Within the mysterious land of the Andes lies the Sacred Incan Citadel of Machu Picchu. Full with secrets, enigmas, and sort of supernatural energy three sacred mountains dominate the landscape. Among the three mountains Machu Picchu Mountain towers above the rest with an altitude of 3,082m (10,111ft). The summit offers the highest views of Machu Picchu which is well worth the steep climb. If you are planning a trip to Machu Picchu, you should consider climbing this sacred and breathtaking mountain.
Residing in the southeast of Peru in the Eastern Cordilla, a sub mountain range of the Andes, the mountain is only accessible through Machu Picchu. Machu Pichu Mountain lies on the outskirts of the Machu Picchu complex and is south east of the main urban section, which has most of the structures and attractions. To get there you must first get to Machu Picchu, after entering Machu Picchu you can ascend to the south east and start the hike. There are many different ways to get to Machu Picchu itself. If you want to hike there are various different options however only the Inca Trail actually takes you directly to Machu Picchu. Every other hike you will arrive in Aguas calientes then take the bus up to Machu Picchu.
A relatively short hike, only 3.9 km (2.4 m) round trip, the multiple uneven stairs are what make this hike a bit difficult. Depending on your fitness level times can vary but, generally it takes around 1:45 to summit the mountain and 1:15 minutes to return. The elevation gain can also make the hike take a bit longer, remember, you’ll be going straight up the whole time and gain a total of 584 m (1916 ft).
For most people the hike is moderately difficult meaning that most people, even if you’re not in the best physical shape, can complete this hike given you pace yourself. Pacing yourself is very important especially when you’re at elevation, not that you’re terribly high up but, you’re certainly not at sea level. Take your time, as many breaks as you need, and enjoy the spectacular views when you reach the top!
In order to hike Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll need to get a separate ticket as the general admission for Machu Picchu does not include Machu Picchu Mountain. Generally, it’s a good idea to book in advance as it may sell out especially in the dry season which is the busiest time of year. You can check availability for Machu Picchu Mountain on the government website.
The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain includes general entry into the Machu Picchu complex and has a few different prices depending on your situation. Please keep in mind there are only two entry times for Machu Picchu Mountain, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.
| Admission type | Cost | Entry Time |
| General Admission | S/ 200.00 ($53) | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| International Student | S/ 125.00 ($33) | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Minors (3 to 17 years) | S/ 118.00 ($31) | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
***PLEASE NOTE: There are only two entry times 8:00 am – 9:00 am and 10:00 am – 11:00 am
There are 5 circuits in total that explore Machu Picchu. Each one offers a different combination of attractions however many of the attractions overlap and are included in two or more circuits. Generally speaking, circuits 1 and 2 are the best circuits as they bring you to the Guard House, where the iconic pictures of Machu Picchu are taken. Circuit 2 also allows you to visit all the important structures in the Sacred and Urban sections of Machu Picchu.
If you’re planning to Hike Machu Pichu Mountain unfortunately you don’t have a choice and must take circuit 3. Circuit 3 is not necessarily a bad circuit it’s just one of the shortest ones offered. For this reason, you may feel like you didn’t get to see all of the Machu Picchu complex and may be a bit disappointed. To get the most of your experiences it’s recommended to take either circuit 1 or 2 if you have the option, circuit 2 being the longest and best circuit.
You have two options if you want to hike Machu Picchu Mountain and circuits 1 or 2. The first option, you can hike Machu Picchu Mountain in the morning and re enter to walk either circuit 1 or 2 in the afternoon. Or, you can split it up into two separate days hiking Machu Picchu Mountain the first day and circuit on or two the following day, or vice versa.
***PLEASE NOTE: The only circuit included in the Machu Picchu ticket is circuit 3!
Machu Picchu Mountain is not as popular as its sibling Huayna Picchu and therefor does not sell out as fast. Additionally, there will be less traffic on the trail giving you a bit more privacy than at Huayna Picchu. Machu Picchu Mountain is also much easier than the alternative and offers a different angle of the Incan Citadel. Finally, being the highest mountain in the area you will have a unique perspective where the buildings at Machu Picchu look like small toys and the people like ants.
Being the highest mountain at the complex Machu Picchu Mountain offer spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area. When planning your trip to Machu Picchu you should seriously consider summiting this sacred mountain. The feeling when you finally get to the top is indescribable an experience you most certainly wont soon forget.
