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Inti Punku and Cachicata Trek 1-Day

5.0 Based on 510 Reviews
Trip Length: 1 Day
From
USD 95
per person
VIEW PRICES
1 Day
Duration
Hiking
Usually 8-12 participants
Min 2 Persons
Maximum group size
16 - 99 years
Age range for participants
English
Guide language
Moderate
Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness.

Hike to the Inti Punku Sun Gate

Inti Punku also known as the Sun Gate is an Inca structure located high in the mountains above Ollantaytambo town (2792 m / 9160 ft) in the Sacred Valley region.

This one-day tour starting from Cusco (3399 m / 11152 ft) follows the Cachicata Trail an area significant to Inca history. The route leads to the granite quarry which supplied materials for constructing Ollantaytambo.

The approximately three-hour uphill hike concludes at the Sun Gate. This site likely functioned as an observation point related to Inca cosmology focusing on mountains sun stars moon and earth. The location offers wide views of the snow-covered Mount Verónica peak (approx 5893 m / 19334 ft) and the Vilcanota Mountain range surrounding it. The precise historical use involves interpretation acknowledging some complexity in understanding past practices.


  • Inti Punku (Sun Gate): A stunning Inca stone gateway framing panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped Apu Verónica (5,893m / 19,334ft).
  • Cachicata Quarry: Walk among massive abandoned granite stones that were meant for Ollantaytambo’s construction.
  • Sacred Valley Vista: Unmatched 360° views of the Urubamba River, Inca terraces, and Andean peaks.
  • Ancient Astronomical Site: Inti Punku likely served as a ceremonial and solar observatory for the Incas.
  • Inca Engineering Marvel: Explore the pink granite quarries that supplied stone for Ollantaytambo’s temples.
  • Living History: See unfinished stone blocks left behind by Inca builders.
  • Scenic Hike: A moderate 3-hour ascent through waterfalls, terraces, and Andean flora/fauna.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less crowded than Machu Picchu hikes—authentic Andean wilderness.
  • High-Altitude Thrill: Reach 3,900m (12,795ft) at Inti Punku for a rewarding sense of achievement.
  • Sun Gate Framing Apu Verónica – A must-have shot!
  • Sacred Valley Panorama – Best views without the crowds.
  • Full-Day Trip from Cusco – No need for multi-day trekking.
  • All Essentials Included – Breakfast, lunch, transport, guide, and poles.
  • Early Return – Back in Cusco by 5:30 PM for dinner & relaxation.
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Brief 1-day Cachicata Trek Inti Punku:

  • 6:00 AM: Hotel pickup (Cusco).
  • 8:00 AM: Arrival in Ollantaytambo (breakfast included).
  • 9:00 AM: Start hike via Cachicata Trail (waterfalls, Inca terraces, wildlife).
  • 11:00 AM: Reach Cachicata Quarry (views of Ollantaytambo & Urubamba River).
  • 12:30 PM: Box lunch on the trail.
  • 1:30 PM: Ascent to Inti Punku (Inca astronomical site, views of Apu Verónica).
  • 3:00 PM: Descent to Ollantaytambo.
  • 5:30 PM: Return to Cusco.
Daily Schedule

Itinerary

DAY 1

CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CACHICATA – INTI PUNKU – CUSCO

Morning: Departure and Hike to Cachicata Quarry The Inti Punku and Cachicata Full Day Trek starts with a 6:00 AM pick up from your hotel in Cusco. Private transport drives for approximately two hours through the Sacred Valley of the Incas arriving at Ollantaytambo town. Breakfast is provided here before starting the hike. At 9:00 AM the guided hike begins on the Cachicata Trail. This section takes about two hours passing waterfalls old terraces and local wildlife to reach the Cachicata Quarry (3600 m / 11808 ft). This quarry was the main source of pink granite used by Pre-Inca and Inca peoples for building Ollantaytambo’s structures. The viewpoint here offers a high perspective over Ollantaytambo and the Urubamba River.

Midday: Quarry Exploration and Hike to Inti Punku After exploring the quarry and taking photos a box lunch is provided near the site with the Sacred Valley hills as a backdrop. Following lunch the ascent continues for one more hour up the trail reaching the Inti Punku Sun Gate (3900 m / 12795 ft). This stone structure served as a key location possibly for astronomical observation or ceremonies related to mountains and celestial bodies according to Inca beliefs. The gate frames a clear view towards Apu Verónica’s peak and the Vilcanota range.

Afternoon: Descent and Return to Cusco The return journey follows the same Cachicata Trail back down. Along the path numerous large worked stones are visible remnants that did not reach Ollantaytambo. The descent takes about two hours arriving back in Ollantaytambo town. Private transportation will then drive back to Cusco city. Estimated arrival time at your hotel is 5:30 PM.

What's Included

Inclusions

Included in the journey

  • Hotel pick up Cusco: Collection from designated hotels within Cusco’s central area coordination needed for locations outside this zone.
  • Professional English/Spanish guide: A certified guide with knowledge of the route Inca history and local environment leads the group.
  • Private transport Ollantaytambo round trip: Vehicle transportation exclusively for your group between Cusco and the trailhead near Ollantaytambo.
  • Food 1 Breakfast 1 Lunch: A basic local-style breakfast in Ollantaytambo and a portable box lunch provided midday. Advise dietary restrictions well in advance for possible accommodation.
  • Entrance Inti Punku Sun Gate: Covers the required fee for accessing the trail and site.
  • Trekking poles 2 per person: Provided to aid balance and reduce joint impact on uneven and steep terrain.
  • First aid kit oxygen bottle: Carried by the guide for managing minor injuries or altitude-related symptoms standard procedure in these environments.

No Included on the Tour

  • Dinner snacks drinks: Any meals beverages or snacks beyond the included breakfast and lunch must be purchased separately.
  • Emergency horses: These are not standard If a horse is needed for assistance due to inability to hike arrangements and costs are the responsibility of the individual hiker.
  • Tips guide driver: Gratuities for the guide and driver are not included in the price customary amounts depend on service satisfaction and are discretionary.

Circuit 1: The Panoramic Circuit

This circuit focuses on the agricultural sector and upper areas, providing access to vantage points and mountain hikes.

  • Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route: Allows climbing Machu Picchu Mountain. The total maximum stay for the climb and a short visit to the Inca City afterward is  hours for the mountain and  hour for the city. Two time slots are available: 6:00-6:30 a.m. and 8:00-8:30 a.m.
  • Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route: A shorter route through the agricultural sector. Max stay:  hours  minutes.
  • Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate Route: Leads to the Sun Gate (Intipunku). The round trip takes about  hours, followed by a maximum -hour stay in the city.
  • Route 1-D: Puente Inka Route: Leads to the Inca Bridge. The round trip takes about  hour, followed by a maximum -hour stay in the city.

Circuit 2: The Classic Circuit

This circuit includes both the agricultural and urban sectors, covering key areas for a comprehensive view.

  • Route 2-A: Designed Route & Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route: Both are comprehensive routes that cover platforms near the Guardian’s House, the Quarry, the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, the Main Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, and the Sacred Rock. Visitors can choose to see the Hall of Mirrors or the Temple of the Condor near the end.
  • Max Stay:  hours  minutes for both 2-A and 2-B.

 

 

Circuit 3: The Royal Circuit

This circuit focuses on the lower urban sector and provides access to the Waynapicchu area and its associated hikes.

  • Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain Route: Allows climbing Waynapicchu Mountain. The total maximum stay for the climb is  hours, followed by a -hour stay in the city. Two time slots are available: 6:00-6:30 a.m. and 9:00-9:30 a.m.
  • Route 3-B: Designed Route: Includes the agricultural platforms, Water Sources, Temple of the Sun, and the Inka House. Visitors can see the Hall of Mirrors or the Temple of the Condor. Max stay:  hours  minutes.
  • Route 3-C: Grand Cave Route: Leads to the Grand Cave (Temple of the Moon) but does not allow ascent to the Waynapicchu summit. Max stay for the hike is  hours, followed by a -hour stay in the city.
  • Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu Route: Allows climbing Huchuypicchu Mountain (a smaller peak), but does not allow ascent to Waynapicchu or the Grand Cave. Max stay for the hike is  hour, followed by a  hour  minute stay in the city.

General Conditions

  • Mountain/Cave Routes (1-A, 1-D, 3-A, 3-C): Participation is voluntary, requiring good physical condition and visitors must be over 18 years old.
  • All routes have strict maximum stay times and require adherence to entry/exit schedules to ensure visitor safety and site preservation.

Price and schedule

A private departure with a single price per person. Everything listed below is included.

Included

  • Hotel pickup in Cusco
  • Private transport Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
  • Professional guide (English / Spanish)
  • Breakfast and box lunch
  • Inti Punku entrance
  • Trekking poles, first aid kit and oxygen

Private tour

Private service · price per person

Option and scheduleDeparturesPrice per personBook now
Inti Punku and Cachicata Trek Private service
Pick up
6:00 a.m. · Private transport
Cusco → Ollantaytambo
Final Tour
5:30 p.m. · Private transport
Ollantaytambo → Cusco
Minimum 2 travelers
Inti Punku entrance
Daily $95 USD per person Book now

Group and scheduleDeparturesPrice per personBook now
Prices in USD per person.Hotel pickup at 6:00 a.m. · back at your hotel around 5:30 p.m.

What Our Passengers Say About Machu Picchu Peru Travel

Akoito M

05/10/2026
Tripadvisor

Experience Peru

Amazing experience. I've already recommend to my family, cousins and friends. The staff are well informed and Tania is so nice. Great staff they never let me down. The tour guides are a amazing.

Fernando_Feco_H

14/09/2026
Tripadvisor

Perfect service

Perfect service, clear infos, prompt WhatsApp communication

Safari751715

17/09/2026
Tripadvisor

Recomiendo 100%

Todo excelentemente planeado, super recomiendo los servicios de Tania. Ella acompaña a los pasajeros en su dia a dia y responde rapido a cualquier demanda.

Yuliana Acuña

11/09/2026
Tripadvisor

The Best Way to Explore Perú 🇵🇪

I can’t recommend this agency highly enough! They made our vacation in Peru an unforgettable experience. From the very beginning, they stood out for their attentiveness, punctuality, excellent organization, and incredible coordination throughout the entire trip.I would especially like to mention our guide, Will, in Cusco. His professionalism, knowledge, and passion for history made every visit even more fascinating. We were amazed by all the interesting facts he shared about Inca culture, traditions, and the different archaeological sites. Having a guide like him made our experience much more enriching and allowed us to appreciate each place in a completely different way.I would also like to give a special thank you to Tania, Celestino, Jesus, Yusof, and Don Neri in Lima for their kindness, attention, and for making us feel so well taken care of throughout our trip.We traveled from Costa Rica, and we are taking home wonderful memories of Peru. Thank you to the entire team for making sure everything was so well organized and for treating us with such warmth and care.Without a doubt, an excellent agency for exploring Peru. We highly recommend them!Warm regards, Yuliana, from Costa Rica 🇨🇷❤️🇵🇪

LIU R

20/03/2026
Tripadvisor

Excellent experience

We had an outstanding experience with Taina at Machu Picchu. He was extremely professional, passionate and knowledgeable about Inca history, culture and the site itself. she adjusted the pace perfectly for our group, answered all our questions patiently, and made the whole tour fascinating and memorable. We couldn’t ask for a better guide and highly recommend him to everyone traveling to Machu Picchu.

Laura T

04/04/2026
Tripadvisor

Experience

Excellent service, I loved the experience thanks to the Agency that made everything possible

lafouk

10/04/2026
Tripadvisor

Exceptional organization and clarity – great value!

Wow, what great service! I’ve been on many tours and few have had the clarity and communication skills that Tania and her team had. From the moment I reached out in interest to the end of the Machu Picchu excursion, Tania was exceptionally clear and helpful, making every step very easy to follow. Planning Machu Picchu on your own is *technically* possible, but it takes a tremendous amount of work to plan with a lot of unknown variables. Booking a tour with Machu Picchu Peru Travel makes it easy for not much more cost, and eases the anxiety of all the unknowns with the complex journey. It is truly a great value for travelers.Now if only I could have Tania organize the rest of life…! :)

Dario M

13/04/2026
Tripadvisor

In love with Peru and its culture

These days in Lima and Cusco were above and beyond excellence, it was amazing! What I found most interesting was its people! Peruvians are extremely helpful, charming and kind and of course hard workers! I felt save walking around even late at night. It was simply magical Regarding tours and attention they were very puntual, organized and everything was on time! I send a huge shout out to the agency and every single guide that help us through our journey!

Nirvana H

16/04/2026
Tripadvisor

Highly Recommend! 100% Worth It

Machu Picchu Peru Travel – Super Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu 2D/1N TourI highly recommend booking with Machu Picchu Peru Travel for any of their tours. We did the Super Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu 2D/1N, and it was an incredible experience from start to finish.From the very beginning, their level of communication was top tier. Tania was fantastic, clear, quick, and informative even before we booked. She was patient, guided us through the process, and ensured we got the exact circuit we wanted 2B, making everything completely stress-free and well organised. When we arrived in Cusco, she personally met us at our hotel for a detailed briefing, which showed how much she genuinely cared about our experience and ensuring everything went smoothly.Pickup was always on time, and every effort was made to keep the tour running seamlessly. The Sacred Valley tour itself was very enjoyable, with a fluent English-speaking guide who made everything easy to understand and engaging. Later that evening, we boarded the train to Aguas Calientes, where we were met and guided to our hotel.That evening, our guide Ruth visited us for a briefing, she was humble, warm, and very professional. The next day, she accompanied us from the hotel to the bus and then up to Machu Picchu. Being a private tour made the experience feel very personal and insightful. Ruth shared a wealth of knowledge, took her time explaining everything, and even helped us capture some amazing photos.Overall, this tour was 100% worth it-excellent organisation, outstanding guides, and a truly stress-free way to experience Machu Picchu.

Nirvan S

16/04/2026
Tripadvisor

Absolutely Outstanding Experience – Highly Recommended!

We recently completed the 2-Day Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco with Machu Picchu Peru Travel, and it was one of the best-organized and most enjoyable tours we have ever experienced in Peru. From the very first contact to the final goodbye at our hotel, everything was handled with professionalism, warmth, and genuine care for our experience. Communication was exceptional right from the start. The team was incredibly responsive on WhatsApp, answering all our questions promptly and patiently, even when we had last-minute requests and changes. Their quick replies gave us complete peace of mind as we planned our trip to Peru. The day before our tour, we received a detailed briefing (via WhatsApp and in person) that clearly explained the entire itinerary, what to expect, what to bring, and all the important timings. It was thorough and reassuring, which helped us feel fully prepared and relaxed. What impressed us most was how flexible and accommodating the team was. We had booked different panoramic train rides and specific circuits for Machu Picchu, and they seamlessly adjusted everything to match our preferences without any hassle. Their ability to handle these details smoothly showed just how experienced and client-focused they are. Our English-speaking tour guides were simply fantastic! They were not only extremely knowledgeable about the history, culture, and significance of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, but they were also genuinely friendly, patient, and enthusiastic. They went above and beyond by acting as personal photographers for our group—taking beautiful photos from all the best angles and even suggesting creative shots we would never have thought of. Thanks to them, we now have stunning memories captured perfectly. The entire tour ran like clockwork. The transportation was comfortable and safe, the pacing was ideal (never rushed, but never boring), and the contingency plans they had in place for weather, altitude, or any unexpected situations made us feel truly well taken care of. Everything was thought through so we could simply relax and enjoy the magic of the Sacred Valley and the wonder of Machu Picchu. If you’re planning a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu, I cannot recommend Machu Picchu Peru Travel highly enough. Their attention to detail, excellent communication, flexible approach, and warm, professional guides made our 2-day Sacred Valley tour an unforgettable highlight of our Peru adventure. Thank you to the entire team—you made our dream trip even more special! We will definitely be booking with you again on our next visit to Peru. Highly recommended – 10/10!

Eduardo R

02/05/2026
Tripadvisor

Excelencia en servicio y experiencia

Excelente experiencia de viaje, las personas de la agencia brindan un servicio impecable, sin duda muy recomendable 10/10

Saga A

06/05/2026
Tripadvisor

Amazing experience, Tania made it better

Tania was an amazing person to book this with! She was always attentive, I even called her at 2am because our shuttle hadn’t arrived and she pick up the phone, and shortly after the shuttle was there. I really enjoyed my experience in Machu Pichu and Tania made it better!

NILTON JESUS B

13/05/2026
Tripadvisor

Gracias Mil

¡Experiencia increíble con Machu Picchu Peru Travel! Organizaron nuestro viaje de 7 días por Perú de manera impecable: todo perfectamente coordinado, desde los traslados hasta los tours. Gracias a su apoyo y dedicación, pudimos disfrutar al máximo cada destino sin preocuparnos por nada. 100% recomendados para quienes quieran descubrir Perú sin problemas

Gloria V

21/05/2026
Tripadvisor

Highly recommend

We had the best experience, perfect organisation and communication throughout the whole trip. Willie was the best guide! Highly recommend!

Silviya S

21/05/2026
Tripadvisor

Highly recommend!

Outstanding experience with our Guide Willy! Everything was so organized, easy to understand and navigate. Highly recommend for private tours of two, which we did! It makes exploring Peru so much easier and enjoyable!

Marcela Blajackis

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Marcela Blajackis

100% recomendado! Tania cuida muy bien de cada detalle y el guia de Machu Picchu Leo es excelente!

Oscar Meza Guedez

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Oscar Meza Guedez

We could’ve have done this trip without all the coordination and support. If you need your tour done right. Reach out and book with them.

rafael tavares

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rafael tavares

Boa agência, a Tania é bem atenciosa, simpática e responde rápido, recomendo!

Amar Dhanraj

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Amar Dhanraj

Today, we went to Machu Piccu with Machu Picchu Peru Travel. This trip will forever be memorialized in my memory. Tania, Willie, and Constantino made this possible. Tania was always there to set up the arrangements, no matter how late I messaged. Constantino, was the expert driver that got us to the train and made sure we were all set before he left. Willie, oh boy, where do I start? There is no words that can capture how awesome he is. We have traveled to many countries and took quite a number of tours, but there is no one like Willie in my book. He’s an absolute treasure!

Lucas

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Lucas

A melhor agencia e atendimento que tive na minha viagem para o Peru! Tania deu excelentes dicas e ajudou a montar um roteiro perfeito para os dias que estive em Cusco!! Todos os passeios foram conforme as expectativas, ótimos! Recomendo demais. Obrigado

Gerardo Barroso

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Gerardo Barroso

Amazing experience, excellent guides and great organization. Fully recommended!

Roswell Parker

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Roswell Parker

We had a wonderful experencies and all time in Perú. Absolutely recommend this tour to everyone! Visit MachuPicchu - Peru

Feco Hamburger

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Feco Hamburger

Perfect service, clear infos, prompt WhatsApp communication

Saga Apostol Guedez

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Saga Apostol Guedez

This experience was nothing short of extraordinary and Tania made it better! She was very attentive and would call or text to see how we were doing. At one point I called her at 2am because our shuttle wasn’t there, and shortly after the shuttle was there. Tania was amazing!

祝美美

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祝美美

Super great, a perfect trip, the tour guide was very professional

Fidel Garcia

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Fidel Garcia

Our recent adventure with Machu Picchu Peru Travel was nothing short of incredible! From the very beginning, our contact, Tania, was excellent at communicating with us. Her prompt and clear responses made planning our trip a breeze.

Positives:

- Well-Organized and Informative Tours: Every tour we participated in was meticulously planned and provided insightful information about the history and culture of Machu Picchu and the surrounding areas.
- Amazing Scenery and Mountains: The breathtaking views of the Andes mountains and the stunning landscapes left us in awe at every turn.
- Excellent Communications: Tania's exceptional communication skills ensured that we were always in the loop and never faced any confusion or delays.
- Good Logistics: The logistics of our trip were flawlessly handled, from hotel bookings to meal arrangements, everything was smooth and efficient.
- Good Tour Guides: Our tour guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing their love for Peru with us.
- All-Inclusive Tours and Sightseeing: We appreciated the all-inclusive nature of the tours, which allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience without worrying about additional costs.
- Comfortable Transportation: The transportation provided was very comfortable, making our journeys between destinations relaxing and enjoyable.

A highlight of our trip was visiting Machu Picchu on New Year’s Eve. The experience was truly magical as we welcomed the new year surrounded by the awe-inspiring ruins and majestic mountains.

Overall, our experience with Machu Picchu Peru Travel was fantastic. We highly recommend their services to anyone looking to explore the beauty and wonder of Peru. Thank you, Tania, for making our trip unforgettable!

María Sánchez

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María Sánchez

Contratamos con Tania para hacer varias excursiones. En general, todo bien organizado y Tania muy muy atenta de cada detalle. Las únicas excursiones que fueron algo más flojas fueron el valle sagrado (explicaciones muy breves y paradas súper rápida, alguna muy turística a un par de tiendas de textiles y sal/ chocolate) y el city tour ya que eche en falta algo de explicación de la historia de la ciudad y un paseo.En general creo que el guía hace mucho y no tuvimos suerte en esa ocasión. También hicimos Machu Picchu y Montaña de 7 colores.

Sharan R

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Sharan R

Our trip with Machu Picchu Peru Travel was amazing! We highly recommend Tania for organizing the Machu Picchu Tours. She responds immediately for each and every questions or queries that we had, and Tania made sure that our trip was pleasant and smooth. Our driver, Celestino, and our guide, Willy, in Cuzco and Machu Piccchu was very helpful. If you ever need tours for Machu Picchu, we would highly recommend Tania. Thank you, Tania, for making our trip highly memorable and pleasant!

Cecilia Nole

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Cecilia Nole

Muy buena experiencia, estuvieron pendientes de todo, ya sea en el alojamiento y en los tours programados.
Los guías muy amables y el servicio A1... Recomendado al %100 por ciento, excelente servicio :)
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