cliffs. Some are presumed to have been used for cultivating sacred plants. You can also find the remains of a temple; it is not known whether this construction was not completed or was destroyed.
Huayna Picchu, the true adventure
You might think that the 2430 m high of Machu Picchu is too much, but how about 2700 m? The height of Huayna Picchu, a mountain that serves as the backdrop in almost all the photos of Machu Picchu.
This steep formation exerts, like the citadel, an indescribable fascination on tourists. Despite the elevation of Huayna Picchu, many visitors insist on climbing it.
The path to Wayna Picchu is not easy, but it is not dangerous either; although it is not recommended for people with a fear of heights. This is due to the steepness of the route, which can cause vertigo due to the cliffs and the inclination of the stairs.
Far from scaring tourists, the elevation of Huayna Picchu attracts more visitors every year. Everyone agrees that, although it is scary, if the security measures are respected there is no danger. Hence the importance of having the guidance and accompaniment of personnel with the required experience and professionalism.
Who can climb the new mountain Huayna Picchu?
Even though it has been said that it is not a really dangerous adventure, not everyone can climb the mountain. Climbing is prohibited for:
- Children under 12 years of age.
- Seniors who are not authorized by a doctor.
- People with heart problems.
- Those who suffer from vertigo are not prohibited from climbing but are advised not to do so.
It is not advisable to make this visit without the support of tour guides and specialized personnel. At Andean Explorer’s Cusco, we are professionals with the experience and knowledge necessary to guarantee you an unforgettable adventure. We not only guarantee the complete enjoyment of our historical and natural heritage but also your safety and that of yours.
Reservations to go to Huayna Picchu
If you plan to include this mountain in your itinerary, you should know that the only way to visit it is by booking in advance. The demand for tickets to Machupicchu + Huayna Picchu is high, especially in high seasons. Therefore, reservations are made up to 6 months in advance.
To facilitate the access of all tourists to the mountain, there are visiting hours for groups of 200 people. Both groups first visit the sacred citadel of the Incas and then climb the mountain. The first group does it from 7 to 8 in the morning and the second, from 10 to 11.
The temple of the moon
As if that were not enough, the unparalleled view offered by the mountain keeps a ceremonial construction inside. This temple hidden in a cavern is a work of art worth admiring. Its finishes are refined and are complemented by a sculpted stone throne. It is said that this construction contained niches to bury their mummies.
Mantu Picchu, on the way to the top
Sightseeing is not just about visiting the tourist sites and the nature that surrounds them; It is about enjoying good local food and comfortable rest. That is why Mantu Picchu or Mantu Boutique is so important to offer a complete experience to travelers.
It is located in Aguas Calientes, 6 km from Huayna Picchu and 7 km from Machu Picchu. Here travelers have a restaurant, good rooms with wifi, tv and a work area. In addition, adventurers can enjoy the hot springs, Wiñaywayna Park, and the craft market.
How to preserve the Inca legacy and the ecosystem
Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu are treasures of humanity; tourism practice must be carried out in adherence to the concepts of ecology and sustainability. Its delicate balance must be preserved for the good of all. Therefore, here we offer you some tips so that, in addition to taking care of our cultural and historical heritage, you take care of your safety:
- Don’t stay on the trails. Some may deteriorate over time and it may be risky to remain in them.
- Don’t get too close to the flames. Respect their space, they are at home and you are the visitor.
- Don’t throw waste. The Cusco philosophy of tourism is based on ecology. Try to keep your impact on the environment light.
- Don’t give in to the temptation to touch the walls. Rubbing can cause wear and tear on buildings, as well as introducing harmful biochemicals to the surface. Don’t take their rocks as souvenirs either. Craft sales have beautiful creations that you can purchase at reasonable prices.
Mystique of service
Tourism is not just another economic activity. It is a practice inextricably linked to ethics and morals. Being a tourist service provider entails ethical behavior in accordance with the responsibility we have decided to assume.
At Andean Explorer`s we have that mystique of indispensable service to establish ourselves as proud custodians of the Inca legacy in Huayna Picchu. We have the experience, the personnel, and the firmness necessary to fully assume this task. Do you want to know about our young mountain? Contact us, we are at your disposal.
