Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic destinations, is on the bucket list of travelers worldwide. Starting from June 1, 2024, Peru’s Ministry of Culture has introduced a new system for visiting this world-renowned archaeological site. These changes aim to enhance the visitor experience by reducing overcrowding while ensuring the conservation of Machu Picchu’s cultural and historical heritage.
If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu in 2024 or later, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about ticket purchases, the new entry routes, visiting regulations, and essential tips to make the most of your visit.
In an effort to manage the high volume of tourists visiting Machu Picchu each year, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture has introduced a new entry system. As of June 1, 2024, Machu Picchu has been divided into three main circuits, with ten sub-circuits or routes. These circuits are designed to control foot traffic and ensure that visitors don’t overcrowd certain areas of the site.
The new system also aims to protect Machu Picchu from the wear and tear caused by the large number of visitors walking its ancient paths each day. This strategic approach balances visitor enjoyment with the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Below, we explore the three main circuits of Machu Picchu in detail, along with their sub-circuits, also known as “Route”.
| Circuit | Route |
|---|---|
| Circuit 1: Panoramic | Route 1-B: Upper Terrace |
| Route 1-C: Intipunku Gateway | |
| Route 1-D: Inka Bridge | |
| Circuit 2: Classic Circuit | Route 2-A: Classic Designed |
| Route 2-B: Lower Terrace | |
| Circuit 3: Machupicchu Royalty | Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain |
| Route 3-B: Royalty Designed | |
| Route 3-C: Great Cavern | |
| Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu |
Each of these circuits opens every hour, accommodating a limited number of 150 visitors and/or tickets from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Each circuit offers a unique experience, and your choice will shape your visit.
Circuit 1 is the route that takes visitors to the highest points of Machu Picchu. This circuit is ideal for those seeking breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It also provides a panoramic perspective of the Inca citadel. Circuit 1 leads through the upper agricultural terraces, where you can walk along the ancient Inca path and enjoy some of the best photo opportunities with multiple angles of Machu Picchu, thanks to its various sub-circuits marked as specific routes.
Known as Machu Picchu Mountain, this route allows you to ascend to its summit, offering stunning views, including the Salkantay Mountain, which was considered a deity in pre-Hispanic times. From this vantage point, you’ll have the chance to capture the most panoramic photo of the wonder of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba Valley. If you enjoy hiking, you can complete this route in approximately 4 hours, including the round-trip journey. It’s available only at two times: 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, with a limit of 150 visitors per slot.
This is one of the shorter routes, featuring the upper terrace and the set of terraces before reaching the Inca Bridge. From these points, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu, encompassing the entire cultural landscape and the winding path of the Vilcanota River. This route is ideal for those seeking the classic panoramic photos of the site, as well as adventurers arriving via the Inca Trail. The ascent will take you between 15 and 20 minutes on foot.
Known as the Sun Gate or Intipunku, this route takes you to this iconic access point, which in its time was the final part of the ancient Inca Trail, likely originating from Cusco. From here, you can enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the Machu Picchu Citadel and its surroundings. The round trip will take you approximately 2 hours. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to capture iconic photos from the upper part of the route, on the upper terraces, with spectacular views of the citadel.
Circuit 2, commonly known as the “Classic Circuit,” offers you the opportunity to explore the most emblematic and central areas of Machu Picchu. This circuit is divided into two subcircuits called “Routes,” covering the most important buildings and temples of the urban area, in addition to taking you to viewpoints with breathtaking views of the citadel.
Throughout the journey, you will discover both the agricultural and urban sectors, visiting iconic sites such as the Citadel Overlook, the quarries, the Temple of the Sun, the Botanical Garden, the Sacred Plaza, the Main Temple, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, the Hall of Mirrors, or the Temple of the Condor. While both subcircuits present slight differences, they essentially cover the same route with minimal variations, allowing visitors to choose freely between them, as there are currently no specific restrictions.
Due to the high demand for this circuit, we recommend purchasing your Machu Picchu ticket in advance to secure your entry and experience an unforgettable visit.
Circuit 3 is subdivided into four routes. This circuit enters through the lower part of the citadel, specifically through the agricultural area, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. During the visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the most sacred and important spaces occupied by the Inca royalty, including the water fountains, the Inca Mausoleum, the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, and the Three Doorways. At the end of the route, you can choose between visiting the Hall of Mirrors or the Temple of the Condor. This experience is available on all routes of the circuit.
The Huayna Picchu Mountain route includes exploring the lower part of the Machu Picchu citadel, where some of the most sacred spaces are located. Additionally, it offers the opportunity to hike the imposing mountain that rises behind the Inca site. This adventure to Huayna Picchu is challenging but highly rewarding, as it provides spectacular views of the valley and ruins. Due to its popularity, we recommend booking tickets in advance. The route is available only at two times: 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., with a limit of 150 visitors per shift.
This route is perfect for those seeking a shorter walk, especially if traveling with small children or elderly individuals. This route is also ideal for adventurers from the Inca Trail. Through this option, you can explore the sacred places in the lower part of the city, entering through the agricultural area, which offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu. During the tour, you will visit the sacred water fountains, the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, and the Three Windows. Additionally, near the end of the route, you can choose to visit either the Hall of Mirrors or the Temple of the Condor.
This route takes you through the lower part of the Machu Picchu citadel and offers the opportunity to visit a lesser-known but highly significant archaeological site for the Incas: the Great Cave, also known as the Temple of the Moon. This mysterious structure is located within the Huayna Picchu mountain. The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours and is highly recommended for adventure lovers. This route is available only at two times: 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., with a limit of 150 visitors per shift.
Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu
On this Royalty route, you will explore the most important and sacred temples of the Inca culture, known as the Huchuy Picchu route. The journey begins in the agricultural sector and continues to the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, the ceremonial fountains, and the Doorway sector. From there, the path leads to the entrance of Huchuy Picchu mountain. After a light hike, you’ll reach the summit, where you can enjoy impressive views of the citadel and admire the beautiful cultural landscape surrounding it. On the way back, you will also have the chance to visit the Temple of the Condor.
This route is available only at two times: 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., with a limit of 150 visitors per time slot.
You can purchase Machu Picchu tickets from anywhere in the world through the official website https://tuboleto.cultura.pe or through authorized travel agencies like Allyn Pacha Peru Tours. Alternatively, tickets can also be purchased in person at the Ministry of Culture office in Cusco, located at Calle Heladeros N°165.
If tickets are sold out, as a last resort, you can buy last-minute tickets, which are released the day before and sold in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
It is crucial to book in advance, especially during the high tourist seasons (May to September), as tickets tend to sell out quickly.
Ticket prices for Machu Picchu vary depending on the type of ticket and whether the visitor is a Peruvian citizen or an international tourist. As of 2024, the updated prices are as follows:
| Category | Price (S/. Soles) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Adult Tourist | S/. 152 | $45 |
| Foreign Child/Student Tourist | S/. 64 | $22 |
| National Resident Tourist | S/. 64 | $22 |
| Andean Community Tourists | S/. 64 | $22 |
| Category | Price (S/. Soles) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Adult Tourist | S/. 200 | $53 |
| Foreign Child/Student Tourist | S/. 112 | $31 |
| National Resident Tourist | S/. 112 | $31 |
| Andean Community Tourists | S/. 112 | $31 |
| Category | Price (S/. Soles) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Adult Tourist | S/. 200 | $53 |
| Foreign Child/Student Tourist | S/. 112 | $31 |
| National Resident Tourist | S/. 112 | $31 |
| Andean Community Tourists | S/. 112 | $31 |
| Category | Price (S/. Soles) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Adult Tourist | S/. 200 | $53 |
| Foreign Child/Student Tourist | S/. 112 | $31 |
| National Resident Tourist | S/. 112 | $31 |
| Andean Community Tourists | S/. 112 | $31 |
Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information on prices and availability.
Visiting Machu Picchu involves more than just purchasing a ticket. It is essential to have all necessary documents and comply with established regulations to ensure a smooth entry.
Entrance Ticket: This can be in printed or digital format, but it must be registered in your name.
Valid ID or Passport: The name on your ticket must exactly match your official document.
Machu Picchu is located near the charming town of Aguas Calientes, commonly known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Most visitors reach this destination by taking the scenic train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, while others opt for the adventure of the Inca Trail or the hydroelectric route. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you have several options to continue your journey:
Consettur Bus: Enjoy a comfortable ride of about 30 minutes that will take you from the town to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This service is ideal for those who want to save energy to explore the famous archaeological site.
Hiking: If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, you can choose to hike for approximately 2 hours to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This option not only offers spectacular views but also allows you to enjoy the natural surroundings of the area.
Be sure to plan your trip in advance and follow all necessary recommendations to enjoy a smooth experience at Machu Picchu. Remember that purchasing your Machu Picchu ticket in advance is essential to guarantee your entry to the site and make the most of your visit.
