Montaña Machu Picchu is another hike at the Inca ruins and nearly double the height of the adjacent peak called Huayna Picchu. The one and a half to two-hour journey to the top is a strenuous climb with several long sections of stone steps and a spectacular 360-degree view awaits you at the summit. Access to Machu Picchu Mountain is also limited, and you must reserve your spot in advance when you buy an entry ticket + hike ticket.
From the main entrance of Machu Picchu follow the upper-trail heading in the direction of the Guardhouse. Small and newly erected wooden signs signal the way the start of the trail head, which is also the same path which leads to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). A couple of minutes from the Guardhouse, you need to turn right and follow the path, which climbs up through the agricultural terracing. Following the trail for another 15 minutes you will arrive at the wardens hut, where you need to sign in showing your passport and entrance ticket. From the entrance of Machu Picchu to the wardens hut takes approximately 30 minutes. Unlike Huayna Picchu or Putucusi Mountain treks, the Machu Picchu Mountain trek is wide and well marked. After the wardens hut the trail follows a fairly even ascent of about 30 – 35 degrees in angle for about 1 hour. Gradually and steadily gaining altitude, the views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains become ever-more impressive. There are several view and rest points along the way. As the trail gets closer to the base of Machu Picchu Mountain, the steps become steeper, narrower and more challenging. Winding on for another 30 minutes or so, the trail passes through a stone gateway, before following a narrow mountain ridge to the summit. A small round hut provides shelter and seating, whilst the view point (a few more yards on) offers inspiring views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and Putucusi Mountains. The decent follows the same route, but takes about 20 – 30 minutes less. When skies are opening up will give way for some of the best photo moments you will encounter on the site. You can see the entire site (even parts of the slopes that cannot be seen from Huayna Picchu) and gasp down into the valleys on both sides of the site.
Machu Picchu Photo Gallery
More Peru Highlights
Machu Picchu: Facts, travel information and highlights
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