The Temple of the Moon is considered one of the most mystical structures you can visit on your tour of Machu Picchu. Inside a cave and surrounded by abundant flora, you can glimpse lesser-known landscapes of the Historical Sanctuary. To reach the Temple of the Moon (also known as the Great Cave), you must overcome a moderately difficult hiking route. Discover more details about this magical site and plan your ideal trip to this wonder of the world.

• This is the Temple of the Moon
• What is the Temple of the Moon?
• Where is it?
• How to get there?
• Temple of the Moon or Great Cave?
• The Hike
• Hike Details
• What are the visiting hours?
• Visiting recommendations
• Image Gallery
• Other temples in Machu Picchu
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Temple of the Moon, also known as the Great Cave, is considered ‘The hidden gem of Machu Picchu’ due to its remote location and the difficulty of reaching it. Travelers who dare to buy a ticket to the Temple of the Moon (Route 3C) will almost have the temple to themselves, as only 200 tickets are available per day at two different times. Book your ticket at least a month in advance.

What is the Temple of the Moon?

• The Great Cave (popularly called the ‘Temple of the Moon’) is one of the most incredible structures in Machu Picchu.
• It is built inside a natural cave. It features finely carved stone structures.
• The Incas had a deep admiration for caves, as they believed they could connect them to the world of the dead.
• At the center of the Temple of the Moon is a surface resembling a throne. Some researchers suggest that sacrifices might have taken place there.
• The exact purpose of the Temple of the Moon is unclear, although it is believed to be related to the veneration of the deceased, as in Inca worldview, people returned to the mountains where they came from after death.
• The way to reach this site is by acquiring a Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cave ticket (Route 3C). Note that it can only be purchased during the high season.

Temple of the Moon in Machu Picchu

Official high season
The latest updates and changes to the tickets officially introduced the high season for tickets. This period will start on June 19 and last until November 2. The Temple of the Moon ticket (Route 3C) can only be purchased during this time. During the Regular Season or the rest of the year, you will not be able to take the route to this destination. Additionally, it will also be available on the following dates: January 1, April 2–5, and December 30 and 31.

Where is it?

• The Temple of the Moon is located at the back of Huayna Picchu, on the slopes of the mountain.
• From the lower area of Machu Picchu, where the hike begins, it is approximately a 3.2 km walk to reach the Great Cave.
• The summit of Huayna Picchu is 2,720 meters above sea level, while the Temple of the Moon is at 2,256 meters above sea level.
• The area where the Great Cave is located is surrounded by abundant vegetation, and since it is not heavily visited, it offers a more authentic and immersive experience.
• The Temple of the Moon is inside a natural cave, adding to the mysticism of the place.

How to get there?

• To reach the Temple of the Moon, you first need to enter Circuit 3 of Machu Picchu, known as the Royal Route.
• Then, after a brief tour of the lower part of the Inca citadel, head to the Huayna Picchu checkpoint, as you follow part of the same route as this mountain.
• After a short walk, take a detour toward the Temple of the Moon, which involves descending stone steps and some flat sections of trails.
• Upon arrival, you will witness the grandeur of the Great Cave. You will also have time to relax and enjoy the views of the surrounding landscapes.
• After visiting, you must return to the Huayna Picchu trail checkpoint.
• The route to the Temple of the Moon is only available during the high season (from June 19 to November 2).
• Upon entry, you can only take the route to the Temple of the Moon; you cannot continue on the shared path to Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu mountains.

Temple of the Moon or Great Cave?

• The name ‘Great Cave’ was given by American explorer Hiram Bingham during the discovery of Machu Picchu in 1911.
• After many years, the name ‘Temple of the Moon’ gained popularity among archaeologists, tour guides, and visitors.
• There is no direct connection between the moon and this Inca construction. However, during certain times of the year, such as the solstices, it is possible to see how the moon fully illuminates the cave.
• The most appropriate name for this structure is ‘Great Cave’, although commercially it became popular as the Temple of the Moon.

The Hike

• The hike includes visiting part of the Qhapac Ñam, also known as the “Inca Trails.” The descent is mostly downhill, surrounded by the abundant vegetation of Machu Picchu.
• The trails are varied, with stone steps, wooden ladders, and dirt paths. Remember to proceed with caution on the hike.
• The stone paths are narrow, so it is recommended to keep both hands free for support. There is also a section of wooden stairs that requires careful attention.
• Upon returning from the Great Cave, you will need to ascend a series of stone steps for about an hour (1.5 km) until you reach the Huayna Picchu checkpoint. This section is one of the hardest due to the elevation between each step.

Temple of the Moon – Machu Picchu

Hike Details

The hike to the Temple of the Moon is one of the most impressive adventures you can experience within Machu Picchu. You will cross paths filled with vegetation, including the famous “death stairs” and other trails along huge cliffs. To reach the Great Cave, you must follow a moderately difficult to hard hiking route.

What are the visiting hours?

Group 1

• Entry to Machu Picchu Circuit 3 from 8:00 to 8:30 in the morning.
• Entry to the Temple of the Moon route from 9:00 to 10:00 in the morning.
• It’s important to check the times specified on your entry tickets. The total visit time is approximately 6 hours.

Group 2

• Entry to Machu Picchu Circuit 3 from 9:00 to 9:30 in the morning.
• Entry to the Temple of the Moon route from 10:00 to 11:00 in the morning.
• This time slot is the most requested. Make sure to buy your tickets to this world wonder in advance.

Interior of the Great Cave – Temple of the Moon

Visiting Recommendations

• The descent to the Temple of the Moon begins after passing the Huayna Picchu checkpoint. The way down is easier than the return trip.
• This route is only available on the following dates: January 1, April 2–5, June 19 to November 2, and December 30 and 31.
• Follow the signs during the hike to the Temple of the Moon. Do not stray from the marked path or attempt to create your own route.
• You must purchase or reserve the Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cave (Route 3C) ticket.
• This experience also includes the tour of Machu Picchu Circuit 3, which covers the lower temples.
• The route is only available for visitors over 12 years old (children can only enter when accompanied by a responsible adult).
• Seniors can take this hike if they are in good health.
• For a more comfortable hike, bring hiking shoes, a rain poncho, insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
• With Ticketmachupicchu, you can reserve your ideal experience at the Temple of the Moon. Consult with our sales advisors for all available options to make your trip unforgettable.

Image Gallery

Other Temples in Machu Picchu

Temple of the 3 Windows – This Inca construction features 3 trapezoidal windows made with finely carved stones. The 3 windows represent the Inca worldview, symbolizing the division of the world into 3 dimensions, the 3 Inca laws, and more.

Temple of the Sun – This religious temple in Machu Picchu was dedicated to the Sun, the highest Inca deity. It is located at the highest point of the religious sector, where the sun’s rays illuminate it. It was built on a cave and between walls of carved stone.

Temple of the Condor – This enigmatic structure is made up of three separate pieces. Together, they form the shape of a condor, one of the most sacred birds for the Incas.

Main Temple – In the main square of Machu Picchu stands this temple made of 3 walls of polished stone. The main wall is deteriorated due to the passage of time. Inside, there is an altar where sacrifices may have taken place.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What is the Temple of the Moon?

  The Temple of the Moon, also known as the Great Cave, is an impressive Inca structure located inside a natural cave in Machu Picchu.

• 2) Where is it located?

  The Temple of the Moon is located on the Huayna Picchu mountain. It is set in a natural and mystical environment that adds to the allure of the visit.

• 3) How do you get to the Temple of the Moon?

  Access is only available during the high season and through the purchase of the “Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cave (Route 3C)” ticket. The route involves a hike of approximately 3 hours (round trip).

• 4) What challenges does the route present?

  The route to the Temple of the Moon is challenging. Visitors must be prepared for descents and ascents on stone stairs. Therefore, it is recommended to wear suitable hiking shoes.

• 5) What ticket or permit is needed to visit?

  To access the site, it is essential to purchase the “Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cave (Route 3C)” ticket. This ticket is only available during high season.

• 6) Who can visit the Temple of the Moon?

  The route is primarily open to visitors over 12 years old. Children can only enter when accompanied by a responsible adult.

• 7) What function might the Temple of the Moon have served?

  Although there is no definitive answer, it is believed that the site may have had a ritualistic purpose. The presence of a central surface resembling a throne has led some researchers to hypothesize that sacrifices or ceremonies were conducted in honor of the mountains and other Inca deities.

• 8) Why is it considered such a special place within Machu Picchu?

  Because it is one of the least visited and most enigmatic sites in Machu Picchu. Its remote location and construction inside a cave make it distinct, and being surrounded by nature adds to its uniqueness.

• 9) Is the route to the Temple of the Moon available all year?

  The route is only available during the high season, from June 19 to November 2, and on specific dates during the year (January 1, April 2-5, and December 30 and 31).

• 10) Why is it also called the Great Cave?

  The name “Great Cave” was given by Hiram Bingham in 1911. Over time, the term “Temple of the Moon” became popular among visitors and guides, even though there is no direct connection to the moon in the construction.

Advice from people who have been there

Huayna Picchu

By: Shaomy Z.

“The Young Mountain“

“Do not miss the Waynapicchu mountains and the path to the Inca bridge. The bridge itself can be seen from afar, but the path to the Waynapicchu mountain is easy and wonderful. Stay as long as you can on the terraces enjoying the view, it’s unique and you can’t come back after. It’s recommended to go as early as possible.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 12, 2026