Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are the two optional summit hikes you can add to a Machu Picchu ticket, and both offer incredible experiences. Imagine jaw-dropping views, ancient Incan stone steps, and seeing Machu Picchu from a completely new angle. Climbing either mountain will likely be a highlight of your Sacred Valley adventure. However, they have key differences, including which Machu Picchu circuit is included with your ticket, which might make one a better fit for you.
Having had the opportunity to climb both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, we've created this guide to help you decide. (Note: both mountains cost the same, so price isn't a factor here.)
Choosing between these two iconic Machu Picchu hikes is a common dilemma for travelers. Both promise unparalleled views and an unforgettable journey, but they offer distinctly different experiences. Are you seeking a thrilling, adrenaline-fueled ascent, or a steady, rewarding climb to panoramic glory? This guide will walk you through both.
Key Takeaways
- Huayna Picchu is the shorter, steeper, more famous climb, with dramatic close-up views over the citadel and much harder permits to secure.
- Machu Picchu Mountain is the taller, longer hike, with wider trails, sweeping 360-degree views, and easier permit access.
- Both hikes cater to different preferences: choose Huayna Picchu for adrenaline, or Machu Picchu Mountain for a more meditative experience.
- Exploring the Temple of the Moon adds a spiritual layer to a Huayna Picchu visit, accessible via a special ticket.
- Ultimately, both hikes offer a profound connection to Machu Picchu and the ancient Inca civilization.
Huayna Picchu: The Thrill Seeker's Choice
Often seen as the dramatic, jagged peak photobombing classic Machu Picchu pictures, Huayna Picchu is by far the more famous of the two hikes. Its name translates to "Young Peak" in Quechua, and its reputation for steep, narrow paths and heart pounding exposure precedes it.
Permits and Difficulty
Getting a ticket for Huayna Picchu requires planning months in advance. Permits are extremely limited and sell out quickly, especially during high season (April to October). The hike itself is short but intense, climbing to a summit of about 2,693 meters (8,835 feet) above sea level (source: Wikipedia), and involves some genuine heights. A good level of fitness and confidence in your footing are essential.
Scenery and Trail Conditions
The trail is a one way loop that takes you up and back down. Along the way, you'll encounter tight squeezes and rocky ledges. The reward is unbeatable, bird's-eye views directly over the heart of the Machu Picchu citadel. You'll feel like you're hovering right above the ruins, able to trace the outlines of the temples and plazas below.
As one Reddit user described it, "The views are epic. You are looking straight down on Machu Picchu... It feels like you are on top of the world." The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is immense.
Optional Hikes If You Miss Out on Huayna Picchu
Missed out on a Huayna Picchu ticket? Don't worry, equally stunning adventures await. Consider a permit required hike up Machu Picchu Mountain for a less crowded, scenic climb, or the shorter, easier trek up Huchuy Picchu Mountain, a newer option with views similar to those from Huayna Picchu.
If you'd rather skip the permits entirely, you have several fantastic options. Hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) for that classic, first light view of the citadel, or tackle the adventurous Putucusi Mountain for a unique perspective from across the river, if you're up for a challenge with steep ladders.
Permit required hikes:
- Machu Picchu Mountain: a challenging but rewarding climb offering sweeping panoramic views.
- Huchuy Picchu: a newer, less strenuous hike with views similar to those from Huayna Picchu.
Hikes without permits:
- Sun Gate (Intipunku): the famous entry point for Inca Trail hikers, offering an iconic sunrise vista over the ruins.
- Putucusi Mountain: a strenuous trail with steep ladders, perfect for adventurers seeking a unique viewpoint of Machu Picchu.
- Inca Bridge: an easy walk to a fascinating, cliff hugging section of an original Inca trail.
The Temple of the Moon, on Huayna Picchu
The "Great Cavern," also known as the Temple of the Moon, is a sacred Inca site nestled within a natural cave on the slopes of Huayna Picchu near Machu Picchu. This remarkable structure can be accessed via a special ticket (Route 3C) and is reached by taking a less traveled detour trail during the descent from the Huayna Picchu summit. While the path offers a quieter experience, it is also physically demanding.
About the Temple of the Moon (Great Cavern)
Name: the site was originally nicknamed the "Great Cavern" by explorer Hiram Bingham, though it is now more commonly known as the Temple of the Moon. Both names refer to the same structure: a complex formed from two natural caves plus carved terraces and stonework, not two separate sites.
Structure: built into the walls of a natural cave, the temple features some of the region's most exquisite stone masonry, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Inca civilization.
Tickets: to visit, you'll need the "Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon (Route 3C)" ticket, which includes entry to both the main Machu Picchu site and the trail to the temple. These tickets are limited to 400 per day and must be purchased in advance.
Location: the Great Cavern lies on a detour trail during the descent from Huayna Picchu's summit.
Trail: the path branches off from the main summit trail and can take several hours to complete. The full journey, including hiking to and from the temple, typically spans four to five hours.
Difficulty: this route is physically demanding, with steep, narrow stone steps that require caution and endurance.
Exploring the Temple of the Moon offers a deeper connection to the spiritual and architectural brilliance of the Incas, making it a rewarding addition to any Machu Picchu journey for hikers who have the time and stamina for it.
Machu Picchu Mountain: The Panoramic Journey
Towering on the opposite side of the citadel is Machu Picchu Mountain, or "Old Peak." Though less famous than its counterpart, this hike is a formidable and deeply rewarding adventure in its own right. It offers a different kind of challenge and a completely different perspective.
Permits and Difficulty
Permits for Machu Picchu Mountain are easier to secure than for Huayna Picchu, but booking in advance is still wise. The hike is longer and more sustained, with an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet (650 meters) from the main entrance. The trail is wider and less exposed, making it a better option for those who are nervous about heights.
However, don't underestimate its difficulty. It's a steady, uphill climb on a well maintained stone path that can feel relentless. The higher altitude will also be more noticeable here. The round trip takes about three to four hours, demanding good stamina and endurance.
Scenery and Trail Conditions
What this hike lacks in sheer terror, it makes up for with jaw-dropping, 360-degree panoramas. As you ascend, the views become increasingly expansive. As one hiker put it, "You see the whole complex, Huayna Picchu behind it, and the surrounding mountains. It's breathtaking." The trail is less crowded, allowing for a more serene and contemplative experience.
Distance and Hours Comparison
| Feature | Huayna Picchu | Machu Picchu Mountain |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Steep, challenging, and more intense | Moderate, less steep, and longer |
| Trail | Narrow, with steep stairs and some hand use required | Wider paths, but a significant elevation gain |
| Time | 1.5 to 2 hours (round trip) | 2.5 to 3 hours (round trip) |
| Views | Iconic, dramatic, and close-up views of Machu Picchu | Expansive, panoramic, and higher-elevation views |
| Archaeological sites | Includes the Temple of the Moon and agricultural terraces | No significant archaeological sites on the trail itself |
| Best for | Adventurous hikers who are not afraid of heights | Moderate fitness levels, families, or a fear of heights |
| Permits | More difficult to get, sells out quickly | Easier to obtain, with better availability |
The Final Verdict: Which Is Best for You?
Choose Huayna Picchu if:
- You want the iconic, adrenaline-fueled hike with close-up views of the citadel.
- You're comfortable with steep, narrow paths and real exposure to heights.
- You're able to book several months in advance.
Choose Machu Picchu Mountain if:
- You want stunning, 360-degree panoramic views of the entire landscape.
- You prefer a longer, less crowded, and more meditative hike.
- You are moderately fit but uncomfortable with extreme heights and narrow ledges.
- You are booking your trip with less lead time.
Ultimately, there is no wrong choice. Both hikes offer a profound connection to this sacred landscape and a perspective that few visitors get to experience.
Includes Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu as a highlighted option, so you can build your hike of choice right into your itinerary.
A Journey That Stays With You
Whether you brave the "stairs of death" on Huayna Picchu or ascend to the panoramic heights of Machu Picchu Mountain, you are adding an unforgettable chapter to your travel story. Each step on these ancient Inca paths is a step further into the mystery and majesty of one of the world's most incredible wonders. Choose the path that speaks to you, and prepare for a journey that will stay with you long after you've descended from the clouds.
For more on getting ready for either hike, see our guides to Machu Picchu hike difficulty and Machu Picchu trip planning, or check the Inca Trail hike map if you're combining your climb with a multi-day trek. If you have time before or after, the Qoricancha ruins in Cusco are also well worth the visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain?
The choice between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu depends on your preferences and fitness level. Machu Picchu Mountain offers a less steep but longer hike, with expansive panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and ruins. It's perfect for those who love breathtaking vistas and a more gradual climb. Huayna Picchu is a shorter but much steeper hike, providing a thrilling ascent and views directly overlooking the Machu Picchu citadel. Adventure seekers and those wanting to experience the adrenaline-pumping "stairs of death" will find Huayna Picchu irresistible.
Is Huayna Picchu higher than Machu Picchu Mountain?
No, Machu Picchu Mountain is higher than Huayna Picchu. Machu Picchu Mountain reaches approximately 10,111 feet (3,082 meters) above sea level, while Huayna Picchu stands at around 8,835 feet (2,693 meters). Despite being lower, Huayna Picchu offers a unique vantage point, allowing hikers to see Machu Picchu's ruins from directly above.
What is the mountain at Machu Picchu called?
There are two iconic mountains at Machu Picchu. The taller one is Machu Picchu Mountain, while the smaller, steeper peak behind the ruins is Huayna Picchu. Both mountains provide unique and unforgettable hiking experiences, drawing travelers from around the globe.
How hard is the hike up Huayna Picchu?
The hike up Huayna Picchu is considered challenging due to its steep inclines and narrow paths, including the famous "stairs of death." The ascent takes about one to two hours depending on your pace, and requires a good level of fitness and careful footing. However, the reward of witnessing the awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu's ruins from atop the mountain makes the effort worthwhile. Always prepare with proper footwear, water, and a steady focus for this exhilarating climb.
Do I need a separate ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes. Both hikes require a specific entrance ticket booked in addition to your standard Machu Picchu entry, and each ticket is tied to a fixed entry time and a limited daily number of spots. Book as far in advance as possible, especially for Huayna Picchu.
