While exploring the citadel of Machu Picchu, you will have the opportunity to hike one of the two mountains surrounding this Wonder of the World: Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain, which should not be confused with the citadel of the same name. Each one offers a different experience, since their routes, views, and levels of difficulty are different. For this reason, Huayna Picchu usually attracts travelers seeking adrenaline, while Machu Picchu Mountain is ideal for those who prefer a broader and more panoramic hike.
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Huayna Picchu Mountain, whose name in Quechua means “Young Mountain,” is located north of the Machu Picchu citadel, at 2,693 m above sea level. The trail leading to its summit is more demanding, since it includes steep stairways and narrow sections along the route. For this reason, this hike is not recommended for people with vertigo or reduced mobility. In addition, entry to Huayna Picchu is allowed only for those over 12 years old.
Information about Huayna Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain is located south of the citadel, at 3,082 m above sea level. It is less demanding than Huayna Picchu Mountain and offers a friendlier experience for visitors with less hiking experience. Although the ascent is long, its trails are wider and it has some resting points along the way.
Information about Machu Picchu Mountain
To make your choice easier, we present a comparison chart of both trails:
| Differences | Huayna Picchu Mountain | Machu Picchu Mountain |
| Location | North of the Machu Picchu citadel | South of the Machu Picchu citadel |
| Altitude | 2,693 m above sea level (8,835 ft) | 3,082 m above sea level (10,112 ft) |
| Approximate distance | 2 km | 2 km |
| Approximate elevation gain | 290 m (951 ft) | 200 m (656 ft) |
| Hiking time | 3 hours (ascent and descent) | 4 hours (ascent and descent) |
| Access | Huayranas sector | Detour to the Guardhouse |
| Schedules | Group 1 from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. Group 2 from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Group 3 Group 3 from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Group 4 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Group 1 from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. Group 2 from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. |
| Number of visitors | 400 people per day | Between 300 and 400 people per day. |
| Circuit | Circuit 3 - Waynapicchu Route | Circuit 1 - Machu Picchu Mountain Route |
| Re-entry | Does not allow re-entry to the citadel | Does allow re-entry to the citadel |
| Archaeological attractions | Terraces and Temple of the Moon | There are no notable archaeological attractions on the route. |
| Restrictions | Only for people over 12 years old. | No specific age restriction, although good physical condition is recommended. |
| Difficulty | Medium-high | Medium |
To hike Huayna Picchu, you need the Circuit 3 ticket (or Royalty Circuit) + Huayna Picchu Mountain. This ticket includes the Circuit 3 tour inside the citadel and access to the hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu.
The key details you should keep in mind are:
To hike Machu Picchu Mountain, you need to buy the Circuit 1 ticket (Panoramic) - Route 1A (Machu Picchu Mountain Route). This ticket is the only one that allows access to the checkpoint for this hike and includes access to the upper area for the classic photo.
The key details you should keep in mind are:
To visit the citadel and Huayna Picchu Mountain, you must purchase the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket (Route 3A). Check the updated information and use the same number of schedules throughout the document.
Entry to Huayna Picchu
Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain
If there is no more availability for Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, do not worry: you can also choose alternative hiking routes or secure your entry to the citadel through authorized travel agencies.
Best Alternatives and Solutions:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Best panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadelCloud forest landscapeAgricultural terracesArchaeological site: Temple of the Moon | More physical effortSteep ascentNarrow trailsSteep steps |
| Advantages | Disadvantages | ||
| Good panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu Mountain.Less physical effort.Less steep ascent.Wide trails.Variety of flora and fauna. | It has no archaeological sites.Longer duration of the route. |
Before climbing Huayna Picchu, bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a light or waterproof jacket if you travel between November and March, when rain is more frequent.
Try to carry only what you need. The route has steep and narrow sections, so a small backpack will make the hike much more comfortable.
Before purchasing your ticket, carefully check the date, time, names, and document details, since tickets usually do not allow changes, cancellations, or refunds.
For a better-organized experience, you can check our Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tour. If you book in advance, ask about available promotions or discounts.
Happy passengers