Putucusi

Putucusi, Quechua for “Happy Mountain”, is a round-shaped mountain located on the opposite side (northeast) of the Urubamba (Vilcanota) River to Machu Picchu in the Cusco department of Peru. Reaching approximately 2,560 meters (≈ 8,500 feet) above sea level at its peak, the mountain offers epic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Urubamba River Valley.

Putucusi, Machu Picchu (“Old Peak”) and Huayna Picchu (“Young Peak”) are considered apus, or holy mountains, by the local Quechua people.

Climbing

Although the view of Machu Picchu from the summit is breathtaking, perhaps the most defining feature of Mt. Putucusi is the challenging 1.5 hour vertical trek up the mountain, with approximately 1700 wood and rock steps. A recently discovered Inca Trail, the path lies just 10 minutes west of Aguas Calientes following the train tracks along the Urabamba River. The entrance is free, and situated at a clearing in the forest, marked by a small sign.

The first half of the journey is jungle trail, but involves several vertical wooden ladders, the largest of which scales over 100 feet. The second half presents views of Aguas Calientes and the Urabamba River Valley, as the trail ascends the eastern face of Putucusi in switchback fashion. Meanwhile, the more immediate view presents a wealth of native flora, including pisonayes, q'eofias, alisos, puya palm trees, ferns and more than 90 species of orchids.

Large stones in Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu were [http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcgmatt/2544673675/in/set-72157605398638559/ carved to resemble the shape of Putucusi] .