Devil’s Balcony
A scenic hike from Cusco leading to impressive rock formations, caves, and panoramic canyon views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Devil’s Balcony
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic hike from Cusco leading to impressive rock formations, caves, and panoramic canyon views.
"A great day trek from Cusco with beautiful scenery and an impressive natural rock formation."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike is about 2 hours each way, so sturdy walking shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
A vendor with snacks is midway, but it's wise to carry your own. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Balcón del Diablo Rock Formation
Cusco, Peru
An impressive natural rock outcropping with caves and breathtaking canyon views.

Scenic Inca Trail Hike
Cusco, Peru
A peaceful and picturesque 2-hour trek through varied Andean landscapes.

Wildlife Encounters
Cusco, Peru
Keep an eye out for alpacas and other local wildlife along the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Trek to Devil's Balcony
Getting to Devil's Balcony
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike is about 2 hours each way, so sturdy walking shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
A vendor with snacks is midway, but it's wise to carry your own. :water_wave:
Start Early
To enjoy the peaceful scenery and avoid the midday sun, begin your trek in the morning. :sunrise:
Respect the Environment
Please do not litter and help keep this serene location clean. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike is about 2 hours each way, so sturdy walking shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
A vendor with snacks is midway, but it's wise to carry your own. :water_wave:
Start Early
To enjoy the peaceful scenery and avoid the midday sun, begin your trek in the morning. :sunrise:
Respect the Environment
Please do not litter and help keep this serene location clean. :evergreen_tree:
Local Transport Tips
Take a bus or taxi from Cusco to Saksaywaman, then follow signs for Balcón del Diablo. :bus:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Devil's Balcony as a rewarding day trek from Cusco, highlighting its beautiful, varied scenery and the impressive natural rock formations. The peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere and the chance to see alpacas are frequently mentioned positives. Some note the walk can be a bit long, but the overall consensus is that it's well worth the effort for the stunning views and serene experience.
"A great day trek from Cusco — about 2 hours’ walk each way through beautiful, varied scenery. The route is peaceful and picturesque, and the Balcón del Diablo itself is an impressive natural rock formation with stunning views. Well worth the effort!"
Tom Zglobicki
"A beautiful quiet walk with amazing views and alpacas welcoming you on the road. Arrive by public bus or taxi from cusco center to Saksaywaman , and walk around it towards the parking, ask anyone there they will guide you. It is 20min in main road walking uphill, then you can see the sign for balcon de diablo and u walk through the mountain until you reach the spot about 40 min. Very easy hike."
Jess
"Its an ok walk from Cusco. Its along an Inca path which is interesting and recently well maintained."
Suriyan Ramasami
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a public bus or taxi from Cusco's center to Saksaywaman. From there, walk uphill towards the parking area and look for the sign for Balcón del Diablo. The hike takes about 40 minutes from that point.
Yes, once you reach the Saksaywaman area, locals can guide you, and there are signs pointing towards the Balcón del Diablo. The path is generally well-maintained.
Some visitors opt for a quad bike tour, which can shorten the travel time and add an adventurous element to reaching the spot.
Combining public transport to Saksaywaman with the hike is a popular and cost-effective method. Quad tours offer a faster alternative.
While you can get close by taxi or quad, the final approach to the rock formation involves a hike, making it primarily a walking destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting Devil's Balcony is generally free, making it an accessible natural attraction.
As a natural site, there are no official opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The hike to Devil's Balcony is free of charge.
The main recommendation is to avoid littering and respect the natural environment.
While accessible, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find impressive natural rock formations, caves, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding canyon and landscape.
The walk from Saksaywaman to the Balcón del Diablo typically takes about 40 minutes, with the total round trip from Cusco being around 2 hours of walking.
The hike is considered easy to moderate, with a well-maintained Inca path. It's suitable for most fitness levels.
There's a vendor midway along the hike selling snacks, beverages, and souvenirs.
You might encounter alpacas along the route, adding a charming element to your trek.
📸 📸 Photography
The rock formations themselves offer dramatic shots, and the panoramic views of the canyon are perfect for landscape photography.
Absolutely! The sweeping views of the canyon and the unique rock formations provide excellent opportunities for landscape shots.
Yes, alpacas are often seen along the trail and are a popular subject for photos. Remember to be respectful of the animals.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting for dramatic shots.
The main rock outcropping itself is the primary viewpoint, offering expansive vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Devil's Balcony
While the exact origins of the legends are varied, they often involve supernatural encounters and the powerful forces of the Andes. Some tales suggest it was a sacred site for the Incas, used for ceremonies connecting the earthly realm with the spiritual world. The dramatic rock formations and the deep canyon below contribute to the dramatic narratives surrounding the site, making it a captivating destination for those interested in local mythology.
Exploring the caves within the Balcón del Diablo can feel like uncovering ancient secrets. The combination of natural beauty and intriguing legends makes this a unique experience, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Cusco region. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur meets the whispers of the past.
Navigating the Hike to Devil's Balcony
Starting from Cusco, the most common route involves taking a public bus or taxi to Saksaywaman. From there, you'll walk uphill towards the parking area, where you can ask for directions to the Balcón del Diablo sign. The final 40-minute walk through the mountains leads you to the impressive rock formation. Some visitors have also opted for quad bike tours, which can cover the distance more quickly and add an element of adventure.
Along the way, you might encounter a vendor selling snacks and souvenirs, so it's a good idea to bring some local currency (soles). The experience is often described as serene and uncrowded, allowing for a more personal connection with the natural surroundings. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water to ensure a pleasant and safe hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit