As of July 15th 2011, the Peruvian government has started enforcing new rules for those wanting to climb Huayna Picchu (the big sugar loaf mountain behind Machu Picchu). Many of your guidebooks and online resources probably won’t contain these latest updates, so read up on the newest regulations here before you embark on your Peru adventure.
Climbing Huayna Picchu is indeed one of the hallmarks of a hiking trip to Machu Picchu; however, it’s not quite as simple to do now as it was even five years ago. In addition to a limited number of permits available, you must now purchase your permits waaaaay ahead of time. These permits can only be purchased through the government website www.machupicchu.gob.pe or in the Cusco office of the Direction Regional (which can be done by notifying your tour provider ahead of time). See new rules in blue below:
1: Entrance times are:
Group 1 (G1): 7:00 – 8:00 am
Group 2 (G2): 10:00 – 11:00 am
2: The max capacity per group is 200 people
3: Permits to climb Huayna Picchu can only be made through www.machupicchu.gob.pe or in the Cusco office of the Direction Regional of Cusco. They cannot be purchased on arrival in Machu Picchu nor in Aguas Calientes. Once sold out, that’s it. You can find availability at the website above.
4: The prices for entrances to Huayna Picchu are different to the standard entrance tickets to Machu Picchu whose price remains the same. It is not possible to swap standard entrance tickets to include Huayna Picchu.
5: Prices for Machu Picchu – Huayna Picchu – Moon Temple which come into effect as of 15th July (includes entrance to Machu Picchu) are Adults S/150. Students with Valid ISIC cards only S/75. Without entrance fee to Machu Picchu the climb is an additional $10.00 per person.
There are still great non-permitted hikes to do in and around Machu Picchu. Climb Machu Picchu Mountain for a truly impressive view of Machup Picchu, as he condors see it. Hike back along the Inca Trail to the Sun Gate (where those hiking the Inca Trail get their first look at Machu Picchu). Or, walk out to the Inca Bridge for even more amazing views.
No more last minute decisions to wake up early and beat the rush. If you plan to climb Huayna Picchu best to book early (at least a few months in advance) as permits are selling quickly.
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Want to know more about trekking around and visiting Machu Picchu? See all of Detour’s diverse trip options here: http://detourdestinations.com/trips/treks.html
Also, check out our Inca Trail Trekking guide here: http://detourdestinations.com/inca-trail-trek-guide/
