Is it worth seeing Machu Picchu at sunrise?

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Visiting Machu Picchu is already a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but are you wondering if Machu Picchu sunrise worth it? This is different.

The place is the same, and so is the history it hides, but the views are very different and therefore, so is the experience. So, today we give you our opinion about visiting this wonder of the world so early in the morning and if for us it is worth it or not. Read on! 😉

What changes when you see the sunrise at Machu Picchu?

We may not be objective here, but sunset and a sunrise always leave us amazing memories of our travels. Perhaps that is why we believe that the Machu Picchu sunrise worth it 🌄.

The first thing that changes from the most common Machu Picchu trip, as is obvious, is the play of light in the sky. You probably won’t see the sunrise directly because the tours don’t operate that early, but if you choose the Machu Picchu sunrise tour, you will see the first rays of sunlight hitting Huayna Picchu.

At 2430 meters above sea level, the ruins of Machu Picchu offer an incredible view over the landscape of the mountains and the sacred valley. Of course, and we will be totally honest: at this altitude, it is very likely that the clouds are present most of the time and do not allow you to see the sky as beautiful as we would always like to see it in this place ⛅.

So, in case you are unlucky and get caught in the clouds, here is the second part of why it is worth seeing the sunrise at Machu Picchu. It is one of the most visited destinations in the world and therefore, making the effort to get up early and go before the rest of the travelers, will allow you to see the most famous ruins in the world at a time without crowds of people.

When does the sunrise in Machu Picchu?

In Machu Picchu dawn breaks between 5:15 and 6:15 in the morning. It all depends on the season of the year in which you are, of course. The first shift to visit the site is at 7:00 am, so we said that most likely you will not see the sunrise, but you will see the play of light of the first rays of sunlight.

Where to see the sunrise at Machu Picchu from

The best place to see the sunrise of Machu Picchu is at the Sun Gate. Also called Intipunku, this place gives you a great view over the urban area of Machu Picchu. Once you arrive, the sky will clear and let the sun’s rays slowly illuminate the area. it’s magical!

You can walk up to this point freely and you don’t need to buy another ticket to enjoy the view from there.

What time of year is best

Traveling to Machu Picchu is pleasant at any time of the year because temperatures remain fairly mild at all times. The rainy season lasts from December to March, with some rainy days in April.

You can go to see the sunrise at any time, but we recommend you do it between May and November. In this period the dry season takes place, there are more daylight hours and the temperature is better.

Avoid doing it in February, because the rains are heavy and for example, the Inca Trail closes. On the other hand, whenever you go, bring something warm to see the sunrise in Machu Picchu because in such early hours it may be a little cold.

These are our recommendations to see the sunrise in Machu Picchu. From our point of view, it is worth it because, in addition to the aforementioned, you will make the most of the day. Of course, be prepared for an early start 😂!