Huayna Picchu Mountain is the most popular attraction in Machu Picchu, as it involves an adrenaline-filled hike through steep terraces, making it one of the best short hikes in the world. This generates high demand for its entry tickets, which can sell out months in advance. If you are unable to get a ticket to this summit, we will present four similar routes to experience an unforgettable adventure in the Inca citadel.

• Route to Machu Picchu Mountain
• Route to Huchuy Picchu Mountain
• Route to Inti Punku Gate
• Route to the Temple of the Moon
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tourist on Huayna Picchu Mountain

Route to Machu Picchu Mountain

• Machu Picchu Mountain is the largest of the mountains surrounding the Inca city of Machu Picchu. Reaching its summit involves a long hike, but it is not as demanding as Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• The summit of this mountain (3,082 meters above sea level) is 600 meters above the Inca citadel, which rises to 2,430 meters above sea level.
• The view from the mountain’s summit is simply breathtaking. For many visitors, it offers the best scenic views of the surroundings of Machu Picchu.
• The trails of Machu Picchu Mountain are calmer and much less crowded than Huayna Picchu. You won’t have to worry about crowds.
• If you are an average hiker, it will take about 2 hours to reach the summit and just over an hour to descend.
• It is the most recommended route for families with children, as the path is easy to navigate. To reach the entrance of the trail, you will need to walk toward the Inti Punku gate, and halfway you will see a sign directing you to Machu Picchu Mountain.
• To undertake this adventure, you must purchase the ‘Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A)’ ticket, which is available year-round.

View from Machu Picchu Mountain

Route to Huchuy Picchu Mountain

• Huchuy Picchu is the smallest mountain you will see in the Machu Picchu citadel. It is a slope of Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• Its summit reaches 2,497 meters above sea level, only about 50 meters above the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
• The route from Machu Picchu to the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain is only 1 kilometer. This hike is easy, with a final stretch along stone stairs. An average visitor can reach the top in less than an hour.
• The view of Machu Picchu from the summit of Huchuy Picchu is very scenic. You can see much of the buildings that make up the archaeological site, as well as many important temples.
• The path to Huchuy Picchu Mountain is very easy, although it is only available for people over 12 years old. Along the way, you can observe birds and butterflies.
• To reach Huchuy Picchu, you must enter Machu Picchu via Circuit 3 (included route) and then head to the Sacred Rock sector. From there, you will enter the route to Huchuy Picchu Mountain through the same entrance as Huayna Picchu.
• To visit this mountain, you must purchase the ‘Huchuy Picchu Mountain Route (3D)’ ticket. This adventure is only available from June 19 to November 2.

View from Huchuy Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Ticket Seasons
When purchasing your entry to Machu Picchu, note that there are two ticket seasons, each with a different number of available routes. From June 19 to November 2 (high ticket season) all 10 routes are available, while from November 3 to June 18 (regular ticket season) only 6 routes are accessible. As an additional note, on December 30 and 31 all routes are available.

Route to Inti Punku Gate

• If you are lucky enough to enter Machu Picchu via the classic Inca Trail, then the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) will be the first place you reach as you approach Machu Picchu. This point offers fantastic views of the sacred city.
• The summit of the Inti Punku gate is at 2,745 meters above sea level, 300 meters higher than Machu Picchu. From there, you get scenic views of the entire Inca city and the surrounding mountains.
• If you arrived at Machu Picchu by train, you can access Inti Punku via the entry path to the Inca city on Circuit 1 (panoramic route) and then follow the Inca Trail route in reverse.
• It will take approximately one hour to reach the Sun Gate. The distance of this hike is about 2 kilometers, and almost the entire stretch is uphill.
• To take this route, you must purchase the ‘Inti Punku Gate Route (1C)’ ticket, which is only available from June 19 to November 2.

View from Inti Punku

Route to the Temple of the Moon

• The Temple of the Moon is an enigmatic structure located on the slopes of Huayna Picchu Mountain, surrounded by lush nature, which gives it a magical setting.
• The route to reach it is somewhat long, but not overly difficult. The round trip takes approximately 3 hours, depending on your physical condition. Only individuals over 12 years old can enter.
• The Great Cave or Temple of the Moon is at 2,256 meters above sea level, lower than the Inca citadel. Along the way, you will see a great diversity of plants and insects.
• To take this route, you must purchase the ‘Great Cave or Temple of the Moon Route (3C)’ ticket, which is available only from June 19 to November 2.

Temple of the Moon

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What can I do if I can’t get tickets for Huayna Picchu?

  If tickets for Huayna Picchu are sold out, you can purchase tickets for other equally impressive routes, such as Machu Picchu Mountain, Huchuy Picchu Mountain, the Inti Punku Gate, and the Temple of the Moon. Each offers unique views and different experiences.

• 2) What is the best alternative to Huayna Picchu?

  Machu Picchu Mountain is the most complete option if you are looking for panoramic views and an adventurous route. At the summit, you will find one of the most spectacular landscapes of the entire archaeological site.

• 3) Can I explore Machu Picchu without doing any additional hikes?

  Yes, you can choose tickets that only cover one of the three circuits of Machu Picchu. However, including a hike will allow you to have a more complete experience and enjoy views that few visitors get to see.

• 4) Which route is the easiest?

  The route to Huchuy Picchu Mountain is the shortest and easiest. It can be climbed in less than an hour and does not require significant physical fitness. It is ideal if you want a light hike with panoramic views of Machu Picchu.

• 5) Can these hikes be done with children?

  Yes, the routes to Machu Picchu Mountain and the Inti Punku Gate are perfect for families with children. The trails are wider and safer than those of Huayna Picchu.

• 6) Which route offers the best panoramic view?

  The summit of Machu Picchu Mountain offers the most complete view of the historic sanctuary and the surrounding biodiversity. It is ideal for resting and reflecting in one of the most breathtaking landscapes you will ever see.

• 7) What is the difference between Huchuy Picchu and Huayna Picchu?

  Huchuy Picchu is a more accessible mountain than Huayna Picchu. It is located on a slope of the same mountain, with lower altitude and a much shorter route. It is ideal if you want a lighter experience.

• 8) What can I see on the route to the Temple of the Moon?

  On this hike, you will enter a more natural and tranquil area surrounded by abundant vegetation. The Temple of the Moon, or Great Cave, is a ceremonial space carved inside a cave, full of mysteries and great energy.

• 9) How long does each hike take?

  It depends on the route: Machu Picchu Mountain takes about 3 hours (round trip), Huchuy Picchu less than 2 hours (round trip), Inti Punku Gate a little over 2 hours (round trip), and the Temple of the Moon about 3 hours in total. Duration varies depending on your pace and physical condition.

• 10) What is the best time to hike the mountains?

  It is ideal to start early in the morning, between 6:00 and 7:00, to avoid crowds and take advantage of the sunlight for panoramic views. This also allows you to enjoy cooler temperatures during the hike.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu Mountain

By: Jorge H.

“The Best Trip“

“I had always dreamed of visiting Machu Picchu, but climbing Machu Picchu Mountain exceeded all my expectations. The hike is challenging, but every step is worth it: the views from the top are simply breathtaking, with the entire Inca citadel unfolding before your eyes, surrounded by green mountains and clouds that seem to touch your skin.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, November 10, 2025