Huchuy Picchu mountain is one of the most popular hiking routes in the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This summit, located next to Huayna Picchu, reaches 2,497 meters above sea level, just 50 meters above the Inca citadel. The hike to its summit offers privileged panoramic views of the archaeological and natural surroundings. Before planning your visit, it is advisable to know key aspects such as its difficulty level, what the entrance includes, and how to properly organize the route.

• What is Huchuy Picchu?
• Where is it located?
• How to get there?
• Huchuy Picchu map
• The hiking route
• The landscapes
• The Huchuy Picchu mountain ticket
• The Machu Picchu tour circuit
• Photo gallery
• Tips and more information
• Frequently asked questions

What is Huchuy Picchu?

• Huchuy Picchu is a small mountain that overlooks the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. Its name comes from two Quechua words meaning ‘small mountain’.
• To reach the summit of this mountain, it is necessary to purchase the Huchuy Picchu mountain route ticket (3D).
• The route to Huchuy Picchu is easy. It covers only 1 kilometer of trails and stone steps built by the Incas.
• From the summit, there is a privileged view of the entire archaeological site and the surrounding nature.
• Huchuy Picchu, along with Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain, are the three peaks that are part of the Inca citadel. Discover their main features:

Where is it located?

• Huchuy Picchu mountain is located to the north of the Inca citadel, next to Huayna Picchu and connected through its trails.
• Its summit reaches 2,497 meters above sea level (50 meters higher than the archaeological site).
• This summit is small compared to the other mountains of the Historic Sanctuary: Huayna Picchu (2,693 meters above sea level) and Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082 meters above sea level).
• Politically, Huchuy Picchu belongs to the district of Machupicchu, province of Urubamba, Cusco region in Peru.
• Likewise, this small mountain is located between the Inca citadel and Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• From its summit, both places can be clearly seen.
• To get there, you must first enter circuit 3 of the Historic Sanctuary, then walk towards the northern area where the checkpoint is located, in front of the Sacred Rock.

Ticket seasons in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu has 10 tickets or entry routes, although not all are always available. From June 19 to November 2 (high season), all tickets are available, including the route to Huchuy Picchu mountain. Meanwhile, from November 3 to June 18 (regular season), only six tickets are enabled. During these dates, the Huchuy Picchu route is unavailable.

How to get there?

• To reach the summit of Huchuy Picchu mountain, it is necessary to take a short hiking route of just 1 kilometer (approximately a 1-hour walk).
• To access this route, it is necessary to purchase the Huchuy Picchu Mountain ticket (Route 3D). The ticket can be purchased online through our website; it is recommended to buy it at least two months in advance.
• Keep in mind that only 50 tickets can be reserved per day.
• The Huchuy Picchu Mountain ticket (Route 3D) can only be purchased during the high season.
• The official high season begins on June 19 and lasts until November 2.
• Reservations can be made well before this season begins, so make sure to book in advance.
• Although this ticket includes the tour of circuit 3 (lower temples route), it is also possible to complement the route with other circuits.
• Below are some tickets that can be used to complement the visit.

Huchuy Picchu map

• The Huchuy Picchu mountain experience begins from the entrance to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu through circuit 3 (lower area).
• The first part of the route passes through agricultural areas with panoramic views of the Inca constructions.
• Afterwards, there is a short walk through some of the most important temples and enclosures until reaching the Sacred Rock area.
• The checkpoint to access the mountain route is located in front of the Sacred Rock sector.
• Here you must show your ticket and register visitor details, as well as the entry time.
• The route to the summit follows the same trails as Huayna Picchu mountain, although with a slight deviation.
• The ascent to Huchuy Picchu is easy, but it also includes ascending and stepped sections.
• The total ascent time, including short breaks, photos, and the descent, is approximately two hours.
• After completing the mountain route, circuit 3 of Machu Picchu continues until the exit of the citadel.
• The total route takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, although it can extend up to 4 hours.

Map of the Huchuy Picchu Mountain route

The hiking route

• The route to the summit of Huchuy Picchu follows stone paths (mainly stairs) built by the Incas in the late 15th century.
• The entry point is the same one that leads to Huayna Picchu. The first section consists of flat trails. Then a detour of stone steps leads to the summit of Huchuy Picchu.
• The route is easy to complete and takes approximately 1 hour (depending on the visitor’s physical condition). The return can take only 30 minutes.
• The return path follows the same route, mostly downhill.
• Along the route, you can find many varieties of plants and some insects. It is very important to pay attention throughout the journey so as not to miss any attractions.

The landscapes

• Huchuy Picchu mountain offers Andean and tropical landscapes full of vegetation, not only from the summit but throughout the entire route.
• During the hike, you can also hear birds singing, which are very common. The biodiversity of Machu Picchu is very rich.
• It also features various types of flowers, especially orchids. Throughout the Historic Sanctuary, there are more than 300 species of this beautiful flower.
• Upon reaching the summit of Huchuy Picchu, it is possible to appreciate part of the Vilcanota River that surrounds the entire mountain.
• You can also observe the geographical transition in higher mountains, from Andean to tropical zones.
• Another striking feature is the view of mountain ranges belonging to the Andes, a magical panorama that deserves time to fully appreciate.
• Finally, you can observe the harmony between Inca constructions and the natural geography of the area.

Landscape seen while climbing Huchuy Picchu

The Huchuy Picchu mountain ticket

• The availability of the Huchuy Picchu ticket is only from June 19 to November 2. It is recommended to book at least two months in advance.
• Huchuy Picchu has only 50 entry tickets per day. The route is only enabled for visitors over 12 years old, for safety reasons.
• There are two entry schedules, available only in the morning. The maximum tolerance time is 30 minutes.
  • Schedule Group 1: Entry to circuit 3 of Machu Picchu at 9:00 a.m., while access to the Huchuy Picchu mountain route is from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
  • Schedule Group 2: Entry to circuit 3 of Machu Picchu at 11:00 a.m., while access to the Huchuy Picchu mountain route is from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

NOTE: Visitors are advised to enter on time so they can complete the route normally and with fewer crowds.

The Machu Picchu tour circuit

• The Huchuy Picchu mountain ticket allows entry to the lower area of Machu Picchu and the Huchuy Picchu hiking route.
• The Royal circuit follows a route that begins at the entrance gate of the citadel and is completed after finishing the hike to Huchuy Picchu.
• The route follows the new Circuit 3 of Machu Picchu.
• The visit through Machu Picchu is one-way. Backtracking is not allowed. Once at the exit gate, re-entry is not permitted.
• Circuit 3 allows you to visit the main constructions of the lower part of Machu Picchu, such as: the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, the Water Mirrors, the Water Fountains, the House of the Inca, and more.
• It also includes agricultural sectors that offer wide photographic views of the archaeological site and surrounding mountains.

Galería de fotos

Tips and more information

• Entry to Huchuy Picchu mountain is allowed for people over 12 years old (children aged 12 to 17 must enter accompanied by their parents or guardian).
• Tickets have discounts for university students, minors, and citizens of Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. Children under 3 years old do not pay an entrance fee.
• The Huchuy Picchu route is only available from June 19 to November 2. If you travel to Machu Picchu on other dates, it is recommended to purchase the Huayna Picchu mountain ticket (route 3A), which is available all year round.
• During your visit, do not forget to bring: comfortable shoes, light and waterproof clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat (or cap), a rain poncho, snacks, a camera, and identification documents.
• Machu Picchu is open every day of the year, from 06:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

Frequently asked questions

• 1) When can I hike Huchuy Picchu?

  It is only available during the high season, from June 19 to November 2. However, you can make your reservation well in advance.

• 2) Do I really need to bring a waterproof poncho?

  Yes, since Machu Picchu is located in a semi-tropical area, there may be occasional showers or short rains during the day.

• 3) Are there trash bins inside the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu?

  No. Therefore, if you have any waste or disposable materials, you must keep them with you. At the entrance and exit points of the citadel, you will find designated containers for proper recycling.

• 4) Where is Huchuy Picchu located within Machu Picchu?

  It is located to the north of the Inca citadel, next to Huayna Picchu mountain. Access is through circuit 3, specifically starting near the Sacred Rock sector.

• 5) Can I really book two Machu Picchu tickets for the same day?

  Yes, you just need to be careful when choosing the schedules. Above, you can find several ticket combination options that can help you plan your visit through the entire Inca citadel.

• 6) How difficult is the hike to Huchuy Picchu?

  The hike is considered easy, as the route is very short and not very demanding. It is ideal for those looking for panoramic views and short hiking experiences.

• 7) How long does it take to visit Huchuy Picchu?

  The full route, including ascent, descent, and short breaks, takes between 1 and 2 hours. In total, together with circuit 3, the visit may last approximately 3 to 4 hours.

• 8) What landscapes can I see from Huchuy Picchu?

  From the summit, you will be able to see views of the Vilcanota River, the Machu Picchu citadel, and the surrounding mountains full of vegetation. It is recommended to take your time to enjoy the combination of nature and Inca architecture.

• 9) What is the minimum age to enter Huchuy Picchu?

  Access is allowed for people over 12 years old. Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

• 10) What does the Huchuy Picchu ticket include?

  The ticket includes access to circuit 3 of Machu Picchu, which covers the lower part of the citadel, as well as the hiking route to Huchuy Picchu mountain.

Advice from people who have been there

Huchuy Picchu

By: Belén S.

“Not complicated at all“

“I must admit I was afraid of this small route in Machu Picchu. Fortunately, my husband encouraged me to do the hike, which turned out to be easy and very safe. I even managed to find a beautiful orchid and stunning views of the wonder of the world. I hope to return soon and go even further next time.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, April 13, 2026