Temple of the Moon, the great cavern of Huayna Picchu

The Temple of the Moon

This Inca ceremonial temple is located 390 m (1,280 ft) below the summit on the northern side of Huayna Picchu. It is one of the most fabulous and least known places in the archaeological park. The Temple of the Moon was discovered in 1936. It consists of a two-vaulted structure embedded in an enormous rock cavern. The wall stones fit together with incredible precision. In the middle of the cavern there is a throne (to others, a sacrificial altar) carved into the rock. Near the throne we find the steps leading to the deepest part of the cave. These caves are believed to have been used to house mummies. Researchers agree that the niches carved into its interior are of extraordinary quality. The Temple dates back about 1,500 years.

Many scholars believe this structure was built as a royal tomb, a place of worship, and a lookout post. However, others believe it may have been a sacrificial site, given its beauty with thoughtfully designed recesses and niches.

Since the Incas believed that caves could connect them with the world of the dead, this construction must have been very important. Nevertheless, half a century after the discovery of the Inca city, what the Temple of the Moon actually was remains a mystery, as there are no related records. This enigmatic structure is also known as the Great Cavern; when you visit the site, you will agree with us that such finishing could hardly be achieved with the rudimentary chisels and tools available to the Incas.

How to Get to the Temple of the Moon

To visit this temple, you must have an entry ticket to Huayna Picchu (which is part of Circuit 3 – Royalty, to which you must strictly adhere) and, of course, book in advance. To visit the Great Cavern, we first have to climb Huayna Picchu. On the descent from the summit, you come across two signs pointing in different directions. One leads to Machu Picchu, while the other marks the way to the Temple of the Moon.

The hike to the Temple of the Moon is truly breathtaking and unique, as it crosses the Stairs of Death and other trails flanked by sheer drop-offs. It is also wonderful to admire the rich flora and fauna of the area. For those not accustomed to it, the trek can cause a bit of vertigo. But it is well worth it, as it is absolutely incredible.

Very few tourists hike down to visit these ruins, but reaching them and seeing them with your own eyes is awe-inspiring. Naturally, you need to be in good physical condition, as hiking up and down is demanding—the long trek takes approximately 3 hours. Additionally, you should be careful with jungle wildlife such as ants and some snakes. This hike is not suitable for people with a fear of heights.

Map of the route from Aguas Calientes to the Temple of the Moon

Your experience when purchasing: “Full-Day Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu”

Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu are known as the Lost City of the Incas, and on this tour you will enjoy this site on your own or with your family accompanied by a guide in Machu Picchu who will join you on this journey full of culture and adventure. Learn all about the culture of this place and live a wonderful experience.