Add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to an Inka Jungle Tour
We know that after completing the Inka Jungle Tour, the big question arises: should you add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain? Choosing the wrong option can affect your experience, budget, and availability. Here you’ll discover which is best suited to your fitness level, how much it costs, and how to secure your entry without any mistakes.
🌄 What does adding Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to the Inka Jungle Tour mean?
The Inka Jungle Tour is an alternative 3–4 day tour that combines biking, trekking, and adventure to reach Machu Picchu.
Upon arriving at the citadel, you can add an additional hike to:
- Huayna Picchu (the iconic mountain behind the classic postcard).
- Machu Picchu Mountain (the highest and most panoramic).
⚠️ Important: These are separate tickets and require advance booking.
⚖️ Huayna Picchu vs. Machu Picchu Mountain: Key Differences
🧗 Huayna Picchu
- Stedder and more challenging
- Narrow stairs
- More adrenaline-pumping experience
- Approximate time: 1.5–2 hours
🥾 Machu Picchu Mountain
- Higher (3,082 m)
- Longer but less technical hike
- Wide panoramic views
- Approximate time: 2.5–3.5 hours
📊 Comparison Chart
| Features | Huayna Picchu | Montaña Machu Picchu |
|---|---|---|
| Additional price | USD 65–80 | USD 65–80 |
| Hike time | 1.5–2 h | 2.5–3.5 h |
| Difficulty | High | Moderate |
| Maximum altitude | 2,720 m | 3,082 m |
| Best time | April–October | April–October |
| Availability | limited More | availability |
🛠️ How does adding it work? In the Inca Jungle Tour?
- Book the Inca Jungle Tour (3 or 4 days).
- Inform the agency that you wish to add Huayna Picchu or
- Machu Picchu Mountain.
The official ticket with a specific time slot will be arranged. - On day 4 of the tour, after entering Machu Picchu, you will begin the climb.
⏳ Recommendation: Book 2–3 months in advance during peak season (May–September).
📋 Requirements for foreigners
🛂 Documentation
- Valid passport (must match the one used for booking).
💪 Physical condition
- Huayna Picchu: not recommended for people with vertigo.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: a better option if you prefer a steady pace.
🏔️ Altitude
- Although Machu Picchu isn’t extremely high, you’re coming from areas like Cusco (3,399 m), so acclimatizing is key before the tour.
🌦️ Best time to go
☀️ Dry season (April–October)
- Clear skies
- Better visibility
- Higher demand
🌧️ Rainy season (November–March)
- More slippery
- Fewer tourists
- Greener landscape
🎒 Pro-Tips for foreigners
🎒 What to bring
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Water (at least 1 liter)
- Energy snacks
- Sunscreen
🏔️ Altitude sickness
- Acclimatize for 1–2 days in Cusco before the Inca Jungle Trek.
📸 Photography
- Huayna Picchu: Classic vertical views
- Machu Picchu Mountain: Wide panoramas ideal for wide-angle shots
⏰ Strategic tip
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and an iconic photo → Huayna Picchu.
If you prefer wider views and less stress → Machu Picchu Mountain.
