Beyond the Main Circuit: Secret Places to Visit in Machu Picchu Worth Finding

Ultima actualización en 26 April, 2025 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 26 April, 2025 by Waman Adventures

One of the modern world’s wonders is nestled high in the Peruvian Andes mountains. This majestic sanctuary stands out not only for its astonishing Inca architecture but also for the profound cultural legacy it preserves. Surrounded by lush vegetation, winding rivers, and impressive valleys, the tourist attractions in Machu Picchu will reward you with unparalleled panoramic views and the opportunity to connect with the natural environment. Are you ready to explore every corner of this enigmatic Andean treasure? Here’s what you need to know.

Quick Facts about Machu Picchu

Location: Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco department, specifically in the Urubamba province, Machupicchu district. It rises at the top of a narrow Andean mountain range. Its location is strategic, offering a panoramic view of the valley and surrounding mountains, which contributes to its majestic aura. Thanks to its position, it features abundant vegetation and fresh, pure air.​

Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the citadel under clear Andean skies.

Altitude and Climate: the archaeological complex is located at 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level. Its altitude gives it an Andean subtropical climate, characterized by sunny, warm mornings; however, nights can be cold and humid. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, due to its clear skies and good weather. This period spans from April to October. Nevertheless, it’s also the time with the highest influx of tourists.
On the other hand, the rainy season extends from November to March. During this time, you’ll find greener landscapes; however, in some cases, the paths may become more difficult, although you’ll enjoy fewer visitors.
Entry Requirements: to enter the tourist attractions of Machu Picchu, it is mandatory to have a previously purchased entrance ticket, as the site has a maximum daily capacity. Additionally, all visitors must collaborate in the conservation of this heritage site. Therefore, visits are organized by shifts and circuits, allowing regulation of the number of people entering the sanctuary.

Expert Tip:

We recommend that, depending on the season you decide to visit, you take into account reservation dates. If you wish to purchase a ticket, do so in advance. You can do the process on your own or through an agency, but keep in mind that tickets sell out very quickly.

Main Places to Visit in Machu Picchu

The Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

Stand where the Incas once entered the citadel, under the rising sun.

What is Inti Punku?: it’s an ancient portal that allowed entry to the Inca citadel, in Inca times it served as a strategic point to control those who arrived at Machu Picchu. This place is built with carved stone blocks, making the area a trapezoidal passage typical of Inca culture, located at about 2,745 meters (9,006 feet) above sea level. From this spot, you can appreciate the archaeological complex surrounded by valleys and wildlife.

Why Visit It: You can visit it to enjoy the sunrise and see the first rays of sun illuminating the archaeological center. Additionally, it’s the entry point for hikers who complete the Inca Trail, offering a unique perspective of the sunrise over the citadel.

Important Note:

Even if you don’t hike the Inca Trail, you can access Inti Punku via an approximately 1-hour walk from Machu Picchu.

The Temple of the Sun

A sacred structure reflecting Inca mastery of astronomy and spirituality.

What is the Temple of the Sun?: it is one of the tourist attractions of Machu Picchu. Its semicircular design is ingeniously built on a natural rock, giving it solidity. The walls of this temple are precisely aligned with the movements of the sun, especially during the equinoxes, demonstrating the profound knowledge the Incas had about astronomy.
Why Visit It: it allows you to contemplate spectacular panoramas of the Urubamba Valley and the surrounding mountains, surrounded by abundant native flora. While there, you’ll experience the sensation of being in a symbolic place where the Incas worshiped the sun as their main deity. This site is ideal for photography lovers, as the natural light is perfect for capturing the mystical atmosphere of the surroundings.

The Intihuatana Stone

Marvel at this ceremonial rock aligned with solar movements.

What is the Intihuatana Stone?: it’s a sculpture carved with great precision. In ancient times, it served as an astronomical tool used by the Incas to determine the exact location of the sun. It also acted as a sundial or a kind of calendar, allowing priests to calculate agricultural seasons and organize planting and harvesting activities.​

Why Visit It: it’s a historical and cultural symbol that attracts numerous tourists. It’s a highly recognized point within the archaeological site, highlighted by its elevated location, which offers a privileged view to observe the position of the sun.

Temple of the Three Windows

A must-see reflecting the Inca’s architectural genius and cosmic vision.

What is the Temple of the Three Windows?: it’s one of the most representative places, both for its architecture and its meaning. This platform is known for its three large trapezoidal windows, which are not only architectural elements but also have a deep meaning in the Andean worldview. They represent the three worlds: the upper world (Hanan Pacha), the earthly world (Kay Pacha), and the underworld (Ukhu Pacha).​

Why Visit It: the Temple of the Three Windows offers a new perspective on the region and astronomy in buildings, as well as the influence of the natural environment on how ancient inhabitants conceived the world. Additionally, it’s an ideal place to establish a deeper connection with history.

Inca Bridge

Discover this impressive construction linking vital trails across the mountains.

What is the Inca Bridge?: it’s a structure that forms part of Machu Picchu’s system of roads and defenses. This bridge is a combination of wood and stone, located on a winding path that extends along a cliff, making it a fascinating work of Inca engineering. Additionally, it served as part of other routes that connected various paths with Machu Picchu.

Why Visit It: it’s an excellent way to understand the tactics the Incas implemented. By visiting the bridge, you can appreciate how the Incas used natural geography to their advantage, without significantly altering it.

House of the Guardian

Admire this emblematic site offering sweeping views of the ancient citadel.

What is the House of the Guardian?: it’s an elevated building in the archaeological site, designed with stone and with a traditional ichu roof. Although it has been restored, it’s a clear way to appreciate how homes looked in ancient times.

Why Visit It: it’s located on a hill from where you get the most famous and Instagram-worthy panoramic view of all Machu Picchu. This is the ideal place to appreciate the magnitude and distribution of the complex, with a panoramic view all the way to Huayna Picchu, surrounded by vegetation and green mountains.

Sacred Rock

Stand before one of the citadel’s most enigmatic relics of spiritual reverence.

What is the Sacred Rock?: it’s one of the most symbolic elements of Machu Picchu. It’s sculpted and placed in a ceremonial space north of the citadel, facing a small square surrounded by structures believed to have served for rituals.

Why Visit It: it’s impressive to see the structure, as it provides information about a building that allows a vision of the sacred world.

Temple of the Moon

Discover one of the most mystical worship sites near Machu Picchu.

What is the Temple of the Moon?: it’s one of the most enigmatic places. This underground sanctuary stands out for its level of detail in Inca stonework, as it has perfectly sculpted walls and ceremonial niches, making the cave unique. This temple is part of the route to Huayna Picchu Mountain. If you visit this route, be sure to admire this place.​

Why Visit It: because it’s ideal for a more peaceful and mystical experience, combining architecture with culture in a quiet environment. It’s one of the greatest hidden treasures of Machu Picchu.​

Huayna Picchu

Reach the summit for a breathtaking perspective of the sacred citadel.

What is Huayna Picchu?: in Spanish, it means “Young Mountain.” It normally appears in the background of classic photos. This place is situated at 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level, offering impressive views of all of Machu Picchu. To reach it, you must undertake a steep and demanding hike, with some narrow sections and stone stairs.

Why Visit It: you’ll have a spectacular and unique panorama, with a perspective of the sanctuary surrounded by mountains throughout the Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival, you’ll know that the entire hike filled with adrenaline and history will have been worth it.

Machu Picchu Mountain

Gaze upon the iconic peaks and embrace the Inca spirit.

What is Machu Picchu Mountain?: also known as the “old mountain,” it’s one of the tourist attractions of Machu Picchu, offering a wider and less steep path, making it considerably more peaceful. This place is ideal for those who prefer a gradual ascent without crowds. The mountain is located at more than 3,082 meters (10,111 feet) above sea level.

Why Visit It: it offers an elevated view that will allow you to see the Machu Picchu sanctuary, the Urubamba River, and the other mountains. This trek normally takes between 2 and 3 hours, including the round trip.

Huchuy Picchu

A less crowded alternative for stunning panoramic vistas.

What is Huchuy Picchu?: this area is characterized by having a frontal and elevated view of the citadel, with the classic profile of Machu Picchu, extending along the mountain. Unlike other places, it doesn’t receive as many visits, making it a more peaceful place.

Why Visit It: because it offers spectacular landscapes, and the best part is that you can access it without getting too exhausted. However, to visit it, you must have a ticket that includes this place.

Did you know…?
Each of these attractions is unique and unparalleled; throughout the journey, you’ll be able to observe the native flora and fauna of the area.

How to get to Machu Picchu

From Cusco to Aguas Calientes (the base town):

Train from Ollantaytambo (most popular option): from Cusco, you can board a bus or taxi to Ollantaytambo, a journey that takes about 2 hours. From there, you can take a train (PeruRail or IncaRail) to Aguas Calientes, a trip that lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Hydroelectric Route (economical): this option is preferred by adventurers and those on a limited budget. It involves taking a bus from Cusco to the hydroelectric plant, a journey that lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours. Once there, there’s a 3 to 4-hour hike, following the train tracks towards Aguas Calientes.

Walk through living history surrounded by majestic Andean landscapes.

Classic Treks:

• Inca Trail: it’s the most symbolic trail, with a route of approximately 42 km (26 miles). On this route, hikers cross various ecosystems and Inca archaeological sites. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the fascinating Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which welcomes visitors to the Inca citadel.
• Salkantay Trek: it’s one of the most well-known routes for being challenging and for having the best attractions. It passes by Lake Humantay, Salkantay Mountain, crosses through the thickness of the jungle, and finally reaches Machu Picchu.
• Lares Trek: it’s a less traveled route that offers immersion in the Andean culture and traditions of different communities that inhabit the area.
• Inca Jungle Trek: it’s perfect for adventure lovers. The route includes bicycle descents from Abra Málaga, rafting on the Urubamba River, hikes through the high jungle, and the option to zipline in Santa Teresa, before reaching Machu Picchu.

From Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu

Tourist Bus

• Journey duration: the ride takes approximately 30 minutes to cover the 5.6 miles that separate Aguas Calientes from Machu Picchu.
• Departure frequency: transportation departs from 5:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., with an interval of 10 minutes between each departure.

Hiking
The ascent is steep and can take approximately 2 hours, although this depends on each hiker’s pace.

What to bring to Machu Picchu

• Passport or identity document (mandatory for entry).
• Printed or digital entrance ticket.
• Trekking or non-slip athletic shoes.
• Comfortable and light clothing, but in layers (cold mornings, warm afternoons).
• Rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Insect repellent.
• Water in a reusable bottle (only non-disposable plastic is allowed).
• Light snacks (although eating inside the site is not allowed, they can be consumed outside).
• Camera or cell phone with a charged battery.
• Cash (in soles) for emergencies or purchases in Aguas Calientes.

Having the right kit ensures a smooth and comfortable trek to the citadel.

Allowed and restricted items

Allowed:

• Small backpacks (no larger than 40×20 cm).
• Trekking poles with rubber tips (only for elderly adults or people with disabilities).
• Cameras (without tripod or professional stabilizer).

Prohibited:

• Food or drinks inside the archaeological site.
• Drones.
• Metal poles without protection.
• Tripods, selfie sticks, or professional filming equipment.
• Large umbrellas or parasols.
• Animals, except guide dogs.
• Smoking, vaping, or consuming alcohol.
• Speakers or loud music.

Exploring the tourist attractions of Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience that combines nature, history, and culture in one place. You’ll have the opportunity to tour ancient sacred temples, walk the legendary Inca Trail, and marvel at the biodiversity that surrounds this millennial site. With Waman Adventures, you’ll live an authentic adventure that will deeply connect you with the legacy of the Incas. Don’t just hear about it! Plan your trip today and discover all the incredible places to visit in Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions