Tour Description
Puerta del Sol Ollantaytambo: Day Trekking
Day hike to the emblematic Inti Punku, surrounded by nature.
Tour Description
11 key pointsReview the tour format, effort level and the key details that help you decide faster.
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Tipo / Modalidad Full Day ? Adventure and Nature
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Duración Approximately 8 hours
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Nivel de dificultad Moderate ? Adventure with Class III rapids
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Altitud máxima 3,300 m a.s.l.
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Intipunku: The Gateway of the Sun in the Sacred Valley
Duration: Full day (1 day) Start / End: Cusco – Main Square Maximum altitude: 3,900 m.a.s.l. Difficulty level: Moderate Guide language: Bilingual (Spanish / English)
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Description
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A historical journey to the ancient Inca control point
The hike to Intipunku, called "the Gateway of the Sun", represents an experience that integrates the historical legacy of the Inca Empire with the natural environment of the Andes. This archaeological site, located at 3,900 meters above sea level in the heights of the Sacred Valley, functioned as a strategic control point during the Inca period, fulfilling ceremonial and surveillance functions on the access routes to the empire.
The full-day tour is aimed at travelers interested in exploring less traveled routes that maintain their historical authenticity. During the hike from the community of Ollantaytambo, you travel along original paths built by the Incas, crossing mountainous landscapes with wild flora characteristic of the Andean region. The experience culminates at the Intipunku viewpoint, where panoramic perspectives of the Veronica snow-capped mountain and the extension of the Sacred Valley are obtained. -
Highlighted sites of the tour
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Points of interest during the hike
Community of Ollantaytambo: Starting point of the hike, it preserves Inca urban structures that demonstrate the architectural planning of the empire. Original Inca road: Segment of the ancestral Qhapaq Ñan road system, used by the Incas for communication and transportation between different sectors of Tahuantinsuyo. Intipunku viewpoint: Privileged location that offers panoramic views of the Veronica snow-capped mountain (5,682 m.a.s.l.) and the geographical configuration of the Sacred Valley. Intipunku archaeological site: Complex at the summit comprising structures with astronomical orientation and ceremonial functions, evidencing Inca knowledge about solstices and equinoxes.
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Why choose this experience?
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Differentiating aspects of the tour
Documented historical value: Access to a site that was part of the Inca territorial control system, with structures that maintain their original configuration. Alternative route: Itinerary outside the mass circuits, allowing a more peaceful and contemplative experience in direct contact with the environment. Accessible physical conditions: Moderate difficulty hike that is viable for people with standard physical condition, without requiring previous mountaineering experience. Specialized guidance: Accompaniment by trained guides with knowledge in Andean history, archaeology and high-altitude ecosystems, who provide academic context to the tour. Comprehensive experience: Balanced combination of cultural, landscape and adventure elements that satisfies multiple travel interests.
Detailed Itinerary
9 stopsThis is how the experience unfolds throughout the day, with each stop and the most important moments on the route.
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1Pick-up at your hotel and transfer by tourist transportation to the community of Cachiccata, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
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Breakfast in Ollantaytambo
Before starting the hike, we enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast to recharge energy and prepare for the adventure. -
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Transfer to Cachiccata
Short trip of approximately 20 minutes by vehicle to the starting point of the hike in the community of Cachiccata. -
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Start of the hike and archaeological visit
We begin a 3-hour hike visiting the Inca quarry of Cachiccata, the funeral Chullpas and the archaeological site of Choquetacarpo. -
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Arrival at Intipunku (Gateway of the Sun)
We arrive at the impressive natural viewpoint of Intipunku, where we will enjoy spectacular views of the Veronica snow-capped mountain and the Sacred Valley. Free time to explore and take photographs. -
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Return walking to Cachiccata
We begin the descent walking back to the community of Cachiccata after exploring the viewpoint. -
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Transfer to Ollantaytambo
From Cachiccata, we board the tourist transportation that will take us to the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo. -
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Lunch in Ollantaytambo
We enjoy a comforting traditional lunch at one of the local restaurants in Ollantaytambo. -
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Return to Cusco
After lunch, we begin the return to the city of Cusco by private transportation, ending our tour.
What's Included / Not Included
5 included / 3 not includedHere is a clear breakdown of what is covered in the experience and what should be planned separately.
✅ Included
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Tourist Transportation
Comfortable and safe transportation service to take you to the adventure starting point and pick you up at the end of the experience.
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Professional Guide
Accompaniment by certified guides, with extensive experience and knowledge in local history, Inca culture and nature of the area.
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First Aid Kit
Complete first aid kit available to attend to any medical eventuality during the tour, ensuring your safety.
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Oxygen
Oxygen cylinder available in case of altitude sickness or breathing difficulties during the activity.
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Trekking Poles
Professional trekking poles that provide greater stability and comfort, especially on sections with steep ascents or descents.
❌ Not Included
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Tips
Voluntary and not included in the tour price.
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Extra Drinks and Snacks
Not part of the service.
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Personal Expenses
Any additional purchases or expenses during the tour are the passenger's responsibility.
What to Bring on the Tour
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Dietary restrictions (veg/vegan)
If you follow a special diet, please let us know. This way we can ensure suitable options are available for you during the tour.
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Warm clothing
Temperatures vary greatly at altitude. Bring several layers to adapt to daytime and nighttime conditions.
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Sunglasses
UV radiation is stronger at altitude. Good sunglasses protect your eyes and make the trip more comfortable.
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Sunscreen
Mountain sun is strong, even on cloudy days. Wearing sunscreen prevents burns and protects your skin throughout the tour.
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Wool hat
Cold can be intense, especially mornings and evenings. A wool hat helps retain body heat.
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Wool gloves
Hands get cold quickly at altitude. Wool gloves provide the warmth needed for a comfortable trip.
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Appropriate footwear
Terrain can be uneven and rocky. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction to avoid slips and improve stability.
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Snack
Physical effort at altitude requires extra energy. Carrying a snack helps you stay active and avoid fatigue during the tour.
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Water
Staying hydrated is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Bring a reusable bottle to refill along the way.
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Personal documents
Some entrances require ID. Carry your ID or passport for access and for registration in case of emergency.
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Small backpack
A compact backpack lets you carry essentials comfortably. Ideal for water, snacks and personal items without excess weight.
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Cash (Peruvian Soles)
Some places don’t accept cards. Carrying Soles makes it easier to buy souvenirs, snacks or additional services.
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Camera
Landscapes are spectacular and worth capturing. A camera lets you take amazing memories and share your experience.
Things you should know about this tour
Map of the Inti Punku Trek from Ollantaytambo

Booking Form
Fill in the details to book your experience
Comfortable Layered Clothing
Bring comfortable clothing appropriate for trekking that you can adjust during the day. Very early departure (05:30 am) with cold temperatures in the morning and intense sun during the day. Warm jacket or coat for the morning, light clothing for midday and optional thermal clothing.
Footwear
MANDATORY trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support. The tour includes approximately 3 hours ascent hike along original Inca roads, uneven terrain and stones. Closed, resistant and comfortable footwear that you have previously worn.
Sun Protection
SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses and hat/cap. Solar radiation is very intense in the Sacred Valley and at 3,900 m.a.s.l. Apply sunscreen every 2 hours during the hike.
Cash
Bring soles for additional snacks, voluntary tips for the guide and personal expenses. Breakfast and lunch are included.
Hydration
Reusable water bottle (minimum 2 liters). Staying well hydrated is essential during the ascent hike. Limited sales points on the route.
Small Backpack
To carry camera, documents, water, energy snacks, sunscreen, extra jacket and cash. Light backpack of 25-30 liters is sufficient.
Camera or Phone
ESSENTIAL to photograph the Veronica snow-capped mountain (5,682 m.a.s.l.), panoramic views of the Sacred Valley from Intipunku, archaeological complex with astronomical orientation, original Inca roads, Cachiccata quarry, funeral Chullpas and Andean landscapes. Bring extra battery or power bank.
Documents
Original ID or Passport for registration.
Early Departure
Prepare for a very early departure (05:30 am). It is advisable to sleep well the night before and organize your belongings from the previous day. Breakfast is included in Ollantaytambo.
Cultural Respect
You will visit local communities of Cachiccata and Ollantaytambo with living Andean traditions. Be respectful of people, their customs and archaeological sites. Follow the guide's instructions and do not touch or take elements from historical sites.
Learning Attitude
This is a historical and archaeological tour. Prepare your willingness to listen to the guide's explanations about Inca history, Qhapaq Ñan road system, ceremonial functions of Intipunku, astronomical orientation of the complex, Inca quarries and the empire's territorial control system.
Peaceful Pace
The hike is at a moderate pace with stops to rest and appreciate the landscape. Walk at your own pace and notify the guide if you need to rest. Acclimatization is very important at this altitude.
Energy Snacks
Bring dried fruits, energy bars, chocolates or fruits to replenish energy during the ascent hike. They will help you maintain energy levels.
Personal Medication
If you have any medical condition or take medications, bring them with you. If you are sensitive to altitude, carrying preventive medication is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The maximum altitude is 3,900 m.a.s.l., higher than downtown Cusco.
Trekking Poles
Highly recommended for ascent and descent. They help maintain balance and reduce impact on knees. Check if you can rent them.
Physical Condition
Although no previous experience is required, make sure you have basic physical condition. The hike is 3 hours of moderate ascent.
Historical Experience
This tour connects you with the living history of the Inca Empire. Enjoy walking along original ancestral routes and learn about the cultural and historical legacy of Inca civilization.
Do I need to be in good physical shape?
A moderate physical condition is recommended. The hike includes ascents and is carried out at high altitude.
What does the tour include?
It generally includes transportation, a professional guide, and lunch. Please check the details when booking.
Service type
Private.
Total duration
Full day - 1 full day (approximately 10 hours).
Departure
05:30 AM with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
Maximum altitude
3,900 m.a.s.l.
Difficulty level
Moderate. Hike of approximately 3 hours ascent to the Intipunku viewpoint.
Documentation
Carry original ID or Passport for registration.
Acclimatization
Ideal for the third or fourth day of arrival in Cusco. The maximum altitude is 3,900 m.a.s.l., higher than downtown Cusco. Prior acclimatization of at least 2 days is recommended.
Guide language
Professional bilingual in Spanish / English.
Experience type
Historical and nature experience. Hike along original Inca road (Qhapaq Ñan) to Intipunku "The Gateway of the Sun", ancient Inca control point with ceremonial and surveillance functions.
Breakfast
INCLUDED. Traditional Andean breakfast in Ollantaytambo before starting the hike.
Lunch
INCLUDED. Traditional lunch in Ollantaytambo after the hike.
Restrictions
No special restrictions. Accessible for people with basic physical condition. Ability to do a moderate hike of approximately 3 hours required.
Weather
Temperate Andean with intense sun. Can be cool in the early morning hours and at the summit. Bring sun protection and layered clothing.
Clothing
Comfortable layered hiking clothing, mandatory trekking shoes with good grip, warm jacket for the morning, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
Accommodation
Does NOT include accommodation. Full-day tour with return to Cusco in the afternoon.
Dinner
NOT included. Return to Cusco with time for dinner.
Experience
Historical, archaeological and nature tourism. Ideal for lovers of Inca history, archaeology, less traveled routes, authentic Andean landscapes and travelers seeking experiences off the beaten path.
End
Return to downtown Cusco approximately between 5:00 - 6:00 PM.
Main attractions
Sacred Valley of the Incas, community of Ollantaytambo (with Inca urban structures), community of Cachiccata (starting point), Inca quarry of Cachiccata, funeral Chullpas, archaeological site of Choquetacarpo, original Inca road (segment of the Qhapaq Ñan road system), Intipunku viewpoint "The Gateway of the Sun" at 3,900 m.a.s.l. with panoramic views of the Veronica snow-capped mountain (5,682 m.a.s.l.) and Sacred Valley, Intipunku archaeological complex (structures with astronomical orientation and ceremonial functions).
Cultural interaction
Direct experience with local communities of Cachiccata and Ollantaytambo, hike along ancestral Inca routes, connection with the historical legacy of the Inca Empire, knowledge about architecture, astronomy and Inca territorial control system.
Day hike to the emblematic Inti Punku, surrounded by nature.
Tour rates and options
This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.
"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".
Schedule office appointment
Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco
Frequently asked questions
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SPECTACULAR - Exceeded expectations
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Inti Punku Trek – Full Day
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