Plan your visit
Planning Your Visit
Organize your transport from Cusco and arrive precisely for your 7:00 AM or 10:00 AM checkpoint entry.
Getting there
Getting to the checkpoint requires multiple steps.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train: Train from Cusco (Poroy/San Pedro) or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes via PeruRail or Inca Rail. | 1.5 to 3.5 hours depending on departure station | $50 - $100+ USD one way | Must be booked in advance. Bimodal (bus+train) service from Cusco is common during the rainy season. |
| Bus: Consettur shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes town up the Hiram Bingham Highway to the Machu Picchu entrance. | 25-30 minutes | $24 USD round trip | Buses run every 5-10 minutes starting at 5:30 AM. Tickets can be bought in town the day before. |
| Walk: Hike up the Hiram Bingham trail from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance gate. | 1.5 to 2 hours | Free | A steep uphill climb via pedestrian stairs cutting through the bus switchbacks. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The dry season (May to September) offers the safest trail conditions. The 7:00 AM slot often has cooler weather but potential morning mist. The 10:00 AM slot provides clearer views but hotter conditions.
What to bring
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You must arrive at the Huayna Picchu trailhead precisely within your assigned time slot.
Late arrivals are turned away.
How the day runs
Suggested timelines based on entry slots.
Requires staying in Aguas Calientes the night before.
- Bus to Machu Picchu
Take the 25-minute shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes.
- Enter Circuit 3
Pass the main entrance and begin the lower ruins route.
- Start the hike
Check in at the Huayna Picchu trailhead.
- Finish the hike
Return to the checkpoint and finish Circuit 3.
Allows you to travel from Ollantaytambo the same morning.
- Bus to Machu Picchu
Catch the Consettur shuttle up the Hiram Bingham Highway.
- Enter Circuit 3
Explore the initial parts of the lower ruins.
- Start the hike
Begin your ascent at the Huayna Picchu checkpoint.
- Finish the hike
Descend and complete the rest of Circuit 3.
Navigating the Checkpoint
You must show your original, valid passport that matches your ticket at the Huayna Picchu checkpoint. Make sure your small daypack is under 20 liters to comply with park rules.
Remember that climbing on ancient Inca walls is strictly forbidden. Use the provided hand cables on steep sections and let descending hikers pass safely.
Easiest way to do it
Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Full Day Private Tour
16 h 5.0 (179)
- Expedition or Voyager Train Ticket Round Trip - Ollantaytambo Aguas Calientes
- Pre-tour assistance.
- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Ticket (Circuit 3)
- Professional English - Spanish guide in private service in Machu Picchu and Montaña Huayna Picchu.
From$665per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How long does the hike take?
The ascent takes about 1 hour, and the descent takes 40 to 45 minutes. Expect the round trip to take 1.5 to 2 hours.
Are walking sticks allowed?
Walking sticks or trekking poles are only permitted for elderly or disabled visitors. They must have rubber tips.
Can you hike in the rain?
Yes, but the stone steps become slippery. Bring a rain jacket or waterproof poncho and wear hiking boots with excellent grip.