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Inti Punku Hike to the Incredible Sun Gate in Ollantaytambo

Inti Punku, the incredible Inca Sun Gate, towers above the charming village of Ollantaytambo in Peru’s Sacred Valley. The best way to reach Inti Punku is via a scenic hike that passes by lovely viewpoints of snowcapped mountains, the old Inca Stone Quarries, and a few sacred ruins. The ultimate reward is Inti Punku, the stunning Sun Gate perched perfectly on top of the mountain. Be in awe of this buzzing sacred site with mighty snow capped mountains looming in the distance. Mount (Apu) Veronica, the tallest visible mountain, makes a truly epic backdrop at almost 19,300 feet.

The worthwhile Inti Punku hike can be either a full day adventure from Ollantaytambo, or intrepid hikers may wish to camp near the base of the Inti Punku Sun Gate. The climb up to Inti Punku will put you on top of a mountain at close to 12,750 ft. Find out how to reach the trailhead, things to see along the way, and other useful tips on how to independently hike to Inti Punku, Ollantaytambo’s Sun Gate.

Here are all the details on how to hike to Inti Punku, the incredible Sun Gate from Ollantaytambo.

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Disclosure: This is part of my Hikes & Adventures series, which means these treks can be strenuous and challenging. These are my experiences and I am not an expert. Please have all the proper equipment, verify the weather conditions, use professional resources, do your own research, be mindful of constantly changing trail conditions, and take into consideration your own physical abilities and/or limitations. These guides are for entertainment purposes only. Please see my full disclosure for more information here.

Map & Overview of Inti Punku Hike

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Click here to view and download the Inti Punku Sun Gate hike map
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⁉️ If downloading the map, please verify that the map is correct and follows the waypoints. Oftentimes, there are daily updates to the site, map platforms, and other external issues that may cause a bug in downloading. Be mindful that this map is solely for entertainment purposes. Always hike responsibly and respect the mountains by following a no-trace philosophy, avoid hiking alone, be conscious of the weather and personal limitations, and do not stray from the visible trail.

Overview of the Inti Punku Hike

To reach the trailhead, leave Ollantaytambo’s Plaza de Armas and head towards the iconic Inca Bridge. This orange and green bridge is found on the outskirts of town along the rushing Rio Vilcanota (Urubamba River). The uphill hike ends at the Sun Gate and is an out and back trail.

Mileage distances are rounded to the nearest quarter of a mile.

  • Out & Back Trail
  • Total Mileage: 10.5 Miles
    • One-Way: 5.25 Miles
  • Difficulty: Moderately Challenging to Hard
    • Due to a tough, but steady ascent
  • Duration: 7 – 9 hours, depending on fitness level, weight of bag, etc.
    • Includes 1 hour to explore the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) & a few breaks along the way
  • Trail Markers: There are no “official” trail markers, but there are some scattered sign posts along the way. The trail is fairly visible and well trekked.
  • The following route to Inti Punku Sun Gate can be hiked any time of the year. 
    • During the rainy season, be prepared for muddy paths and be mindful of rock slides.
    • In the dry season, water can be scarce. Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially for those camping at the top.
    • Hint: The last point for water is marked on the above map (carry a water filter)
  • Day Trip Pack Essentials:
    • Plenty of water & a reliable water filter or tablets
    • Snacks and Food
      • Enjoy a picnic at the Inti Punku Sun Gate or at one of the scenic viewpoints along the way.
    • A well-stocked First-Aid Kit
    • Layered clothing
    • Swiss Army Knife
    • Hiking shoes with good ankle support
    • Sunscreen & Insect Repellent (the bugs can be real annoying)
    • Hiking Poles if you love them

➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing

Many companies are starting to run organized tours to the Inti Punku Ollantaytambo Sun Gate, especially on horseback. However, the Inti Punku hike is spectacular and such a rewarding hike, I suggest going on your own two feet.

Ollantaytambo | Starting Point of Inti Punku Hike

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Streets of Ollantaytambo | Pumamarca Archaeological Site | Main Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park

The adorable village of Ollantaytambo, or sometimes simply called Ollanta for short, is found in the incredible Sacred Valley in Peru. The village is famously known as a transit hub for tourists bustling to and from Machu Picchu via train and bus. It is also the popular starting point to the popular Classic Inca Trail.

However, this charming hamlet is oftentimes overlooked and offers up some special Inca Archaeological Parks and other sites that should not be missed. The cute cobblestone streets are a delight to wander, there are free Inca sites in the village and nearby. Also, find a bustling market and lots of unique eateries in town. There’s even a distillery.The most popular and heavily trafficked site in town is the main hillside Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park, which is included on the worthwhile Cusco Tourist Ticket.

➯ Peru Travel Resources | 32 Unique & Famous Landmarks in Peru You Have to Visit

It’s possible to explore all the sites on the Cusco Tourist Ticket without a guide. From this site, can you see the controversial face of Wiracocha, the Creator God of the Incas?

Another special place near Ollantaytambo is the Pre-Inca site of Pumamarca Archaeological Park. Pumamarca follows along a lovely trail that includes sweeping views of Inca terraces, tranquil nature, and trickling waterfalls. Pumamarca is said to resemble the sacred animal of the puma iteself.

➯ Detailed Ollantaytambo Travel Guide | The Ultimate Guide & Best Things to Do in Ollantaytambo Peru

How to Get to Ollantaytambo Peru

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The village of Ollantaytambo Peru is so picturesque

Ollantaytambo is easy to reach from the Imperial City of Cusco. Collectivos depart from Cusco here and buses from Cusco here. Almost all buses and collectivo, or mini buses, will stop in nearby Urubamba.

This is a full day hike, so it’s best to already be in the Sacred Valley to attempt Inti Punku Ollantaytambo as a day hike.

🚐 Ollantaytambo from Urubamba | Collectivos run frequently from the main terminal | Cost: 2 PEN (50¢) | Time: 30 minutes

Trailhead to Inti Punku Ollantaytambo Sun Gate

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Cross the Inca Bridge and view the handmade Inti Punku Sun Gate Hike Map

First, exit the adorable Plaza de Armas of Ollantaytambo and head out of town towards the rushing Rio Vilcanota. Look for a blue sign that leads you to the trailhead. It should read Trekking to Cachiccata Quarries with white lettering and an arrow. This is the route that follows the Old Inca Quarry Trail.

☛Travel Tip | The river changes names multiples times as it flows through the Sacred Valley. It is also referred to as the Urubamba River.

There is another Inti Punku hike trailhead that begins down the road from the village of Cachiccata. The route is faster, steeper, and not nearly as scenic, although it does pass by some interesting colcas.

💬 Real Talk | There is little to no shade coverage here or along most of the trail no matter which Inti Punku hike route you choose

For logistics, this Inti Punku hike follows the Old Inca Quarry Trail as an out and back trail.

Cross the orange and green iconic Inca Bridge of Ollantaytambo and take a right turn. Look for a make-shift wooden sign with an outline of the trail. Begin on the trailhead to Inti Punku Sun Gate.

🥾 Ollantaytambo Plaza de Armas to Inti Punku Hike Trailhead | .75 miles

Ollantaytambo Inca Bridge to Llactallactayoc

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Mirador Descanso | Old Inca Quarries can be seen on the hike up to Inti Punku Sun Gate

Now that you’ve reached the trailhead, lets begin this awesome hike. The first section of the trail begins as a gradual ascent up to Llactallactayoc, a large rock and great visual marking point. This rock means “city within a city” in Quechua and is an excellent place to take a break.

This trail is actually an ancient path used by the Incas to transport large stones from the quarry to Ollantaytambo. The first point of interest is Mirador Descanso. Find a simple covered bench with lovely vistas of the surrounding mountains and not so far off views of Ollantay. After that, continue to climb uphill. Soon after, you’ll hear some running water passing through an Inca water canal.

💬 Real Talk | Hikers should note that this is the last chance for water. Refer to the map above and use a filter

Continue on the path and to the left notice the terraces and remnants of the Stone Quarries of the Incas. There will be a wooden sign that reads “Canteras 500 M / Campamento 300 M.” To reach Inti Punku, veer towards the left. The trail is fairly straight forward. Keep on the trail and savor those sweeping views of Mount Veronica.

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Incredible views of Apu Veronica | the largest rock is Llactallactayoc

Soon, the trail will reach a flat space with many rocks scattered about. Follow the beautiful trail outlined with strategically positioned rocks.  In the near distance, look for the largest rock. This is Llactallactayoc. Anywhere in this area makes for an excellent option to break, have some snacks, and recharge. There are plenty of places to stretch out and enjoy the incredible views.

🥾 Ollantaytambo Inca Bridge to Llactallactayoc | 4 miles

Llactallactayoc to Inti Punku Sun Gate

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Inca ruins on the way to Inti Punku | Follow the last section of the path to the Inti Punku Sun Gate

After a much needed break, continue to the Sun Gate. To keep on the path, pass to the left of the large rock of Llactallactayoc. Eventually, take a slight left uphill to come upon two separate Inca ruins. In the distance, it should be possible to see the faint outline of the Sun Gate towering on the mountain side. With the prize in sight, continue up along the last steep section of the trail. Inti Punku is a magical Sun Gate and the views are magnificent. It’s possible to reach the Sun Gate within 3 – 5 hours, depending on fitness level, weight of pack, and amount of breaks.

🥾 Llactallactayoc to Inti Punku Sun Gate | 1.25 miles

The Breathtaking Views from Inti Punku Ollantaytambo

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The many stunning angles of Inti Punku Sun Gate Ollantaytambo

Savor the views, feel the energy and enjoy the magnificent Ollantaytambo Sun Gate. This sacred Inca site is FREE and the lovely hiking path sees little foot traffic.

This site is oftentimes confused with the Inti Punku Machu Picchu. These are two totally different sites. The Inti Punku Machu Picchu is the main entrance way to the “lost city” via the Classic Inca Trail. The Inti Punku Ollantaytambo is a completely different site that is free to explore and appreciate.

Camping at Inti Punku Ollantaytambo

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Sunrise views from Inti Punku Ollantaytambo, above the clouds with Mount Veronica in the backdrop.

Adventure hikers may wish to camp overnight at Inti Punku Ollantaytambo, just a couple hundred feet below the Sun Gate. The flat area below is shielded from a majority of the wind and is flat enough to pitch a tent or two.

At night, appreciate the bright stars from a magical spot. In the morning, expect to wake up above the clouds with amazing views of glacial peaked mountains in the distance.

☛ Travel Tip | There is NO water supply at the top of the mountain. Make sure to carry a sufficient amount of water for all your camping necessities.

Return to Ollantaytambo

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Appreciate the views of the Quellorakay ruins on the way down the Inca Quarry Trail from the Inti Punku Sun Gate

Whether camping over night, or just enjoying Inti Punku as a day trip, follow the same path back down to Ollantaytambo. The path is not nearly as challenging on the way down. Plan on the downhill to take 2 – 3 hours. Again, take into consideration fitness level and weight of pack.

☛ Travel Tip | On the descent, almost at the end of the trail, keep your eyes peeled for epic views of Quellorakay, another FREE Archaeological Site in Ollantaytambo

Alternative Inti Punku Hike Add-On

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Cross the jagged mountains via a mule path to access a few more Sacred Valley treks

If you want to turn the Inti Punku hike into a 2 day trek, there are a few routes to choose from! At the Sun Gate, you will notice jagged rocks off in the distance. It’s possible to hike up through this stony mountain via a small, but passable mule trail. On the other side of the mountain are a few different options for intrepid and confident hikers. The Andes mountains are powerful and weather can change instantly, so it’s important to always be prepared.

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Perolniyoc Waterfall with Raqaypata ruins at the top

The path will split eventually. To the left, the path leads to the village of Rayon, which is close to the Raqaypata ruins that sit on top of the Perolniyoc Waterfall. Follow the path into the village of Soqma where you can follow the railroad track to the peculiar site of Ñaupa Iglesia and into the village of Pachar with the popular microbrewery of Cerveceria del Valle.

🥾 Inti Punku Ollantaytambo Sun Gate – Soqma village | 9.5 miles

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Alternatively, it’s possible to reach Laguna Ancascocha, which is a truly off-the-beaten-path hike in Peru and a rewarding experience. It’s at least a full day hike to this beautiful lake from Inti Punku Ollantaytambo. Don’t forget there are no tiendas or villages to purchase items from along the way. You will have to carry at least 4 days of food and be confident to hike without running into any people.

🥾 Inti Punku Ollantaytambo Sun Gate – Laguna Ancascocha | 10 miles

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Mount Veronica in the backdrop somewhere in the middle of the Andes Mountains… en-route to Laguna Ancascocha

💬 Real Talk | I have completed all of the above treks, including to the top of the goat trail near the Inti Punku Sun Gate. However, I reached Laguna Ancascocha via the Perolniyoc hike, and have not completely done the above route, but know they are feasible options as I mapped them out. Proper gear, experience, and confidence hiking and following an offline map are essential.

Where to Sleep in Ollantaytambo

After the Inti Punku hike, you may just want to sleep in Ollantaytambo. It’s easy to stay here a few nights and appreciate this adorable little village in the Sacred Valley Peru. Ollantaytambo offers diverse accommodation from camping, hostels, guesthouses, and luxury hotels.

➜ Find the best Ollantaytambo Accommodation options

  • Budget | Casa Quechua Hostel & Camping is a great budget friendly option to sleep in town. At this guesthouse, find basic private or shared rooms and plenty of places to pitch a tent. A warm and lovely family runs this simple habitation. Those renting rooms can enjoy a complimentary breakfast. Casa Quechua is tucked away on a quiet street, yet close enough to the plaza. The garden space, hammocks, view, and welcoming hospitality will make it hard to say goodbye.
  • Budget | Casa Inka B&B is another budget friendly option in Ollantaytambo. They offer private rooms with private bathrooms. Find more than friendly hosts that offer up local advice and the breakfast is phenomenal.
  • Mid-range | El Albergue Ollantaytambo is located right next to the Ollantaytambo train station, so it’s a little out of town, but is fabulous. This eco-friendly property has a big organic garden and boasts its very own restaurant that harvests from the onsite garden. A truly unique lodging experience in Ollantaytambo.
  • Luxury | Hotel Samanapaq is a family run two star hotels that offers modern rooms that boast incredible views of the mountains from a well maintained and large garden.

Travel Deeper in the Sacred Valley Peru

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The main Archaeological Park of Ollantaytambo

There are so many incredible places to visit and things to do in the Sacred Valley Peru. Discover the massive Archaeological Parks featuring some impressive sites of the the Incas and the surrounding mountains only enhance their beauty. The Sacred Valley is the perfect mixture of significant sites of the Incas and stunning nature.

✈ Cusco Peru Travel Planning | One Week in Cusco Peru & the Incredible Sacred Valley | The Best Things to Do in Cusco Peru | 5 Unique Cusco Itineraries

Sacred Valley Highlights

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Moray Ruins | Chinchero | Pisac Archaeological Park

In Peru’s Sacred Valley, visit the four sprawling Archaeological Parks of Ollantaytambo, Moray, Chinchero, and Pisac. These Archaeological Parks are all part of the popular Cusco Boleto Turístico. Besides these 4 popular sites in the Sacred Valley, visit museums, Inca sites in Cusco, and even watch a theatrical performance.

✔ Travel Resources | Tour all 16 Sites of the Cusco Tourist Ticket without a Guide

Just down the road in Pachar, experience the “dimensional portal” of Ñaupa Iglesia. This peculiar site is rarely visited by tourists, and is free. From there, continue up to Perolniyoc Waterfall and visit the Raqaypata ruins at the top of the falls.

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Saywa Mountain is a super special Sacred Valley hike in Urubamba

In Urubamba Peru, another worthwhile stop in the Sacred Valley, hike the mystical mountain of Saywa where two pillars stand on top. From this awesome little village it’s possible to hike Laguna Juchuycocha, an incredible alpine lake with views of Chicon Mountain at over 15,200 ft. For an easy hike, visit the Maras Salt Mines.

Just down the road from Urubamba find Calca. Here, visit the peculiar ruins of Urqo, or the interesting circular and abandoned Collcas of Ankasmarca. From Calca, it’s possible to continue up to Lares Valley where you can hike or simply relax in the Lares Hot Springs.

Close to Calca in Lamay, find the Huchuy Qosqo trek, which means “Little Cusco.” This interesting sacred site that sits higher than Cusco and offers incredible views of the Sacred Valley. The three lakes of Kinsa Cocha in Pisac make for a fantastic and beautiful half day excursion.

The Sacred Valley in Peru is such an amazing and diverse place

Incredible Inti Punku Sun Gate Hike in Ollantaytambo

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Reflecting about the incredible hike to the Inti Punku Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo

In conclusion, the Inti Punku hike to the Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo is an epic adventure in Peru’s Sacred Valley. This little visited Sacred Valley hike offers stunning views of the mountains and is sprinkled with fascinating Inca history. Follow along the Old Inca Quarry trail with the ultimate reward of reaching the Inti Punku Sun Gate with spectacular views of the mighty Mount Veronica

This amazing hike tops my list for one of my favorite in the entire Sacred Valley.

Have you visited the Inti Punku Sun Gate in Ollantaytambo? Did you tackle the Inti Punku hike as a day trip or did you camp overnight? What did you think of this Old Inca Quarry Trail? Were you able to see the jaw dropping Mount Veronica? Did you love Inti Punku Ollantaytambo as much as I did? Let me know in the comments below!

Inti Punku SunGate pin
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Disclaimer: There’s a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. There’s no extra cost to you, and I only promote things that I use and love.

Hey, my name is Megs! I'm an adventure-seeking, wanna-be storyteller, with a wandering soul who is smitten with the diversity of this beautiful world. You can find me hiking in the mountains, eating delicious food, and seeking out the most authentic travel experiences possible. I own very little, and experiences and memories are my most prized possessions. I love to slow travel and have lived a nomadic lifestyle for over 15 years, traveling to over 80 countries. These days, I call Galicia Spain, home with my rescue pup.

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9 Comments

  1. My Father Lee Hollowell hiked up to Inti Punku when he was ~68yrs old.
    Then when he was 80 we both hiked up to the upper quarries. I also did a study of the alignments of the 3 canals from their convergence point near the Fortaleza. The Inti Punku is within 3 minutes of a degree to align with the equinox canal. It has been understood that the Inti Punku is a guard house, but it may also have been used for astronomical sitings

    Reply

    1. Wow Tom, that is so awesome! The Incas are so fascinating. What an incredible and challenging hike for you and your father to experience. Thanks for sharing your story and these interesting findings! 🗿💙

      Reply

  2. Actually you missed one of the attractions. Slightly above the Sun Gate there are the remains of the Inca canal that used to bring water there from many kilometers away.

    Reply

  3. This would qualify as the longest hike I’ve ever done, but it seems so worth it! The views along the way are stunning, and there is so much history here! Really cool, adding to the bucket list!!!

    Reply

  4. I enjoyed this post as it brought back some distant memories of a trip to the Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo many years ago. The hike to the Sun Gate looks amazing and camping out overnight would be a very special experience. Thanks so much for sharing!

    Reply

    1. Thanks Linda! Ollantaytambo is a such a charming village that has so many hidden gems around and the Sun Gate is my absolute favorite. So glad you had the chance to visit. ❤️

      Reply

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