In this article you will learn more about the following iconic destinations in Machu Picchu.
When you arrive at Machu Picchu the sensation you will have will be incomparable, you will go back in time to the time of the Incas.
In this article we will show you a summary with all the information you need to know about
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the characteristics of several mountains so you can compare and decide which one is best for you. We’ll also look a little more into the facts behind each one and what you need to be prepared for the extra hike.
Why should you climb the additional mountains to Machu Picchu?
Huayna Picchu Mountain is the more sought after of the two mountains, perhaps because it is the emblematic mountain behind the archaeological site and appears on every postcard. Its name means “young mountain” and it is one of the most popular short hikes in the world.
To climb this mountain you have to go up a narrow path, this ascent may cause fear in some hikers; but the views will be something that will not be repeated.
When you reach the top you will find an archaeological site called Temple of the Moon. (templo de la luna)
To do this walk it is necessary to make your reservation in advance, write us to our email to ask for confirmation of your reservation.
Now that you know a little more about the mountain in general, let’s delve into the facts so you can compare it to Machu Picchu Mountain.
| Huayna Picchu Pros | Huayna Picchu Cons |
| When you reach the top you will have a spectacular view of the city of Machu Picchu and the valley. | Perhaps the only drawback is the verticality of the ascent, which can cause vertigo, but do not worry, if you follow the instructions of our guide, the ascent is very safe. |
View From Huayna Picchu
The alternative ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain. This is not seen as often as Huayna Picchu in photos, but it is where many of the iconic photos are taken from, so it is an excellent place to get a great photo.
The ascent to this mountain is much less steep and the trail is not as frightening as that of Huayna Picchu. Its name means “old mountain”, and it is in the foothills where the ancient Inca city was built.
When you make the ascent to this mountain, in the same hike you can enjoy breathtaking views, ideal for large and small travelers, there are usually many entries and are not easily exhausted. But we always recommend you to make your reservations in advance.
You must purchase the Machu Picchu + Mountain ticket. This ticket includes the visit to the Inca City. There are 3 schedules that allow enough time to visit both attractions:
We will make a summary about Machu Picchu Mountain.
| Machu Picchu Mountain Pros | Machu Picchu Mountain Cons |
| The advantages of this hike are mainly the terrain and the incline. It is a steady climb and easier on your body at altitude. | The main negative aspect is that there are no archaeological sites to see at the top. |
In the following table we will make a quick and easy comparison.
| Comparison | Huayna Picchu | Machu Picchu Mountain |
| Altitude | 2,720 masl | 3,082 masl |
| Difficulty | Difficult | Medium |
| Distance | 2 km | 2 km |
| Duration | 2.5-hour hike up and down | 3.5-hour hike up and down |
| Age Limit | 12 years and over | No age limit |
| Trail | Steep, narrow, not good for vertigo | A steady climb |
| Spaces Available | 400 per day | 800 per day |
| What to See/Do at the Top | Fantastic view/Temple of the Moon/Andenería | Classic view of Machu Picchu/No ruins |
Facts about the Inca City of Machu Picchu
| Facts about Machu Picchu Mountain
|
Huchuy Picchu is a mountain that is located near the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
The word “Huchuy” means “small” in Quechua, and bears this name to distinguish it from the other mountains. Although not as high as Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu still offers significant elevation and provides spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area.
To get to Huchuy Picchu you will travel through ancient pathways and stone steps. As you climb, you will be surrounded by lush vegetation, Inca ruins and the magic that surrounds this region.
The trail begins with a gentle slope shared with those going to Huayna Picchu Mountain, located at an altitude of approximately 2,720 meters above sea level. You will find a detour that separates the two paths, and follow the straight path clearly indicated to Huchuy Picchu, marked by a wooden sign. From this point, you will ascend to the stone stairs that have stood the test of centuries, surrounded by lush vegetation. Although most of the trail is wide and accessible, there are narrower sections that add to the excitement of the trek.
The views will get better as you go up! The perspective is similar to that of Huayna Picchu, giving you the opportunity to contemplate the green peaks, cloud forest valleys and get a unique view of Machu Picchu, located at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters above sea level. As expected, it is less scenic than its neighboring mountaintop, due to its lower altitude, but it is still an incredible option to get a new perspective of the landscape! I recommend caution, as the rocks can become slippery during the rainy season, which runs from November to March.
Huchuy Picchu Mountain is located about 2,497 meters above sea level (8,192 feet). Only about 50 meters higher than the archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
Huchuy Picchu is located north of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, next to the famous Huayna Picchu mountain.
| Schedule | Entry to Machu Picchu City | Entry to Huchuy Picchu Mountain |
| Schedule 1 | From 6 am onwards | From 7 am onwards |
| Schedule 2 | From 7 am onwards | From 8 am onwards |
| Schedule 3 | From 8 am onwards | From 9 am onwards |
| Schedule 4 | From 9 am onwards | From 10 am onwards |
| Schedule 5 | From 10 am onwards | From 11 am onwards |
| Schedule 6 | From 11 am onwards | From 12 pm onwards |
You need to get the ticket for “Circuit 4 + Huchuypicchu Mountain”.
There are only 240 tickets available per day, 40 for each schedule. I recommend you to make a reservation at least 1 month in advance and, if possible, before.
The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is situated in the province of Urubamba, within the Cusco Region. It encompasses a vast cultural and natural landscape set amidst diverse ecosystems, featuring various archaeological sites interconnected by pathways leading to the Inca city. Machu Picchu stands out as the paramount Inca archaeological site, distinguished by its innovative urban layout, architectural splendor, and meticulous stonework.
Utilizing the terrain of the mountain summit ingeniously, it was fashioned into an awe-inspiring llaqta during its construction in the 15th century under the direction of the Inca Pachacuti. Despite being abandoned during the early years of the Spanish colonial period, it was rediscovered in 1911, unveiling its historical significance to the world.
The architecture of this Inca city, embodied in its 200 enclosures, blends exceptionally well with the wonderful natural environment to which it is closely linked.
It is likely that Inca soldiers used this construction to store weapons and other supplies, as well as to house the soldiers who were responsible for protecting the site. Today, it is one of Machu Picchu’s most popular tourist attractions and visitors can explore its interior to get an idea of what life was like for the Incas.
The Temple of the Sun is a sacred place located in the heart of the city, of great importance to local residents. This monument was built as an offering to Inti, a Quechua word meaning Sun, the Inca god. The people also used it as a place of worship. It is made of granite, and has a large central staircase leading to the main platform, which is surrounded by a low wall with niches that may have housed statues or other offerings. The Temple of the Sun is one of the most popular tourist attractions, be sure to visit this important space when in Machu Picchu.
The Inca Palace is one of the most important buildings in Machu Picchu, as it was the home of the Inca ruler Pachacutec and his family. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions.
The Temple of the Condor is one of the most emblematic structures of Machu Picchu. It was built in honor of the Inca God, Viracocha, representing the power of the Inca empire. The Temple of the Condor is located in the central plaza of Machu Picchu and is surrounded by other important buildings, such as the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows.
Machu Picchu has an emblematic stone structure known as Intihuatana, which means “Sun Hitching Post” in Quechua. This significant stone structure was widely known and appreciated by the Incas, who used this pillar as an astronomical calendar with a sundial. Today, historians and archaeologists continue to be intrigued by this ancient site.
The Intihuatana was created from a single piece of granite one and a half meters high and weighing two tons. Its elongated shape is reminiscent of a pyramidal structure. Experts still do not know exactly what it was used for. However, most agree that it served as an astronomical instrument, as its rectangular markings could have been used to mark astronomical events on it. Perhaps the stone also served to determine when the sun’s trajectory in the sky is at its lowest point and is most oriented to the south, during the winter solstice.
Distance from Cusco: 1 hour and 15 minutes by bus and approximately two hours by train. 3 hours in total.
Machu Picchu village is the closest town to the Inca city. Its name is due to the existence of hot springs for a long time.
It receives thousands of tourists every day. Therefore, it is equipped with hotels, restaurants, bars and many other tourist services. This is the end of the train trip from Cusco. And from there depart the buses that in 30 minutes transfer the visitors to the gate of Machupicchu.
The town is small. There are no cabs or cars, except for the tourist buses that go to the archaeological site. Its enormous mountains and thick vegetation stand out. For many, it is a unique place. The perfect prelude to the awaited visit to Machu Picchu.
The vast majority of people arrive in Aguas Calientes by this route, which starts in the city of Cusco with a minivan ride to the town of Ollantaytambo (almost 2 hours of travel).
In Ollantaytambo you must board one of the train services that, in another 2 hours, will take the visitor to the final station, in the town of Aguas Calientes. This route can be modified with a direct train ride from Cusco or some of its other stations.
This route is longer but less expensive than the classic train trip through Ollantaytambo. It starts in the city of Cusco with a trip of approximately 6 hours to the train station of Hidroeléctrica, located in the tropical region of Cusco.
From there you can take a short train ride (30 minutes), but most people prefer to walk about 2 hours to reach the town of Aguas Calientes. This route is preferred by young adventurers.
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