Mountains Around Machu Picchu: Altitude, location, access and booking tips
Machu Picchu is surrounded by three major mountains that visitors can climb with a special ticket. Below is everything you need to know about their exact location, altitude in meters and feet, daily ticket limits, entry times, included circuit, and booking recommendations.
Huayna Picchu
Huayna Picchu is the most popular mountain among visitors. From the top, you get one of the most stunning aerial views of the Inca site, along with access to the mysterious Temple of the Moon.
- π Location: North side of Machu Picchu, right behind the main citadel
- β°οΈ Altitude: 2,693 meters (8,835 feet)
- π« Daily limit: 500 people
- β° Entry times: 7:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m.
- π§ Included circuit: Circuit 3B (Royal Designed Route)
π Booking tip: Reserve at least 3 months in advance.
π Official ticket website:
π https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe
Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain offers the best panoramic view of the entire sanctuary. The trail is longer but wider and safer than Huayna Picchu, perfect for travelers who want to take impressive landscape photos.
- π Location: South of the citadel, facing Huayna Picchu
- β°οΈ Altitude: 3,082 meters (10,111 feet)
- π« Daily limit: 500 people
- β° Entry times: 6:00 a.m. or 8:00 a.m.
- π§ Included circuit: Circuit 1B (Classic Viewpoint Route)
π Booking tip: Reserve at least 2 months in advance.
π This is usually the last of the 10 ticket types to sell out.
π Official ticket website:
π https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe
Huchuy Picchu
Huchuy Picchu means βsmall mountainβ in Quechua. It is the most accessible of the three, ideal for travelers looking for a short and easy hike with close-up views of the ceremonial areas of the Inca city.
- π Location: Inside the citadel, next to Huayna Picchu
- β°οΈ Altitude: 2,497 meters (8,192 feet)
- π« Daily limit: 360 people
- β° Entry times: 10:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m.
- π§ Included circuit: Circuit 3B (Royal Designed Route)
π Booking tip: It doesnβt sell out quickly, but early booking is still recommended.
π Official ticket website:
π https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe
Which Mountain Should You Choose?
| Mountain | Altitude | Difficulty | Panoramic View | Popularity | Advance Booking Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Huayna Picchu | 2,693 m / 8,835 ft | High | Very good | β β β β β | 3 months |
| Machu Picchu Mountain | 3,082 m / 10,111 ft | Medium | Excellent | β β β β β | 2 months |
| Huchuy Picchu | 2,497 m / 8,192 ft | Low | Limited | β β βββ | 1 month or less |
Conclusion
- β Most popular: Huayna Picchu
- πΈ Best view: Machu Picchu Mountain
- πΆββοΈ Easiest hike: Huchuy Picchu
Each ticket includes a specific circuit inside the Inca city. Choose based on your physical condition, photographic interest, and available time. Above all, make sure to book well in advance on the official government site to secure your preferred option.