Machu Picchu Mountain (Montaña Machupicchu, “old peak”) is the mountain the site is named after. It rises on the south side, opposite Huayna Picchu, to 3,082 m — more than 600 m above the citadel.
The climb is a route of Circuit 1, so the ticket also takes you to the classic upper viewpoint. It is easier to obtain than Huayna Picchu and suits walkers who want a longer hike on a broader path.
Top things to do at Machu Picchu Mountain
Climb the stone stairway
The path starts above the Guardhouse and climbs steadily on wide Inca steps through cloud forest rich in orchids and birds. Allow an hour and a half to two hours up and a little over an hour down.
The summit panorama
From the top the citadel looks tiny, with Huayna Picchu beyond it, the Urubamba curling round three sides and, on a clear day, the snow peaks of the Vilcabamba range on the horizon.
The classic viewpoint on the way
Because the route begins on the upper terraces, you can take the postcard photograph before or after the climb, within the limits of your circuit.
How to get to Machu Picchu Mountain
- Buy the Circuit 1 – Machu Picchu Mountain ticket. See the ticket guide.
- Enter at your ticket hour and follow the signs uphill from the Guardhouse terraces to the control point.
- Entry times are in the morning, so sleep in Aguas Calientes the night before.
Insider tips
- It is a real climb: more than 600 m of ascent on steps. Bring at least a litre of water in a reusable bottle.
- Start as early as your ticket allows — the upper slopes are in full sun by mid-morning.
- Cloud can hide the view completely in the wet season. If it does, wait a while at the top.
- This route does not go down into the urban sector. Add Circuit 2 or 3 if you want to walk among the buildings.
Best tours & tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Machu Picchu Mountain:
Entry ticket Machu Picchu: Official Ticket – Choose Circuit 1, 2 or 3
An official Machu Picchu ticket bought for you by a local agency, with a choice of Circuit 1, 2 or 3. You pay a service fee over the government price in exchange for simple payment and support. Train, bus and guide are not included.
- Official entry ticket in your name
- Choice of circuit and entry time, subject to availability
- No need to use the government website
Guided visit From Aguas Calientes: Machu Picchu Guided Tour with Tickets
Entry ticket and a guided walk of the citadel, meeting in Aguas Calientes. A tidy solution when you have organised your own train and hotel and want the ticket and guide handled together. Check the listing for which circuit is offered on your date.
- Entry ticket included
- Licensed guide for the visit
- Starts in Aguas Calientes
