Machu Picchu Mountain – The Ultimate Travel Guide (2026)
Index
Revised for 2026: Learn all about hiking the Machu Picchu mountain, the cost of tickets, schedule, climate, and travel tips for views that can only be seen from the air in Peru.
For many travelers, visiting Machu Picchu is a dream come true. However, beyond the iconic Incan citadel, is a trail that is not as popular, or is not known to visitors, called Machu Picchu Mountain.
This peak offers stunning 360-degree views of the Andes, the Urubamba River, and the sacred valley below with the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.
If you are planning a trip to Peru, and want the experience of Machu Picchu from above, you will find this guide helpful. We will take of the guess work for you, by including valuable information on how to access it all, what to pack, and when to visit Machu Picchu Mountain.
All You Need to Know About Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain (referred to as Montaña Machu Picchu in the local language) stands at a height of 3,082 meters (10,111 ft) above sea level
making it amongst the highest vantage points in the sanctuary.
The mountain trail is longer than Huayna Picchu but not as steep, providing less of a hazard — a great option for hikers with moderate fitness levels.
The trail is easily identified/marked, and as you begin to climb, you will go over tropical vegetation, orchids, and lush scenery of the mountains.
On a clear day, you will even see the snow-capped peaks of the Andes in the distance.
What Is Machu Picchu Mountain?
Machu Picchu Mountain is one of two official hiking routes within the Machu Picchu Sanctuary (the other being Huayna Picchu). This route was used by the Incas themselves, and today, it is a popular trekking experience for those who want to escape the crowds and get magnificent panoramic views of the ruins.
- Elevation: 3,082 m (10,111 ft)
- Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours (uphill)
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Notable Sights: Inca stone paths; tropical forest; beautiful views of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Where Is It Located and How To Get There?
Machu Picchu Mountain is situated in the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary in southern Peru’s Cusco region. The way to reach it will require a combination of train, bus, and walking/hiking:
- From Cusco: You will take a train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Trains will depart from Poroy, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo.
- From Aguas Calientes: You will take a 25-minute bus ride up to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu.
- At the site: You will follow signs to the Machu Picchu Mountain trailhead where your ticket will be checked.
It is very important to get an early start on hiking so entry is guaranteed and weather would be clearer weather before noon.
Machu Picchu Mountain Weather
The weather in the Machu Picchu area is categorized as tropical mountain weather, with sun, mist, and occasional rain. There are two main seasons.
- Dry Season (May to October): Clear skies, making it the preferred time for photos and hiking. The busiest time to visit.
- Rainy Season (November to April): Green grass and scenery everywhere, but the trails are likely to be slippery, and brief rain showers will show up.
Pack light layers, a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water to drink.
Weather conditions can change quickly as one ascends.
Temperature During the Day
| Time of Day | Average Temperature | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Morning (6–9 a.m.) | 10–14°C / 50–57°F | Start your hike early for cooler weather and fewer crowds. |
| Midday (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) | 18–24°C / 64–75°F | Wear sunscreen and a hat; the sun can be intense at high altitude. |
| Afternoon (3–5 p.m.) | 15–18°C / 59–64°F | Ideal time for descending with pleasant temperatures and golden light. |
Machu Picchu Mountain vs. Huayna Picchu Mountain
Many travelers wonder which hike to choose. Here’s a comparison to help you decide between the two famous peaks:
| Feature | Machu Picchu Mountain | Huayna Picchu Mountain |
|---|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,082 m (10,111 ft) | 2,720 m (8,923 ft) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging | Steep and demanding |
| Duration | 3–4 hours (round trip) | 2–3 hours (round trip) |
| Viewpoint | Wide panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the valley | Close-up aerial view of the ruins |
| Visitors | Less crowded | Highly popular |
| Best for | Photographers and nature lovers | Adventurous hikers |
Tip: If you prefer a peaceful hike with breathtaking views, choose Machu Picchu Mountain.
For thrill-seekers who enjoy steep climbs, Huayna Picchu is the better option.
Entry Tickets and Schedules
To hike Machu Picchu Mountain, you need a special ticket:
“Machu Picchu + Montaña”.
This includes access to both the archaeological site and the mountain trail.
| Ticket Type | Approx. Price (2025) | Entry Schedule | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Adult | USD 80 – 90 | 7:00 a.m. / 8:00 a.m. | 400 people |
| Student | USD 55 – 65 | 7:00 a.m. / 8:00 a.m. | 400 people |
| Peruvian Citizen | USD 30 – 40 | 7:00 a.m. / 8:00 a.m. | 400 people |
Booking Tip: Purchase your tickets at least one to two months in advance, especially during the high season (June to September).
Tickets are available on the official
Ministry of Culture Peru website or through licensed tour operators.
Hiking Machu Picchu Mountain is not simply a fitness adventure it is an excursion through history, nature, along with the aura of the Andes.
Regardless of whether you go alone, with friends, or as a couple, the view from the top will be a memorable sense of achievement and surprise.
If you are looking for something to escape the crowds, some of the best views, and a different experience of exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu Mountain is awaiting you.
Don’t just visit Machu Picchu experience it from above.
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