Book the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket, so you will have to organize your time
If you booked months in advance and secured one of the coveted Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu tickets, here’s what you need to do upon arriving in Aguas Calientes. The trails of Huayna Picchu Mountain, its stone stairways, intricate Incan structures, and breathtaking views make it one of the most incredible short hikes in the world. Upon completing the trek, you will enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye view of Machu Picchu.
- How to organize the trip: Is it necessary to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes?
- How to plan your trip if staying the night before in Cusco?
- Key details for both entry times from Machu Picchu Pueblo
- An alternative for those who couldn’t get a Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket
- Frequently Asked Questions
View of the Inca citadel from Huayna Picchu
How to organize the trip: Is it necessary to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes?
Machu Picchu Pueblo, or Aguas Calientes is the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. The best recommendation is to stay overnight in this town to avoid waking up extremely early and leaving Cusco at dawn. This applies to both available entry schedules, as they are in the early morning, making a same-day trip from Cusco challenging.
The first entry time for Huayna Picchu starts with a visit to Machu Picchu at 7:00 AM, while the second allows visitors to enter the Inca citadel at 9:00 AM. The tour of the citadel lasts approximately one hour. This means that the hike up Huayna Picchu begins an hour after your entry to Machu Picchu.
The paths through the citadel and the hike up Huayna Picchu are well-marked. However, it is always important to remain cautious during the hike, especially in areas with steep inclines or cliffs near the trails. Additionally, avoid rushing or moving too quickly. It is recommended to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and take short breaks as needed. There is no need for excessive physical exertion to reach the top quickly. The allotted time allows for a relaxed and enjoyable hike.
How Is the Huayna Picchu Ascent at 7:00 AM?
To follow this schedule, you should stay overnight in Machu Picchu Pueblo so that you can start your activities early without having to wake up extremely early. If you spend the night in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo, you can follow this itinerary. Keep in mind that the times are approximate and should be adjusted accordingly:
| Itinerary for the Huayna Picchu Ascent from Aguas Calientes | |
|---|---|
| Breakfast (5:30 – 6:15 AM) | It is advisable to start the day’s activities even earlier if possible. |
| Boarding the Ecological Buses (6:15 – 6:30 AM) | Machu Picchu Pueblo is a small town, so reaching the bus station takes only a few minutes. |
| Bus Ride to Machu Picchu (6:30 – 7:00 AM) | Buses do not have fixed departure times; they leave based on availability. The journey takes less than 30 minutes. |
| Entry to Machu Picchu (7:00 AM) | Arriving at this time allows for a smooth entry. Remember to bring your passport or identification document. |
| Tour of Machu Picchu (7:00 – 8:00 AM) | The tour covers the lower sector of Machu Picchu, taking approximately one hour. You will see large open terraces and several Incan temples. |
| Entry to Huayna Picchu (8:00 AM) | Before starting the hike, visitors must register their names and entry times in the visitor log. The entrance ticket must also be presented. |
| Huayna Picchu Ascent (8:00 – 9:30 AM) | The hike follows a zigzagging path along the mountain’s edge, which is part of the extensive Inca Trail (Qhapaq Ñan). At the summit, you will find several Incan structures. |
| Huayna Picchu Descent (9:30 – 10:30 AM) | After taking some photos of the summit and Machu Picchu’s panoramic views, visitors begin the descent, which is much easier than the ascent. |
| Re-entry to Machu Picchu (10:30 AM) | At the checkpoint, visitors must register their exit time and personal details for safety purposes. |
| Further Exploration of Machu Picchu (10:30 – 11:30 AM) | The tour continues through the Inca citadel, passing by the Temple of the Condor and large open terraces. It is recommended to explore at a relaxed pace. |
| Return to Machu Picchu Pueblo (11:30 AM – 12:00 PM) | The best option is to take the ecological buses back to the town. Upon arrival, it will be the perfect time to find a delicious lunch. |
| Lunch Break (12:00 – 2:00 PM) | You can choose a meal that suits your taste and budget. There are many options, from affordable to high-end, all offering a great taste of Peruvian cuisine. |
| Free Time (2:00 – 4:00 PM) | This is a great opportunity to explore the town, admire Incan and Andean cosmology-inspired sculptures, and enjoy the atmosphere before heading to the train station. |
| Return to Cusco (Varies by availability) | From here, your journey back to Cusco depends on your chosen train schedule. The trip usually takes about 5 hours. |
Map of the ascent to Huayna Picchu mountain with approximate timetables
How to plan your trip if staying the night before in Cusco?
The most recommended option is not to stay overnight in Cusco. This is because, to reach either of the available schedules, you will need to wake up early and start activities at 3:00 AM. If that is not an issue, you can make the trip without complications. However, if you think it might be inconvenient, it is best to stay overnight in Machu Picchu Pueblo and begin activities around 6:00 AM.
While in Cusco, you can also explore other historically rich sites. Among these, you can take the Cusco City Tour, which includes visits to Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Tambomachay, Pucapucara, as well as Coricancha and Cusco Cathedral.
Another highly recommended destination is the Sacred Valley of the Incas. There, you can visit the archaeological sites of Písac, Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. Exploring this region is a rewarding experience, as it allows you to understand why it is called the Sacred Valley—thanks to its warm climate, stunning landscapes, and extensive cornfields.
For all these reasons, many travelers prefer to start their journey from Cusco, as they can explore other places beforehand. To make the trip from Cusco easier when planning to visit Huayna Picchu, it is recommended to follow the itinerary below, which details departure from Cusco. It is also advisable to book your Huayna Picchu entry ticket for the 9:00 AM schedule.
| Itinerary for the Ascent to Huayna Picchu from Cusco or a One-Day Trip | |
|---|---|
| Start of Activities (03:00 AM) | It is important to prepare a backpack with snacks and drinks for this trip. If you think you need more time to get ready, start 30 minutes earlier. |
| Boarding the Train (03:20 AM) | The first service departing from Cusco is operated by PeruRail. The journey starts with a bus ride to Ollantaytambo, departing at 03:20 AM. It is essential to arrive a few minutes early to board and get settled properly. |
| Bus Ride to Ollantaytambo (03:20 – 6:00 AM) | The trip is on a bimodal service, starting with a bus ride. The bus is spacious and comfortable. You may rest during the journey, as there will be little visibility of the landscapes. The estimated arrival time in Ollantaytambo is before 6:00 AM. |
| Train Ride to Machu Picchu Pueblo (6:00 – 07:40 AM) | At Ollantaytambo station, during the transfer, you can have a light breakfast before boarding the train. The train at this schedule is the Expedition, which offers a comfortable yet simple journey. Snacks are also available for purchase onboard. |
| Arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo (07:40 AM) | You will arrive at the Machu Picchu Pueblo train station, where you will find restrooms and begin your adventure. |
| Brief Time for Breakfast (7:50 – 8:20 AM) | You can have a revitalizing breakfast in the Plaza de Armas of Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you will find various options. It is also conveniently close to the bus station. |
| Boarding the Ecological Buses (8:20 – 8:30 AM) | After breakfast, it is recommended to take the ecological buses for the ascent. The bus station is nearby, making it easy to reach. |
| Bus Ride to Machu Picchu (8:30 – 9:00 AM) | The trip takes less than 30 minutes. Buses do not have fixed departure times; they operate based on availability. |
| Entry to Machu Picchu (9:00 AM) | It is estimated that you will arrive during the second entry time. Remember to bring your ID or passport. |
| Tour of Machu Picchu (9:00 – 10:00 AM) | The tour takes place in the lower sector of Machu Picchu and lasts about an hour. The route is easy and allows you to appreciate the vast terraces and some of the Inca temples. |
| Entry to Huayna Picchu (10:00 AM) | Before starting the hike, visitors must register in the visitor logbook, including the entry time and their names. The entry ticket must also be presented. |
| Ascent to Huayna Picchu (10:00 – 11:30 AM) | The hike follows a zigzagging path along the edge of the mountain, which is part of the extensive Inca Trail or Qhapaq Ñan. Upon reaching the summit, visitors will find several Inca constructions. |
| Descent from Huayna Picchu (11:30 AM – 12:30 PM) | After taking some photos at the summit with panoramic views of Machu Picchu, the descent begins. It is much easier than the ascent. |
| Re-entry to Machu Picchu (12:30 PM) | After the hike, you will pass through the control point again, where you must register your exit time for security reasons. |
| New Tour of Machu Picchu (12:30 – 1:30 PM) | The tour continues through the Inca citadel, this time passing near the Temple of the Condor and more expansive terraces. It is recommended to explore at a relaxed pace. |
| Return to Machu Picchu Pueblo (1:30 – 2:00 PM) | Before descending, you may visit the Tinkuy restaurant, which offers a buffet lunch. Otherwise, continue with your return. Upon arrival in the town, you will find multiple dining options. |
| Time for Lunch (2:00 – 4:00 PM) | You can choose the meal that best suits your preferences. There are various options, from budget-friendly to high-end, all showcasing the best of Peruvian cuisine. |
| Free Time (Depending on return schedule) | Free time will depend on the departure time of your return train. It is crucial to manage your schedule well and arrive at the train station 30 minutes early to board without issues. |
| Return to Cusco | The journey back to Cusco usually takes around 5 hours. Plan accordingly, ensuring you have transportation arranged to take you to your hotel upon arrival. |
About Machu Picchu’s Ecological Buses
To reach the archaeological site of Machu Picchu, it is important to note that ecological buses are available. These buses provide transportation to the entrance of Machu Picchu and use liquefied gas as an energy source. This sustainable energy consumption helps Machu Picchu maintain its status as the world’s only Carbon Neutral destination. Regarding the buses, it is recommended to board them 30 minutes before your scheduled entry time, as this is the approximate duration of the trip.
Key details for both entry times from Machu Picchu Pueblo
If You Are Entering Huayna Picchu with the First Group
- This first group allows entry to Machu Picchu at 7:00 AM.
- Therefore, you must start your activities before 6:00 AM.
- This schedule is ideal if you spent the night in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- If so, you will most likely have breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, you must take the ecological buses.
- You may encounter some fog upon entering Machu Picchu, especially if traveling during the rainy season (November to March).
- Do not forget to pack a small backpack with water, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
If You Are Entering Huayna Picchu with the Second Group
- The second entry time begins at 9:00 AM.
- This schedule is much more convenient if you stay overnight in Aguas Calientes.
- However, you can still visit in a single day by waking up early and taking the first train from Cusco.
- In any case, you must board the ecological buses to reach Machu Picchu with enough energy to begin the hike.
- During this schedule, you will encounter less fog but a much brighter sun.
- It is recommended to apply sunscreen and carry a backpack with mosquito repellent, water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Tourist climbing Huayna Picchu via stone steps
An alternative for those who couldn’t get a Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket
If you were unable to reserve one of the 400 available tickets to climb Huayna Picchu, we recommend choosing the alternative Machu Picchu + Mountain ticket. With this ticket, you can access not only the Inca city of Machu Picchu but also the trails leading to Machu Picchu Mountain.
View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How can I get tickets for Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu?
Tickets can be purchased online through the official website of the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. It is recommended to buy them in advance, as the number of daily visitors is limited to only 400 tickets.
2) What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so there will be more visitors.
3) How much time is needed to explore Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu?
A typical Machu Picchu tour lasts around 2-3 hours. If you plan to climb Huayna Picchu, add an additional 2 hours for the ascent and descent.
4) Do I need a guide to visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu?
While not mandatory, hiring a guide is recommended to better understand the history and details of the site, especially during the tour of the Inca city. Tour guides can be hired at the entrance or booked in advance through travel agencies.
5) What should I bring for my visit to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu?
It is essential to bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and a hat. Hiking shoes are also advisable if you plan to climb Huayna Picchu.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Luana F.“A wonderful place full of energy“
“The wayna is a magical place full of energy. I am not a person of great physical condition, on the contrary, I am quite sedentary, but I climbed the wayna (or huayna), without any problem up to the top. Just climb at your own pace, go slowly if you have to, but don't worry, you'll get there. At the top, the views are incredible, some of the most incredible I have ever seen in my life. The only way you can't do it is if you don't book tickets in advance.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 18, 2025