If you want to enjoy every breathtaking view of the Inca city from a high vantage point, short hikes in Machu Picchu are one of the best ways to appreciate all the natural beauty that surrounds this place. Each hike can be done with tickets for Machu Picchu + Mountain (Route 1A), Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (Route 1C), Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge (Route 1D), and Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Wayna Picchu (Route 3A). Discover each of the routes.

• Hike on Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Hike on Machu Picchu Mountain
• Walk to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
• Hike to the Inca Bridge
• Hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
• Tips for hiking in Machu Picchu
• Frequently Asked Questions

Stairway of Death Huayna Picchu

Hike on Huayna Picchu Mountain

This ancient Inca trail will take you to the top of Huayna Picchu mountain, right in front of the Inca city. It’s the most amazing experience—after Machu Picchu, of course. You’ll see agricultural terraces alongside enormous cliffs, the Temple of the Moon , and other structures that complement the path to the summit.

Some of the paths near the summit are quite narrow and weave between the mountain walls and enormous cliffs hundreds of meters high; these can be negotiated with handrails and ropes; it’s a terrifying experience for anyone with a fear of heights.

Only 400 people are allowed to enter Machu Picchu each day. When checking availability, you can choose the group you wish to join to climb Huayna Picchu. Demand for this hike is very high, especially during the dry season (April–October); therefore, it is necessary to check availability of the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A) ticket and reserve it three or four months in advance .

• Admission: You will only be able to enter this mountain with a Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu ticket (Route 3A).
• Level: Moderate – difficult.
• Tour time: 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the summit.
• Summit altitude: 2,720 m (8,920 ft).
• Restrictions: Only those over 12 years of age can climb Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• Tip: The Machu Picchu Mountain excursion is a good alternative if you are afraid of heights.

Huayna Picchu mountaintop

Hike on Machu Picchu Mountain

This mountain, almost twice the size of Huayna Picchu, will require you to climb steps and follow Inca trails to reach the summit. It’s a steep and difficult hike, but once at the top, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of Machu Picchu’s fabulous mountain setting.

The mountain’s entrance is open daily and can be accessed at two times: 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. It’s best to take the first and second groups during the dry season to avoid the midday sun.

• Admission: You can only enter this mountain with the Machu Picchu + Mountain Ticket (Route 1A).
• Level: Moderate – difficult.
• Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, to the summit.
• Summit altitude: 3,080 m (10,100 ft)
• Restrictions: no restrictions.
• Tip: It can be hiked with small children and elderly people, as it is not necessary to reach the top to get beautiful views of the surroundings.

Machu Picchu Mountain Top

Walk to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

The hike to the Sun Gate (or Inti Punku) is much easier than the climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu. You begin near the “Guardian’s House,” heading toward Inti Punku Mountain. It’s a gradual ascent to what was the main entrance to Machu Picchu during its peak. It will take between 30 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the Sun Gate , depending on your physical condition.

It is known that this pass was controlled by imperial guards; this is where those who decide to hike the Inca Trail enter and get their first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

• Admission: You can do this hike with the Machu Picchu + Inti Punku Ticket (Route 1C).
• Level: Easy.
• Travel time: It will take you 30 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes to reach Puerta del Sol.
• Maximum altitude reached: 2,720 m (8,858 ft).
• Restrictions: no restrictions.
• Tip: This place will give you a clear idea of what people 500 years ago saw before entering the Inca city of Machu Picchu.

Walk to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

Hike to the Inca Bridge

The trail to the Inca Bridge at Machu Picchu skirts the back of the mountain. It’s not a very strenuous hike, but it does involve high altitudes, so you’ll have to overcome your fear of heights. The trailhead is beyond the guardhouse. Like mountain hikes, this one begins by registering at the checkpoint. This path offers spectacular views of the valleys below the mountain. In some of the narrowest sections, you’ll find metal cables and ropes sticking out from the wall for support. While the bridge itself isn’t all that impressive, its value lies in the fact that it was apparently a secret entrance to Machu Picchu. You can also take all the photos you want of the Inca bridge, but you won’t be able to walk across it.

• Admission: You can do this hike with the Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge Ticket (Route 1D).
• Level: Easy (has some very steep sections)
• Travel time: It will take you 20 to 30 minutes to reach the Puente del Inca.

Inca Bridge of Machu Picchu

Hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Most travelers take a 30-minute bus ride along the Hiram Bingham Highway to the entrance to Machu Picchu. However, if you enjoy hiking, you can also walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu . To do so, follow the road out of Aguas Calientes along the Urubamba River toward the checkpoint at the ruined bridge. The clearly marked trail begins on the other side of the river and follows a stone path that cuts down the hillside to Machu Picchu.

• Admission: You do not need a special ticket, but you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu without one.
• Level: Moderate-Difficult
• Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours to the entrance to Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo

Tips for hiking in Machu Picchu

• Bring plenty of water and snacks in your backpack.
• Take a couple of days to acclimatize before any hikes in Machu Picchu.
• It is best to hike with appropriate footwear (hiking boots).
• If you plan to climb some of the mountains inside Machu Picchu, we recommend taking the bus to get to Machu Picchu and avoiding walking up. This will prevent you from getting too tired to enjoy the mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What tickets do I need to hike in Machu Picchu?

  To hike the trails within Machu Picchu, you must purchase a ticket that includes the corresponding route: Route 1A for Machu Picchu Mountain, Route 1C for Inti Punku, Route 1D for Inka Bridge, and Route 3A for Huayna Picchu Mountain. Each ticket allows for a different experience, with varying difficulty levels, views, and restrictions.

• 2) What is the most challenging hike inside Machu Picchu?

  The hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain (Route 3A) is considered the most challenging due to its steep, narrow trail with sections along cliffs.

• 3) Can I take children or older adults to any of the mountains?

  Yes, the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain (Route 1A) is accessible for children and seniors, as it’s not necessary to reach the summit to enjoy panoramic views. However, the entire hike can be challenging, so it’s recommended to opt for easier routes.

• 4) What is the best hike for those who are afraid of heights?

  The hikes to Inti Punku (Route 1C) and Puente Inka (Route 1D) are the most recommended for people with a fear of heights. These are less difficult trails and offer beautiful views.

• 5) What is the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu?

  Machu Picchu Mountain is taller and offers a longer, but less precipitous, climb. Huayna Picchu, on the other hand, offers a more intense experience, with narrow trails, but requires greater caution and physical preparation.

• 6) How many people can enter Huayna Picchu daily?

  Only 400 people are allowed to enter Huayna Picchu each day. Due to high demand, especially between April and October, it is recommended to book your ticket at least three or four months in advance to ensure availability.

• 7) Is it mandatory to have a guide to do these walks?

  A guide is not required for hikes to the mountains or viewpoints, but it is highly recommended for those who want to learn more about the history of the area and enjoy greater safety during the tour.

• 8) What is the best time of year to do these hikes?

  The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when there’s less chance of rain and the trails are more stable. However, this is also the busiest tourist season, so booking in advance is essential.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Juan R.

“Inka Bridge Experience“

“My trip to Machu Picchu was marked by much mystery because I was able to visit the Inca bridge. Having the opportunity to see it from afar made me question myself a lot about where that route was going, because it gets lost in the middle of the jungle, it is very impressive.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, May 5, 2025