From the Machu Picchu Citadel — should you hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
No doubt that you will be traveling to Machu Picchu on your trip to Peru. But have you considered the extra hikes around the Inca Citadel? Machu Picchu is surrounded by beautiful peaks and the two most spectacular are Machu Picchu Mountain at 2 430m/7 970ft and Huayna Picchu Peak at 2 693m/8 835ft. Both are open for visitors to climb and are very popular. Tickets are sold out almost on a daily basis, but Huayna Picchu usually sells out faster.
Seperate tickets will need to be purchased for each of the hikes.
Hiking Huayna Picchu Peak is not for the faint of heart
Why does Huayna Picchu sell out faster? Well for starters, Huayna Picchu is home to the breathtaking Temple of the Moon. This hike has a reputation for being more difficult climb of the two, especially for people with a fear of heights. Huayna Picchu Peak is a steeper climb in comparison. You’ll encounter long sets of stairs and very steep, narrow paths. You’ll need to keep your hands free as it gets trickier towards the top. Ladders and cables are provided to hold on to. This hike is perfect for adrenaline seekers.
However, the great thing about Huayna Picchu is that when you’re at the peak, you are able to look straight down over the Machu Picchu ruins and the Urubamba River. It is a faster hike and you get the bonus of seeing some partially completed Inca buildings. The hike will take about 2 hours, roundtrip. Finally, please note that the trail can be very slippery when it’s wet or rainy.
Are the entrance tickets limited?
Yes! They are limited to 200 hikers per day so you will need to plan early to book this extra hike. At least plan 2 to 3 months in advance. Any agency can purchase the permit for you with your trek if tickets are available.
Schedules for hiking up to Huayna Picchu:
- First schedule: 7 to 8 AM
- Second schedule: 9 to 10 AM
These are the times you start the hike. It takes approximately 2 hours (roundtrip) to hike Huayna Picchu.
Prices
- For trekkers of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: $75 USD per person
- Alternative treks to Machu Picchu: $75 USD per person
- Tours to Machu Picchu: $75 USD per person
Find out more detailed information about Huayna Pichcu mt here!
How much does it cost to climb an additional mountain?
Both mountains are the same price in addition to the standard Machu Picchu admission fee.
Which mountain is the best to climb?
This is entirely dependent on your particular choices. Machu Picchu Mountain is a great option for families looking for a more leisurely climb. Choose Huayna Picchu if you want a challenge and to see more ruins. Both provide an excellent outlook.
Where do I get the best view?
Both mountains provide a fantastic outlook. The typical ‘postcard’ vista of the complex may be seen from the top of Machu Picchu Mountain.
Stunning views from Machu Picchu Mountain
On the flip side, Machu Picchu Mountain is higher than Huayna Picchu. The elevation gain for Huayna Picchu is about 300 meters. The total climb for Machu Picchu Mountain is much higher with over 600 meters of elevation gain. Generally, fewer people pick this peak. However, it is packed with the promise of a 360-degree panoramic view of the whole site, including Huayna Picchu. You will feel as if a helicopter dropped you right there!
When climbing Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll find wider paths and a more gradual ascent. When approaching the summit, there’s a narrow ridge and a stone gateway.
How long does it take?
The amount of time to climb Machu Picchu mountain depends on the physical condition of the individual and can range from 1 to 1.5 hours for just the ascent, which will make it 2 to 3 hours roundtrip. From the top, you have incredible views of Machu Picchu, which the picturesque Huayna Picchu behind it and the last part of the Classic Inca Trail. You can also admire the amazing canyon formed by the slope of the Vilcanota River with green mountains on one side and on the other side the mountains of the Cordillera Vilcabamba and the snowy summit of Salkantay (6,271 m/20,574ft), and more.
The climb to Machu Picchu Mountain is considered moderate to difficult but not challenging. You need to be in average physical condition. During the rainy season, the road can be very slippery, making the ascent more difficult.
Schedules for hiking up to Machu Picchu Mountain:
- First schedule: 7 to 8 AM
- Second schedule: 9 to 10 AM
This is the time you start the hike. It takes approximately 3 hours (roundtrip) to hike Machu Picchu Mountain.
Prices
- For trekkers of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: $75 USD per person
- Alternative treks to Machu Picchu: $75 USD per person
- Tours to Machu Picchu: $75 USD per person
Permits are required for both of these hikes and either can be added to any visit to Machu Picchu. Any quality agency can book your hike and handle all the details for you.
The entrance tickets are mainly for hiking the Mountains and not for exploring the Inca City.
See more detailed information about Machu Pichcu Mountain here!
How far in advance should I purchase a ticket?
If you want to hike Huayna Picchu, you need get your ticket at least a couple of months in advance, preferably between May and October. If you choose Machu Picchu Mountain, you should book a month in advance.
