Which Mountain Should You Choose to Visit if You Go to Machu Picchu?
Visiting Machu Picchu is an incredible experien.e; getting to know the citadel is a trip to the past of the Incas. But the citadel is not the only thing you can visit on your journey. Mountains surround Machu Picchu, and there are three in particular that you can climb and have a spectacular view, and each of them offers a different experience: Machu Picchu, Wayna Picchu, and Huchuy Picchu. Here, we will give you some information and differences about these mountains so that you have the complete experience.
Machu Picchu Mountain is the highest mountain surrounding the Inca citadel. They share the same name as the citadel but are different sites. Its main attraction is the hike to the top for its beautiful views.
It is the highest of the three mountains, at 3,082 meters above sea level. The hike is relatively easy as it is not very steep. But you should remember that you will be walking quite a bit, and at some point, you could suffer from altitude sickness, so you should be prepared and take the necessary precautions.
You can enjoy a moderate hike but with a challenging length. The route up this mountain includes thousands of steps, many of which were carved by the Incas. Completing it takes about 3 or 4 hours round trip.
The views from this mountain are impressive. You can see the citadel of Machu Picchu, the Urubamba River, and the surrounding mountains. It is perfect for taking pictures and admiring the landscape.
Tip: The climb is not steep, but it is pretty high, so it is recommended that you bring plenty of water and some light snacks.
Weather: It can be cool and windy. Even if the morning started out sunny, remember to bring an extra layer of clothing.
Its path and views of valleys and mountains make it one of the most desired attractions. The hike is relatively easy but presents challenges with steep and sometimes slippery sections.
Wayna Picchu is 2,693 meters above sea level. Although its height is lower than that of Machu Picchu Mountain, its slope is steeper.
The hike to Wayna Picchu is one of the steepest in the region, with narrow sections and almost vertical steps. This hike is recommended for people who have hiking experience and do not suffer from vertigo.
This mountain offers a privileged view of Machu Picchu. During the tour, you can explore the Temple of the Moon, an archaeological gem.
Tip: Be prepared with trekking shoes and comfortable clothes. The climb up this mountain has quite steep and narrow steps, which could be a challenge. Keep in mind that in some parts, you will have to climb with your hands.
Weather: Whether you travel in the dry or rainy season, the weather can surprise you at any time, so be prepared with a waterproof jacket and light clothing in layers.
Caution: Climbing this mountain is the most challenging as some stairs are very steep and narrow. You might have some difficulties if you are afraid of heights.
It is the mountain with the least difficulty, the smallest, and accessible for travelers of all ages. It is a quiet and less crowded hike. You will have a direct view of the citadel.
It is not the highest mountain; it is only 2,497 meters above sea level, so the route is perfect if you still need to get used to the height.
The hike is shorter and easier and only takes about 1 hour to complete. The terrain is less steep, making it a great option for families or beginners.
Although this mountain does not offer imposing views like the other two, it has its charm. It offers direct views of the citadel in a less crowded environment.
Tip: Although it is an easy hike, remember to bring water and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Accessibility: It is ideal for those who want a quick hike without the stress of high altitudes or crowds.
Just like the tickets to Machu Picchu, the tickets to the mountains are limited to a certain number of people per day to protect the site; the tickets for some mountains come with a circuit. These can be reserved on the official website of the Ministry of Culture.
1. Machu Picchu Mountain: To book your tour of this mountain, go to tuboleto.cultura.pe . The circuit for this mountain is Circuit 1—Panoramic with Route 1-A: Machupicchu Mountain Route. It is recommended that you book your ticket approximately three months in advance.
2. Wayna Picchu: This is the most famous mountain for travelers. To book your ticket to this mountain, go to Tuboleto. Culture. Pe and select Circuit 3 – Machupicchu Royalty with Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain Route. Tickets for this mountain sell out quickly, so you should book 4 or 3 months in advance.
3. Huchuy Picchu: It is the least known, so it is easier to get tickets. However, it is recommended that you book a few weeks in advance. Go to tuboleto.cultura.pe for circuit 3 – Machupicchu Royalty and Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu Route. Please note that this route is only available during high season.
– Machu Picchu Mountain is ideal for lovers of long trekking and expansive panoramic views.
– Wayna Picchu is perfect if you are looking for adrenaline and challenges.
– Huchuy Picchu is the option for those looking for a quiet, light walk that does not require exhausting efforts.
The best time to travel to Cusco is generally during the months of May to November as it is the dry season, you won’t have to deal with rain or fog and it is perfect for trekking or adventure tours. During the rainy season the ground is more slippery and you have to be more careful, however, as it is not the high season, there will be fewer people and you will be able to take the photos you like without the inconvenience of crowds.
No experience is required to climb any of these mountains, but for Wayna Picchu it is advisable to be in good physical condition and not suffer from vertigo. Machu Picchu Mountain also requires physical endurance due to its length and number of steps.
It is recommended to bring:
No, tickets have assigned times. If you want to climb more than one mountain, you would have to plan more days of travel to Machu Picchu.
Huayna Picchu has a limit of 400 visitors per day, which are divided into two shifts (one in the morning and another around noon).
Huayna Picchu has less demand and allows access to 200 people per day.
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you are unable to hike on the date scheduled on your ticket, you will lose your spot. Therefore, you must carefully plan your trip to meet the dates and times.
Machu Picchu Mountain and Huchuy Picchu are more accessible for people of all ages, including children and older adults in good physical condition.
Huayna Picchu, due to its difficulty, is not recommended for small children or older people.
There is no age restriction, but children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. In the case of Huayna Picchu, it is recommended that children be at least 12 years old due to the difficulty.
Climbing these mountains is not dangerous if you follow the proper precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear, carrying enough water, and respecting the instructions of the security personnel. However, at Huayna Picchu, the steepest and narrowest parts can be intimidating for those who suffer from vertigo or are not accustomed to heights.
Acclimatization : Spend a few days in Cusco to acclimatize and get used to the altitude.
Stay well hydrated and avoid alcohol .
Bring coca leaves or altitude sickness pills, which you can easily buy in Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
Yes, but you must bring the appropriate equipment such as a rain poncho. During the rainy season you must be especially careful and always be prepared.
The Temple of the Moon is on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu. To get there you must deviate from the main route, which can take another 1 to 2 hours.
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