It is not an easy hike. Roughly 1000 feet vertical. Lots of stairs. Some pretty sketchy areas. But oh my gosh it is so worth it! When you get to the top and are looking down on Machu Picchu, it is just breathtaking.
Hiking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu was not just a physical challenge, but it also offered a connection with the ancient site's cultural and historic significance.
Huayna Picchu is incredible
I was far more terrified reading the reviews of this climb than I was actually doing it. The path to the top is definitely steep however it is very doable. I am a moderately fit 65 year old with a fear of heights and I was able to make it to the top without too much difficulty.
We entered Machu Picchu at 6:30am so we could start the optional (and ticketed) climb at 7:00am. The added benefit of this was to be inside Machu Picchu without the normal crowds.
You have come a long way, and it has taken you a long time to get here. This view is as good as it gets!!!! Yes, you are going to have to CLIMB some stairs to get here, but what a reward!
This was a bucket list target for us, and it merits that title--it is as special as it gets.
If heading to Machu Picchu and in decent shape, I’d highly recommend this hike. It’s strenuous to get up to the top but totally worth the views of Machu Picchu from a different vantage point. I had a panic attack on the “Stairs of Death”…lol. The irony is that it isn’t steep but its a bit jarring. Overall, great hike and worth the effort.
