As of 01st June 2024, the Sun Gate is now open for visitors from Machu Picchu. The hike takes around an hour each way. The climb is up a set of steep steps, but the views of Machu Picchu are worth the effort. For those who want to do the hike up to Sun Gate you will now need to buy a Circuit 1C ticket to enter Machu Picchu and hike to the Sun Gate. Along the way you can enjoy the Guardhouse view points for the best pictures of Machu Picchu.
What Exactly is the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, was once the main entrance to Machu Picchu for the Incas. During the Inca Empire it was the main route from the Inca Capital of Cusco to Machu Picchu. A landmark that was built in a precise location, the sun would pass directly through every year during the summer solstice (December 22nd).
Theorized to be a sort of checkpoint where the Inca could keep track of who and how many people entered and exited Machu Picchu. The gate would have most likely been manned by Inca guards regulating who was allowed passage.
Standing at 2,720 m ( 8,924 ft) the Sun Gate is the first viewpoint of Machu Picchu for trekkers of the Inca Trail. Possibly sort of checkpoint where the Inca could keep track of who and how many people entered and exited Machu Picchu. This is the end of the journey for all of the Inca Trails:
- 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days
How to get to the Sun Gate?
Inca Trail trekkers must pass through the Sun Gate to access Machu Picchu.
People on the classic 4 day Inca Trail hike usually reach the Sun Gate early in the morning of their last hiking day, then to Machu Picchu for a guided tour. The Sun Gate can get a little crowded as groups try to reach the spot to witness the majestic sunrise.
People, often families, hike the 1 or 2 day Inca Trail from KM 104, and they pass through the Sun Gate any time from noon to 4 pm.
The Inca Trail treks include the Sun Gate so no need to buy another ticket.
***As of 01st June 2024, the Sun Gate is now open for visitors from Machu Picchu. The hike takes around an hour each way. The climb is up a set of steep steps, but the views of Machu Picchu are worth the effort. For those who want to do the hike up to Sun Gate you will now need to buy a Circuit 1C ticket to enter Machu Picchu and hike to the Sun Gate. Along the way you can enjoy the Guard House view points for the best pictures of Machu Picchu
Sun Gate Key Points
- Altitude: 2,720m ( 8,924 ft)
- Location: Southeast of Machu Picchu
- Age restrictions: None
- Duration: Short Inca trail 2 days, Classic inca Trail 4 days, 2hours up and back from Machu Picchu.
- Appeal: Amazing views of Machu Picchu, main entry during the Inca Empire
- Difficulty: Moderately difficult depending on the individual
Good Time of Year to Visit The Sun Gate
The Sun Gate, like the Inca Trail, is open 11 months of the year. During the month of February the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance and repair.
Anytime of year ia a good time to visit the Sun Gate because of its unique views of Machu Picchu. However, the general agreement is that the dry season is the best time to visit Machu Picchu and the region in general. During the rainy season you will most likely encounter rains, and in December January and March possibly very heavy rains. The dry season is from May to October and the Rainy season from November to April.
Is Visiting the Sun Gate Worth it?
Yes, because it offers amazing views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
The Sun Gate offers a unique opportunity where one can walk through the same stone portal that the Inca did hundreds of years ago.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
Inti Punku, what does it mean?
In Quechua Inti means “Sun god” and Punku means “gate or door”. Inti is the most important deity for the Inca and was revered and celebrated more than any other god.
What does the Sun Gate have to offer?
Amazing panoramic views– When you arrive at the Sun Gate get unique views of Machu Picchu not available anywhere else. Be able to see the Urubamba River meandering in the valley below. Huayna Picchu Mountain can also be seen, in addition to the small town of Aguas Calientes, and the surrounding landscape.
Take pictures – Make sure you get all the pictures you can. Many of the best pictures of Machu Picchu are here at the Sun Gate.
Bird watching – There are various different species of birds along the way to the Sun Gate, and when you arrive. If you are into bird watching, keep your eyes peeled for species like the cock of the rocks, Andean guan, the blue jawed tanager, the chestnut breasted hummingbird, the mountain watchmaker, and much more.
