Alternatives to Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu

Why is Circuit 2 the favorite way to visit Machu Picchu?

On Circuit 2, you will be able to explore the interior of the Inca citadel, which makes it one of the most requested and visited options by tourists, and that is why tickets sell out very quickly.  This circuit is divided into 2 routes that are very similar and allow you to enjoy a complete tour of Machu Picchu, in addition to the classic postcard photo.

Although you will get the classic postcard photo, this route will not allow you to tour the Guardhouse sector, only a brief stop to capture the moment. However, you will be able to visit most of the temples located in the urban sector. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Best alternatives when Circuit 2 tickets are sold out

Machu Picchu admission includes 10 visiting routes; however, this one often sells out even 3 months in advance. If for any reason you were not able to get this entry ticket, here are other options so you do not miss the opportunity to visit the Inca citadel.

Explore the interior of Machu Picchu (Circuit 3)

On Circuit 3, you will be able to visit the interior of the Inca citadel; however, it does not allow you to get the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. This circuit is divided into 4 sub-routes that allow you to visit places beyond Machu Picchu itself.

• Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain Route, with this ticket, you will visit the Inca city and also hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route, this ticket allows you to visit only the interior of Machu Picchu without adding any other route.
• Route 3-C: Great Cavern, this ticket allows you to visit the Temple of the Moon, located in the middle of Huayna Picchu Mountain. It is open only during high season. 
• Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Mountain, this ticket allows you to reach the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain. It is open only during high season.

Main differences

Panoramic photo of Machu Picchu (Circuit 1)

Circuit 1 is the route that allows you to tour the Guardhouse sector and get the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. The circuit is divided into 4 sub-routes that allow you to visit other points outside the Inca citadel. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes.

• Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route, with this ticket, you will visit the Inca city and also hike to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain.
• Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route, this ticket allows you to visit only the Guardhouse sector and take the postcard photo of Machu Picchu.
• Route 1-C: Intipunku Gateway Route, this ticket allows you to visit the Intipunku Gateway, the only entrance to Machu Picchu during Inca times, and it is only available during high season. 
• Route 1-D: Inca Bridge Route, this ticket allows you to reach the Inca Bridge, a construction that connects Machu Picchu with the high jungle, and it is only available during high season.

Main differences

We know that planning your trip and choosing the best circuit can be complicated, which is why at CuscoPeru.com we take care of everything. All our tours include entrance tickets as well as train and bus tickets to get to Machu Picchu. We advise and assist you so you can enjoy your visit to Machu Picchu without complications. Book now!