Climbing Huayna Picchu and other Machu Picchu, Peru Off The Beaten Path Tips

Machu Picchu in Quechua means "ancient peak" and Huayna Picchu means “young peak”.

Huaya Picchu is in fact that large peak forming the backdrop to the ruins. It’s a bit of a steep trek on a stony path (there go those Incas again with their stones!), but the view from the top is absolutely worth it. You’ll be treated to a completely different perspective of the ruins and their layout.

Try to make enough time to do this hike up Huayna Picchu, as it will take about an hour each way to climb up and down. If you can, take a small pair of binoculars with you.

You’ll find there aren’t too many people climbing Huayna Picchu - I think many are intimidated by it. There’s a “guest book” that you must sign before you cross over from the vicinity of the ruins into the area that frames the foot of Huayna Picchu. Be sure to leave evidence that you "vini, vidi, vinci".

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