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Difference Between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain

Map showing the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Map showing the difference between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain

When traveling to Machu Picchu, you can visit one of the mountains surrounding the citadel. Here are the differences to help you make this important decision.

When visiting the Machu Picchu citadel, you will have the opportunity to hike one of the two mountains that surround this Wonder of the World: Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (not the citadel itself). Each offers a unique experience that makes the hike special and memorable.

Huayna Picchu Mountain (Wayna Picchu)

Huayna Picchu Mountain, whose name in Quechua means “Young Mountain”, is located at an altitude of 2,667 meters, to the north of the Machu Picchu citadel. The trail to the summit is more challenging, with steep stairs and narrow paths. This hike is not recommended for people with vertigo, children under 12, or elderly visitors.

Information about Huayna Picchu Mountain

  • Location: North of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Altitude: 2,693 meters above sea level
  • Distance: 2 kilometers
  • Hiking time: 3 hours (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Medium–High
View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain
View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain is located at an altitude of 3,082 meters, to the south of the Machu Picchu citadel. As it is higher than Huayna Picchu Mountain, it offers easier and less demanding trails. The ascent is not as steep, with wider paths and several resting points along the way.

Information about Machu Picchu Mountain

  • Location: South of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Altitude: 3,082 meters above sea level
  • Distance: 2 kilometers
  • Hiking time: Approx. 4 hours (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Medium
View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain
View from the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain

Differences Between the Two Mountains

To make your choice easier, below is a comparative table of both trails:

Differences Huayna Picchu Mountain Machu Picchu Mountain
Location To the north of the Machu Picchu citadel To the south of the Machu Picchu citadel
Altitude 2,693 meters above sea level 3,082 meters above sea level
Distance 2 kilometers, elevation 290 meters 2 kilometers, elevation 200 meters
Hiking time 3 hours (round trip) 4 hours (round trip)
Access Huayranas Sector Guardian's House Junction
Schedules
  • Group 1 from 7am – 8am
  • Group 2 from 8am – 9am
  • Group 3 from 9am - 10am
  • Group 4 from 10am – 11am
  • Group 1 from 7am – 8am
  • Group 2 from 8am – 9am
Number of visitors 325 people per day 250 people per day
Circuit Circuit 3 - Waynapicchu Route Circuit 1 - Machu Picchu Mountain Route
Re-entry Does not allow re-entry to the citadel Allows re-entry to the citadel
Archaeological attractions Terraces and Temple of the Moon None
Restrictions Only for those over 12 years old For all audiences
Difficulty Medium-High Medium

Advantages and Disadvantages of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Better panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Jungle edge landscape
  • Agricultural terraces
  • Archaeological site: Temple of the Moon
  • More physical effort
  • Steep ascent
  • Narrow paths
  • Steep stairs

Advantages and Disadvantages of Machu Picchu Mountain

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Good panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Less physical effort
  • Less steep ascent
  • Wider paths
  • Variety of flora and fauna
  • No archaeological sites
  • Longer duration of the journey

Advantages and Disadvantages of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Advantages

  • Best panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Cloud forest landscape
  • Agricultural terraces
  • Archaeological site: Temple of the Moon

Disadvantages

  • Requires more physical effort
  • Steep ascent
  • Narrow paths
  • Very steep stairs

Advantages and Disadvantages of Machu Picchu Mountain

Advantages

  • Good panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Requires less physical effort
  • Less steep ascent
  • Wider paths
  • Variety of flora and fauna

Disadvantages

  • No archaeological sites
  • Longer hiking duration

Recommendations

  • We recommend wearing trekking shoes, as well as sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
  • If you are traveling during the rainy season (November to March), bring waterproof clothing.
  • Carry only what is necessary for the hike. The climb can be very demanding, so avoid unnecessary weight.
  • Please make sure all details are correct at the time of purchase, as once the booking is confirmed, no changes or cancellations are allowed.
  • If you want a complete experience, consider our Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tour (ask about promotions and discounts when booking in advance).

Frequently Asked Questions about Both Mountains

It is possible to visit both mountains in one day, but it is not recommended, as hiking just one mountain involves considerable physical effort, and climbing one after the other can lead to significant fatigue.

Additionally, it is very challenging to organize the schedules because the entry windows are very close together, and you would need to purchase two separate tickets—one that includes Huayna Picchu Mountain and another with access to Machu Picchu Mountain.

When purchasing tickets to enter the Machu Picchu citadel, you must choose one of the mountains at the time of purchase.

It is recommended to purchase the ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain 3 months in advance. The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain should be obtained 4 weeks in advance.

Only Machu Picchu Mountain allows entry for children under 12 years old. Huayna Picchu Mountain permits entry for those 12 and older; minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Yes, older adults can climb both mountains, but it is advisable to opt for Machu Picchu Mountain, as it is less strenuous and has designated rest points.

No, a tour guide is not required to hike either mountain.

Happy passengers