How long can you stay in Machu Picchu?

The entry regulations for Machu Picchu changed in 2017. In the past, visitors could enter the Inca citadel at 6:00 a.m. and remain there until sunset at 5:00 p.m., but this caused crowds during the morning hours, as well as pushing and disorder during departure times in the afternoon.

For this and other reasons, in that same year (2017), UNESCO threatened to include Machu Picchu on the List of World Heritage in Danger, which triggered an immediate response from the Peruvian government, which introduced new restrictions and measures to prevent the deterioration of this world heritage site.

In 2024, more routes were added to reduce the impact of visitors on Machu Picchu, so that today there are 10 types of tickets available for purchase:

• Entry ticket for Circuit 1 - Machu Picchu Mountain Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 1 - Upper Terrace Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 1 - Intipunku Gate Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 1 - Inca Bridge Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 2 - Designed Classic Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 2 - Lower Terrace Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 3 - Huayna Picchu Mountain Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 3 - Designed Royalty Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 3 - Great Cavern Route.
• Entry ticket for Circuit 3 - Huchuy Picchu Route.

The entry ticket to the citadel or llaqta offers 3 circuits to choose from:

• Circuit 1: It is the shortest and lasts from 40 minutes to 1 hour. You can get the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu, but you cannot enter the interior of Machu Picchu.
• Circuit 2: You can explore most of Machu Picchu and visit its most famous sites in approximately 3 hours, as well as get a photo similar to the classic postcard picture.
• Circuit 3: You can explore the lower part of Machu Picchu and visit less steep areas, with an approximate duration of 2 hours.

Please note that entry to the circuits in Machu Picchu, within the llaqta, must be accompanied by an official tour guide and is mandatory.

How long can I stay in the Machu Picchu citadel?

Due to the new regulations, there is now a maximum of 5,600 tickets available per day, divided among 3 circuits. Each circuit allows visitors to remain in the citadel for up to 3 hours; however, the time usually varies depending on the ticket and route selected. Below is the detailed information:

Entry ticket with Circuit 1

With this ticket, you are allowed to remain in the Inca citadel for 1 hour from your entry time. However, the time of stay increases depending on the selected route.

Entry ticket with Circuit 2

With this ticket, you are allowed to remain in the Inca citadel for 3 hours from your entry time. However, the time of stay increases depending on the selected route.

Entry ticket with Circuit 3

With this ticket, you are allowed to remain in the Inca citadel for 2 hours from your entry time. However, the time of stay increases depending on the selected route.

Recommendations

• When entering the Machu Picchu Archaeological Park, always carry your passport or ID card, as well as your Machu Picchu ticket.
• Keep in mind that Machu Picchu has a subtropical climate, so bringing mosquito repellent, a good wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated would be a great idea.
• It is forbidden to enter the sanctuary with selfie sticks, animals, high-heeled shoes, food, alcoholic beverages, and other prohibited items.
• Plan your time well; if you are thinking of visiting museums or other tourist attractions, make sure to organize your schedule and enter the different places on time.
• Wear appropriate and lightweight clothing depending on the season in which you visit Machu Picchu; it is essential to wear hiking shoes to avoid falls and make the walk more comfortable.