tickets and rules
Machu Picchu Mountain: The Big View Over the Citadel
The Machu Picchu Mountain hike: 3,082 m, about 3 hours, wide stone stairs and the biggest view over the citadel and valley. Tickets, timing and tips.
Machu Picchu Mountain rises to 3,082 m on the opposite side of the citadel from Huayna Picchu. The hike climbs about 650 m on wide Inca stairs and takes around 3 hours up and down. It is longer than Huayna Picchu but less exposed, and it has more daily spots. It needs its own ticket (route 1A, Circuit 1).
Machu Picchu Mountain at a glance
| Summit altitude | 3,082 m (10,111 ft) |
| Height gained | About 650 m above the citadel |
| Time | About 3 hours round trip |
| Ticket | Route 1A, which includes the upper terrace route (1B) |
| Entry times | 7:00 am or 9:00 am |
| Daily limit | 400 people |
| Maximum visit time | 7 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging; long and steady |
How hard is it?
It is a steady, sustained climb rather than a scramble: hundreds of stone steps with a few steep sections, but the trail is wider than Huayna Picchu’s and has less exposure. Good basic fitness is enough. Take water, sun protection and a light layer for the summit, which can be windy.
The trail, step by step
- Upper terraces: you enter through the upper sector of the citadel, near the guardhouse, and reach the mountain checkpoint, where your ticket and start time are registered.
- The Inca stairs: a wide stone path zigzags up through cloud forest, with orchids, bromeliads and views opening at every turn. Most people take 1.5–2 hours.
- The upper section: the last part is steeper and more open, with some drops on one side.
- The summit: a small platform at 3,082 m with a wooden sign and a 360° view: the whole citadel far below, Huayna Picchu, the Urubamba River and, on clear days, snow peaks in the distance. Allow 20–30 minutes.
- The descent: down the same trail in 1–1.5 hours, then the upper terrace route (1B) for the classic view of the citadel.
What you see
- The whole citadel from above, with Huayna Picchu behind it.
- The Urubamba River canyon wrapping around the mountain.
- The Sun Gate and the last stretch of the Inca Trail.
- On clear days, snow peaks in the distance.
Tickets and timing
- The ticket (route 1A) includes the mountain hike and, in practice, the upper terrace route of the citadel (1B).
- There are two entry times, 7 am and 9 am, for a maximum of 400 people a day, so the easiest way to do it is with a night in Aguas Calientes.
- With our Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour, the Machu Picchu Mountain ticket costs +US$ 75.
- It is not possible on the same day as an Inca Trail arrival, because of its entry times.
- In high season, book 1–2 months ahead.
7 am or 9 am?
The 7 am slot is cooler and quieter, but the summit may still be in the clouds. The 9 am slot often has clearer views but is warmer. With either one, you have up to 7 hours, so there is no need to rush.
Tips
- Wear shoes with good grip and bring a light jacket for the summit.
- Carry at least 1 liter of water per person; there is nowhere to buy any on the trail.
- Start slowly: the climb is long, and the first part sets your pace.
- Remember that food is not allowed inside Machu Picchu, so have a good breakfast before you enter.
Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu?
| Machu Picchu Mountain | Huayna Picchu | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 3,082 m | 2,720 m |
| Time up and down | About 3 hours | About 2 hours |
| Trail | Wider, long and steady | Steep, narrow, exposed |
| View | Wide view of the whole valley | Close-up of the citadel |
| Spots | 400 a day, entry 7 am or 9 am | 200 a day, entry 7 am or 10 am |
Choose Machu Picchu Mountain for the widest view, a less exposed trail and better availability. Choose Huayna Picchu for the close-up view of the citadel and a shorter but steeper climb.
Tours to link
Plan this with a local team
Machu Picchu journey
Machu Picchu 2 Days
Spend a night in Aguas Calientes and enter Machu Picchu early. Train, hotel, ticket and guide included, subject to availability. Huayna Picchu add-on available.
Machu Picchu journey
Machu Picchu Tour Guide
Hire a licensed Machu Picchu tour guide: shared or private, guide only or with your entry ticket and bus. Book with a local Cusco operator.
Machu Picchu journey
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu in 2 days. Train, hotel, buffet lunch, every entrance ticket and guide included. Private option available.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers
Is Machu Picchu Mountain worth it?
Yes, if you enjoy hiking: the view of the citadel and the valley is the widest you can get.
How long does the hike take?
About 3 hours round trip: 1.5–2 hours up and 1–1.5 hours down, plus time at the summit.
Can older travelers do it?
Active travelers in good health often do, at their own pace. Allow extra time and rest often.
Do I also see the citadel?
Yes, the ticket includes the upper terrace route (1B). For the full classic visit, add a Circuit 2 ticket.
Is it scarier than Huayna Picchu?
No. The trail is wider and less exposed, although there are some steep sections and drops near the top.