For those adventurous travelers, Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the optional hikes available in the famous Inca Citadel. The challenge takes you over 3,000 meters above sea level through a steep cobbled staircase, but with a privileged view of the entire archeological site and its surroundings.
Therefore, if you’re looking to spice up your adventure in Machu Picchu, then you must consider adding this towering mountain to your bucket list. It is certainly another way to get immersed in the exuberant nature of the region that complements the overall experience in the historical sanctuary.
The trail is characterized by being naturally decorated with hundreds of orchid species and different types of birds that make you focus more on the fairy-tale scenery rather than the challenge ahead. Machu Picchu is located in such a prosperous ecosystem that spellbinds every one of its visitors.
If you haven’t made up your mind yet, let us captivate you with the highlights of visiting the imposing Machu Picchu. Learn everything about this optional hike and experience the Inca Citadel to its fullest.
To join the adventure, you must purchase a combination ticket that includes both the citadel and the natural attraction. However, you must keep in mind that you should coordinate the entry times so you don’t miss your guided tour through the sanctuary in case you've booked one already.
It is a self-guided hike of approximately 3 hours in total, depending on your physical condition. It is worth mentioning that the trail is not that easy though it is not as demanding as the Huayna Picchu trek.
To be exact, the mountain has an elevation of 3,082 meters, which means that the whole trail could be a total challenge for those who are afraid of heights, but the view surely pays off all the hard work implied throughout the trek. Here is a short guide to climbing Machu Picchu Mountain:
- To get to the starting point, you’ll have to follow the path towards the Guardhouse from the Machu Picchu entrance. At some point the trail will split in two, but don’t worry, there will be some wooden signs that will help you stay on track.
- Once you have found the warden’s hut, you’ll have to show your passport and entrance ticket. Remember, your entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain is totally different from your ticket to the citadel.
- The trail starts with an easy ascent for the first 50-60 minutes, later it gets steeper and narrower as you are reaching the summit. On the way, you’ll be able to glance at the beautiful landscape and the citadel.
- Once you’ve reached the top, the site offers a shelter with seats and a privileged view of the entire scenery, here you’ll be able to appreciate the famous Inca ruins, the surrounding mountains, the serpentine Vilcanota River, and much more.
Please note that the walk up to Machu Picchu Mountain is considered a moderate to challenging hike. Although the trail is well-marked and has an evenly inclined ascend, the altitude could affect you on the way, which is why we recommend you be prepared before committing to this physically demanding activity.
This is one of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our passengers. The Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains are the only two optional hikes within the archeological circuit.
Therefore, if you’re willing to include any of these in your itinerary, keep in mind that they both offer different experiences, here we’ll detail each one:
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain is significantly more difficult due to its very steep trail that can cause some fear by only looking at it. However, the peak offers some sights on the way, such as the Moon Temple and some other smaller Inca constructions located on its summit.
The trek is certainly not for the fainthearted, It is considered a challenging hike since the path is very steep and it’s composed of a narrow cobbled staircase. It takes about 2.5 hours to complete it, but for those up to the adventure the site offers a closer view of the citadel and its surroundings.
- The Machu Picchu Mountain trail is easier and less frightening in comparison to Huayna Picchu. Although the trek may be difficult due to the altitude factor, the route is totally uncomplicated.
Unlike Huayna Picchu, the trail offers a total immersion in the distinctive nature of the region. As aforementioned, you’ll be able to spot different species of orchids and birds, making your experience even easier to put up with (We’re joking, it is certainly more pleasant to walk).
As you can see, the adventures provided by these two peaks are totally different, and the entire location offers activities for almost every type of traveler. However, if you'd like more information regarding this, check out this blog about the difference between Machu Picchu mountain and Huayna Picchu.
If you wish to include any of these attractions in your travel plan, then you must organize and book any of the entrance fees in advance.
Whether you’re taking the Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountain, there are only 400 tickets available for each one. However, Huayna Picchu Mountain tends to sell out very quickly, which is why we recommend booking at least 5-6 months in advance.
On the other hand, to book the ticket to Machu Picchu mountain, you will need to do it at least 1-2 months in advance. Please note that if you’re traveling during the high season (June - October), you will need to plan ahead due to the high demand for these attractions.
We, as travelers, know how difficult it could be to plan a trip without guidance. Therefore, in Viagens Machu Picchu, we want to take that stress away by providing anything you need so you can have a unique experience during your trip to Peru.
If you wish more information about all the different things to do in our marvelous country, please check our travel packages and start planning the trip of your life!
