Inti Punku (Sun Gate)

Within the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the best adventures you can experience is the hike to Inti Punku, a Quechua name that translates to “Sun Gate” in Spanish. This hike can be done in less than a day, giving you the opportunity to plan it at any time during your trip to Cusco. There’s no need to pay an entrance fee — you just need to accept the challenge of the hike and be amazed by the panoramic views that Inti Punku offers upon your arrival.

Contents

• What will I find at Inti Punku?
• Where is Inti Punku located?
• What is the hike to Inti Punku like?
• Can I camp at Inti Punku?
• Tours to the Sun Gate or Inti Punku
  • Independent Option
  • Personalized Tour Option
• Tips for your visit to Inti Punku
• Frequently Asked Questions

What will I find at Inti Punku?

Inti Punku or Sun Gate is an Inca construction in the Sacred Valley, which served as an entrance to the Inca trails (Qhapaq Ñan). This route can lead you to Machu Picchu, and it is believed that the site had a function related to the worship of their sun god, as well as a ceremonial function, since the sun’s rays enter directly through this gate.

In the surrounding area, you’ll find hilltops that offer stunning panoramic views of the entire valley. You can also rest in peaceful and tranquil spots, perfect for contemplation and relaxation after the hike.

Along the way, you will see a great variety of flora, incredible views, and also the famous Cachicata stone quarries, where you’ll find structures that were intended for other destinations but were abandoned during the conquest period.

Where is Inti Punku located?

The Sun Gate or Inti Punku is located in Ollantaytambo, within the Sacred Valley of the Incas. To reach it, you’ll need to complete a hike of approximately 8 kilometers (16 kilometers round trip) from the town center.

It’s best to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Even so, the hike is somewhat long, taking up to four hours to ascend, as the final elevation is 3,897 meters above sea level. Keep in mind that Ollantaytambo itself is at just 2,807 meters above sea level.

What is the hike to Inti Punku like?

The adventure of following the paths that lead to Inti Punku immerses you in dreamlike landscapes through the Sacred Valley. You’ll also witness the magical effect created by the sun’s rays as they pass through the gate. The total trail is 16 kilometers, so it’s important to be well-prepared, bringing plenty of water and snacks to make the experience easier.

The hike should start early in the day. You might choose to stay overnight in the town of Ollantaytambo or travel very early in the morning — the approximate travel time from Cusco is 1 hour and 45 minutes. The best time to begin is around 8:00 a.m. after breakfast, as the weather will be cooler, which is ideal for starting the hike.

The trail is stable and well-marked, and local residents can also help you identify the correct path. The journey begins along the foothills of a mountain, crossing what is known as the Inca Bridge. The first part involves a very gentle incline, giving you time to acclimate to what lies ahead. It’s always important to take short breaks — that way, you’ll enjoy the views and the experience even more.

Later, about halfway through the hike, you’ll encounter steeper trails. Stone stairways lead to Cachicata, a stone quarry where you can stop and admire rocks that might once have been used by the Inca culture.

Farther along the trail, you’ll begin to see the beautiful structure of Inti Punku in the distance — a clear sign that you’re getting closer. It gives you a second wind to continue. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to admire it in all its glory, along with rest areas where you can take in every detail. The ascent takes approximately 4 hours, while the descent can take about 3 hours.

Can I camp at Inti Punku?

Some visitors may find the hike exhausting, or they might want to explore this incredible site more thoroughly and witness the sunrise through the Sun Gate. For this reason, there is a camping area near Inti Punku where all hikers who wish to spend the night close to this stunning structure and its charming landscapes can do so.

So don’t miss this opportunity — Inti Punku offers you flexible options so that your visit can be planned as part of your trip through Cusco. This way, you’ll discover a different angle of the Sacred Valley, as well as the many traces of Inca culture that surround it.

Tours to the Sun Gate or Inti Punku

A visit to Inti Punku is not typically included in standard tourist routes, but there’s always an option for a more immersive and detailed experience. Here we present the two main ways you can discover this incredible Sun Gate.

• Independent Option

  You don’t need in-depth knowledge of the route to visit the Sun Gate, as the trail is very well-marked. There’s usually a steady flow of hikers, so finding the right path won’t be a problem. You can also download the route via GPS for added confidence. It’s definitely possible to go independently, but we recommend going with company — sharing this kind of experience adds much more value to the journey.

• Personalized Tour Option

  If you’re looking for a safer and more informative experience, you can go with us. We offer you the opportunity to plan your tour based on your preferences. You decide your itinerary — whether you want to camp, start early in the morning, or choose other options that best suit you. This way, you’ll combine different experiences to make the most of your trip through Cusco, while getting to know the amazing Inti Punku or Sun Gate.

Tips for Your Visit to Inti Punku

To make the most of your hike to Inti Punku or Sun Gate, here are some useful tips to help ensure a great experience. They’ll help you avoid setbacks and stay prepared for important details — check them out:

• The Sacred Valley of the Incas is considered an ideal place to acclimate during your first days in Cusco, thanks to its altitude of approximately 2,900 meters above sea level. It offers a mild climate perfect for resting.
• “Inti Punku” is a Quechua name that translates to “Sun Gate” in Spanish, symbolizing great reverence for the main deity of the Inca culture.
• Start your hike very early. Walking under the midday sun can make the experience more challenging.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up during the hike.
• Camping at Inti Punku gives you the chance to see a starry sky at night and witness the sunrise through the Sun Gate — a truly magical moment.
• If you hike during the dry season (April to October), you’ll enjoy sunnier and clearer weather, offering colorful landscapes.
• During the rainy season (November to March), there’s a higher chance of rain, but you’ll get to experience a more adventurous journey with stunning scenery.
• Visit Inti Punku with friends or fellow hikers. Sharing each milestone along the trail adds value and creates unforgettable memories.
• Take your time on the hike to the Sun Gate. You’ll be able to appreciate every landscape in detail and enjoy well-deserved breaks.
• Entry to Inti Punku is completely free, as is access to the camping area.
• Remember that you can plan your Sacred Valley tour and choose the route that suits you best. Consult our advisors to explore all available options for your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. What is Inti Punku?

  Inti Punku, which means “Sun Gate” in Quechua, is an Inca structure located in Ollantaytambo. It is considered an ancient entry point to the Inca road network (Qhapaq Ñan) and is believed to have had ceremonial value linked to sun worship.

• 2. Where is Inti Punku located?

  Inti Punku is located in the highlands of Ollantaytambo. To get there, you must complete an approximately 8-kilometer hike from the town center (16 km round trip).

• 3. What is the hike to Inti Punku like?

  The hike is a somewhat demanding experience that can take around 4 hours to ascend and 3 hours to descend. The path is well-marked and offers breathtaking views of the valley throughout the journey.

• 4. Do I need to pay an entrance fee to visit Inti Punku?

  No, access to Inti Punku is completely free. This makes it an excellent option for travelers looking to explore on their own without additional costs.

• 5. Is it possible to camp at Inti Punku?

  Yes, there is a campsite near Inti Punku where you can spend the night. Camping here offers the unique opportunity to enjoy a starry sky and watch the sunrise through the Sun Gate.

• 6. Can I visit Inti Punku on my own?

  Yes, the trail is well-marked and safe. However, it’s always advisable to go with others — whether friends or a group of hikers.

• 7. Are there guided tours to Inti Punku?

  Yes, there are personalized tours available that let you tailor the experience to your interests — such as choosing the departure time, including a camping night, or combining the hike with other Sacred Valley destinations.

• 8. What is the best time of year to visit Inti Punku?

  The dry season, from April to October, is the most recommended due to sunny, clear weather, which makes for a more comfortable hike and more colorful scenery.

• 9. What is the difficulty level of the hike to Inti Punku?

  The hike is of moderate to challenging difficulty, depending on your physical condition and hiking experience.

• 10. Can I see the sunrise from Inti Punku?

  Yes, if you choose to camp at Inti Punku, you’ll be able to witness a spectacular sunrise. The gate is aligned so that the first rays of sunlight pass directly through it, making for a beautiful and unforgettable experience.