Tired of visiting the same places over and over again? Would you like to discover new spots that go beyond the usual tourist attractions in the imperial city of Cusco? If so, you’re in the right place.
The Moon Temple of Cusco is a sacred structure carved into rock that has withstood the test of time since the Inca era. It’s a lesser-known site that you can visit with a guide—or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore it on your own or with family and friends.
The best part? Visiting this site is completely free, as access is open to the public. However, we do recommend going during daylight hours, as it can be a bit unsafe at night due to its remote and unmonitored location.
Contents
1. History of the Moon Temple in Cusco
The structural description of the Moon Temple in Cusco is closely linked to its functional and morphological characteristics, as well as to the writings of certain chroniclers who noted the distinctive features that set it apart from other surrounding structures.
The Moon Temple dates back to the Inca period (1428 AD – 1532 AD). It was built and carved into a large rock outcrop, both inside and out, with both areas holding great importance. These spaces were used for rituals and ceremonies mainly dedicated to the Moon Goddess (Mama Quilla), as well as other deities like Mother Earth (Pachamama).
The Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park is made up of around 96 archaeological sites, with the Temple of the Moon being one of the most unique due to its strong cosmological significance. Its limestone structure features a deep central divide, which, according to some historical texts, served as a passageway. Local legends say it guided worshippers to an audience with the Moon Goddess. The outer area, meanwhile, was the sacred space where rituals and sacrifices dedicated to the Moon Goddess were carried out.
Andean cosmology continues to play a significant role even today, as respect and devotion to many spiritual deities—such as the Moon Goddess (Mama Quilla) and Mother Earth (Pachamama)—are still very much alive. These two deities, in particular, are considered extremely important because they are directly linked to the fertility of the land and agriculture, an essential activity from Inca times to the present day.
This deep-rooted belief explains the importance of offerings to the deities, which were highly popular during the Inca period. Through these rituals, the Inca society expressed gratitude for bountiful harvests—especially when there were farming lands dedicated exclusively to the Inca Gods. You simply can’t miss this mysterious site—it’s something you can explore on foot!
2. What to do at the Moon Temple?
- Take a walk from the city of Cusco to the Moon Temple and discover what surrounds the enigmatic Moon Temple. Make sure to come prepared, as the walk takes approximately 40 minutes to an hour.
- If you enjoy esoteric activities, you should visit this temple and make an offering dedicated to the Moon Goddess or Mother Earth. You can bring: coca leaves, chicha, grains, etc., and make your wishes. Remember, this is a place of worship and respect for a Goddess who provides fertility—not only to the earth, but she can offer fertility in all aspects of life: in health, for it to flourish within you; in work, so you never lack it; in love, for it to forge strong and lasting roots. Entrust yourself to the Moon Goddess with devotion and respect, and make your best wishes!
- This is a magnificent place, and if you visit during the autumn season, you can enjoy a picnic around the area and take in the view of the temple, the radiant sun, and the vistas not only offered by the temple itself but also by the surrounding areas. So, bring your snacks and enjoy a warm yet cool day in the company of nature!
- If you’re an adventurer who doesn’t enjoy walks because they can be exhausting, you can visit this place on horseback. The experience won’t change much, but you must be careful of where you go—remember, horses are not all-terrain vehicles!
3. How to get to the Temple of the Moon in Cusco? Where is it?
By Taxi or Public Transportation (Bus):
- If you’re in the city of Cusco, getting to this place by taxi will take approximately 15 minutes. Pay a maximum of 15 Soles or 5 USD!.
- If you don’t want to pay for a taxi, you can take a public bus from the main door of Colegio Rosario in the historic centre of Cusco. The public transport company you need to take is called “Cristo Blanco.” Pay 1 sol, get off at the Qenqo bus stop (20 minutes), and from there, you can walk to the Temple of the Moon (10 minutes). You’ll find many people along the route (around 10:00 AM), so don’t worry.
- On your way back, you can take a bus again at the Qenqo bus stop and get off at the same stop where you started this journey, or any other stop near the historic centre.
By foot:
If you are in the Historic Centre of Cusco, walking to the Temple of the Moon will take you between 40 minutes to 1 hour. To start your journey, head to Atoj Saykuchij Street (don’t confuse it), which is located in the San Blas district. The first thing you’ll notice is that the slope is quite steep. You should keep going uphill towards the mountain, and if you follow the paths correctly, you’ll reach an asphalted road where you will see the statue of Cristo Blanco. Start walking along the paved road towards Qenqo, and once you arrive at Qenqo, continue walking through the potato fields until you reach the Temple of the Moon.
4. What are the opening hours?
Every day from 6:00 hours to 17:00 hours.
5. What is the price?
The Temple of the Moon is not part of the “Tourist Ticket” therefore visiting this place is completely Free.
6. Where can I find a Tour Guide Service for this place?
If you want to take a walking tour to this place, you can contact us. In addition to the quality with which we provide service to our dear visitors, we offer wonderful experiences!
7. Important recommendations
- Visit the Temple of the Moon during the day (preferably in the mornings). If you’re in the city of Cusco, you should head to the Temple of the Moon no later than 9:00 AM. The earlier, the better, as the sun won’t be too intense, but still warm.
- Always wear warm clothes, don’t forget! The weather in Cusco is very changeable!
- Bring some coins with you (in case you want to buy a souvenir), water, hats or caps, and a good camera!
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