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Portada / About Peru /  Machu Picchu Information / Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the best travel options for all those who love adventure and hiking. Discover the charm of this mountain.
Mirador De La Montaña Machu Picchu
View of the Inca citadel from Machu Picchu Mountain.

Machu Picchu Mountain, despite being more extensive in distance and higher at its summit, is much easier to undertake than the “Huayna Picchu” mountain, offering wider and less steep paths.

Information about Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain was a path widely used by the Incas, especially for military purposes, as it has a 360-degree view of the entire valley surrounding the Machu Picchu citadel, which would allow early warning of any threat of invasion from another neighboring culture.

It is currently an important travel alternative within the Machu Picchu archaeological park and receives hundreds of visitors a day.

Location and how to get there

Machu Picchu Mountain is located to the south of the Machu Picchu citadel and has an altitude of 3,082m.

To enter the mountain, you must purchase the ticket for circuit 3 which includes entry to the Machu Picchu + Mountain citadel; this also includes the agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, the Inka House, the Ceremonial Fountains, the Mirror Room, the Temple of the Condor, and other constructions.

Description and features

The path to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain is less complicated compared to the climb to Huayna Picchu Mountain. The route is wider and less steep.

It is the largest mountain of all those surrounding the Machu Picchu citadel. Throughout the journey, you will be surrounded by nature and offers a less challenging route perfect for families with small children and adventurous people of all ages.

Climate and best times to visit

Machu Picchu Mountain has a cool and warm climate at certain times of the day, in the rainy season it tends to be cloudy with light rain.

The temperature of the mountain ranges between 18°C and 20°C maximum and between 7°C and 10°C minimum, being at a higher altitude the temperature can drop to -3°C.

The best time to climb the mountain is in the dry season, which runs from April to October, as the rains are not usually constant and the journey becomes easier.

Routes and stops on the ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain does not have any archaeological attractions along its path, however, being surrounded by abundant flora, it is possible to observe a larger number of orchids among more than 400 different types.

Similarly, it is more likely to interact with the local fauna, since the path, not being very visited by tourists, is favored by birds such as hummingbirds, and it is also possible to find an endless number of butterflies.

Admission times to visit Machu Picchu Mountain

The maximum capacity for Machu Picchu Mountain is 400 people per day, divided into groups of 200 people each. However, it is recommended to book the ticket 1 month in advance.

The admission times for Machu Picchu Mountain are:
First group

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 6:00 a.m.
  • Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain: From 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Second group

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 8:00 a.m.
  • Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain: From 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Rates and entrance fee to Machu Picchu Mountain

To reach Huayna Picchu you must purchase in advance the entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Citadel and buy another ticket for the Wayna Picchu Mountain.

The circuit 3 that includes entry to the Machu Picchu + Mountain citadel allows reaching the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain and visiting the lower part of Machu Picchu, that is, only the urban sector, including the agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, the Inka House, the Ceremonial Fountains, the Mirror Room, the Temple of the Condor, and other constructions. The tour lasts approximately 3h 20m.

Important differences between "Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu" mountains

To make your choice easier, here is a comparative table of both paths:

DifferencesHuayna Picchu MountainMachu Picchu Mountain
LocationNorth of the Machu Picchu citadelSouth of the Machu Picchu citadel
Altitude2,693 m.a.s.l.3,082 m.a.s.l.
Distance2 Km, elevation change 290 m2 Km, elevation change 200 m
Walking time2h 30m (ascent and descent)3h 20m (ascent and descent)
AccessHuayranas sectorDetour at the Guardian's House
TimetablesGroup 1 from 7am – 8am
Group 2 from 8am – 9am
Group 3 from 9am - 10am
Group 4 from 10am – 11am
Group 1 from 7am – 8am
Group 2 from 8am – 9am
Number of visitors200 people per day400 people per day
CircuitCircuit 4Circuit 3
Re-entryDoes not allow re-entry to the citadelAllows re-entry to the citadel
Archaeological attractionsTerraces and the Moon TempleNone
Age restrictionsOnly for those over 12 years oldFor all audiences
DifficultyMedium-HighMedium

Frequently asked questions about Machu Picchu Mountain

What is Machu Picchu Mountain?

Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the mountains that surround the Machu Picchu citadel. It is generally not seen in photographs, which is why it is not very popular.

What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu Mountain?

The best time to climb to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain is during the dry season, as rains are less frequent and the weather is perfect. This season spans from April to October.

Where is Machu Picchu Mountain located?

Machu Picchu Mountain is located to the south of the Machu Picchu citadel.

Is it necessary to book in advance to visit Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, to find availability on the day you wish to travel, it is necessary to book 3 months in advance.

How long does it take to go up and down Machu Picchu Mountain?

The approximate time is 3h 20m for both ascent and descent.

Are there any age restrictions for climbing Machu Picchu Mountain?

There are no age restrictions for climbing Machu Picchu Mountain, children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I visit Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain on the same day?

Yes, you can visit both attractions on the same day by purchasing a ticket that includes Machu Picchu Mountain.

Are trekking poles allowed during the Huayna Picchu hike?

Trekking poles with rubber tips are allowed, as common ones damage the ground. However, it is recommended not to carry them because you will need your hands free to assist in the climb.

Can elderly people visit Machu Picchu Mountain?

Of course, this trail being more friendly is recommended for people of all ages.