$290
Machu Picchu 1 Day Hike
Combine with our 1-day option for a same-day summit and citadel.
Tour Overview
About This Tour
Machu Picchu Mountain (Montaña) is the highest peak overlooking the Machu Picchu citadel — at 3,061 m (10,043 ft), it stands roughly 600 meters above the lost city. The 3-hour round-trip climb on Inca-built stone stairways rewards you with what is, without exaggeration, the most spectacular bird's-eye view of Machu Picchu — far higher and more panoramic than the famous Huayna Picchu.
Unlike Huayna Picchu, which is dramatic and steep but small, Machu Picchu Mountain is a more demanding sustained climb up over 1,800 stone steps. The ascent takes around 1.5 hours; the descent another 1–1.5 hours. From the summit you can see Machu Picchu spread below, plus the Vilcanota River valley, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding Andean peaks.
Machu Picchu Mountain is sold as an add-on circuit on top of your standard Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Permits are limited and must be booked in advance — at least 4–6 weeks ahead in high season. We can include this option in any of our Machu Picchu tours: Classic Inca Trail, Short Inca Trail, Salkantay, Inca Jungle, or our 1-day Machu Picchu hike.
Who is this for? Fit hikers comfortable with sustained uphill on stone stairs. Not recommended for people with severe vertigo, heart conditions, or knee problems.
Day by Day
Detailed Itinerary
(B) = Breakfast · (L) = Lunch · (D) = Dinner
Day 1
Machu Picchu Citadel → Mountain Trail → Summit → Return
This is an add-on hike that takes place during your scheduled Machu Picchu visit, not a separate tour. Here's how the timing typically works:
Morning entry to Machu Picchu (recommended for the climb — cooler temperatures and less afternoon cloud cover). Show your Machu Picchu Mountain permit at the dedicated control checkpoint (separate from the main Huayna Picchu / Inca Trail entrances).
Ascent (1.5 hours): The trail climbs steeply on Inca-built stone steps through cloud forest, with stunning glimpses of the citadel below. The path is well-maintained but requires sustained effort.
Summit (~30 min at the top): A small stone platform marks the summit at 3,061 m. From here you have a 360° panorama: Machu Picchu citadel below, Huayna Picchu opposite, the Vilcanota River canyon, and the surrounding peaks of the Vilcabamba range. Bring water, sunscreen, and a windproof layer — it gets chilly at the top.
Descent (1–1.5 hours): Same trail down. Total round-trip from the citadel: approximately 3–3.5 hours.
You'll return to Machu Picchu in time to either join your guide for the main citadel tour, take the bus down, or catch your scheduled return train.
✓ The Tour Includes
- Machu Picchu Mountain entrance permit (add-on to your standard Machu Picchu ticket)
- Pre-trip briefing on the route, timing, and what to bring
- Coordination with your main tour itinerary
✗ Not Included
- Standard Machu Picchu entrance ticket (purchased separately or as part of your main tour)
- Train, bus and hotel arrangements (these are handled by your main tour)
- Personal hiking gear, snacks, water
Packing
What to Bring
- Original passport: REQUIRED for trail entry — no exceptions. Bring the same passport you used to book.
- Daypack (25–35 L): Sturdy, waterproof, with chest and waist straps. You'll carry water, snacks, jacket, camera.
- Hiking boots: Broken-in, ankle-supporting, waterproof. Do not bring brand-new boots — blisters at 4,200 m are no joke.
- Layered technical clothing: Quick-dry t-shirts, long sleeves, fleece, light down jacket. Avoid cotton.
- Waterproof jacket + pants: Andean weather is unpredictable. A good rain shell is essential year-round.
- Sun hat + warm hat: The sun at altitude is intense; nights drop to near-freezing.
- Sunglasses + sunscreen (SPF 50+): UV at 4,000 m is brutal — protect skin and eyes.
- Insect repellent (DEET 30%+): Especially for days 3–4 in cloud forest.
⚠ Remember: Andean weather can change quickly — be prepared for both bright sun at altitude and sudden rain showers, even in the dry season.
