Is that Wayna Picchu? The majestic peak that seems to touch the sky? Yes, my friends, that’s Wayna Picchu. This imposing mountain, whose name in Quechua means “young mountain”, stands as a testament to the Inca’s ambition and architectural prowess. It rises 2,693 meters above sea level, towering over the already impressive Machu Picchu. Wayna Picchu wasn’t just a pretty backdrop for the Incas. They carved intricate trails into its slopes, leading to temples and terraces perched precariously on the mountainside.
Imagine the effort it took to haul those stones up these steep slopes. The Incas believed that Wayna Picchu was a sacred site, a place where they could commune with the spirits of their ancestors. The Temple of the Moon, nestled on the side of Wayna Picchu, is a testament to this belief. This temple, carved into a natural cave, boasts some of the finest examples of Inca stonework. The walls are adorned with intricate carvings, and the niches were likely used for ceremonial purposes.
While the Temple of the Moon is impressive, the real draw of Wayna Picchu is the view from the summit. From the top, you can see the entirety of Machu Picchu spread out below you like a green and gray tapestry woven into the valley. The Urubamba River snakes its way through the landscape. The surrounding peaks, each with its own story to tell, create a panorama that will stay with you long after you’ve left this magical place.
Reaching the summit of Wayna Picchu is no walk in the park. The trail, while well-maintained, is steep and challenging in places. The most daunting section is undoubtedly the “Stairs of Death”. This series of almost vertical steps requires a good head for heights. But the reward, the unparalleled view, is worth every bead of sweat.