When planning a visit to Machu Picchu for 2026, one of the most important decisions is whether to complement the tour of the citadel with the climb to one of the machu picchu mountains. These optional hikes, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, require different entrance tickets that are bought additionally with a citadel circuit and, due to their limited spots, they sell out months in advance.
To understand the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu, it is essential to clarify the geography of the place. The Inca citadel sits on a ridge between two peaks: to the north is the iconic Huayna Picchu ("Young Mountain"), which serves as the background in the classic postcard photo; and to the south, the Machu Picchu Mountain ("Old Mountain"), the highest summit that gives its name to the entire archaeological complex.
This guide analyzes each of these mountains in detail, comparing different factors to provide the necessary information to let you make an informed decision for your 2026 visit.
Let's start with the young mountain: "Huayna Picchu"
The Huayna Picchu is known as the 'young mountain'. This is perhaps due to its smaller size compared to the imposing Machu Picchu mountain. It is located north of the Inca Citadel, at 2,720 m.a.s.l On its slopes, the Incas built a dizzying path, viewpoints, platforms and an incredible enclosure in the middle of two natural caves, although its function is still uncertain, this place was called the Grand Cavern or the Temple of the Moon. To get there they also had steep roads near the mountain limits.
Today, these stone paths in the limits of the Huaynapicchu are one of the most requested attractions by visitors. It is the trekking route to the top of Huayna Picchu, from where you can appreciate all the beauty of the Wonder of the World Machu Picchu. This is considered one of the most incredible short walks in the world. The ascent is arduous and extreme due to the frightening ravines next to the Inca trails. It takes an average of 2 hours between up and down. Even so, it is still one of the favorite adventures for tourists.
Huayna Picchu
The old mountain: "Machu Picchu Mountain"
The Machu Picchu mountain is known as the 'old mountain'. This maybe due to its greater dimension to the Waynapicchu or 'young mountain'. It is located at the top of the Inca Citadel, at 3,082 m.a.s.l. On its slopes inca trails were erected in order to reach the highest and worship the Andean gods such as the hills, the sun, etc. Although no Inca temple was built on its roads, the great elevation of this summit earned it one of the most important 'apus' that surround the Wonder of the World.
Today, the steep trails that lead to the top of the Machu Picchu mountain are one of the most adventurous new tourist attractions of the Inca llaqta. This hiking route covers almost 2 kilometers of steep Inca roads from where you can appreciate all the beauty of the geography that surrounds the Inca Citadel. Unlike Waynapicchu, roads are wider and safer. Getting to the top and returning takes on average 3 or 4 hours depending on the physical state of the person.
Machu Picchu Mountain
Climbing Machu Picchu Mountains
Altitude
Machu Picchu mountain reaches 3082 m.a.s.l. with a very leafy vegetation, great variety of orchids, butterflies and birds, in addition to a quite horizontal road; while Huayna Picchu mountain reaches 2720 m.a.s.l where you can see archaeological remains and terraces along a road with narrow access and very steep sections.
Difficulty
The degree of difficulty to climb Huayna Picchu is moderate, however it is good to stop and take breath every time you need; This will make you adopt a natural rhythm when breathing to climb without many problems and you can enjoy the landscape better. In some areas it is necessary to support and be very attentive, especially in the steps and some narrow roads. Although this route seems very risky the accident record is practically nil and we assure you that the effort will have been worth it.
The way to the top of Machu Picchu mountain is much wider and flat, which gives you more time to observe the flora and fauna of the area. This option is the most appropriate if you are going to make the journey with young children. Remember that in both routes it is always important to take care of altitude sickness.
Machu Picchu Peru tickets
Huayna Picchu Ticket
The
Machu Picchu Tickets + Huayna Picchu allows access to the 'young mountain'. This ticket is the one with the highest demand. For security reasons, only 400 people a day can enter the Waynapicchu. Due to this, it is recommended to reserve it up to 3 months in advance. The entrance also allows to know the mysterious constructions of the Inca Citadel. The income is in 2 groups which access in the following schedule:
- Group 1: 07:00 a.m. at 09:00 a.m. (200 people)
- Group 2: 09:00 a.m. at 11:00 a.m. (200 people)
Mountain ticket Machu Picchu
The Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket allows access to the 'old mountain'. This ticket is preferred by adventurers who did not get access to Huayna Picchu. Daily only 400 people can walk the roads of this summit. It is advisable to book it at least 3 days in advance. The entrance includes a visit to the Inca Citadel. Admission is in 2 groups which access in the following hours:
- Group 1: 07:00 a.m. at 09:00 a.m. (200 people)
- Group 2: 09:00 a.m. at 11:00 a.m. (200 people)
When to go?: Machu Picchu Mountains
The best season to visit Machu Picchu is between April and October, in the dry season. In spite of observing less rainfall, the subtropical climate and some regions with humid forests maintain the landscape without many changes, so you can get good photographs in both tours.
Why to choose...?
Why choose Huayna Picchu
Because the feeling of adrenaline does not compare with any other walk. At the top the effort will be rewarded with a full view of the Wonder of the World. Also because it is possible to appreciate the Temple of the Moon with few or no visitors around.
Why choose Machu Picchu mountain
Because it can be done as a family. It is not necessary to reach the top to appreciate the unusual beauty of the place. Also, because your entry ticket is not difficult to get.
Tours that I can take and visit Machu Picchu Mountains:
- Machu Picchu Day Tour: You will have the opportunity to discover the incredible wonder of world Machu Picchu, and if you book in advance also you will enjoy a different way to see Machu Picchu since you book Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu: Do you want to explore and discover more of inca remains? Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu is the best option for you. Imagine discover the most important inca remains and also the wonder of world Machu picchu in just 2 days. Discover the mystical and interesting inca towns.
- Magic of Cusco: Are you in Cusco and don't want to miss any cultural remain? Please check this tour. You will enjoy a tour in the imperial city of Cusco.
Machu Picchu vs Huayna Picchu Mountain
The best hikes to Machu Picchu
For those looking for adventure and nature, arriving at Machu Picchu on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this wonder. There are several trekking routes that cross Andean landscapes, cloud forests and ancient Inca trails. These are some of the most outstanding hikes:
Other equally fascinating tours:
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