Discovering Intimachay: The Sacred Cave of Machu Picchu
Explore Intimachay, the sacred cave of Machu Picchu, where natural beauty meets Inca spirituality amidst stunning Andean landscapes.
Intimachay, a captivating cave nestled within the archaeological wonder of Machu Picchu, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. This sacred site, believed to have been used by the Incas for astronomical observations and religious rituals, invites tourists to explore its enchanting rock formations and vibrant history, making it a must-visit for anyone journeying to Peru's iconic citadel.
A brief summary to Intimachay
- RFP4+P64, Cusco, PE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy Intimachay with fewer crowds and the best natural light for photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and steep in some areas around the cave.
- Bring a small flashlight to explore the darker corners of the cave and appreciate its unique formations.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main square in Aguas Calientes, walk towards the train station. As you exit the square, head straight down Avenida Pachacutec. Continue walking for about 15-20 minutes. You will pass local shops and restaurants along the way. Keep following the signs for Machu Picchu until you reach the entrance to the trails leading up to Intimachay.
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Hiking
Once you arrive at the entrance to the trail, purchase your entry ticket to Machu Picchu if you haven't done so already (cost varies based on time of visit). Begin your hike up the trail towards Machu Picchu. The path is well-marked and maintained. After about 30 minutes of hiking, you will reach the Intimachay site, which is on the way to the main ruins of Machu Picchu.
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Guided Tour
If you prefer a guided experience, consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation and a guide who can take you from Aguas Calientes to Intimachay. Many local tour operators offer packages that include a hike to the site, and the cost typically ranges from $30 to $100 per person depending on the inclusions.
Discover more about Intimachay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Group of the Three Doorways
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The main Plaza
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Machu Picchu Hiking Trail
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Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
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Uña Picchu
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Inca Bridge Trail
0.8 km
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Huayna Picchu
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Camino peatonal a Machu Picchu
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Puente Inka
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Putucusi
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CAMINO A MACHU PICCHU
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Mount Machu Picchu
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PACHAMAMA
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Tao Dulce Salado
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Statue of Pachacutec - Condor - Puma - Anaconda
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Unmissable attractions to see
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
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Temple of the Three Windows
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El Templo del Sol
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Quarry Group
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Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu
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House of the Guardian to the Funerary Rock at Machu Picchu
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Huchuy Picchu
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National Archaeological Park Of Machu Picchu
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Carretera Hiram Bingham
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Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
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Mariposario of Machu Picchu
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Phutuq K'usi
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Temple of the Moon at Machu Picchu
1.3 km
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Machu Picchu Peak
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Sun Gate
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Essential places to dine
Snack Bar
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Restaurante Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge
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Tampu Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge
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Restaurante
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Laurita Wasi Machu Picchu
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La Cabaña de Gabriel Logde & Restaurant
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Camping and Restaurant La Choza Inca Raqay
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Restaurante Chicha Grill Cuisine
2.1 km
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QUNUQ RESTAURANT | Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
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Restaurante AYASQA - Comida tradicional
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INKA TAMBO restaurant
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Restaurante Apu Salkantay
2.2 km
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Munaycha Restaurant
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Cafelu Restaurant
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Toto's House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Shop
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Parada de buses Machu Picchu
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SE VENDE
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Inka Statue
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Bambú
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Artesanias Maki
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Mercado de Abastos
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Central market
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PAYPAK
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Rapid market
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Aguas Calientes Market
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collasuyo
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Artesanias Condor 1
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Mapi Art
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
North Village Bohemian
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El duende feliz
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Green PUB machupicchu
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RESTOBAR ALPAKITAY
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Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz
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Mapi bar
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19.18Club.
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Terraza Cósmica by Supertramp
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Wayquis
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Modo Restobar
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Machagchas resto bar
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Magguis Grill Craft Beer
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Inka Happiness Cultural Bar
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Big Brother's Bar
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Blues RestoBarCaffe
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Club Lounge resto
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Malibú Club Discoteca
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SENTIDOS DISCO CLUB
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El Olvido Del Valle
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Urubamba
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Macumba Club
49.0 km
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Opium Club
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Ascencia Ariza Rojas
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CASA PEPE Discotek
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Manhattan Disco
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Booms
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ICON VIP DISCOTECA
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Centro Comunal de Racchy Ayllo
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La Noche de Abancay
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La Torre discoteca club
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