Located in the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu, Huchuy Picchu Mountain is a hidden gem just waiting to be found. Over the course of the past years, it has become more popular for travelers looking for adventures off the beaten path.
In this blog post, we will look at everything you need to know about Huchuy Picchu when planning your trip to Machu Picchu.
Nestled in the Peruvian Andes Mountains, Huchuy Picchu Mountain, also known as “Little Picchu,” is a lesser-known but equally fascinating peak. Despite being overshadowed by Machu Picchu, it’s more well-known counterpart, Huchuy Picchu has its own significance and charm.
This ancient site, which has terraced fields, ceremonial buildings, and residential areas, is thought to have been a royal estate for Inca royalty.
It provides you with a more private and peaceful experience than the other two mountains, Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, because of its remote location and smaller size.
Huchuy Picchu mountain is located north of the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu, next to the famous Huayna Picchu mountain. It is an essential part of the Machu Picchu complex, providing you with an exciting tour of this mountain.
The closest town is Aguas Calientes, sometimes referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo. It is an area that sits ideally on the banks of the Urubamba River, next to Machu Picchu.
Most visitors arrive in Aguas Calientes by train from Ollantaytambo or Poroy. The other option is to trek the famous Inca Trail for two or four days.
After arriving in Aguas Calientes, you can choose to hike for 60 to 90 minutes or take a quick 20-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu’s entrance. Although the hike provides a more immersive experience, we advise taking the bus, as the trail is rather unspectacular and you might arrive sweaty and exhausted.
Once you are at the entrance, use the lower gates for Machu Picchu Circuit 3, to enter Huchuy Picchu Mountain, which is approximately 25 meters from the main citadel entrance.
Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu have identical entrances. There will be a path split a few meters beyond the checkpoint; stay left to start the climb to Huchuy Picchu. You have to hike only 1 kilometer to reach the highest point of Huchuy Picchu. The Incas built these stone pathways.
Due to its high altitude in the Andes Mountains, Huchuy Picchu Mountain as well as the famous Machu Picchu has a diverse climate. The dry season and the rainy season are the two main periods that these sites experience.
In the dry season, which typically runs from May to October, the entire area with Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains tends to be more explored. The clear and sunny weather offers the perfect setting for the visit of these sites.
On the other hand, greater rainfall and the potential for muddy trails and unsafe conditions come with the rainy season, which runs from November to April. The benefit is that you will face less travelers, but you should plan for unpredictable weather during this period of the year.
Read our blog post to learn more about the weather at Machu Picchu and to choose the best month for your visit.
Discovering the historical, cultural, and scenic treasures of Huchuy Picchu, Machu Picchu, and Huayna Picchu Mountains is a must-do for every adventurer!
No matter which mountain you choose, you will have a stunning experience and the view of the Machu Picchu ruins will be magical.
| Aspect | Huchuy Picchu Mountain | Machu Picchu Mountain | Huayna Picchu Mountain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Which Machu Picchu ticket is needed | Circuit 3 route 3D | Circuit 1 route 1A | Circuit 3 route 3A |
| Hiking Time and length | 1.5 – 2h hiking (both ways) and the length is around 2.5km (1.5 miles) | 2.5 – 3h hiking (both ways) and the length is around 2km (1.25 miles) | 1.5 – 2h hiking (both ways) and the length is around 2km (1.25 miles) |
| Elevation | 2,497 m (8,192 ft) | 3,082 m (10,111 ft) | 2,692 m (8,825 ft) |
| Archaeological Significance | Royal estate for Inca nobility | Imperial estate for Inca emperor | Religious and administrative center |
| Trek Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate – Difficult |
| Views | Panoramic view over Machu Picchu ruins and Machu Picchu Mountain in the background. | Stunning view over Machu Picchu ruins and Huayna Picchu in the background. | Amazing view over the panoramic landscape, the Machu Picchu ruins with the Machu Picchu Mountain and Sun Gate in the background. |
Read our blog post about the differences between Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu if you’re interested in learning more about one of these peaks.
If you want to add Huchuy Picchu Mountain to your Machu Picchu tour, then make sure to choose the entrance ticket “Circuit 3 + Huchuy Picchu”.
First, we recommend discovering the lower terraces of the Machu Picchu ruins during our private tour for 2.5h. Afterwards, you can do the hike to Huchuy Picchu.
It’s a brief hike of approx 1:30 – 2h (both ways) that leads you to the top of the mountain from where you will enjoy the picturesque view of the ruins and surroundings.
Make sure to read our blog post about the Machu Picchu circuits for more information about this topic!
The degree of hiking difficulty varies with the circuit you chose. Circuit 3 is typically an easy circuit, appropriate for most travelers with a respectable degree of physical fitness.
There may be steeper and more uneven terrain on the trek to Huchuy Picchu, so some additional endurance and mobility is helpful.
In our Machu Picchu tours, you will benefit from a hassle-free adventure which includes all tickets, guide and more for your unforgettable trip.
Before starting your hiking trip to Huchuy Picchu mountain, make sure you have the entrance ticket for “Circuit 3 + Huchuy Picchu” and follow all local authorities’ regulations.
There are only 500 tickets available for the Huchuy Picchu hike each day, 100 for each time slot (6am – 2pm). Thus, to guarantee a seamless visit, you should make your reservation at least one month in advance.
You will come across a multitude of archaeological ruins and breath-taking views along the trails of Huchuy Picchu. Every step shows a new discovery, from historic terraced fields and Inca ruins to expansive viewpoints overlooking the ruins of Machu Picchu.
Enjoy the unique and beautiful scenery, with a wide variety of flora as you ascend through the Andes, such as vibrant wildflowers and delicate orchids.
Look out for local fauna, including viscachas skimming the rocks and Andean condors soaring overhead. As you travel, you’ll come across panoramic viewpoints that offer expansive views of the nearby mountains and valleys, inspiring amazement at the Andes’ breathtaking natural beauty.
Bring the following items with you to Huchuy Picchu Mountain to ensure a pleasant and successful trip:
Make sure to read our blog post about your Peru packing list, so that you are prepared for your hike up to the Huchuy Picchu mountain and can embark on an incredible adventure amidst the breathtaking Andean landscape.
In conclusion, Huchuy Picchu Mountain is a hidden treasure amidst the Andes, providing adventure and a journey of discovery to those who are willing to discover its historic wonders.
With its varied flora and fauna, stunning views, and abundant archaeological sites, every step reveals a new wonder just waiting to be discovered.
It’s a great extra when doing your Machu Picchu tour allowing you to embrace the ruins from a different perspective.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any help planning your Machu Picchu trip or would like more information.
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours in total. Your time depends on fitness, pace, and short photo stops.
It is a moderate hike with some uphill and uneven steps. Travelers in reasonable shape will do well. It is easier than Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Visit during the dry season from May to October. You will get clearer skies and better visibility for views and photos.
You will see wide views of the Andes, green valleys, and the Machu Picchu ruins from a closer, lower vantage point. It is a strong spot for photos without a long climb.
Follow Machu Picchu Circuit 3, Route 3D. This route covers the lower sections of the citadel before the hike to Huchuy Picchu.
