Excursion to Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain

Exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and scaling the towering Huayna Picchu Mountain offers an unforgettable adventure for the intrepid traveler. This one-day excursion from Cusco combines the captivating history of the Inca Empire with the thrill of conquering a challenging hike, delivering an enriching experience that blends culture, nature, and breathtaking vistas. Though the trek to the summit may test one’s endurance, the rewards of gazing out over the iconic citadel and surrounding Andean peaks make the effort well worth it. For those seeking an immersive journey into Peru’s legendary past, this excursion promises an unparalleled opportunity to discover the wonders that await.

Key Points

• This excursion offers a one-day experience to visit the iconic Machu Picchu and hike the challenging Huayna Picchu Mountain, providing stunning views of the Inca ruins.
• The tour includes a train ride, bus transfer, guided tour of Machu Picchu, and access to Huayna Picchu, with ample free time in Aguas Calientes for local exploration.
• Participants can enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring architectural wonders like the Temple of the Sun and Inti Watana, while learning about the rich Inca history.
• The excursion features a strenuous 2.5-hour hike to the Huayna Picchu summit at 2,500 meters, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Machu Picchu ruins and Andes mountains.
• Visitors can enjoy the vibrant artisan market of Aguas Calientes, where they can interact with local artisans and purchase handcrafted goods as a memento of the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers an excursion to the iconic Machu Picchu, accompanied by a trek up the Huayna Picchu Mountain.

This one-day experience lasts from morning to afternoon, with a price starting at $600 per person. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no upfront payment required to secure a spot.

The itinerary includes a train ride to Aguas Calientes, a bus transfer to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights include the stunning views from Huayna Picchu and free time to explore the artisan market in Aguas Calientes.

Itinerary

Departing from Cusco, the excursion begins with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, which takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Arriving around 7:00 AM, you will then board a bus to reach the Machu Picchu entrance.

The next part of the itinerary involves hiking the Huayna Picchu Mountain, a 2.5-hour trek that promises stunning views from the summit at 2,500 meters high.

Following the hike, a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu will last around 3 hours, allowing visitors to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The final portion of the day provides almost 5 hours of free time in Aguas Calientes to visit the artisan market and find a place to dine.

Highlights

Stunning views await adventurous travelers from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain, which stands 2,500 meters high.

This renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu, is the main attraction of the tour. Visitors will explore the ancient Inca citadel, taking in its well-preserved structures and learning about its rich history from a knowledgeable guide.

An added highlight is the visit to the artisan market in Aguas Calientes, where travelers can browse local handicrafts and textiles.

With ample free time in Aguas Calientes, guests can enjoy the charming town and enjoy a meal before returning.

Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and return transfer, as well as transportation by minibus or bus.

Travelers will also receive a round trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, which offers the choice of either the Expedition or Voyager train.

A Spanish-speaking guide will accompany the group throughout the tour, providing valuable insights into the history and significance of Machu Picchu.

The tour package includes entrance to the archaeological site and access to Huayna Picchu Mountain, offering stunning views from the summit.

However, food and drink aren’t included in the tour price, allowing participants the freedom to explore the local cuisine in Aguas Calientes during their free time.

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Booking Information

Travelers can check availability for starting times on the tour’s booking page. To secure their spot, visitors need to select the number of participants and the date of the tour.

The meeting point is available on Google Maps, providing a convenient location for the tour’s start.

The booking process includes:

1. Checking tour availability and selecting the desired date.
2. Entering the number of participants.
3. Confirming the booking without any upfront payment, as the tour allows for a "Reserve now & pay later" option.

This flexible booking system makes it easier for travelers to plan their Machu Picchu adventure.

Stunning Mountain Views

One of the highlights of the Machu Picchu excursion is the opportunity to hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain, which stands at an impressive 2,500 meters above sea level.

The strenuous 2.5-hour hike up the steep stone stairs and trails offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Machu Picchu ruins and the surrounding Andes mountains. Adventurous travelers are rewarded with a unique perspective of the iconic Inca citadel from above.

Along the way, hikers can spot ancient Inca structures and terraces clinging to the mountainside. This challenging yet awe-inspiring trek provides an unparalleled experience and unforgettable memories of Machu Picchu’s stunning natural setting.

Exploring Machu Picchu

The guided tour of Machu Picchu takes visitors on a captivating journey through the ancient Inca citadel, where they’ll discover the remarkable architectural feats and cultural significance of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Exploring the stunning Temple of the Sun, with its perfectly fitted stone masonry and astronomical alignments.

2. Visiting the Royal Palace, where the Inca emperor and his family once lived, and marveling at the exquisite craftsmanship of the carved stone walls.

3. Standing in awe of the mighty Inti Watana, a ritual stone that was used to track the sun’s movements and mark the changing seasons.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide brings the site’s history to life, offering insights into the Inca civilization and the mystery surrounding the abandonment of Machu Picchu.

Artisan Market Visit

After exploring the majestic Machu Picchu, visitors can look forward to an immersive experience at the vibrant artisan market in Aguas Calientes.

This bustling marketplace showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, featuring an array of handcrafted goods from local artisans. Visitors can browse through a diverse selection of traditional textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and more.

The market provides a unique opportunity to interact with the artisans, learn about their creative processes, and purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.

With its lively atmosphere and vibrant displays, the artisan market in Aguas Calientes offers a delightful conclusion to the Machu Picchu excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hike?

There are no age restrictions for the Huayna Picchu Mountain hike. However, the tour operator recommends the hike for physically fit individuals aged 12 and above due to the strenuous nature of the climb.

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Huayna Picchu Hike?

The hike up Huayna Picchu is considered moderately challenging. It’s a steep, winding trail with stone steps that can be slippery. Hikers should be in good physical condition and wear proper hiking boots to navigate the challenging terrain.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Food and drinks are not included in the tour package, so you can bring your own. However, there are plenty of dining options and shops in Aguas Calientes where you can purchase snacks and beverages during the free time.

Is There a Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour typically has a maximum group size of 16 participants. This allows for a more personalized experience and easier navigation through the archaeological site. The group size may vary depending on the specific tour operator and availability.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Machu Picchu Entrance?

There are several special requirements for the Machu Picchu entrance. Visitors must purchase an entrance ticket in advance, and pass through security checkpoints. They’ll also need to adhere to rules around photography and bringing certain items into the archaeological site.

Recap

The excursion to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Mountain offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the iconic UNESCO site and conquer a challenging hike. Visitors will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas from the summit, enjoy the local culture, and leave with lasting memories of this enriching Peruvian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: