FAQ
Marcahuasi FAQ
Find direct answers to common logistical questions before you travel to San Pedro de Casta and the plateau.
Where is Marcahuasi located?
Marcahuasi is located roughly 80 kilometers east of Lima in the Huarochirí Province of Peru. It sits high in the Andes mountains above the base town of San Pedro de Casta.
How do you get to Marcahuasi from Lima?
You can take a public colectivo to Chosica, then board a local minibus to San Pedro de Casta. This takes about 4 hours total. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour with private transport. See Tickets for options.
What is the altitude of Marcahuasi?
The Marcahuasi plateau sits at an elevation of approximately 4,000 meters (13,100 feet) above sea level. The base town of San Pedro de Casta is at 3,180 meters.
Is Marcahuasi safe to visit?
Yes, but you must prepare for extreme high altitude and freezing night temperatures. Acclimate properly to avoid altitude sickness and bring adequate winter gear if you plan to camp.
How much does it cost to enter Marcahuasi?
The official entrance fee is 20 Peruvian Soles for foreigners. Peruvian adults pay 10 Soles, and minors or students pay 5 Soles. This fee includes camping access.
Can you do a day trip to Marcahuasi from Lima?
Yes. Several operators offer 10 to 14-hour full-day trips from Lima. However, it is a very long day of driving and high-altitude hiking. Check Tours vs. DIY to weigh the pros and cons.
How hard is the Marcahuasi hike?
The hike takes 2 to 4 hours. The difficulty is moderate to high depending on your fitness and altitude acclimatization. The 'Long Trail' is gradual, while the 'Short Trail' is steep.
What are the famous rock formations in Marcahuasi?
The plateau features towering granite shapes eroded by weather. The most famous is the Monument to Humanity, which reaches over 20 meters high and resembles human profiles.
How cold does it get at Marcahuasi at night?
Nighttime temperatures on the plateau frequently drop well below freezing (0°C). If you camp, you need a sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C. Read Essential Camping Gear for gear advice.
Who built the monuments at Marcahuasi?
The massive rock sculptures were carved over millennia by natural erosion, not by humans. However, the plateau does contain ancient pre-Columbian funerary tombs (chullpas) built by early Andean civilizations.
When is the best time to visit Marcahuasi?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. During these months, the skies are clear for stargazing and the trails are less slippery.
Can I rent horses or donkeys for the Marcahuasi trek?
Yes. Visitors can rent horses or donkeys in San Pedro de Casta to carry gear up the trail. This typically costs between 15 and 20 Soles.