Nestled among the awe-inspiring landscapes of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu stands as a testament to Incan engineering marvels. Among its many wonders, the notorious “Stairs of Death” have garnered attention as a challenging climb, perched on the edge of cliff views. Despite its ominous name, no tourist has lost their life on these steps, which offer a breathtaking ascent to the summit of Huayna Picchu.

The Tour of Huayna Picchu and the Stairs of Death
Embarking on the tour of Huayna Picchu, adventurers must brace themselves for an exhilarating experience. The ascent involves navigating 183 meters of ancient rock steps, sculpted over 500 years ago. As climbers make their way up, they grapple with a damp wall on one side and a sheer drop of hundreds of meters towards the Urubamba River on the other.

  • The Rise
    Ascending the Stairs of Death demands significant physical effort, with an approximate slope of 60 degrees. Climbers must proceed step by step, facing the most challenging section of the ascent. The climb, while strenuous, rewards the intrepid with unmatched views of Machu Picchu.
  • The Descent
    Descending these perilous steps is no less daunting. The slopes on the edge of cliffs add an extra layer of intimidation. Descenders must navigate the narrow steps carefully, often yielding to ascending tourists. For those who fear heights, the descent can be a particularly challenging moment.

Safety and Myths
Contrary to myths surrounding the Stairs of Death, climbing them is not a perilous endeavor. People of all ages ascend Huayna Picchu daily, and there are no recorded deaths due to falls on these steps. The experience, while physically demanding, is a thrilling adventure that showcases both the natural beauty of the surroundings and the ingenuity of Incan craftsmanship.

Adrenaline Alternatives in Machu Picchu
For those seeking alternative adventures in Machu Picchu, several options offer a different kind of thrill:

  1. Machu Picchu Mountain: A 2-kilometer walk to the top of the mountain that gives its name to the Inca City.
  2. Intipunku (Puerta del Sol): A 2-kilometer walk along stone stairs to the old entrance gate used by the Incas.
  3. Inca Bridge: A 30-minute walk to the east side of Machu Picchu, featuring an ancient Inca bridge along cliffside paths.

How to Visit the Stairs of Death of Huayna Picchu
To embark on the Stairs of Death adventure, follow these steps:

Purchase Tickets Online: Due to the limited availability of only 400 tickets per day, buy your Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket online 2 or 3 months in advance.

Choose Entrance Group: There are three entrance groups with different timings. Select the one that suits your itinerary:

  • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am, Huayna Picchu entrance from 7 am to 8 am.
  • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am, Huayna Picchu entrance from 7 am to 8 am.
  • Group 3: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am, Huayna Picchu entrance from 10.30 am to 11.30 am.