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Difference Between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain

Portada / About Peru /  Machu Picchu Information / Difference Between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain
When visiting Machu Picchu, you can choose to hike one of the mountains surrounding the citadel. Here are the key differences to help you make this important decision.
Map showing the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Map showing the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu

When visiting the Machu Picchu citadel, in addition to exploring this iconic site, you also have the opportunity to hike one of the two mountains that surround this World Wonder: Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (not the citadel).
Each mountain offers a different experience, as their routes, views, and difficulty levels vary, making each hike unique and memorable.

Huayna Picchu Mountain (Wayna Picchu)

Huayna Picchu Mountain, whose name in Quechua means “Young Mountain”, is located at 2,667 meters above sea level, north of the Machu Picchu citadel. The trail to the summit is more demanding, featuring steep stairways and narrow paths.
For this reason, it is not recommended for people with vertigo, children under 12 years old, or elderly visitors, as it requires good physical condition and confidence when walking.

Huayna Picchu Mountain Information

  • Location: North of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Elevation: 2,693 m a.s.l. (8,835 ft)
  • Distance: 2 km
  • Hiking time: 3 hours (ascent and descent)
  • Difficulty: Medium–High
Panoramic view from Huayna Picchu Mountain
View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain is located at 3,082 meters above sea level, south of the Machu Picchu citadel. Although it is higher than Huayna Picchu, its trail is more visitor-friendly, with gentler slopes, wider paths, and rest points along the way.

Machu Picchu Mountain Information

  • Location: South of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Elevation: 3,082 m a.s.l. (10,112 ft)
  • Distance: 2 km
  • Hiking time: 4 hours (ascent and descent)
  • Difficulty: Medium
View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain
View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain

Differences between both mountains

To make your choice easier, we present a comparison table of both hiking routes:

Differences Huayna Picchu Mountain Machu Picchu Mountain
Location North of the Machu Picchu citadel South of the Machu Picchu citadel
Altitude 2,693 m a.s.l. (8,835 ft) 3,082 m a.s.l. (10,112 ft)
Distance 2 km, elevation gain 290 m (951 ft) 2 km, elevation gain 200 m (656 ft)
Hiking time 3 h (ascent and descent) 4 h (ascent and descent)
Access Huayranas sector Guardian’s House junction
Schedules
  • Group 1: 7am – 8am
  • Group 2: 8am – 9am
  • Group 3: 9am – 10am
  • Group 4: 10am – 11am
  • Group 1: 7am – 8am
  • Group 2: 8am – 9am
Daily visitors 325 people per day 250 people per day
Circuit Circuit 3 – Waynapicchu Route Circuit 1 – Machu Picchu Mountain Route
Re-entry Does not allow re-entry to the citadel Allows re-entry to the citadel
Archaeological attractions Agricultural terraces and the Temple of the Moon None
Restrictions Only for visitors over 12 years old Open to all ages
Difficulty Medium–High Medium

Advantages and disadvantages of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Best panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • High jungle landscape
  • Agricultural terraces
  • Archaeological site: Temple of the Moon
  • Requires more physical effort
  • Steep ascent
  • Narrow trails
  • Steep steps

Advantages and disadvantages of Machu Picchu Mountain

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Good panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Less physical effort required
  • Less steep ascent
  • Wide trails
  • Variety of flora and fauna
  • No archaeological sites
  • Longer hiking time

Recommendations

  • Wear proper trekking shoes.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
  • During the rainy season (November to March), wear waterproof clothing.
  • Carry only what is necessary to avoid extra weight.
  • Carefully review your ticket details before purchase, as changes or cancellations are not allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is possible to visit both on the same day; however, it is not recommended. While climbing just one mountain already requires considerable physical effort, attempting both in a single day can lead to excessive fatigue and, as a result, make it difficult to manage schedules and fully enjoy the experience.

When purchasing your ticket to the Machu Picchu Citadel, it is important to note that the ticket may include access to one of the mountains. Therefore, this option must be selected in advance, as it cannot be changed later and availability is limited.

It is recommended to purchase the ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain at least 3 months in advance due to high demand and limited availability. Tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain should be purchased about 4 weeks in advance.

Both Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain allow the purchase of tickets for children; however, for mountain access, it is recommended that children be over 12 years old and accompanied by an adult.

Yes, elderly visitors can visit; however, it is recommended that they climb only Machu Picchu Mountain, as it requires less physical effort and has rest areas along the route.

It is not mandatory, but the assistance of a tour guide is recommended, especially if you plan to hike both mountains.

Happy passengers