Machu Picchu FAQ: What is the Huayna Picchu?

Huayna Picchu or Wayna Picchu (Young Peak in Quechua) is the mountain that rises over Machu Picchu -and that you can see in every typical Machu Picchu postcard.

The peak of Huayna Picchu is about 2720m above sea level, or about 360m higher than Machu Picchu. There is a trail to the top of the mountain, built by the Incas, as well as terraces for agricultural purposes and a temple made of stonemasonry, known as the Temple of the Moon.

The trail to Huayna Picchu's top is open to visitors, though only 400 visits are allowed daily (visitors are required to sign in by 1pm). The climb takes approximately one hour, and includes some steep and slippery stretches (which is why it can be closed during heavy rainfall).

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