Machu Picchu Mountain
Montaña Machu Picchu
The taller main peak south of the ancient city, about 3,080 meters at the summit, with a wider but longer trail than Huayna Picchu, offering views of the city, Huayna Picchu, and the valley all at once.
Machu Picchu Mountain lies south of the ancient city, which is named after it. The trail is built with Inca stone steps and climbs about 600 meters from near the site entrance to the summit at about 3,080 meters. The round trip takes 3 to 4 hours. The path is wide with a steady grade, so it is less thrilling than Huayna Picchu but more demanding physically. The summit has the widest views, where you can see the ancient city, Huayna Picchu, the snaking loops of the Urubamba River, and distant snow peaks. Cloud seas are often visible at dawn. Tickets are sold together with the site (Circuit 1 series) on the official website. There are more slots than for Huayna Picchu, but in peak season you still need to book ahead. At high altitude your body uses a lot of energy, so bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Opening hours
By ticket time slot; mountain entry generally 07:00–09:00
Nearby sights
- Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
- Machu Picchu
- Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
- Huayna Picchu
- Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
- Salkantay Trek
- Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Humantay Lake