If you travel to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, for sure you will be in a dilemma of whether to climb the mountain of Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu, in the reservation of your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, you have the possibility of making the circuits: Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain, since you will only be able to visit one of these mountains.
To clear the doubts about the difference between these two Andean Peru tours I prepare a brief summary of the differences of these two impressive places.
The word Huayna Picchu comes from the Quechua language where Huayna = young and Picchu = Mountain, it could be said that Huayna Picchu means "Young Mountain", known mainly by the background of thousands of panoramic photographs of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
This place also houses impressive archaeological remains that are related to the archaeological site. The ascent to Huayna Picchu has a very steep and narrow path, where there are several sections with steps, stairs carved into the rock and cables.
The ascent time is 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the physical condition of each person, the impressive scenic and architectural beauty of this place makes it a must for those who want a wonderful memory of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Reaching the top of Huayna Picchu Mountain is definitely worth it, since from the top of this impressive place you will be able to appreciate the most wonderful panoramic view of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain.
| Altitude | 2,693 meters above sea level. |
| Hiking distance | 2 km, steep and narrow trails. |
| Location | North of Machu Picchu Inca City. |
| Access | From the Inca City of Machu Picchu, by the Sector of the Huayranas (Sacred Rock). Here you will find the entrance control booth to the mountain. |
| Schedule First Group | 07:00 hrs. - 08:00 hrs. |
| Schedule Second Group | 10:00 hrs. - 11:00 hrs. |
| Number of visitors. | 400 per day, divided in two groups of 200. |
| Walking time | 2 hours and 30 minutes (up and down). |
| Degree of Difficulty | Moderate high |
| Archaeological Attractions | Andenería and the amazing Temple of the Moon, built inside a natural cave. |
| Flora and fauna | Landscape of jungle brow, abundant vegetation, which serves as habitat for birds, butterflies and insects. |
At the top of the Urubamba Canyon, on its slopes is located the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, from the top of this place you can appreciate all the splendor of the majestic panoramic view where you can appreciate: The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, the top of the Huayna Picchu mountain, the town of Aguas Calientes, the impressive mountain range of Vilcabamba, the snowy Salkantay, the Vilcanota River, the Putucusi mountain and all the vegetation surrounding the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
| Height | 3,082 meters above sea level. |
| Distance of the hike | 2 km., ascending approximately 300 meters. |
| Location | In front of Huayna Picchu and to the left of the Traditional Trail. |
| Trail Description | Abundant vegetation, wild orchids stand out. The wide trails will allow you to walk through them in a quiet way. |
| Access | From the Machu Picchu complex, go up to the lookout point (Casa del guardián) and continue to the turnoff that is indicated with a sign. |
| Schedule First Group | 07:00 hrs. - 08:00 hrs. |
| Schedule Second Group | 09:00 hrs. - 1:00 hrs. |
| Number of visitors | 800 spaces per day, divided into 2 groups of 400. |
| Hiking time | 3 and a half hours (round trip) |
| Degree of difficulty | Moderate / high. |
| Flora and Fauna | You will find a variety of orchids, butterflies and birds. |
| Advantages | Less steep trails, panoramic views of the Inca City and Huayna Picchu Mountain. |
Both mountains have their own beauty, each offering a different perspective of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, no matter which mountain you choose, from the top of both you will appreciate the most breathtaking panoramic views of the mara villa of the modern world, Machu Picchu.
¿WHY TRAVEL WITH ANDINO PERU TOURS?
We are a Peruvian Agency with Cusco roots, committed to providing you with unique tourism experiences. With our own transportation and a team of dedicated professionals, we aim to show you the best of Peru.
Striving to provide freedom in your travels, through specialized and quality service that ensures a worry-free experience. We take care of every aspect of your journey organization so you can fully enjoy.
We focus on creating unforgettable experiences through an expert team and carefully selected providers. We keep small groups to ensure exceptional service and that you make the most of each tour.
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Saturdays: 8:00 - 13:00
Sundays: Cerrado
