Peru – Hike to the Sun Gate
Originally the main entrance to Machu Picchu, the Sun Gate lies on the original Inca Trail. Those who hike the Inca Trail will enter Machu Picchu from this location. For everyone else, this hike is an alternative way to connect with the Inca trail and enjoy Machu Picchu. The morning we visited Machu Picchu, it was on and off drizzling. We worried it would be unsafe for us to climb Huayna Picchu in the rain and tired after our 4 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. The hike to the Sun Gate was the perfect choice for our morning.
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Finding the Trail Head
After your tour and snack/bathroom break is a great time to do the hike to the Sun Gate. Huayna Picchu requires an additional permit and scheduled start times, whereas the hike to the Sun Gate is open at all times. Near the main entrance, where the buses drop off, climb up to the right. Shortly after you begin climbing the stairs, you will see signs to the Sun Gate. It will be a bit of a climb to get to the trailhead, but it is not very far from the main entrance. In no time at all you will be on the stone path leading up the mountain.
We took the trek after seeing “sunrise” at Machu Picchu. Check this post about seeing Machu Picchu at sunrise. I personally do not think it is necessary to hike up to the Sun Gate at sunrise, because it is so stunning to see it from Machu Picchu.
At a Glance:
- Rating: 3 (out of 4) stars, would do it again
- Cost: Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Timing: Hike takes 2 – 3 hours
- Restrooms: There is a restroom before you enter Macchu Picchu. You can only enter twice with your ticket, so go before you leave the hotel and before you enter the site.
Highlights:
- Alternative view of Machu Picchu.
- Walk on the Inca Trail into Machu Picchu.
- Good way to wait for the clouds to shift, if it is a cloudy day.
Lowlights:
- Will get crazy busy as the day progresses.
Hike to the Sun Gate
The trail itself is pretty gentle compared to our previous trekking. It is primarily long stone steps with exposed dirt path every now and then. It might be a good challenge for those who did not choose a trek. Along the trail are beautiful flowers (possibly orchids?) and a view of Machu Picchu. It was a fun game to try to look back and catch a glimpse of Machu Picchu through the clouds.
It is a gentle but consistent climb the entire time. About halfway, there are stone ruins built into the mountain. Stop for a picture and some water, but don’t get dissuaded from making it all the way to the top.
View from the Gate
After a steep section, you have made it to the Sun Gate. There is an impressive stone structure and a few terraces at the gate. I recommend finding a small section to sit and watch the clouds move around Machu Picchu. From this distance, it is quite small, but you can see the entire site when the clouds open up.
We decided to hike just a few hundred fee on the Inca Trail. Once you walk through the Sun Gate, you will be on the back side of the mountain in the lush plants and views of the surrounding mountains. It was just enough of a peek that I know I will be back to hike the Inca trail – whether that be in 5 or 25 years from now.
Shop the Look
Overall Thoughts
Especially because of the rain, I am so glad we embarked on the hike to the Sun Gate. Down at Machu Picchu it was simply getting more and more crowded, so instead of sitting in the rain somewhere and people-watching (something I definitely enjoy), we made use of our time and connected with the Inca Trail. It was probably also good for our legs to do a gentle hike before our long journey back to Cusco.
Other options include Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu (special permit required), and the Inca Bridge. With the rain and our tired legs, I am glad we did the Sun Gate. You can read a short overview of all four hikes on this site.
Have you done any of the hikes from Machu Picchu? If so, let us know in the comments if you loved it or if you thought it was overrated.
Happy Travels,
Hanna
