All You Need To Know About The Sun Gate

What is the Sun Gate?

The Sun Gate (2,720m/8,924 ft), also known as Inti Punku, is a stunning viewpoint of Machu Picchu, located on one side of the Machu Picchu Mountain.

It is actually the first viewpoint of Machu Picchu for all the people that do the Inca Trails hikes:

• 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Short Inca Trail 2 days
• Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days

The history behind the Sun Gate

The Sun Gate or Inti Punku was a kind of control gate for people entering and leaving the Inca City of Machu Picchu. Because of its remote and strategic location, it is believed that Machu Picchu only welcomed guests from the elite of the empire.  

It is a large place, with windows and doors supported by terraces. From the Sun Gate you can see the entire Inca City of Machu Picchu from the middle of the mountains. 

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 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.

What ticket do I need for the Sun Gate?

For the Inca Trail hikers, the Sun Gate is a guaranteed stop before reaching Machu Picchu.

For those who want to do the hike up to Sun Gate from Machu Picchu Inca city, Then you will now need to buy a Circuit 1C ticket to enter Machu Picchu and hike up to the Sun Gate. Along the way you can enjoy the Guard House view points for the best pictures of Machu Picchu.

*** The Circuit 1C is valid ONLY for the View Point and hiking to the Sun Gate — For exploring the Inca city, you need to add another entrance tickets like the circuit 2.

Sun Gate at Machu Picchu Details

• Age Restrictions: There is no age limit.
• Height: 2,720m / 8,924ft.
• Altitude Gain: 290m (951ft).
• Location: The Sun Gate is located in the upper southeast part of Machu Picchu
• Trail Description: The Sun gate follows a trail that is more gradual at no more than 35 degrees in angle. As you get close to Sun Gate, the path turns steeper and a little more difficult (the last 15 minutes) The hike down from the Sun Gate is easy an only takes a maximum of 45 minutes.
• Archaeological Attractions: Terraces and the unparalleled Sun Gate,
• Advantages: You experience part of the original Inca trail.
• Disadvantages: there is not.
• Walking Time: It depends on the hike you choose, which can be the 1 day, 2 days or 4 days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
• Difficulty: Moderate

Visit the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu

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 on the way to Machu Picchu.

The Sun Gate’s accessibility, good pathways, and no extra entry requirement all add to its appeal. Get there at a quiet time, and it’s not hard to imagine yourself as an Inca guard protecting the site.

Inspired to see the Sun Gate? We’re happy to help fulfil your Inca Trail or Machu Picchu dream, so contact us to make your unforgettable memories!