There are two different mountains to climb inside the archaeological site of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. Both of these mountains, require an additional permit, that is included on the Machu Picchu entrance ticket and there is a daily restriction of how many people can climb either mountain each day. The two mountains are on opposite sides of Machu Picchu. Huayna Picchu is more famous, and more popular, but also more dangerous to hike. On the Machu Picchu Mountain hike you will have a view of Huayna Picchu, and vice versa.
– Where is Machu Picchu Mountain?
Machu Picchu Mountain is the mountain that overlooks the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and is found inside the Machu Picchu complex. There is an original Inca trail that leads to the peak of the mountain and visitors can climb the ridge for a spectacular view over both Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley. Some people confuse Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. “Machu Picchu” refers to the actual Inca citadel and the whole archaeological complex. “Machu Picchu Mountain” is the name of a mountain that overlooks the citadel and on which Machu Picchu is built. The Machu Picchu mountain hike offers the best way to view Machu Pichu in all its glory.
– Why Climb Machu Picchu Mountain
- The Machu Picchu Mountain hike is an excellent way to get some trekking inside the site and enjoy remarkable views! From the top of Machu Picchu Mountain, you will witness some of the most spectacular views of Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu, the famous mountain in all of the photos of Machu Picchu. From Machu Picchu Mountain, you can really see it all!
- The Machu Picchu Mountain hike restricts number of people who can climb it each day and has different entrance times. This ensures the trail is never too busy and the climb is always less busy than Machu Picchu itself. If you like hiking, photography, or just want the best view over the entire area, then the Machu Picchu Mountain hike is something you should consider.
- Machu Picchu Mountain allows 400 people to ascend each day, split between 2 entrance times. The mountain is lesser-known than Huayna Picchu, which means the tickets do not sell out as fast, meaning that there is usually availability. If you are late to the game for getting a ticket to Huayna Picchu, then the Machu Picchu Mountain hike is an excellent alternative.
- Machu Picchi Mountain is also less busy. Although the same number of people are allowed to enter each day as Huayna Picchu, tickets often do not sell out. Additionally, the trail is longer so the people are more spread out making it less crowded.
- The Machu Picchu Mountain hike is a longer trail than Huayna Picchu and takes 3-4 hours to complete. Many visitors do not actually reach the summit Machu Picchu Mountain as they turn back after the spectacular viewpoint about 30 minutes in. Therefore, the last half of the trail is much quieter. Huayna Picchu is a shorter, steeper climb with a trail that takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to climb to the top of. Although shorter, the ascend is very steep requiring the use of ropes and handrails for certain sections of the climb. The steepness and perils of Huayna Picchu prohibit children under the age of 12 from doing this summit. People of all ages are allowed to hike Machu Picchu Mountain as the trail is wider and less steep.
- The view from the top of Machu Picchu Mountain is arguably better than from Huayna Picchu. From the top of Machu Picchu Mountain, you will enjoy views of the amazing Huayna Picchu, peak which is an awesome sight with panoramic views across the whole valley below!
– Entrance Times
First shift to Machu Picchu Mountain (7:00 am–8:00 am)
The first shift is ideal for those who spent the night in Aguas Calientes. You should take an early bus to Machu Picchu and ascend the peak before the sun rises. From the summit of Montaña, you can see how slowly Machu Picchu becomes crowded. If you choose this option. the total cost of the Machu Picchu Mountain hike and Machu Picchu Citadel is USD 75, so slightly more than a regular Machu Picchu entrance. When you purchase this option, you must enter the Machu Picchu citadel between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. It takes 25 minutes to hike from the main gate to the control point of this mountain. Once you finish the climb, you can re-enter Machu Picchu through the lower Circuit 3 entrance.
Second Shift to Machu Picchu Mountain (8:00 am to 9:00 am)
The second shift, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. allow another 200 people to climb. This is ideal for people arriving at Machu Picchu after hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, or Inca Jungle Trek. On this shift, you must first explore the Citadel of Machu Picchu before climbing the mountain.
It is not recommended to climb Machu Picchu Mountain if you’re hiking the Classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu unless you take a private trip. In this case, you will climb the mountain first and then visit Machu Picchu afterwards. If you stay an additional day in Aguas Calientes after the Inca Trail, you may hike this mountain and return to Cusco the following day.
– How Difficult is it to climb Machu Picchu Mountain?
The trail on the Machu Picchu Mountain hike is more difficult since it is longer and higher than the trail to Huayna Picchu Mountain. Many believe that Huayna Picchu is the best option, so it sells out quicker. Due to its location, Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the most magnificent mountain peaks. From the summit, you will enjoy a 360-degree view of the whole Machu Picchu area. At first, the climb is steep with a moderate ascent. The climb becomes more difficult as it continues. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and the magnificent fortress of Machu Picchu far below.
Most people in average physical condition can climb this mountain. The 1.5 hours to the top can be done at your own pace and with as many stops as you want, for the perfect photo opportunities. Contact Us if you would like to climb the magnificent Machu Picchu Mountain.