Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Wayna Picchu is the steep cone-shaped mountain at the back of the ruins. At first glance,
it would appear that it's a challenging climb, but it's not technically difficult - although
the ascent is steep. The path zigzags up the side of the mountain and lands at a small set of
Inca constructions at the top.
Part of the way up, a marked path plunges down to your left, continuing down the rear
of Wayna Picchu to the small
Temple of the Moon
. The trail is easy to follow, but in-
volves steep sections, a ladder and an overhanging cave, which is a bit tricky to get past.
The descent takes about an hour and the ascent back to the main Wayna Picchu trail is
longer. But it's spectacular: the trail drops and climbs steeply as it hugs the sides of
Wayna Picchu before plunging into the cloud forest. Suddenly, you reach a cleared area
where the small, very well-made ruins are found. From here, another cleared path leads up
behind the ruin and steeply onward up the back side of Wayna Picchu.
Access to Wayna Picchu is limited to 400 people per day - the first 200 in line are let in
at 7am, and another 200 at 10am. A
ticket
(S24)
may only be obtained when you purchase
your entrance ticket. These spots sell out a week in advance in low season and far sooner
in high season, so plan accordingly.
Cerro Machu Picchu is a very good alternative to this climb.
Sleeping & Eating
MACHU PICCHU SANCTUARY $$$
( 984-81-6956;
www.sanctuarylodgehotel.com
;
standard/mountain view/ste US$975/1400/1750)
Run
by Orient-Express, this exclusive hotel is the only place to stay at Machu Picchu. Staff at-
tention is impeccable and rooms are comfortable, with sober decor and docking stations.
There is a spa, manicured gardens and personalized guide service. It's popular - so book
at least three months ahead. Two restaurants serve meals, and there is a popular
lunch
buffet
(S97;
| Lodge
11:30am-3pm)
that is open to the public.
Information
Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary
(adult/student S128/65;
www.machupicchu.gob.pe
;
6am-4pm)
Because of the strict limits on the number of visitors, entrance tickets to the ruins
often sell out, so buy them in advance in person at the Dirección Regional de Cultura in
Cuzco (
Click here
)
or via a reputable travel agency.
The ruins are most heavily visited between 10am and 2pm, and June to August are the
busiest months. Visitors can enter the site until 4pm, though those inside are not expelled
