Written by Sam Corporations February 22, 2023
First impressions matter, which is why the Sun Gate leading to Machu Picchu is such a highlight for people visiting Peru’s world-famous Inca citadel; Machu Picchu
The Sun Gate, or “Intipunku” in Quechua, sits around 290m (951 feet) above Machu Picchu’s elevation, offering unparalleled views of the ruins some 3 kilometres away. Spread out before you are the dramatic mountains of Huayna Picchu, Putucusi and Machu Picchu.
The panorama from the Sun Gate is not a prize only for Inca Trail trekkers. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about Intipunku and how to make the most of your visit to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.
Important note: ***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.
Early explorers at Machu Picchu bestowed the Sun Gate name as they orientated themselves around the archaeological ruins. In Quechua, Inti means sun, and Punku means a door or gate, which gives the Sun Gate its name.
We now know that the Sun Gate was the most critical entrance and fortress to the entire site. Only the elite passed through the Sun Gate connected Machu Picchu with the Inca empire’s road called “Qhapac Ñan”, known today as the Inca Trail.
It’s design of thatched roofs, enclosures, doors, and windows allowed sunlight on the summer solstice (Dec 21) to illuminate the entity. Inca culture offered people returning through the Sun Gate towards Cusco more respect than those journeying towards Machu Picchu, a mark of the importance of their visit.
The Sun Gate sits at around 2,745m/9,005ft, above Machu Picchu’s elevation of 2,430m/7,972ft, and can take around an hour to walk down to Machu Picchu.
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 swoop down into 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.
Machu Picchu and the Sun Gate’s busiest times are from May to September. There will be more people visiting in these months and December and January are when tourists from South America travel extensively. A visit outside these months means fewer people.
February can be pretty wet. Indeed, the Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance and to take advantage of the fact that few people travel in this period.
The “best time” to visit is subjective. Below is a rough guide of what you can expect.
There are two main seasons in the sub-tropical Peruvian Andes:
Here are answers to some of the most commonly answered questions about the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu:
Hiking the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek gives people the chance to see the sunrise.
The dry season (April to October) offers a great chance of good weather. Shoulder season months like April, September and November can be excellent times.
Early (8 am) to late morning is a good time to arrive at the Sun Gate.
Mountain weather is notoriously fickle and we recommend preparing for all eventualities. The climate is sub-tropical; the sun can be intense and rain showers can be heavy.
Below are some guidelines.
Altitude brings its own effects; sunny days can feel hot and early mornings can feel bitterly cold. Wear layers, take water, sun cream, waterproof clothing, and sunglasses.
Accuweather offers an excellent weather forecasting and reporting service for more information.
It’s easy to imagine Inca guardsmen protecting their empire’s magnificent architectural centrepiece from their vantage point. From the Inca Trail enjoy the view and the explanation provided by the guide.
Yes, you need to be in good physical shape to visit the Sun Gate & Machu Picchu. Much of the tour is at high altitude, which places more stress on your body than at sea level.
Trekking at high elevations requires more effort. We recommend you acclimatise to the area’s altitude with 2-3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
First impressions are important and the Sun Gate offers wonderful views over the Inca citadel, and is well worth visiting. Inca Trail trekkers will feel a real sense of accomplishment and a rewarding feeling with the opportunity to pass through the Sun Gate.
Inspired to see the Sun Gate? so contact us to make your unforgettable memories!
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