Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, is without a doubt the main attraction every visitor wants to discover when traveling to Peru. This famous archaeological site stands out not only for its historic constructions but also for the vast nature surrounding it. It is built between two mountains, both of which are part of the attractions that can be visited and climbed. Huayna Picchu Mountain is the one that appears in all the classic photos, and right in front of it stands the great Machu Picchu Mountain, the highest in the area. Learn more about this summit!

• The old mountain that gave Machu Picchu its name
• Machu Picchu Mountain: an adventure you won’t forget
• How to climb Machu Picchu Mountain?
• Difference: Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Questions and answers

Classic photo in Machu Picchu

Which one to choose? Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain?
Machu Picchu Mountain is the highest peak surrounding the Inca Historical Sanctuary. Its summit rises 3,082 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the entire site and the beautiful geography that surrounds it. Huayna Picchu Mountain is another peak located near Machu Picchu, at 2,693 meters above sea level. Both routes are challenging but full of adventure and breathtaking views. Huayna Picchu is only suitable for visitors over 12 years old, while Machu Picchu Mountain is suitable for all ages. Which is better? That depends on each visitor’s preferences. Huayna Picchu is more demanding but has a shorter route. Machu Picchu Mountain has a longer trail but is less steep to climb.

The old mountain that gave Machu Picchu its name

• Machu Picchu is a Quechua word that translates to “old mountain.”
• The Inca city owes its current name to this mountain. However, according to some studies, the original name of Machu Picchu might have been Patallaqta.
• This magnificent mountain is part of the eastern slope of the Central Andes range and is surrounded by the Urubamba River. Its elevation is approximately 3,082 meters above sea level.
• Along one of its slopes, the road built by Hiram Bingham connects the town of Aguas Calientes with the Inca city, while at its back runs the final section of the Inca Trail.
• The archaeological sanctuary, in its vast extension, seems to unite the summit of Machu Picchu (old mountain) with that of Huayna Picchu (young mountain).
• Apparently, the construction of this historic site was not chosen at random. From its location, there is full command of the surrounding landscape, as well as the presence of many sacred mountains, considered “apus” — protective spirits — to which many of the constructions pay tribute.
• Surrounded by lush vegetation typical of the cloud forest, Machu Picchu Mountain rises impressively between the Andes and the misty jungle.

Panoramic view of the Inca citadel

Machu Picchu Mountain: an adventure you won’t forget

• The hike up Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the best experiences you can have at Machu Picchu.
• The climb follows trails that wind through the area’s lush vegetation and includes more than 1,600 stone steps.
• The trail consists of hundreds of stone steps surrounded by rich flora that offers breathtaking landscapes at every turn.
• The path does not feature steep slopes like those of Huayna Picchu Mountain, but it is much longer to reach the summit. Along the way, you can rest at several viewpoints equipped with shelters.
• As you ascend, the views become increasingly spectacular. The hike can be exhausting, partly due to the altitude (around 3,000 meters above sea level), but the reward at the top is truly sublime.
• According to many visitors who have experienced it, the view of the Inca citadel from Machu Picchu Mountain is the best of all.
• The visit to Machu Picchu takes place along the panoramic route (circuit 1). Then, to begin the hike, you must head to the mountain’s entrance gate, located above the Guardian’s House.
• The hiking route takes about 4 hours (round trip), so you can stay in the Inca citadel for a maximum of 6 hours.
• Along the way, you can stop as often as you like to explore more of the biodiversity that surrounds this historic sanctuary.
• The ticket for this adventure is called the Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A), available year-round and suitable for all ages.

Full view of Machu Picchu from the Mountain

How to climb Machu Picchu Mountain?

To ascend Machu Picchu Mountain, you must first purchase the “Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A)” ticket online through the Boletomachupicchu website.

Ticket Price

Entry Schedules

These are the two time slots you can choose to visit the mountain:

• Schedule 1 – Entry to the Inca citadel is between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. / Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain is between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m.
• Schedule 2 – Entry to the Inca citadel is between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. / Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain is between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m.

Difference: Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain

Questions and Answers

• What is Machu Picchu Mountain?

  Machu Picchu Mountain is the highest peak surrounding and overlooking the Machu Picchu citadel. Its name means “old mountain.” It is an alternative route during the visit to the Inca archaeological site.

• What was the real name of Machu Picchu?

  According to chronicles from the 16th and 17th centuries, the true name of Machu Picchu would have been Patallaqta.

• Is it difficult to reach the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain?

  Reaching the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain is a challenging adventure. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes for an average visitor. The paths ascend through stone trails built by the Incas.

• Which is more difficult: Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain?

  Machu Picchu Mountain is the longer but less steep hiking route within Machu Picchu, while Huayna Picchu is steeper and more demanding.

• What is the view like from the top of Machu Picchu Mountain?

  From the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082 m.a.s.l.), you get a panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the stunning Andean landscape surrounding it.

• Can children climb Machu Picchu Mountain?

  Yes, children can hike along the trails of Machu Picchu Mountain. It’s not necessary to reach the top to enjoy beautiful views, as there are up to three viewpoints along the route.

• Can older adults climb Machu Picchu Mountain?

  Yes, older adults can hike along the trails of Machu Picchu Mountain. It’s not necessary to reach the summit to enjoy beautiful views, as there are up to three viewpoints along the route.

• Are there Inca constructions along Machu Picchu Mountain?

  The route to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain does not feature major Inca constructions, only trails, stairways, and terraces.

• Where is the entrance gate to Machu Picchu Mountain?

  The entrance gate to Machu Picchu Mountain is located at the upper part of the Inca citadel, just a few steps from the Guardian’s House sector in Machu Picchu.

• Is the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain dangerous?

  No, the hike to the top of Machu Picchu Mountain is demanding but not dangerous. It’s only recommended that children be closely supervised by their parents, and older adults should be in good physical and cardiac condition.

Advice from people who have been there

Waynapicchu

By: Gabriela R

“Machu Picchu and its great mountain“

“I have spent the last few years traveling, and I have never returned with as much satisfaction as from this place. The atmosphere, the weather, the people, the landscapes, the energy — everything is worth it a thousand times over. I climbed Machu Picchu Mountain, and despite the fatigue and effort it took to get there, everything fades away when you’re at the top. Machu Picchu looks simply wonderful.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, October 9, 2025