Machu Picchu Mountain, although longer and higher at its summit, is easier to hike than "Huayna Picchu" because it offers wider and less steep trails.
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Machu Picchu Mountain was a trail widely used by the Incas, as it offers a 360-degree view of the entire valley surrounding the Machu Picchu citadel. This would have allowed them to issue an early warning against any threat of invasion from a neighboring culture.
Today, it is an important travel alternative within the Machu Picchu archaeological park.
Machu Picchu Mountain is located south of the Machu Picchu citadel and has an altitude of 3,082 meters above sea level.
To enter the mountain, you must purchase the ticket for Circuit 1 - Machu Picchu Mountain Route, which includes a visit to the upper part of the Machu Picchu citadel, where you will have panoramic views of the main Inca structures. You will also have the opportunity to take the classic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House viewpoint. With this ticket, you will also have access to Machu Picchu Mountain. If you would like to visit this mountain, you can book the Machu Picchu Mountain Tour with us and enjoy this place.
The trail to reach the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain is less complicated compared to the trail up Huayna Picchu Mountain. The route is wider and less steep.
It is the largest mountain among all those surrounding the Machu Picchu citadel. The entire route is surrounded by nature and offers a less challenging trail, making it a good alternative for families with young children and adventurous people of all ages.
Machu Picchu Mountain has cold mornings, strong sun during the middle of the day, and frequent changes due to humidity and altitude. During the rainy season, it is usually cloudy with light rainfall.
The mountain temperature ranges between 18 °C and 20 °C at its highest and between 7 °C and 10 °C at its lowest. Since it is located at a higher altitude, temperatures can drop as low as -3 °C.
The best time to climb the mountain is during the dry season, from April to October, as rainfall is usually less frequent and the route becomes easier.
Machu Picchu Mountain does not have any archaeological attraction along its route. However, since it is surrounded by abundant flora, it is possible to observe a greater number of orchids among the more than 400 different types found in the area.
Likewise, it is more likely to experience the local fauna, as the trail is not heavily visited by tourists. This allows you to observe flora and, occasionally, birds and insects from the area. It is also possible to find countless butterflies.
The maximum capacity for Machu Picchu Mountain is 300 people per day, divided into groups of 150 people each. However, it is recommended to book your ticket approximately 4 months in advance.
The entry times for Machu Picchu Mountain are:
First group
Second group
To reach Machu Picchu Mountain, you must purchase the Circuit 1 - Machu Picchu Mountain Route entry ticket in advance.
Circuit 1 - Machu Picchu Mountain Route includes entry to the upper part of the Machu Picchu citadel + Machu Picchu Mountain. It allows you to reach the summit of the mountain and explore the upper area of Machu Picchu. It does not allow access down to the lower urban area. From this route, you will have views of the main Inca structures of the citadel, and you can also take the classic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House. The visit lasts approximately 4 hours.
To help you decide better, here is a comparison table 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 meters above sea level | 3,082 meters above sea level |
| Distance | 2 km, elevation gain between 260 and 300 m. | 2 km, elevation gain between 650 and 680 m. |
| Hiking Time | 3 h (ascent and descent) | 4 h (ascent and descent) |
| Access | Huayranas sector | Guardian’s House detour |
| Schedules |
|
|
| Number of Visitors | 400 people per day | 300 people per day |
| Circuit | Circuit 3 - Waynapicchu Route | Circuit 1 - Machu Picchu Mountain Route |
| Archaeological Attractions | Temple of the Sun, Water Mirrors, and other archaeological attractions | None |
| Restrictions | Only for visitors over 12 years old | For all visitors |
| Difficulty | Medium-High | Medium |
If you are still deciding between Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu, or a classic visit to the citadel, you can review all Machu Picchu tours from Cusco and choose the option that best fits your time, route, and travel style.
Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the mountains surrounding the Machu Picchu citadel. It is generally not seen in photographs, which is why it is not very popular.
The best time to climb to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain is during the dry season, when rain is less frequent. This season runs from April to October.
Machu Picchu Mountain is located south of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Yes, to find availability on the day you wish to travel, it is necessary to book approximately 4 months in advance.
The approximate time is 4 h for both the ascent and descent.
There are no age restrictions to climb Machu Picchu Mountain. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Yes, you can visit both attractions on the same day by purchasing the ticket that includes Machu Picchu + Mountain.
Yes, since this trail is more visitor-friendly, it is recommended for people of all ages.
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