The view of Machu Picchu from the Inti Punku Sun Gate is one of Peru’s most unforgettable and iconic sights, most famous for being the first glimpse of the citadel for hikers on the classic Inca Trail. Many tourists don’t realize that you can also pay a visit to the Sun Gate on day trips to Machu Picchu for free with the purchase of your ticket. This moderately difficult hike is a wonderful way to pass a few hours on your visit to this famous Lost City of the Incas. Here is our guide to visiting the Inti Punku Sun Gate from Machu Picchu.
What is the Inti Punku Sun Gate?
Inti Punku is the name of an important archaeological complex located just outside of the main Machu Picchu site. This fortified outpost was guarded by the military and once served as the principal entrance to Machu Picchu, specifically for those arriving from the Incan capital city of Cusco. Inti Punku, which means “Sun Door” in the native Quechua language, was dedicated to the cult of the sun god Inti. Its location was chosen so that the rising sun passes through the Sun Gate every year on the winter solstice.
The Inti Punku Sun Gate is the first place where hikers on the classic Inca Trail can catch a full glimpse of Machu Picchu. It’s also a sublime place to watch the sunrise as the light floods over the surrounding peaks, filling the ancient ruins and the valleys below. If you’re visiting Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail or another popular trek, your visit to the Sun Gate is sure to be one of the most memorable moments of your trip. If you’re visiting Machu Picchu as part of a day trip or other tour, don’t worry! You can also visit this incredible site free of charge with your entrance to Machu Picchu, even if you’re not hiking the Inca Trail. Read on to find out how to hike to the Inti Punku Sun Gate from Machu Picchu.
How to Find the Trailhead
The best way to explore Machu Picchu is to go with a guide who can not only show you where to go but also provide the historical context of what you are looking at. If you do decide to go on your own for whatever reason, here is what you’ll need to know. To visit the Inti Punku Sun Gate, you’ll start at the main entrance to Machu Picchu. From here you follow the upper trail around the perimeter of the site until you reach the outpost known as the Caretaker’s Hut or Guardhouse. At this point you turn left and follow the trail leading away from Machu Picchu and through the agricultural terraces. This is the start of the hike to the Inti Punku Sun Gate.
The Path to the Inti Punku Sun Gate
From the Caretaker’s Hut you’ll continue walking along a path of stone steps which belong to the Qhapaq Ñan, the original Inca road system. The path is also clearly marked, so there’s no chance of taking a wrong turn or getting lost. The incline of the trail gradually increases until just before you reach the Sun Gate, where it gets notably steeper. All in all, this hike takes around 3 or 4 hours round-trip. Once you arrive at the Inti Punku Sun Gate, you’ll also have the option to continue for another two hours on to Wiñay Wayna, a complex of beautiful Inca houses and agricultural terraces built into a hillside.
Difficulty Level
The hike to the Inti Punku Sun Gate from Machu Picchu is considered moderately difficult. The trail is not especially hazardous or steep, but a good level of fitness is necessary because of the area’s high altitude.
Best Time to Go
The Inti Punku Sun Gate, like Machu Picchu itself, is possible to visit year-round, but certain times of year can offer a more enjoyable visit. The wet season lasts from November to April and during these months it’s possible to experience heavy rainfall on the trail. This region also sits just above the jungle and has a humid subtropical climate throughout the year. Visiting the Inti Punku Sun Gate early in the morning will not only provide the best view, it will also help you to avoid the glaring midday sun.
Preparing for the Hike
Though Machu Picchu’s elevation of 8,000 feet above sea level is considerably lower than many other nearby locations including the city of Cusco, it’s still much higher than many people are used to. Visitors should ideally give themselves some time to acclimatize before attempting any strenuous activity such as hiking.
Since the weather in Peru’s sierra can be unpredictable, it’s recommended to wear clothes suitable for both rain and sunshine. Wearing sunscreen is also crucial this close to the equator. As with any physical activity, you need to make sure to stay hydrated, and this is doubly true in high altitude environments.
What to Bring:
- A good quality camera to snap some pictures at this beautiful site.
- Sun protection including sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- Snacks for the hike or a small picnic to eat at the top.
- Insect repellant to protect against mosquitos and other pests.
- At least one or two liters of water to ensure you stay hydrated.
- Lightweight hiking boots for the sometimes-muddy trail.
- Poncho or raincoat in case you get caught in a downpour.
- A rubber-tipped walking stick can also come in handy.
The hike to the Inti Punku Sun Gate is a truly unforgettable experience and should be considered an essential activity for those interested in history, archaeology, outdoors activities or just beautiful scenery in general. You can hike this trail on your own using the information provided above, but we always recommend visiting Machu Picchu with a guide so that you can learn valuable information about its history. Make sure to inquire with your guide about visiting the Inti Punku Sun Gate when you book your tour.
Header Image: Modified from Flickr / zug55
1st Blog Image: Modified from Flickr / maasdad
2nd Blog Image: Modified from Flickr / Benos55
