All photos of Machu Picchu are printed or promoted with Huayna Picchu mountain in the background.

But there is also a mountain just on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu mountain that you may also want to climb. To see the citadel of Machu Picchu from above, here we tell you why you should choose one or the other, so stay with us on Huayna Picchu Mountain vs. Machu Picchu Picchu.

The difference between the two mountains

The trails
Both mountains are pretty huge, but with some differences. Huayna Picchu mountain reaches 2,693 meters above sea level but consists of an almost vertical ascent with a much more extreme and narrower path. It requires using your hands to keep your balance or the cables provided to hold on. Part of the path does expose to slopes.

Machu Picchu mountain reaches 3,082 meters above sea level, almost 650 meters. This hike is challenging, but the trail is more comprehensive, and anyone can climb it. However, be careful with altitude sickness.

Scenery and landscapes

What differentiates these two mountains is the scenery they offer. Huayna Picchu offers one of the best panoramic views of the Machu Picchu Citadel. In addition, on the “Young Mountain,” there are several Inca ruins, surrounded by the beautiful flora and fauna of this place.

From the mountain view of Machu Picchu, you will have the opportunity to admire the Lost City of the Incas, the Huayna Picchu, the last part of the Inca Trail, and the Salkantay mountain and the whole range of these impressive mountains. It should note that Machu Picchu mountain has no archaeological sites, but it does distinguish by a great variety of flora and fauna.

Income availability

• Both mountains have a limit of visitors per day. Huayna Picchu only receives 400 travelers daily, so getting tickets can be very difficult as these are sold out months in advance.
• On the other hand, Machu Picchu mountain receives 800 hikers daily, so it is easier to find free places even from one day to the next.

Huaynapicchu Mountain

Advantages of visiting Huayna Picchu

• This location leads to bird’s-eye views of the ancient city and the surrounding mountain range.
• Visit the Inca structures midway near the summit.
• It gives you an overview and a different perspective of the citadel.
• A walk through a small cave on the hike back then meets on the main trail to head out.
• Extra hike to the mountain of Uña Picchu
• You can use handrail cables implemented in narrow sections
• Visit the temple of the moon

Disadvantages of visiting Huayna Picchu

• Its sloping path might scare you.
• A steep and narrow road
• The summit is not so flat, and you stand on scattered granite boulders.
• a challenging route
• Permits run out faster

Macchu Picchu Mountain

Advantages of Visiting Machu Picchu

• Gradual ascent concerning the Huayna Picchu mountain
• A wider path and less use of hands.
• Doable on a family trip
• Permits do not run out long in advance
• The summit is relatively broader and flatter.
• It offers panoramic views of the citadel of Machu Picchu and the meandering Vilcanota River.
• Unexpected wildlife to see.
• It is not necessary to reach the top to enjoy the scenery. You can take good photos of Machu Picchu in the middle of the road.

Disadvantages of visiting

• It is twice as long as the Huayna Picchu mountain.
• It reaches a higher altitude than the Huayna Picchu mountain
• A challenging route but also manageable.
• There may be wind at the summit.
• Frequent questions