The Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary owes its name to a massive mountain called Machu Picchu, just like the Inca citadel. Venturing to discover the views from its summit is one of the best experiences you can have when visiting this wonder of the world. The necessary ticket is “Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A)”, which also includes the panoramic circuit tour. If you’re still not convinced, here are some reasons to choose this ticket.

• Differences between Machu Picchu Mountain and the Historic Sanctuary
• Reasons to choose the Machu Picchu Mountain route
  • The hike is easy
  • The panoramic views are wonderful
  • It can be done by children
  • There is no danger
  • Getting a ticket is not complicated
  • You tour the Machu Picchu panoramic circuit
• Frequently asked questions

Machu Picchu Mountain summit

The 3 tour circuits at Machu Picchu
To visit Machu Picchu there are 10 types of tickets, each of which includes a tour circuit. The available circuits are: Panoramic route – circuit 1 (tours the upper part of the Inca citadel), Classic route – circuit 2 (tours the middle part of the Inca citadel) and Royalty route – circuit 3 (tours the lower part of the citadel). The ideal circuit will depend on the type of adventure you want to have, but to visit any circuit or route you must book your tickets at least one month in advance to secure your spot at this wonder of the world.

Differences between Machu Picchu Mountain and the Historic Sanctuary

• Machu Picchu (a Quechua name meaning “old mountain”) is the name of the Historic Sanctuary, which is over 500 years old. Built during the time of Inca Pachacutec, it was one of the most important citadels and religious sites of the Tahuantinsuyo.
• Machu Picchu Mountain is the highest peak surrounding the Inca citadel, located specifically behind it. Due to the importance of this mountain, the Historic Sanctuary bears its name.
• Machu Picchu Mountain stands 400 meters above the Inca citadel and has an approximate altitude of 3,082 meters above sea level.
• To visit Machu Picchu Mountain, it is necessary to purchase the “Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A)” ticket, which is available year-round.
• The adventure to its summit is one of the best experiences you can have when visiting Machu Picchu, in addition to enjoying dreamlike panoramic views.

Route to Machu Picchu Mountain

Reasons to choose the Machu Picchu Mountain route

• 1. The hike is easy

  • The route to Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the easiest hikes that tickets can include. Although it is one of the longest, covering approximately two kilometers, it is usually completed in just under two hours.
  • The trails are wide and well-marked, and while there are some ascents, they are not very steep, making it an easy path to traverse to the mountain summit.
  • Remember that during the rainy season (November to March) you should travel with better equipment (hiking shoes, waterproof clothing, rain poncho), as the route can be a bit slippery. The rest of the year has more stable weather, perfect for excursions.

• 2. The panoramic views are wonderful

  • The summit of Machu Picchu Mountain is the highest point from which you can view the Inca citadel.
  • Upon arrival you will be able to appreciate not only historic constructions, but a dreamlike landscape full of mountains, rivers and lush tropical flora.
  • Panoramic views can be appreciated from the beginning to the end of the route, and there are many rest points along the way to stop and contemplate them.
  • If what you are looking for on your trip to the Historic Sanctuary is the best photographs, Machu Picchu Mountain is, without a doubt, the best option.

• 3. It can be done by children

  • There is no age limit to hike the trails to Machu Picchu Mountain. It is ideal for doing with the whole family or large groups of friends.
  • The required physical condition is minimal, with calmness and determination anyone can complete the journey. The trail is very well marked and wide, making it very safe for everyone.
  • Even older adults can climb its paths. After descending, remember that you can still visit the Inca city through circuit 1 (panoramic route).

  Machu Picchu Mountain schedules
  The Machu Picchu Mountain ticket is available year-round and has two different entry times: Group 1, entry at 06:00 in the morning; group 2, entry at 08:00 in the morning. It is recommended to book the ticket at least one month in advance to secure your preferred day and time.

• 4. There is no danger

  • The danger is almost non-existent during the Machu Picchu Mountain tour. The paths are well-marked and there are safety ropes that separate the sections from the mountain’s abyss.
  • Children will not run any risk if supervised by parents. The paths are not too steep, so fatigue problems are rare. Even if you are not in optimal physical condition, you can climb the mountain at your own pace.
  • It is one of the safest routes due to its width, but you should always be careful because these are terrains close to abysses.

• 5. Getting a ticket is not complicated

  • Getting a Machu Picchu Mountain ticket is one of the easiest options, since you will only need to do it one month in advance.
  • Machu Picchu Mountain allows daily entry of 300 people divided into 2 groups of 150 each.
  • This ticket is available every day of the year, both during high ticket season (June 19 to November 2), and during regular season (November 3 to June 18).

• 6. You tour the Machu Picchu panoramic circuit

  • At Machu Picchu there are three tour circuits, and the “Machu Picchu Mountain route (1A)” ticket includes circuit 1, also called the panoramic route.
  • The panoramic circuit traverses the upper part of the Inca citadel, from where the classic photographs of Machu Picchu are taken.
  • While it does not tour the main constructions of Machu Picchu, the panoramic route accesses the Guardian’s House and the upper terrace, where there is ample space to rest and contemplate the wonder of the world in detail.
  • If you are looking for unforgettable views and photographs of the historic sanctuary, purchasing the Machu Picchu Mountain ticket is your best option.

Machu Picchu Mountain

Frequently asked questions

• 1) What is the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and the Historic Sanctuary?

  Machu Picchu Mountain is the summit that rises behind the Inca citadel, while the Historic Sanctuary is the archaeological complex built over 500 years ago. The sanctuary is named after this mountain due to its great importance. Both places complement each other, but represent different experiences.

• 2) What ticket do I need to climb Machu Picchu Mountain?

  To ascend the mountain you must purchase the “Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A)” ticket, which also includes the panoramic circuit. This ticket is available year-round and is one of the easiest to book.

• 3) Is the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain difficult?

  No, it is one of the easiest routes at Machu Picchu. Although it is a long journey, the path is mostly flat, wide and well-marked. Most travelers reach the summit without major difficulties, although remember to always rest along the way.

• 4) How long does it take to reach the summit?

  Generally, the ascent is completed in less than two hours. This depends on each visitor’s pace, but even with breaks it is a very accessible journey. You cover approximately 2 kilometers (4 kilometers round trip).

• 5) Is the route safe for the whole family?

  Yes, the trails have good signage and wide walking areas. Even children can hike it without problems, always with supervision. It is ideal for families and large groups.

• 6) How far in advance should I buy the ticket?

  The Machu Picchu Mountain route is one of the most accessible in terms of availability. One month in advance is usually sufficient, even during high season.

• 7) How many people can enter per day?

  Entry is limited to 300 daily visitors, divided into two groups of 150. This allows for a more orderly and peaceful experience during the tour.

• 8) What views will I have from the summit?

  From the summit you will enjoy the highest panoramic view of the entire historic sanctuary. You will be able to observe the Inca citadel framed by mountains, rivers and a natural environment of great beauty. It is one of the best points for photography.

• 9) Does the Machu Picchu Mountain ticket include a tour of the citadel?

  It includes circuit 1, also called the panoramic route. This circuit allows access to the upper area of the sanctuary, where you get the classic views of Machu Picchu, the Guardian’s House and the upper terrace. But not a tour through the Inca citadel.

• 10) Is it worth choosing this route over other options?

  Yes, Machu Picchu Mountain combines accessibility, safety and extraordinary views. It is a complete experience that allows you to live the adventure of the ascent and enjoy the panoramic circuit in a single ticket.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu Mountain

By: María J.

“Beautiful“

“Beautiful place where you can easily find peace, it exceeds the expectations you have when traveling. Not even the best photograph of this place compares to how sensational it is to be there“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, November 27, 2025