If you entered Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes and you had a good nights sleep and are well rested – or if you entered Machu Picchu from the Inca trail and woke up at 3am to get to the sun gate – you should consider hiking Hyayna Picchu (it’s pronounced Wayna Picchu) for sweeping views of the site (and an elevated heart rate!)
On the right you see Huayna Picchu. Doesn’t it look like an easy hike?
Unfortunately you cannot hike it on a whim as they only allow 400 hikers per day and they sell out quickly (people seem to like paying for pain around here). I suggest you take 2L of water with you and some salty snacks.
After doing 45km I (along with several other hikers from my group) was convinced that this would be a walk in the park. I mean we ascended 1000m in Dead Women’s pass, how hard could this be?
It’s very steep. In fact, some sections are almost vertical where there are ropes to help you. Allow 45 minutes to one hour to get to the top with frequent breaks to catch your breath. Be aware that there are steep cliffs and no safety rails, so be careful.
That’s me on the top showing off the Alpaca Expeditions shirt.
Personally, I think it’s worth it because every time I see a picture of Machu Picchu now and I see Huayna Picchu mountain towering over it, I can say that I got to the highest point! It’s certainly a good challenge though – I don’t think anybody would say it was easy.