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.

Last minute Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu tour - Water Mirror

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.

What's included?

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.

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.

Expedition or Voyager Train

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

US$ 335

US$ 385

Vistadome or 360 ° Train

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

US$ 379

US$ 429

Trains: An upgrade to the Vistadome Observatory can be requested for US$ 60 per segment; subject to availability.

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

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

    
 
 
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   Poonyaweera T 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing service, highly recommend!
Amazing service! Javier was very responsive to help with coordination and went above and beyond. Our Machu Picchu tour was amazing, we received a great guide and all transportation methods were very easy to get to.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Gabriela Z 
 
 
 
 Verified Excellent service from CuscoPeru.
Excellent experience with Cuscoperu.com. The hotels were very well located and had a good price/quality ratio. The service and organization were excellent.
  
 
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   Alejandra C 
 
 
 
 Verified CuscoMachuPichu
CuscoPeru Agency, everything was excellent from the transfers, hotels, and tours and excursions, highly recommended
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ada A 
 
 
 
 Verified EXCELLENT
It was a sensational experience. Highly recommended for those who wish to visit Cusco; you will always have the assistance of the entire Cuscoperú team.
  
 
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   Celso Augusto S 
 
 
 
 Verified Private tour very with
It was an incredible experience
  
 
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   Efrain C 
 
 
 
 Verified Reliable and safe tours.
Pleasant experience, without any setbacks from the operator, I took 3 tours with them in Cusco and all 3 were very professional.
  
 
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   Darryl B 
 
 
 
 Verified Machu Picchu experience
It was a great weekend. The Cusco tour and Machu Picchu tours were amazing. All the guides and drivers were very friendly. The schedule had enough time so we did not miss anything. Good communication from the company as well.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Bere F 
 
 
 
 Verified The best experience in Peru
Excellent service, attentive to our itineraries the whole time. Very trustworthy if you are planning a trip for women or by yourself!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Judith Z 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonder of the world
It was a very nice experience; EFRAIN organized our entire tour, he cared about and organized every detail, always concerned from the moment they picked us up at the hotel until we arrived back. Very good service from the people who transported us and the guide at Machu Picchu was excellent. Recommended 1000%... thank you for making our anniversary an unforgettable day.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Tomás A 
 
 
 
 Verified Unbeatable service
Everything excellent. 100% recommended

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.

Woman overlooking Inca terraces during a Machu Picchu Circuit 3 Huchuy Picchu tour.

Couple posing at the summit during a Huchuy Picchu mountain tour.

Two women posing among Inca terraces on Machu Picchu Circuit 3.

Group posing with raised arms during a Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu tour.

Group posing among Inca stone walls during a Huchuy Picchu tour from Cusco.

View of the ancient agricultural terraces at Machu 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.