The mountain behind the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu is Huayna Picchu Mountain. This is a rewarding hike with great views of Machu Picchu. Climbing the mountain is hard and strenuous it is totally worth the effort. Among the steep switchbacks and stone steps is a notorious death-defying section of the trail. This section is known as The Stairs of Death! Okay, it’s really not that bad but, it’s fun to exaggerate.
Where are the Stairs of death located?
The stairs of death are just north of Machu Picchu and make up the last section of Huayna Picchu Mountain. Situated at 2700 meters above sea level (8,858 ft), the altitude is not as high as that of Cusco.
Huayna Picchu Mountain (Montaña Huayna Picchu)
Huayna Picchu is one of the three mountains in the complex of Machu Picchu and has the most famous views of Machu Picchu. At the top resides a simple dwelling structure and a few small terraces. Legends say that this is where the high priests of Machu Picchu lived.
On the side of the mountain is the impressive Temple of the Moon which has an adventurous approach to say the least. Just before the temple is a narrow tunnel in which you’ll have to crawl on your hands and knees to get to the other side. Upon exiting the tunnel come to a large cave opening, inside lies the Temple of the Moon.
Attractions at the Stairs of Death
Although the hike is difficult the rewards are well worth it, there are various attractions along the way and at the top of the hike.
- Temple of the Moon: One of the most impressive temples at Machu Picchu
- Incan Ruins: At the top of the hike lies some long abandoned Incan ruins
- Great Views: Unforgettable views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape
- Jungle Vegetation: The hike will take you through dense high jungle vegetation
- Adrenaline! The hike has many steep parts which will get your heart pumping and make you feel alive!
Difficulty of The Stairs of Death
Considered the most difficult section of the Huayna Picchu hike the stairs of death are difficult. There are handrails and metal cables to assist with the ascent. If you have knee problems or problems with stairs in general then stay away from this hike. Because of the relatively low altitude you don’t necessarily need to be in great or even good physical shape to complete the stairs. It’s more of a mental battle because there are many sections where the path is very narrow with steep cliffs just a step or two away. Generally speaking, most people can complete The Stairs of Death but it may take some effort.
***PLEASE NOTE: If you have a fear of heights or heart problems DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS HIKE!
Distance and Duration
The hike generally takes 1 hour to ascend and around 45 mins to come back down. Depending on your experience, fitness level, and fear of heights times can very. Huayna Picchu is a short hike, only 4km (2.5m) round trip. The steepness of the hike is what makes it difficult as you will ascend 360m (1,000 ft). Know yourself and your limits, if you keep a slow steady pace, you should have no problems. Be rewarded with some of the best views of Machu Picchu!
Caution
Along the steeper and more narrow sections of the stairs of death there are metal cables fixed to the stone walls to assist hikers. Although the dangers are real and a fall at certain sections could lead to severe injuries, as long as you take it slow you should be fine.
Machu Picchu brings tourists from all over the world and from all walks of life. The issue with the Stairs of Death is that many inexperienced hikers attempt the hike. There are definitely many more dangerous hikes in the world, however, they are generally only hiked by experienced outdoorsmen. When you combine steep sections, narrow paths, with inexperience that’s when problems start to arise. If you have experience and are confident in your abilities you will have no problems at all.
What to bring to The Stairs of Death
Make sure you are prepared for this hike as it can be difficult for some individuals
- Good footwear: The most important! Hiking boots or trail shoes with good tread
- Trekking Poles: Although technically only for elderly or disabled the rules don’t seem to be enforced take them if you want.
- Resusable water Bottle: Plastic bottles are not allowed in Machu Picchu
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, long shirt and pants
- Insect Repellant: There can be many biting insects especially in the rainy season
- Day Bag: Large bags are prohibited bring a standard sized backpack
Traveling and hiking comes with risks and as the saying goes “the greater risk the greater the reward”.
