Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Tour

Visit Machu Picchu! The last minute Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu tour provides an alternative ticket option that allows you to explore Machu Picchu and enjoy views of the archaeological center from Huchuy Picchu Mountain. It is ideal if you were unable to secure last minute tickets Machu Picchu Circuit 3.

This circuit allows you to enter Machu Picchu and visit the lower part of the citadel, including the Inca House, the Temple of the Sun, the Water Mirrors, the Industrial Sector, the Agricultural Sector, the Eastern Storehouses (Qolqas), and the Sacred Rock. Entry to Huchuy Picchu Mountain is available between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., while the Temple of the Condor is open from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This tour is designed for travelers who cannot plan their visit to Machu Picchu in advance.

Highlights

Route 3-D + Huchuy Picchu: combine a visit to the lower section of Machu Picchu with access to Huchuy Picchu.
Explore key areas of the citadel: visit places such as the Inca House, the Temple of the Sun, the Water Mirrors, the Eastern Qolqas, and the Sacred Rock.
Hike up Huchuy Picchu Mountain: enjoy an approximately 1-hour hike with views of Machu Picchu, the Vilcanota River, and the Vilcabamba mountain range.
An alternative for a last-minute visit: a suitable option for travelers who were unable to plan their Machu Picchu visit far in advance, always subject to availability.
Huchuy Picchu from Cusco on a full-day tour: includes transfers to Ollantaytambo, train transportation to Aguas Calientes, the bus to Machu Picchu, and guided service during the visit.

Itinerary

Day 1

Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu

Pickup in Cusco at 3:00 a.m. - hike to Huchuy Picchu, approx. 1 hour - return to your hotel.

Early in the morning, we will begin our journey by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco at 3:00 a.m. and driving to the train station in the charming town of Ollantaytambo. From there, you will board the train that travels through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, offering a magnificent journey from the majestic Andes mountains to the lush jungle in Aguas Calientes. This thrilling train journey lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, our representative will greet you and accompany you to the bus that will take you to the Archaeological Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes.

Finally, we will arrive at the historic sanctuary to start our tour of Machu Picchu. Take a moment to recharge, stretch out your arms, and immerse yourself in the magic of this ancient place. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the Inca citadel, a moment you've undoubtedly been eagerly awaiting.

Huchuy Picchu, whose name in Quechua means "Small Mountain," is a Sacred Waka located within the archaeological site of Machu Picchu, in Cusco, Peru. Here, you will also find other archaeological sites surrounded by a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. The mountain and its archaeological sites offer a magnificent view of the site itself, the canyon crossed by the Vilcanota river, and the majestic Vilcabamba mountain ranges, with the imposing APU PUMASILLO.

Just like the Huayna Picchu mountain, the Incas built stone steps leading to the top of Huchuy Picchu. Today, the hiking route to the top (which takes about 1 hour) is one of the new adventure attractions when visiting Machu Picchu, offering panoramic views of the entire site. During the Huchuy Picchu mountain tour, you can follow these stone steps to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the archaeological site and the surrounding mountains.

After this unforgettable moment, our guide will begin the tour to provide a deeper understanding of the history and architecture of this wonderful place. It's essential to note that the visiting time is currently limited to a maximum of 3 hours. Within the Machu Picchu citadel, we can explore the different areas it was divided into, its population distribution, and discover intriguing details, like the fact that, despite being isolated, the citadel was self-sufficient.

Once the tour concludes, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch and explore the charming town. Here, you will find numerous restaurants and craft shops. Later, we will board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name. From there, our transport will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, thus concluding our thrilling one-day tour to Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu.

Important: Train schedules are indicative and may vary based on departures and availability.

Visit points for the Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu tour

Qolqas.
Agricultural Zone.
Water Channel.
Dry Moat.
Sun enclosure complex.
Inca's House.
Sacred Rock.
Twelve openings.
Eastern Qolqas.
Water mirror complex.
Condor enclosure (Note: open from 10:00 hrs. to 13:00 hrs.).
Pisonay Square.
Archaeological Reserve.
Mountain entry times: 7-8-9-10-11-12 Hrs.
The mountain's summit is at 2497 m.a.s.l. / 8192 ft. in height, from where we will have a complete view of Machu Picchu.

Details

What is included in the Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu tour?

Pre-tour briefing: receive all the important details about your trip one day before the tour in Cusco.
Private transfers: round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Train ticket: round-trip journey between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
Bus ticket: round-trip transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Admission to Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu: includes one ticket for Royalty Circuit 3 or the Lower Section + Huchuy Picchu, corresponding to Machu Picchu Circuit 3 Huchuy Picchu, specifically Route 3-D.
Professional guided tour: guided service at Machu Picchu in English or Spanish. Other languages are available at an additional cost for private services only.

What is not included in the Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu tour?

Hotel in Cusco: accommodation before or after the tour is not included.
Meals: food and drinks during the tour are at the traveler's own expense.
Additional services: any service not specifically mentioned in the “Included” section is not covered.

What should you keep in mind for the Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu tour?

Identification document: bring your original passport or ID, using the same document provided when making your reservation.
Comfortable footwear: wear shoes with good grip for the trails and stone steps at Huchuy Picchu.
Layered clothing: bring lightweight clothing and a jacket, as temperatures may change throughout the day.
Weather protection: pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a rain poncho depending on the season.
Small backpack: carry only the essentials and avoid bringing bulky luggage during your visit to Machu Picchu.
Drinking water: bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout the tour.
Extra money: carry some additional cash for lunch in Aguas Calientes and personal expenses.
Rest beforehand: get a good night's sleep, as hotel pickup in Cusco is scheduled for approximately 3:00 a.m.
Entry times: respect your assigned Huchuy Picchu entrance time and follow your guide's instructions throughout the visit.

Route map

The route is referential and may include small variations.

Experiences from Our Travelers on the last minute Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu tour

ANA’S JOURNEY THROUGH MACHU PICCHU AND HUCHUY PICCHU

We took a one-day tour to Machu Picchu via Circuit 3 with Huchuy Picchu, and from the moment we made the reservation, everything was very easy. Booking from Ecuador was simple, and the team was always attentive to the information we needed. When we arrived in Cusco, they gave us our train and bus tickets, coordinated our transfers, and made sure everything went smoothly. The transportation was punctual and comfortable throughout the entire journey.

Our guide, Richard Álvarez, was excellent. He explained every detail patiently, answered all our questions, and also helped us take some very good photos. There were two people, so we were able to move at a relaxed pace, take breaks, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. I felt a little nervous while climbing Huchuy Picchu, but Richard stayed with us throughout the hike and made the experience feel much more comfortable. It was a tour we truly enjoyed and would definitely recommend.

Ana R.

August 2022

More reviews from our passengers

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   kit f 
 
 
 
 Verified MACHU PICCHU/ RAINBOW MOUNTAIN Great experience over all! We loved especially John our tour guide in Machu Picchu! Though everyone else was wonderful Yvonne, our city tour guide, Darwin our Sacred Valley Aguas Calientes tour guide and Henry our Rainbow mountain tour guide,they are all awesome! It was a very smooth process from picking us up from the airport to dropping as off ! Would highly recommend CuscoPeru .com and Efrain did great on coordinating everything. We did 5days 4 nights MACHU PICCHU / RAINBOW MOUNTAIN Tour!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Aline K 
 
 
 
 Verified Tudo perfeito Eu e meu marido adoramos o passeio. Tudo ocorreu muito bem desde a reserva que fiz diretamente com a Cusco Peru ainda no Brasil. Fui muito bem atendida pelo whatsapp. No dia anterior a visita a Macchu Picchu, Effrain foi ao nosso hotel, explicar todo o itinerário detalhadamente. No dia do passeio nosso motorista, Rosel, estava na porta do hotel pontualmente para nos deixar na estação de trem. De lá seguimos até Águas Calientes onde encontramos nossa guia Maria. Fomos muito bem direcionados e também muito bem recebidos por todos os colaboradores da empresa. Também ganhamos brindes para guardar de recordação.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   macathy d 
 
 
 
 Verified history and culture We had an amazing experience with Cuscoperu Our guide EFRAIN was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the tour really enjoyable. Everything was well organized, and we visited some incredible places. I especially loved Machu Pichu and Rainbow Mountain. EFRAIN was professional and easy to communicate with. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Cusco Peru.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Irena K 
 
 
 
 Verified Great trip, great experience! The whole trip was wonderful experience and Efrain did excellent job taking care of everything. Trip program was very busy but we were able to see a lots of sites. Highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Daniela P 
 
 
 
 Verified Recomendación Increíble experiencia, gracias por hacer de este viaje algo inolvidable. Nos vamos muy contentos y lo recomendaremos a todos nuestros amigos.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ken D 
 
 
 
 Verified Cusco & Machu Picchu It was very well done. CuscoPeru did a fantastic job with my tour. Efrain picked me up on time at the airport. Both Julio and Henry did a great job with super information the first 2 days. The buffet lunch the tour provided was top shelf, including sushi. On day 3 Eddy did a wonderful job explaining all of Machu Picchu. My tour was for Circuit 1, but he somehow managed to get me on Circuit 3 as well. It was a day I will never forget. All hotel accommodations were very comfortable. I would recommend this tour to anyone
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sunny 
 
 
 
 Verified Highly recommended The trip was great! Our driver Roselito picked us up from the hotel and was very knowledgeable in the history of region, took us on the scenic route. Once we got on the train, it included snacks and drinks (water, coffee, or tea). Once we got to Aguascalientes, we were met by our tour guide Renato and Norma. Norma made sure we met our tour guide Renato, and made sure we got on the bus. Once we arrived at the entrance of Machu Pichu, we were met by our tour guide Renato. It was a pleasant experience. Pictures don’t do the site justice. Our tour guide Renato gave us an overview of the site and significance of the layout. I highly recommend booking with the company, and if possible make sure you get Roselito as your driver from Cusco to the train station.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Karen D 
 
 
 
 Verified Fun and exciting! I had a custom 9-day tour. I told the booking agents the things I wanted see and do in Peru and they came up with an itinerary. I really enjoyed all the day trips and when I needed to make an adjustment during the tour, Efrain (my coordinator) was right on it. He was always available to answer my questions, which really made me feel comfortable travelling alone. Also, the tour guides and drivers were very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. I highly recommend CuscoPeru to anyone who wants interesting/fun tours and/or needs a little assistance in planning what to do!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   ptlyogesh 
 
 
 
 Verified Spring vacation Great communication and good tours
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Georgeta R 
 
 
 
 Verified Cusco Peru-equipo que hace orgulloso un pais Elegí Cusco Peru por que Maria estaba siempre para aclarar mis dudas. Todos que nos atendiron,Rosa,John,Rosel,y los chicos que nos llevaban en coche,son personas muy bien preparadas,educadas,puntuales. Un 10 para todos! Recomiendo sin duda ❤️❤️❤️

Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Tour Prices

Choose the travel option that best suits you. Prices are shown per person and may vary depending on the selected service and train category.

Tour options

Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Tour

1 ticket for Royalty Circuit 3 or lower part + Huchuy Picchu

US$ 335

US$ 385

Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Tour

1 ticket for Royalty Circuit 3 or lower part + Huchuy Picchu

US$ 379

US$ 429

Additional services

Upgrade to Vistadome Observatory Train

Available per train leg

+ US$ 60

Your Machu Picchu circuit and visit schedule are subject to availability at the time of booking. View booking and cancellation policies →

Are 4 or more people traveling?

We can offer a special rate for your group.

Ask about group rates

Moments from the Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Tour

Explore images from the Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu tour: views of the Inca citadel, sections of the lower part of Machu Picchu, the hike up Huchuy Picchu Mountain, and panoramic views of the archaeological site.

Disfruta el circuito 3 en Machu Picchu
Cima de la montaña del Huchuy Picchu
Ultima parada para tomar fotografías de Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu y el circuito 3
Foto Grupal Huchuy Picchu

Frequently Asked Questions About the Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Tour

Find answers to the most common questions about schedules, difficulty, altitude, access, services, and recommendations for visiting Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu.

What does Huchuy Picchu mean?

Huchuy Picchu means “Small Mountain” in Quechua. The mountain is located within the Machu Picchu complex, and access is included in Route 3-D of Circuit 3. During the Machu Picchu Huchuy Picchu tour, you can visit the citadel and hike up the mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the archaeological site. The last minute Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu tour combines both experiences in the same visit, subject to ticket availability.

How difficult is it to climb Huayna Picchu?

The hike up Huayna Picchu has a moderate to challenging difficulty level due to its steep stone steps, narrow sections, and exposed areas at altitude. Good physical condition is recommended, and visitors should proceed carefully during both the ascent and descent.

What is the difference between Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu?

Machu Picchu is the Inca citadel located at approximately 2,430 meters (7,972 ft) above sea level, while Huayna Picchu is the mountain that rises behind it and reaches approximately 2,693 meters (8,835 ft). Access to Huayna Picchu is currently included in Route 3-A of Circuit 3.

How long does it take to climb Huayna Picchu?

The ascent to Huayna Picchu usually takes between 45 and 60 minutes, although the exact time depends on each traveler's pace and physical condition. You should also allow additional time to rest at the top and complete the descent.

Which is higher, Cusco or Machu Picchu?

Cusco is located at a higher altitude than Machu Picchu. The city of Cusco sits at approximately 3,399 meters (11,152 ft) above sea level, while Machu Picchu is located at around 2,430 meters (7,972 ft), a difference of approximately 970 meters.

What should I wear to Machu Picchu?

We recommend dressing in layers and wearing comfortable clothing with a lightweight or waterproof jacket, along with a rain poncho depending on the season, a hat, and sunglasses. If you are hiking Huchuy Picchu Mountain, wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the stone steps and trails.