For those seeking a short and leisurely hiking trip in Peru, the Huchuy Picchu hike offers an excellent opportunity to admire the renowned Machu Picchu ruins from above. This newly opened route in 2021 leads you along the 15th-century Inca stone steps to the summit of Huchuy Picchu (meaning "little hill" in Quechua).

While this hike may not command the same level of reverence as the nearby Huayna Picchu hike, it is significantly easier and offers equally breathtaking views from the top. This travel guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to know before embarking on this journey, including how to get there.

Some sections of the trail feature steep inclines, but the path is relatively wide, and there are always handholds available, making it less intimidating or hazardous. However, I still do not recommend this route for individuals with mobility issues, as the path can be somewhat rugged, and falls could be severe, as you'll see further down the trail.

At a moderate pace, it takes approximately 15 minutes or less to reach the summit of Huchuy Picchu and just 10 minutes to descend. The trail is a gradual slope up to the summit, and you won't feel too exhausted before reaching the end of the hike.

The scenery along the way is stunning, and since this trail is not as crowded as others, you can pause to take in the views in peace. The jungle opens up, revealing the sight of Putucusi Hill and the Urubamba River on your right, with the vistas becoming even more spectacular as you climb the stairs.

Before you know it, you've arrived at the summit of Huchuy Picchu, standing at an elevation of 2,497 meters (8,192 feet). The vistas from here are incredibly beautiful, resembling those seen from the summit of Wayna Picchu, albeit with slight variations. From either peak, you can overlook Machu Picchu from the north side, although the views from this summit are less spectacular due to its lower altitude compared to Wayna Picchu.

The main difference here is that you can also observe Wayna Picchu up close and occasionally catch glimpses of small hiking groups ascending its slopes.

Although the Huchuy Picchu trail is not as popular as Huayna Picchu, reservations are still required, especially if you want to visit on a specific date and time. A guide is not necessary for this hike, but you can hire one at the Machu Picchu entrance if you prefer.

Operating Hours and Fees

The entire Machu Picchu area is open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM. It is said that staying time is limited to a few hours, but staff do not enforce this strictly. You can stay as long as you like, as long as you are not causing any trouble.

For the Huchuy Picchu hike, tickets are divided into different entry times to reduce congestion on the trail. There are 25 tickets available for purchase per time slot (a total of 200 tickets per day).

Choose a time slot that suits you and remember that it only affects the time you need to enter. Once you pass through the control gate for Huchuy Picchu, you can stay as long as you like!

As of 2024, the adult ticket price for Huchuy Picchu is 152 Peruvian soles (approximately $40 USD), which grants you access to the peak and the fourth circuit of Machu Picchu. Students and minors (aged 3-17) receive a 50% discount.

Machu Picchu

Overlooking Huchuy Picchu (meaning "little hill") from the ground of the citadel.

How to Get There

The hiking trail to Huchuy Picchu is located on the north side of the Machu Picchu citadel, behind the same control gate you would pass through to access the Wayna Picchu hiking trail.

You can refer to the route map above to get a general idea of where to go, but be prepared to ask staff for directions, as finding your way can be a bit tricky if you're in a rush, even with a map.

Remember to arrive at the main entrance gate of Machu Picchu at least one hour before the entry time printed on your hiking ticket, as there may be queues at the citadel entrance, and it takes 15-30 minutes to walk from the citadel starting point to the control gate for Huchuy Picchu.

This is important because if you are late, you may lose your ticket. The staff are very strict, and if you are even one minute late for the entry time printed on your hiking ticket, they will not let you pass through the control gate for Huchuy Picchu (I know it's frustrating).

Once you reach the control gate, there will be a prominent signpost on the trail indicating the way to Huchuy Picchu, which soon diverges from the path to Wayna Picchu. At this point, everything becomes straightforward.

When to Visit

Generally speaking, the best time to hike Machu Picchu is during Peru's dry season, which spans from May to October. During this period, the weather is sunny with less rainfall.

Having said that, I wouldn't completely dismiss the rainy season. We did this hike and several others in January, and the weather was great. Rain usually occurs in the afternoon or evening, but bring a rain poncho just in case.

I believe the best time to climb Huchuy Picchu is in the late morning. By this time, the morning mist usually clears, allowing you to better appreciate the beauty of the Andes.

Is It Worth It?

We loved Huchuy Picchu, but whether it's "worth it" depends on your situation and what you're looking for.

If you only have time for one hike at Machu Picchu, you should definitely choose the Huayna Picchu hike instead of this one. It offers a superior experience.

However, Huayna's tickets often sell out months in advance, so Huchuy remains a viable option. Huchuy is also a relatively easy hiking trail, so it may be a good choice for those who want a quick hike but still want to admire the unique views of Machu Picchu.

Our main complaint about the Huchuy Picchu hike is the ticket price. It's too expensive for such a short hike. Since this route is still relatively new, hopefully, they will make some changes.

Best Machu Picchu Tours

If you want to arrange a tour to Machu Picchu in advance, there are many great options available online.

GetYourGuide offers full-day tours to Machu Picchu (private or group) departing from Cusco, as well as spectacular mountain hikes like Huayna Picchu, which requires advance booking due to its popularity.

We have used this company for many tours and activities in Peru, and they are fantastic. Highly recommended!