Machu Picchu Mountain is the most spectacular alternative to Huayna Picchu Mountain available in the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Located south-west of Machu Picchu, it rises 3,082 meters (10,112 feet) above sea level; this mountain hike offers unparalleled views of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, and the surrounding mountain landscape. At its summit, Inca priests performed rituals on special dates and also made liturgical salutations to the Apu Salkantay. Here is a simple guide for those who wish to hike Machu Picchu Mountain.

• The trail or route up to Machu Picchu Mountain
• Difficulty during the hike
• Useful information
• The best time to go
• Preparation and everything you need for the trek

View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain

The trail or route up to Machu Picchu Mountain

Before starting this hike you can take the opportunity to start taking panoramic photos of Machu Picchu, although you will still have the opportunity to take pictures and a well-deserved rest when you return and walk around the upper platform. Place where the postcard photo is taken.

Difficulty during the hike

Moderate to Challenging. The hike to Machu Picchu Mountain is considered a moderate to challenging hike, and although it does not require exceptional physical fitness, you will need to be in good shape.

That is why sometimes, it is recommended to the tourists to do previous training. It is important to know that even if it is not rainy season (December to March) it may rain. But, it will not have the same intensity as when it is rainy season since it will only be downpours.

During the rainy season, the road can be more slippery so the difficulty of the ascent increases. In case of heavy rain, you can wait until the rain stops, it usually does not rain for a long time in Machu Picchu. In any case, you should bring a waterproof poncho and, if possible, waterproof shoes.

How do I start the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain?
The Machu Picchu Mountain checkpoint is located inside the Inca City of Machu Picchu itself. To start the hike, you must pass through the grounds of the Guardian’s House as the checkpoint and registration is located near the site. During registration, you will have to show your entrance ticket and also your identity card or passport, as well as sign the visitors book. It is easy to follow the trail because you follow small wooden signs. From the first minutes of the hike you will be able to appreciate a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. As you start the hike you will find other angles and views of the wonder of the world.

View of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu

Useful information

• Time required: Ascent between 1h 30m and 2h.
• Altitude of the summit: 3,082 meters above sea level.
• Height in relation to Machu Picchu: 652 meters.
• Terrain: Stone Inca Trail, with grassy and dirt places.
• Recommended footwear: Light hiking boots (never new).
• Entry Hours:
  • First Schedule: 07:00 hrs. – 08:00 hrs.
  • Second Schedule: 09:00 hrs. – 10:00 hrs.
• Tickets: A total of 400 admission tickets are now available on a daily basis. 200 tickets can be purchased online, the rest in person.
• Type of Ticket: The Machu Picchu mountain ticket belongs to Circuit 1, that is, to the Panoramic circuit. So the postcard photo is guaranteed. It is also important to know that the tour will be only by this route. Now the tickets have only one specific route.
• Changes during high season: There are no changes during high season. All year round you can find the 400 daily tickets.

The best time to go

Machu Picchu Mountain is accessible all year round, but like Huayna Picchu Mountain, during the rainy season (November – April), there is a higher probability of heavy rains, making the trail slippery and more difficult to traverse. In this sense, an excellent option is to do the trek during the dry season (May – October). However, this period of time coincides with the high season, that is to say, with the dates in which the visits to Machu Picchu are massive and sometimes it is difficult to make a reservation for any ticket. Some dates are even sold out months in advance.

The region has a sub-tropical climate throughout the year, with daily temperatures averaging 18 °C (64 °F). During the dry season the humidity is around 40 to 45%, reaching 60 to 65% during the rainy season. All this causes some complications in the views. As, for example, the presence of fog to see Machu Picchu from the upper platform. However, it can not be a big problem when ascending in any of the schedules and the elapsed time lapse is very likely that the skies clear and you can find beautiful views, ideal for the postcard photo, at the conclusion of the tour of the Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Early trekking offers cooler temperatures and more shade. The dry season is undoubtedly the best time for trekking Machu Picchu mountain. However, it is also possible to do an excellent trek during the rainy season. For this, it will be essential to take some precautions such as waterproof shoes or poncho. The intense rains may seem an obstacle, but at the same time they allow a new experience when touring Machu Picchu.

Panoramic view from Machu Picchu Mountain

Preparation and everything you need for the trek

The weather throughout the southern region of Peru is often unpredictable, with rain at any time of the year, so be prepared for rain or shine. The trail is mainly stone steps, so it is best to wear light, comfortable shoes. It is advisable to bring a light rain poncho and sun protection.

• Water; minimum 1 to 1.5 liters of water (2 – 3 personal bottles).
• Hat, sunglasses and sun protection.
• Strong insect repellent.
• Rain poncho.
• Small snacks.
• Identity Card / Passport / ISIC.
• Printed Machu Picchu Electronic Ticket (without this you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu).
• Camera.

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, August 15, 2024