Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from Cusco
The Inca city of Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive historical and natural destinations in the world, and within its grounds, the hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain offers one of the most breathtaking experiences thanks to its panoramic views of the entire surrounding landscape. To get there from Cusco, visitors must first travel to the entrance of the archaeological complex, where access to the mountain hike is granted with a Huayna Picchu ticket. Below, learn how to get there and make
the most of this unique combination of archaeological and natural wonders.
- How to Get to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from Cusco?
- Route to Reach Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from Cusco
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket (Route 3A): Schedules and Availability
- How to Visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu in One Day?
- Travel Recommendations
- Frequently Asked Questions
View of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Tickets
The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu offers ten types of admission tickets, each included within three circuits that divide the Inca citadel into different sections. For example, the Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket includes access to Circuit 3, which passes through the lower sector of Machu Picchu. Remember to reserve your tickets at least one month in advance. However, if you wish to visit Huayna Picchu, it is recommended to book up to three months
ahead.
How to Get to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from Cusco?
- A stop in the city of Cusco is essential before traveling to Machu Picchu and later climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- Upon arriving in Cusco, you must first travel to the town of Ollantaytambo, where the main train station to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) is located.
- Traveling by train is the most common way to reach Machu Picchu because it is the fastest and most comfortable option. Other alternatives include the Inca Trail (a four-day hiking adventure) and the Hydroelectric Route (an option combining a 6-hour vehicle ride and a 2-hour hike).
- The train arrives at the Aguas Calientes station, at the foot of the Inca city of Machu Picchu. From there, you only need to board one of the buses that take visitors to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu.
- It is important to keep in mind that you should not wait until arriving in Cusco to purchase your Machu Picchu entrance tickets. The best option is to buy them online at least one or two months in advance.
Route to Reach Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from Cusco
1. How to Get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Cusco is the top tourist destination in South America. Upon arriving in the city, if you plan to travel by train, you must first take a bus to the town of Ollantaytambo.
- On Pavitos Street (in Cusco’s Historic Center), you can find cars, buses, and minivans that travel to Ollantaytambo. The approximate cost is 15 Peruvian soles (5 US dollars).
- The bus journey from Cusco to Ollantaytambo travels through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and arrives just a short walk from the train station. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Map from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
2. How to Get from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- After arriving in Ollantaytambo, the next step is to board the train from the town’s station.
- Train tickets can be booked just a few days in advance, although the best option is to reserve several weeks ahead to secure your preferred schedule and service.
- The trains are operated by two railway companies: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer multiple services that vary in level of comfort and exclusivity.
- Remember to arrive at the Ollantaytambo station at least 30 minutes before your train’s departure.
- The train journey to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) takes approximately two hours. Along the way, you’ll travel through Andean landscapes and into the tropical cloud forest region.
Train route from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town)
3. How to Get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- The town of Aguas Calientes is very small. The train station is only a 5-minute walk from the main square and the bus station to Machu Picchu.
- If you have not purchased your bus ticket in advance, you can buy it at the ticket office located nearby. These tickets do not have a fixed departure time, and you only need to wait in a short line to board a bus.
- The bus ride follows an uphill route of approximately 10 kilometers until reaching the entrance gate of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The trip takes about 30 minutes.
- Taking the bus is the most common option, although hiking up is also possible. The trail consists of continuously ascending stone steps and can take more than two hours, making it a better option for the descent.
4. How to Get from Machu Picchu to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- The final bus stop is located a short distance from the entrance to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
- To enter, you must follow one of the three circuits that divide the archaeological site, according to the ticket you purchased.
- If you purchased the Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket, you must enter through the Circuit 3 entrance, known as the Royalty Route.
- After a brief tour of the lower sector of Machu Picchu, continue toward the Sacred Rock area.
- Directly in front of this structure is the entrance gate to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- The final ascent takes nearly one hour.
Map of the route to Huayna Picchu
Circuit 3 Tour – Royalty Route
When entering the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu with a Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket, visitors first have time to explore the lower sector of the citadel. After completing the ascent to Huayna Picchu, the corresponding circuit continues to complete the visit. This route includes some of the most important sites within the complex, such as the Temple of the Condor, the House of the Inca, the Royal Tomb, the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred
Fountains, and the agricultural sector, providing a more comprehensive experience.
Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket (Route 3A): Schedules and Availability
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket (Route 3A) allows visitors to climb to the summit of the mountain and explore Circuit 3, the Royalty Route of Machu Picchu.
- This ticket has a daily availability of 350 permits, which should be reserved online up to three months in advance.
- Additionally, 50 tickets are made available each day for in-person purchase in Aguas Calientes for visitors who were unable to secure a reservation in advance.
- With this ticket, visitors may remain in the Inca citadel for up to 6 hours, including the tour of the lower sector of Machu Picchu and the ascent to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- • The Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket offers two entry times:
- Group 1: Entry at 7:00 a.m. (30-minute grace period).
- Group 2: Entry at 10:00 a.m. (30-minute grace period).
Tourists waiting for the train at Ollantaytambo Station
How to Visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu in One Day?
| One-Day Travel Itinerary to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu | |
|---|---|
| Time | Activity |
| 5:30 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. | Travel by vehicle from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station. |
| 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. | Train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. |
| 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. |
| 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Entry with the Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket and tour of Machu Picchu Circuit 3 (Group 2 schedule). |
| 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Hike and visit to Huayna Picchu Mountain. |
| 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Return and completion of the Machu Picchu Circuit 3 tour. |
| 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Return to Aguas Calientes, lunch, and free time. |
| 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Return train journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. |
| 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Return trip by vehicle from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. |
Travel Recommendations
- If you have a Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket for Group 1 (7:00 a.m. entry), it is recommended to spend the previous night in Aguas Calientes to enjoy the visit at a more relaxed pace.
- The town of Aguas Calientes offers many tourist attractions and activities to enjoy before or after visiting the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
- The route to the summit of Huayna Picchu is open only to visitors aged 12 and older. Although the trail is safe, it is always recommended to walk carefully and at a steady pace.
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket (Route 3A) is available year-round, with 350 admission tickets offered daily.
- When visiting Machu Picchu, remember to wear trekking shoes, apply sunscreen, use mosquito repellent, and bring plenty of water. Carrying a small backpack is also recommended so you can keep your hands free during the hike.
- Along the Huayna Picchu trail, there are two detours: one leading to the smaller summit of Huchuy Picchu and another to the Temple of the Moon. Each attraction requires its own ticket and is available only during the high season (June 19 to November 2).
- If Huayna Picchu tickets are sold out, you can book the Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket (Route 1A). This experience follows a similar hiking route and reaches the highest point overlooking the Inca citadel.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is it necessary to buy Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Yes, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and especially Huayna Picchu are in high demand and have limited availability. We recommend purchasing them at least three months in advance.
2) Is it possible to visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu in one day?
Yes, it is possible to visit both sites, but you should start early. The Huayna Picchu ticket not only allows access to the mountain hike but also includes the Circuit 3 tour of Machu Picchu.
3) What is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, between May and September. During these months, rainfall is minimal, allowing for clearer views of the landscapes surrounding this Wonder of the World.
4) What is the difference between the Huayna Picchu hike and the Machu Picchu Mountain hike?
The Huayna Picchu hike is shorter but more challenging and is known for its classic views of the Inca citadel. In contrast, Machu Picchu Mountain offers a longer trek, with panoramic views from the highest point overlooking the site.
5) Are there age restrictions for climbing Huayna Picchu?
Yes, entry is permitted only for visitors aged 12 and older.
6) What does the Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket (Route 3A) include?
This ticket includes admission to the Inca city of Machu Picchu through Circuit 3, as well as access to the ascent route leading to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
7) Is it recommended to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu?
Yes, spending the night in Aguas Calientes allows you to begin your visit to Machu Picchu early in the morning and helps avoid the stress of very early transfers from Cusco.
8) What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
The most recommended route combines bus and train transportation. First, travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by bus or minivan. Then take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Finally, board a bus that takes visitors up to the entrance of the archaeological site.
9) How long is the train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes?
The train ride takes between 1 hour and 40 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the type of service selected.
10) Is it possible to hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
Yes, although it is not the most common option. The hike takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes and 2 hours, following steep stone stairways through the cloud forest.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Alanís C.“A Dream Come True“
“We climbed Huayna Picchu after completing the Inca Trail. We booked everything six months in advance and had no idea what awaited us. Exhausted after four days of hiking, we began the ascent without knowing if we would make it to the top. Yet we quickly forgot our aches and fatigue as an incredible wave of
emotions took over when we saw Machu Picchu from above. Don't expect anyone to describe what you'll see from there. Go up and experience it yourself.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, June 17, 2026