Are you looking for something special to do at Machu Picchu? While a visit to this famous Inca citadel is unforgettable on its own, many visitors are looking to fit more into their experience. There are climbs such as Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu, as well as entering Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku and hiking the short Inca Trail. An excellent option that isn’t discussed as often is the Inca Bridge, located at the western limits of the citadel. The Inca Bridge at Machu Picchu is a wonderful alternative for travelers looking to get away from the crowds and dive a little deeper into Inca history.
The Inca Bridge is an important remnant of the extensive Inca road system, known as the Qhapaq Ñan. This extensive, preHispanic system stretched much of the length of South America, and included sophisticated drainage systems, paving and bridges. Inca bridges are one of the most notable features of the Qhapaq Ñan; there were several types, but few examples remain today. The Inca Bridge at Machu Picchu is one example; another is the Queswachaka rope bridge, also located in the department of Cusco.
The Inca bridge that Machu Picchu visitors can visit is an impressive stone bridge, built onto the face of a steep hillside. The bridge is made up of two platforms, separated by an empty section with a steep drop. Two logs span the length of the section, allowing passage. Removing the logs renders the bridge unpassable, and Machu Picchu inaccessible from the West. The purpose of the bridge is thought to be defensive; the Machu Picchu citadel could easily be protected from anyone attempting to cross over, and day to day movement could be controlled. In fact, the Inca Bridge is often considered an extension of the Inca Trail; the trail enters Machu Picchu from the East, from Inti Punku. From there, the path continues through Machu Picchu, to the Inca Bridge.
An additional benefit of hiking to the Inca Bridge is that its cost is the same as any general admission ticket for Machu Picchu. While there is no fee for this optional hike, there is a specific circuit that needs to be purchased. Entries are limited, with only a few hundred hikers permitted per day. In addition to the ticket, you’ll also need to choose an entry time for the hike. Entries are currently allowed between 6:00AM- 2:00PM, with check in at the guard station prior to departure.
A few important notes about this hike:
If you’ll be traveling with Ayni Peru and would like to add an Inca Bridge visit to your tour there, please let us know at the time of booking. We’ll check availability and give you entry time options, depending on availability. Please contact us to find out more!
