Located in the middle of the Peruvian Andes and next to its famous neighbor, Machu Picchu, is Huchuy Picchu mountain, a less known but just as amazing mountain. This gem offers travelers a quiet, real, and rich way to explore the nearby nature and learn about Inca history without the usual crowds.
So, if you are looking for a trip that is not usual, more personal and calm than Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu is the best choice. This is because it is near the Inca city; also, this mountain amazes visitors with its wide views of the valleys around it and the Inca ruins on its sides.
Climbing Huchuy Picchu does not need a lot of hard physical work, which makes it a great choice for people who want to enjoy Machu Picchu from a different view. Surrounded by big landscapes and a peaceful feeling, this less crowded path invites you to have a real and unforgettable experience.
Are you ready for the challenge? Get ready to explore the heights of Huchuy Picchu and discover a unique and magical side of one of the world’s most famous places.
Meaning of the Name “Huchuy Picchu”
The name “Huchuy Picchu” comes from the Quechua language, where “huchuy” usually means “small,” while “Picchu” is used to talk about mountains or, in some cases, can mean “glow” or “holy mountain.” So, the meaning of the name “Huchuy Picchu” is “Small Mountain.” But, it’s not just “smaller.” Huchuy Picchu has its own special things that make it very interesting for people who want different experiences than the main place.
In the past, local people gave special meaning to the names, because they helped to find and sort the holy and important places in the Andes area. In this way, Huchuy Picchu was not just a smaller part of the buildings or nature, but a place that gave a different view of the area around Machu Picchu.
Where is Huchuy Picchu?
Huchuy Picchu is located in the Cusco region, in southern Peru, in an area that has a lot of Inca history and natural views. It is near Machu Picchu, which makes it a good option for people who want to explore less crowded old places, but just as full of history. The area is part of the Urubamba Valley, where rivers, mountains, and many different living things come together, making a special feeling.
Height and Environment
The Huchuy Picchu site is at a height of about 2,700 to 2,800 meters above sea level. The height of this mountain lets you see, from different viewpoints, the Andean plants of the area and the Inca ceremonial buildings, giving a full experience where every little thing seems to tell a part of the old history of the region.
Differences between Huchuy Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu
Huchuy Picchu, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu are in the same old complex and share a deep link with the Inca culture. But, each of these mountains has special things that show in their location, height, how easy they are to get to, and the experience they give to visitors.
How to Get to Huchuy Picchu?
To get to Huchuy Picchu mountain, you need to follow a few simple steps. From the main entrance of the Machu Picchu city, you just need to walk about 25 meters. You must enter from the lower part, following Circuit 3 – Machupicchu Royalty (Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route). Get ready for a trip full of history, views, and Inca buildings.
A single access point serves both Huchuy Picchu and the adjacent Huayna Picchu. A few meters from the control point, where your ticket will be checked, you will find a split in the path. At that point, take the path to the left to start climbing Huchuy Picchu. This route, less crowded but just as amazing, will take you through Andean scenes, perfect for a more private and real experience.
With a guided tour
If you prefer to enjoy the trip without worrying about the plans, a great choice is to hire an organized tour. By doing it with a tour company, everything will be planned: rides, times, tickets, and other details, letting you focus only on having a good time.
Also, many of these tours include extra walks that let you explore not only Huchuy Picchu, but also the great Machu Picchu ruins and its surroundings. With an expert guide, you will find out historical facts, interesting things, and hidden spots that will make your visit even better.
Walk difficulty level and time
The walk to the top of Huchuy Picchu Mountain is something most hikers can do, although the difficulty can change depending on your fitness and how much you have hiked before. In general, the path is seen as medium difficulty, with a fairly easy walk for the most part. However, the last part has a steep slope that can be a challenge, especially for those who are not used to hiking.
The climb to the top usually takes about 30 minutes, while the whole trip (including breaks and time to enjoy the view) can take between 40 minutes and an hour. Even though it’s not a long walk, the steep and uneven parts make it a bit harder and you may need to try harder at some points.
Tickets and Passes: What You Need to Know
Machu Picchu has three main paths, each made to walk through different areas of this amazing Inca city. If you want to visit the lovely Huchuy Picchu Mountain, you must know exactly which path to choose to get to this less known but awesome spot.
Which Ticket Do You Need?
To get to Huchuy Picchu Mount, you need to buy the ticket for Path 3 – Machupicchu Royalty, specifically Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu Route. This ticket takes you on a special tour inside the old site, where you can see up close the incredible Inca buildings and how they planned their cities.
This particular trail, distinct from others, does not offer the familiar broad sight of Machu Picchu. However, it gives a more personal and calm experience, perfect for those who want to explore the heart of the city without the crowds.
A Different Viewpoint: Huchuy Picchu
If you dream of an amazing view of Machu Picchu, we suggest taking a short 20-minute walk to the Huchuy Picchu viewpoint. From there, you can take unique photos with a less common but still amazing angle. Also, because it’s less crowded, you can have a more peaceful and relaxed time.
Time to Stay and Tips
You have a maximum of 3 hours and 30 minutes to walk around the Huchuy Picchu area. This time is enough to enjoy the view, take great photos, and learn about the history of the place.
To make the most of your visit, don’t forget to bring:
– Comfortable shoes for walking
– Enough water
– Sunscreen
– Bug spray
Route 3-D Itinerary: Huchuy Picchu
The tour includes these main points:
- Lower and Upper Platform
- Dry Moat
- Sun Temple Viewpoint
- Temple Plaza and Granite Chaos
- Intiwatana Pyramid
- Sacred Rock
- Twelve Niches
- East Qolqas
- Water Mirror Set
- Condor Temple
- Pisonay Plaza
- Archaeological Reserve
Entry Times: Which to Choose?
Because it’s very popular, we recommend buying your ticket early. Before booking, think about what kind of experience you want: a light walk or a longer exploration.
First Time (9:00 a.m.)
– Enter Machu Picchu from 9:00 a.m.
– Access Huchuy Picchu between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m.
Good for people who like to start their visit in the morning. The temperatures are cooler, the walk is nicer, and the natural light is better for clear photos. Also, there are fewer tourists at the top, which makes it more peaceful and personal.
Second Time (11:00 a.m.)
– Enter Machu Picchu from 11:00 a.m.
– Access Huchuy Picchu between 12:00 and 1:00 p.m.
Perfect if you want to take your time exploring other parts of the city before going up. Even though the sun is higher, the mix of light and shadow makes an amazing view for your photos.