Great Cavern and Temple of the Moon: Machu Picchu Route 3-C

The Great Cavern, better known as the Temple of the Moon, is one of the most mysterious spots at Machu Picchu. It's hidden on the northern slope of Huayna Picchu, away from the citadel, and can only be reached on a mountain trail. Since 2024 it has had its own official route, 3-C: Great Cavern Route, within Circuit 3. This guide explains what it's like, when you can do it and who it's worth it for.

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What the Great Cavern is

It's a natural cave that the Incas transformed with fine stone walls, trapezoidal niches and a throne carved into the rock. Its exact purpose is unknown: it's thought to have had a ceremonial or funerary use. The name Temple of the Moon is modern and not tied to specific evidence. It's a peaceful place surrounded by forest, very different from the bustle of the citadel.

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Route 3-C

The Route 3-C ticket combines two parts: the walk through the lower citadel on Circuit 3, or royalty circuit, and the hike to the Great Cavern. The trail starts at the same checkpoint as the climb up Huayna Picchu but branches off towards the cave without reaching the summit. This ticket doesn't let you climb to the top.

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High season only

According to the official Machu Picchu website, Route 3-C is only available in high season. It can also be suspended for maintenance: in 2026 it was closed from 19 to 30 June. Always check dates and availability on the official platform before planning your trip.

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How long it takes

Guides and operators agree on about 2 km of trail each way. Allow 3 to 4 hours there and back from the checkpoint, depending on your pace, plus the time for the citadel route. All in, set aside half a day inside the sanctuary. Check the maximum time allowed on your route's official map.

Difficulty

It's a moderate hike: less vertical than the climb up Huayna Picchu, but with lots of stone steps, steep ups and downs and damp sections. You have to descend quite a bit to reach the cave and then climb back up. You need good fitness and shoes with a good grip.

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Great Cavern or Huayna Picchu

• Huayna Picchu (3-A): short but very steep climb to the summit, with a view of the citadel from above.
• Great Cavern (3-C): longer, less exposed trail through forest to a carved cave, with no bird's-eye view.
• Huchuy Picchu (3-D): short climb to a lower viewpoint.

If you're scared of heights, the Great Cavern is usually easier to handle than the summit of Huayna Picchu.

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What you see in the citadel

Circuit 3 covers the lower part: areas such as the Temple of the Sun seen from below, the fountains, the Sacred Rock and the Temple of the Condor. It doesn't include the classic photo from the Guardhouse, which belongs to other circuits.

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Best time slot

Early slots are cooler and the trail is less crowded. Remember you must check in at the checkpoint within the time window on your ticket; if you're late, you may lose access to the hike.

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What to bring

• Enough water: there's nowhere to buy any on the trail.
• Light rain jacket and a warm layer.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Original passport and ticket.
• A small bag: large backpacks aren't allowed.

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Safety

The trail is narrow in places and the rock gets slippery in the rain. Walk slowly, use your hands on tricky steps and stay on the path. If you feel unwell from the altitude or tiredness, turn back in good time.

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Guided or independent

The regulations as amended in September 2026 (Ministerial Resolution 334-2026-MC) recommend entering the citadel with a tour guide; check when buying whether the guide also accompanies the hike. A good guide will explain the cave's architecture, which can go unnoticed without context.

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Who is it for?

Ideal for those who already know the citadel, want a quieter hike or want to see a little-visited spot. Less advisable if you're travelling with small children, have knee problems or are short on time.

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Logistics

Sleep in Aguas Calientes the night before to reach your entry time calmly, and leave a buffer for the return train: between the hike and the citadel, the day gets long.

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Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).