About This Route
The final 5 km (3 miles) from Wiñay Wayna climbs to Intipunku (Sun Gate) at 2,720 meters (8,920 feet) for sunrise views over Machu Picchu, then descends granite stairs to the Sun Gate entry and citadel. Crowded at dawn; slippery with dew or rain. This iconic finale rewards with lost city panorama after 42 km trek.
Safety Considerations
Overcrowding causes bottlenecks; start 4:30 AM. Steep 50-degree stairs demand microspikes if icy. Post-trek fatigue risks falls; knee braces advised. Theft minimal but secure packs. UNESCO site rules: no drones, stay on paths. Early fog reduces visibility; headlamps crucial.
Essential Gear
Essentials: Kahtoola microspikes, Osprey Daylite pack, ExOfficio bug pants, GoPro for safe footage, compression socks.