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Difference Between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu

Map showing the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Map showing the 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.

When visiting the Machu Picchu citadel, you will have the opportunity to hike one of the two mountains that frame this Wonder of the World: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (not the Machu Picchu citadel itself). Each offers distinct features that make the hike unique and memorable.

Huayna Picchu (Wayna Picchu)

Huayna Picchu, whose name in Quechua means “Young Mountain,” is located at an elevation of 2,667 meters, north of the Machu Picchu citadel. The trail to reach the summit is more challenging, with steep stairs and narrow paths. This hike is not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo and is not recommended for children under 12 or older adults.

Information about Huayna Picchu Mountain

  • Location: North of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Altitude: 2,693 meters above sea level
  • Distance: 2 kilometers
  • Hiking time: 3 hours (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Medium–High
View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain
View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain is located at an elevation of 3,082 meters, south of the Machu Picchu citadel. Being higher than Huayna Picchu Mountain, it is more forgiving and less demanding, as its ascent is not as steep, it has wider paths, and there are designated rest points along the way..

Information about Machu Picchu Mountain

  • Location: South of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Altitude: 3,082 meters above sea level
  • Distance: 2 kilometers
  • Hiking time: 4 hours (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Medium
View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain
View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain

Differences Between the Two Mountains

To make your choice easier, below is a comparative table of both trails:

Differences Huayna Picchu Mountain Machu Picchu Mountain
Location To the north of the Machu Picchu citadel To the south of the Machu Picchu citadel
Altitude 2,693 meters above sea level 3,082 meters above sea level
Distance 2 kilometers, elevation 290 meters 2 kilometers, elevation 200 meters
Hiking time 3 hours (round trip) 4 hours (round trip)
Access Huayranas Sector Guardian's House Junction
Schedules
  • Group 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 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 Terraces and Temple of the Moon None
Restrictions Only for those over 12 years old For all audiences
Difficulty Medium-High Medium

Advantages and Disadvantages of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Better panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Jungle edge landscape
  • Agricultural terraces
  • Archaeological site: Temple of the Moon
  • More physical effort
  • Steep ascent
  • Narrow paths
  • Steep stairs

Advantages and Disadvantages of Machu Picchu Mountain

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Good panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Less physical effort
  • Less steep ascent
  • Wider paths
  • Variety of flora and fauna
  • No archaeological sites
  • Longer duration of the journey

Recommendations

  • It is recommended to wear hiking shoes/boots, as well as sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
  • If traveling during the rainy season (November–March), it is advisable to bring waterproof clothing.
  • Bring only the essentials for the climb; the hike can be very demanding, so avoid unnecessary weight.
  • Carefully check that all details are correct before booking, as once the booking is made, no changes or cancellations are allowed.
  • If you are interested in a complete experience, consider our Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tour (if you book in advance, ask for promotions and discounts).

Frequently Asked Questions about Both Mountains

It is possible to visit both mountains in one day, but it is not recommended, as hiking just one mountain involves considerable physical effort, and climbing one after the other can lead to significant fatigue.

Additionally, it is very challenging to organize the schedules because the entry windows are very close together, and you would need to purchase two separate tickets—one that includes Huayna Picchu Mountain and another with access to Machu Picchu Mountain.

When purchasing tickets to enter the Machu Picchu citadel, you must choose one of the mountains at the time of purchase.

It is recommended to purchase the ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain 3 months in advance. The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain should be obtained 4 weeks in advance.

Only Machu Picchu Mountain allows entry for children under 12 years old. Huayna Picchu Mountain permits entry for those 12 and older; minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Yes, older adults can climb both mountains, but it is advisable to opt for Machu Picchu Mountain, as it is less strenuous and has designated rest points.

No, a tour guide is not required to hike either mountain.

Happy passengers