Extra Information on the extra hikes in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is most beautiful from above. No matter how you get to Machu Picchu: Train, Inca Trail, Salkantay, or an alternative trek, seeing Machu Picchu from a higher viewpoint is possible. There are three popular ways to get this view: the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu Mountain (Montana), or Huaynapicchu, the last being the most popular. Both do require an additional fee.
Huaynapicchu (often written as Waynapicchu) is a steep climb with many stairs for 45 minutes until the top. If you are scared of heights, it is not recommended. Tickets are required and it sells out months in advance. Tickets can be purchased for one of the two windows of time offered. We will help coordinate what is best for your trip. Tickets for this trek are very limited and sell out well in advance so please let the office know as soon as you decide you want to add this hike.
Machu Picchu Mountain also offers amazing views – the best view during clear and beautiful weather. This hike is approximately 1.5 hours to the top and higher than Huaynapicchu. This also needs to be reserved in advance, and the ticket will also have specific time to start which we will assist with. This hike is typically done on your own (without the guide) unless you request assistance.
Unfortunately, if you are trekking the Inca Trail, no matter how long of a trek you choose, you would be charged an extra entrance fee to climb Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The reason for this is that when we purchase your permit for the Inca Trail, the permit includes entry to Machu Picchu, without the option to add an extra climb of either mountain. This is something required by the ticketing office and not something done by American Inca Trail.
When choosing to purchase one of the extra hikes please remember that they are challenging and quite steep. While the views are extraordinary, there are also many beautiful views in Machu Picchu. Also remember that we do not control the weather and if it’s cloudy, your view will be affected. However, if you choose to do a hike, and the weather cooperates, you will have your Facebook or Instagram profile photo for life – the views are incredible.
Please let us know if you have any further questions about Huaynapicchu or5 Machu Picchu Mountain.