Mount Machu Picchu is an ideal alternative for those looking for a different experience inside the historical sanctuary. With a height of 3,082 m.a.s.l., it stands imposingly over the Inca citadel and offers one of the most spectacular views of the entire Urubamba valley.
The ascent is demanding but rewarding: along the way you can enjoy green landscapes, trails surrounded by nature, and the emotion of getting closer and closer to the summit. Once at the top, you will have a complete panoramic view of Machu Picchu, the mountains that surround it, and the river winding at the bottom of the valley.
To live this hike is to discover one of the best ways to contemplate the greatness of the Inca ruins, recognized as one of the 7 wonders of the modern world.
About Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain, just like the well-known Huayna Picchu, rises next to the Inca citadel as one of the great peaks that make up the historical sanctuary. It is the highest in the complex, reaching 3,082 m.a.s.l., and offers one of the most impressive panoramic views of the area.
Its name comes from Quechua: “Machu” means old and “Picchu” means mountain, which gives rise to the name “Old Mountain”. Although it shares a name with the Inca city, both are different places: the mountain is a natural attraction and the citadel one of the most important archaeological constructions in the world.
The most notable thing about Machu Picchu Mountain is the experience of climbing to the top. The trek, of moderate to high difficulty, offers the opportunity to be surrounded by Andean landscapes, enjoy the pure mountain air, and, finally, see a unique view of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba valley from above.
Location and how to get there
Machu Picchu Mountain is located southwest of the Inca citadel, right in front of the impressive Huayna Picchu. Access is in the upper part of the archaeological site, near the Guardian’s House, from where the path to the top starts.
To visit it, it is necessary to buy the ticket in advance, as entry is limited and usually sells out fast. Also, it is recommended to acclimate to the altitude at least one day before. A practical option is to rest in Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu, and start the trek early the next day.
Ways to get there:
- From Aguas Calientes on your own: It is best to arrive the day before. From the main entrance of Machu Picchu, follow the path to the guardian’s hut and then take the marked trail to the mountain.
- On an organized tour: A comfortable and simple alternative. Travel agencies take care of tickets, schedules, and transfers, which will allow you to focus only on enjoying the experience.
Tickets and schedules for Machu Picchu Mountain
To access the Mount Machu Picchu trail, it is necessary to buy the corresponding ticket for Circuit 1: Machu Picchu Mountain, which offers two daily entry times. The walk to the top takes an average of three hours, going up and down. If you wish to complement with a visit to the Inca citadel, consider at least five hours in total to enjoy the experience without rushing.
Before buying your ticket, think about the type of visit you want to do. Unlike the tickets for Circuits 2 and 3, those for Circuit 1 are usually easier to get, especially in low season. If you book with a travel agency, check that they select the time that best suits your itinerary.
Ticket costs
- Adults (18+): S/ 298 or USD 80
- Children (3-17): S/ 187 or USD 50
- Children under 3 years old: Free entry
Tickets can be purchased on the official Machu Picchu website, at authorized sales points in Cusco or directly with us: TuBoletoCultura, where you will also find complete packages to organize your visit easily and enjoy Machu Picchu without complications.
Circuit 1 – Route A: Machu Picchu Mountain
The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain includes access to the upper part of the Inca city, where some of the most impressive viewpoints are located. The route starts with a tour of the upper terrace, from where you can see the classic panoramic postcards, and continues with the demanding but rewarding trek to the top of the mountain.
It is important to note that this circuit does not cover the entire archaeological site. If you want to explore Machu Picchu in its entirety, the ideal is to complement your visit with Circuit 2, which covers more sectors of the sanctuary.
- First turn (7:00 a.m.)
Perfect for those who spend the night in Aguas Calientes. You can take the first bus to Machu Picchu and begin the ascent at 7:00 a.m. The journey from the main entrance to the start of the route takes about 25 minutes. Upon reaching the top, you will enjoy a unique landscape and the sunrise slowly lighting up the city. The recommended thing is to tour Machu Picchu before the climb, since the ascent and descent to the mountain lasts between 2.5 and 3 hours. After the trek, you will probably be tired to do a full 2 to 3-hour tour of the site. - Second turn (9:00 a.m.)
This time is ideal if you arrive at Machu Picchu after completing the Short Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, the Inca Jungle or a train trip. The dynamic is the same: tour the city first and then climb the mountain.
In the case of those who did the Classic 4-day Inca Trail, the most recommended thing is to rest in Aguas Calientes after the trekking. This way you can climb the mountain the next day, with renewed energy, before returning to Cusco.
How difficult is it to climb Machu Picchu Mountain?
The hike to Mount Machu Picchu is considered moderate to challenging, mainly because of the length of the route and the altitude. Unlike the famous Huayna Picchu, the trail does not have narrow steps or dizzying sections, which makes it a wider and safer route, although physically demanding.
The route starts with a slight slope that becomes more pronounced as you advance toward the top. The path is well-marked, so it is easy to follow. During the climb, hikers pass through a natural environment full of trees, native plants, and the possibility of observing birds and other Andean animals.
Upon reaching the highest point, you get one of the most spectacular views of the sanctuary: a complete panoramic view of the Inca citadel surrounded by imposing mountains and the Urubamba River valley.
The hike usually takes about three hours in total (round trip), with time to rest and enjoy the scenery. It is recommended for travelers in good physical condition and used to hiking at high altitudes, always moving at a slow pace to avoid excessive fatigue.
Trail data
- Maximum altitude: 3,061 m (10,043 feet)
- Total ascent: 630 m (2,070 feet)
- Average duration: 3 hours (round trip)
- Difficulty level: Moderate – challenging
- Best time to visit: Dry season (May to October)