Putucusi Mountain Guide
Putucusi Mountain: The Adventurer's Challenge Near Machu Picchu Guide
Putucusi Mountain, also known as Happy Mountain, is a steep, jungle-covered peak located near Aguas Calientes. It offers a challenging and often dangerous alternative hike to Machu Picchu, known for its near-vertical ladders and ropes. This is not a hike for the faint of heart or those with a fear of heights. The mountain provides stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Urubamba River valley, but the extreme difficulty has led to its closure to the public for safety reasons. The history of Putucusi Mountain is less about historical events and more about its role as a natural barrier and a challenging climb. It has always been a part of the landscape surrounding Machu Picchu, but its treacherous terrain prevented it from becoming a popular tourist destination. The mountain gained notoriety when adventurous hikers began attempting to scale it using makeshift ladders and ropes, leading to safety concerns and eventual closure. While currently closed to the public due to safety concerns, Putucusi Mountain once offered a unique and adrenaline-pumping experience. The hike involved navigating steep, muddy slopes, climbing near-vertical rock faces using wooden ladders and ropes, and traversing dense jungle. The reward for those who reached the summit was unparalleled views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape. However, due to the inherent risks, it is crucial to respect the closure and explore other safer hiking options in the area. Instead, consider hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for incredible views and a safer experience.
Transportation
Access to the base of Putucusi Mountain was previously possible by walking along the train tracks from Aguas Calientes. However, given the mountain's closure, this information is no longer relevant for planning a visit. It is important to respect the closure and avoid attempting to access the mountain.