Machu Picchu is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, and it receives thousands of visitors every year. For 2026, the approximate cost is estimated at 300 USD, but this always varies and depends on the type of tour, the circuit, and the transportation used.
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Since June 2024, with the update of the circuits and routes for differentiated experiences, the cost of entrance tickets varies depending on the selected circuit.
To enter Machu Picchu, you must choose the circuit you wish to visit. Below, we present the tickets most requested by our visitors and the main characteristics of each one:
| Circuit | Official Name | Ticket/Main Experience | Views of the Classic Photo |
| Circuit 1 | Panoramic | Mountain, Inti Punku, Inca Bridge. | YES (From the upper viewpoint) |
| Circuit 2 | Classic or Integral | Machu Picchu Only. | YES (A broader tour of the citadel) |
| Circuit 3 | Royalty | Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, Great Cavern. | NO (Focused on the Lower Sector and the mountain) |
If you are traveling with children under 17 or if you are an undergraduate university student, you may request a discount.
Not only children have reduced fares, but also students over 17 who present a valid student ID card.
To avoid problems, it is best to buy tickets on the official Peruvian government website.
If you prefer a worry-free experience, you can purchase your tour + ticket directly with CuscoPeru.com.
The cost of transportation varies because three different types of transport are used: a tourist bus that goes from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, the train that arrives in Aguas Calientes, and the bus that goes to the gate of Machu Picchu.
There are two main companies that operate to Machu Picchu: PeruRail and Inca Rail, each with different service categories.
| Service | Description |
| PeruRail Expedition | Standard service with spacious seats and large windows to enjoy the scenery, accompanied by ambient music. Ideal for those looking for an affordable option. |
| PeruRail Vistadome | Panoramic service with large windows to appreciate the Andean landscape. Includes comfortable seats, a courtesy snack, and cultural demonstrations. Perfect for a relaxing experience. |
| Vistadome Observatory | Its cars are surrounded by glass, with wide panoramic windows that not only offer unmatched views of the journey, but are also ideal for capturing spectacular photographs and fully enjoying the landscape throughout the trip. |
| Hiram Bingham (Belmond) | Luxury train with a traditional dance show before boarding, observation car, gourmet lunch, and drinks. An exclusive experience for your trip to Machu Picchu. |
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| The Voyager | Standard service with comfortable seats, ideal for travelers looking for an affordable option without luxuries. |
| The 360° | Panoramic service with an open-air observation car, courtesy snack, drinks, and live music. It offers great views of the Cusco jungle. |
| The First Class | Elegant atmosphere with a lounge/bar car, a three-course gourmet menu, drinks, live music, and a Kero ceremony. An exclusive experience. |
| The Private | Designed for passengers seeking privacy, luxury, and maximum comfort. With capacity for only 8 people, it features a finely decorated lounge, where its wide panoramic windows stand out, allowing full appreciation of the landscapes along the entire route. |
The local train from Cusco is a special train for Peruvians and residents of the city of Cusco and other regions. This is an ideal affordable alternative for local residents who need to travel frequently; this train does not carry tourists and also does not include music, guides, or anything extra, as it is a basic service.
It is the only authorized transport from the town of Aguas Calientes to the entrance gate of the citadel. Buses operate continuously throughout the day.
It consists of traveling by bus from Cusco to Santa Teresa and continuing toward Hydroelectric, then walking around 3 hours to Aguas Calientes. It is a very affordable option, but longer and more demanding.
The Inca Trail is an adventurous route in which different archaeological centers that few people visit are explored, thus ending your visit in Machu Picchu. This trek lasts 4 days, while the short version lasts 2 days.
The Salkantay trek is a long hike where snowy peaks and impressive lagoons can be seen; this route has an approximate duration of 5 days.
The best option for staying is the city of Cusco, due to its connectivity and variety of services.
Prices depend on the type of accommodation chosen. There are also options near Machu Picchu:
| Category | Description |
| Hotels in Aguas Calientes (Budget) | Supertramp Hostel Machupicchu: ideal hostel for young travelers and backpackers. Shared rooms, social atmosphere, affordable, and fun. |
| Hotels in Aguas Calientes (Mid-range) | Tierra Viva Machu Picchu: comfortable hotel, well located, and with affordable rates. Ideal for those seeking comfort without paying too much. |
| Hotels in Aguas Calientes (Luxury) | Belmond Sanctuary Lodge: the hotel closest to the entrance of Machu Picchu, an exclusive and absolute luxury option. Inkaterra: elegant, surrounded by nature, with Andean décor and premium service. More accessible luxury. |
| Accommodation in Ollantaytambo | SAUCE Hotel Boutique: excellent location, quiet atmosphere, ideal for resting before the train. Qorisonqo Inn: affordable hostel with a simple design; perfect for backpackers. |
| Accommodation in Cusco (Budget) | The best area to stay is the historic center: access to restaurants, tours, transportation, and options for all budgets. |
Food costs vary according to location; in Aguas Calientes, prices are higher than in the city of Cusco.
In Aguas Calientes you will find a wide variety of restaurants for different budgets.
Some recommended options are:
Indio Feliz with good food at a good price; Cala Trattoria, a more elegant atmosphere with a variety of dishes; and finally, Tampu Restaurant for special occasions and more elaborate dining options.
Guides are highly recommended for those visiting Machu Picchu for the first time, as they allow a better understanding of Inca history.
It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended in order to enjoy a more immersive experience and discover everything about Inca history.
The cost of private guides ranges from 40 to 60 USD, and guides who work with groups charge from 20 to 40 USD.
| Type of Budget | Description | Total Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Backpacker / Budget | For travelers who want to spend as little as possible: budget hostels in the city of Cusco, cheap set meals, Expedition train, or group tours. | US$ 200 – 280 (2–3 days) |
| Mid-range Budget | For those who want comfort without luxuries: 2- to 3-star hotels, affordable restaurants, Vistadome or 360° train, and an affordable private guide. | US$ 380 – 550 (2–3 days) |
| Premium / Luxury | For travelers seeking exclusive services: 4- to 5-star hotels, First Class or Hiram Bingham train, specialized guide, and gourmet dining. | US$ 900 – 1,800+ (2–3 days) |
The price difference is usually not very large. Therefore, we recommend traveling with a specialized agency to avoid complications.
With CuscoPeru.com, you can access options that fit your budget and enjoy a more organized and safe experience.
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