Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon Ticket Availability (Route 3C) – 2026 Guide
The Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon ticket (also known as the Great Cavern) offers one of the most exclusive and least explored hiking routes in the sanctuary. Through Route 3C, visitors can discover an amazing Inca construction built inside a natural cave on the slopes of the Huayna Picchu mountain.
What does the Temple of the Moon entrance include?
This ticket is designed for adventurers seeking a deeper and more mystical experience. By purchasing this ticket, you have access to:
- Circuit 3 (Royalty Route): A tour through the lower part of the Inca citadel, where key temples and buildings are visited.
- Great Cavern Hike: A trekking route of more than 2 kilometers that crosses lush vegetation.
- Temple of the Moon: An impeccably finished stone structure located inside a natural cavern, considered a sacred place of worship.
Important Note: This ticket allows you to hike along the base of Huayna Picchu, but it does not grant access to the summit of that mountain.
Entry Schedules and Visiting Groups
Availability is limited to only 200 daily slots, distributed into two strategic groups to ensure a smooth visit:
| Group | Entry to Machu Picchu | Entry to Temple of the Moon | Approximate Exit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | 07:00 a.m. - 07:30 a.m. | Until 09:00 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. |
| Group 2 | 08:00 a.m. - 08:30 a.m. | Until 10:00 a.m. | 03:00 p.m. |
The total experience time is approximately 5 hours: 4 hours dedicated to the round-trip hike to the temple, and 1 hour to explore Circuit 3 of the citadel.
High Season Restriction
It is essential to consider that access to the Temple of the Moon is not available year-round. Following conservation regulations, this route only opens during the peak tourist season:
- Opening period: From June 19th to November 2nd.
- Exception: Also available on December 30th and 31st.
Requirements and Safety Recommendations
To ensure a successful visit to the Great Cavern, keep the following restrictions in mind:
- Minimum Age: Entry is only allowed for persons over 12 years old.
- Documentation: It is mandatory to present your original passport or ID at the control point.
- Physical Condition: The route includes narrow paths and sections near cliffs. It is recommended for people with good mobility and no fear of heights.
- Advance Booking: Due to low availability (only 200 spots), it is recommended to book 3 to 4 months in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What happens if there is no availability for the Temple of the Moon?
If spots are sold out, you can opt for other hiking routes such as Machu Picchu Mountain, Huchuy Picchu, or the Inca Bridge, which usually have higher availability.
2. Is the route dangerous?
It is not dangerous if you follow the marked path and walk with caution. The trail is longer than the one to Huayna Picchu but less steep in its final stretch.
3. Can I buy this ticket directly in Cusco?
It is not recommended. Over-the-counter availability is almost non-existent for this specific type of entry. The only secure way to obtain it is through early online booking.
4. Does the guide service cover the hike to the temple?
Generally, the professional guide service only covers the tour of the citadel (Circuit 3). The hike to the Temple of the Moon is usually done independently by following the official signage.
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