The Tourist Ticket for Machu Picchu is mandatory for your visit to the Inca citadel. Learn about the importance of this pass for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
The tourist ticket for Machu Picchu is an official document that allows access to the Archaeological Park of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders of the world. The Unconcerted Directorate of Culture of Cusco is the institution in charge of the administration and sale of the ticket for Machu Picchu.
There are 5 different tickets to Machu Picchu, each offering a distinct visit of the Inca citadel. Here we present what they are and their main differences.
Important: Each ticket is unique and non-transferable, so it is important to correctly enter the name, surnames, and document number of each visitor.
Machu Picchu Only
The visit to Machu Picchu is included in all offered circuits, but it varies according to the chosen circuit, with circuit 2 being the most comprehensive and preferred by visitors.
Consider booking your ticket in advance as they tend to sell out quickly due to Machu Picchu's popularity.
General information
Entry time: Entry times are every hour, from 06:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m., as you will need to select a specific time when purchasing the ticket to avoid inconveniences.
Duration of visit: On average, the visit lasts 3 hours.
Restrictions: The Machu Picchu only tickets do not have any type of restriction.
Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu
This entry ticket is the most popular among visitors, included with circuit 4 and is usually the first to sell out due to its incredible demand.
General information
Entry time: There are 4 entry times, from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Duration of visit: On average, the visit lasts 5 hours, including the ascent and descent of the mountain.
Number of visitors: 200 visitors per day (50 people per time slot)
Restrictions: This ticket is only available for those over 12 years old.
Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain
Circuit 3 is the only one that offers the option to visit the Inca citadel and climb Machu Picchu Mountain.
General information
Entry time: There are 2 entry times, at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
Duration of visit: On average, the visit lasts 4 hours, including the ascent and descent of the mountain.
Number of visitors: 400 visitors per day (200 people per time slot)
Restrictions: This ticket does not have any restrictions.
Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge
Access is possible with the circuit 1 or circuit 2 ticket, selecting the option of the Inca Bridge.
General information
Entry time: Entry times are from 07:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m.
Duration of visit: On average, the visit lasts 3 hours.
Restrictions: This ticket does not have any restrictions.
Depending on the ticket you choose, you can have a different view of Machu Picchu
How to Buy the Ticket for Machu Picchu?
The tourist tickets for Machu Picchu can be purchased online and in person only in Machu Picchu Town.
Online Ticket Purchase
You must log in to the Joinnus page, (https://www.joinnus.com), indicate the date of your visit to Machu Picchu, the time you will enter (keep in mind your train schedules), provide your personal details, and follow all the steps indicated until completing the payment.
In-Person Purchase
The acquisition of entry tickets is upon presentation of the Passport and/or National Identity Document.
Authorized Offices
Tickets can be acquired in Machu Picchu Town at the Machu Picchu Town Cultural Center office, from 03:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. every day. These tickets are for entry the day after purchase.
Payment Methods for Machu Picchu Tickets
Payments through the official page on https://www.joinnus.com can be made with: VISA, MASTERCARD, DINERS, and AMEX.
In person at the specified offices, payment can be made in cash and/or with VISA, MASTERCARD, DINERS, and AMEX cards.
Discounts on Machu Picchu Tickets
Minors aged between 3 to 17 years with a Passport and/or National Identity Document (DNI) original and valid.
Members of the Andean Community only: BOLIVIA, COLOMBIA, & ECUADOR.
Students up to 25 years old:
Peruvians must present a card issued by SUNEDU-MINEDU
Foreigners must present a card issued by their country's University.
Indispensable requirements:
University name
Student's name
Valid date printed
How Far in Advance Should I Buy My Machu Picchu Ticket?
Machu Picchu tickets sell out quickly, especially during the high season, so it's important to purchase them in advance to ensure you get the desired date and time.
It is recommended to buy tickets at least 4 weeks in advance, and if you plan to visit Machu Picchu during June, July, August, and September, it is recommended to book at least 3 months in advance.
Regulations 2024
With the aim of preserving the archaeological park of Machu Picchu and making visits more orderly, new regulations that took effect from January 1, 2019, have been implemented. Here we mention the most important ones:
09 entry shifts have been created (6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00).
The visitor's stay in Machu Picchu will be a maximum of three (3) hours from their entry until their exit, except for entries that combine with the alternative routes of Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain.
Failure to comply with the stay time results in the immediate removal of the visitors.
The valid documents for FOREIGN VISITORS are: passport, foreigner's card, or diplomatic ID.
FOREIGN STUDENTS up to undergraduate level must identify themselves with their original valid student card and their passport with the respective visa granted by the consulate, Embassy of Peru, or the National Superintendency of Migrations.
The valid document for PERUVIAN VISITORS is the original DNI
PERUVIAN STUDENTS up to undergraduate level, must present their valid card issued by SUNEDU or by the Ministry of Education.
VISITORS FROM THE ANDINEAN COMMUNITY (CAN) will pay the same rate as Peruvians and must present their original ID card or document.
TOUR GUIDES can enter the citadel with a maximum of sixteen (16) visitors per group, and must carry an identification flag at all times.
Remember that Machu Picchu is a World Wonder, an iconic place visited by many, so it's important to respect the site and follow the rules and regulations established to preserve its beauty and authenticity.
Enjoy your visit to this historical wonder!
What You Need to Know to Visit Machu Picchu
To enter the citadel, you must present your ticket and identification document. The stay time is a maximum of three hours and re-entry is not allowed.
You have 4 circuit options for the tour; however, the circuit N° 2 is the most comprehensive and ascends to the “Guardian's House” from where the classic postcards of Machu Picchu are taken.
You cannot carry and/or consume alcoholic beverages inside the Archaeological Park of Machu Picchu.
You must not climb on walls and other constructions of the Inca City.
Do not make inscriptions on floors, walls, stones, etc., under penalty of sanction.
Do not take samples of lithic material and/or plants or flowers
Do not throw solid and/or liquid waste.
Do not carry backpacks with a capacity greater than 20 kg.
Do not bring filming or professional photography equipment for commercial purposes without the proper permission and authorization from the Regional Directorate of Culture of Cusco.
Do not feed the wildlife.
Circuit 1, 2, and 3 include the classic photo of Machu Picchu
Tips and Recommendations for Buying Your Tourist Ticket to Machu Picchu
Buying a ticket to Machu Picchu can be an exciting and memorable experience. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you through the process:
Plan ahead: Machu Picchu is a very popular destination and tickets sell out quickly, especially during the high season. Therefore, it's advisable to plan your visit several months in advance to ensure you get a ticket.
Purchase your ticket online: The most convenient way to acquire your ticket is through the Joinnus website (https://www.joinnus.com). This website will allow you to select the date and visiting shift you desire, as well as make the payment securely.
Buy your ticket online: The most convenient way to purchase your ticket is through the Joinnus website (https://www.joinnus.com). This website allows you to select the date and visit time slot you desire, as well as make the payment securely.="https:>
Choose the right type of ticket: There are 4 types of circuits available for Machu Picchu, varying in terms of the duration of the visit and the places you can explore. Make sure to select the type of ticket that suits your preferences and needs.
Check availability: Before making a purchase, make sure to check the availability of tickets for the date and time slot you want. Some dates, especially during the high season, might be sold out.
Consider hiring a guide: Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience at Machu Picchu. Guides are familiar with the history and cultural aspects of the site and can provide additional information and interesting insights.
Learn about regulations and recommendations: Before your visit, familiarize yourself with the current regulations and recommendations for Machu Picchu. This may include entry restrictions, security measures, etc.
Prepare physically: Machu Picchu is located at a high elevation, and exploring the site involves walking and climbing stairs. Make sure you're physically prepared for the visit, especially if you plan to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Wearing comfortable footwear and appropriate clothing is also crucial.
Confirm your transportation: Before selecting the date and visit time slot to Machu Picchu, confirm your transportation method, train, and bus schedules to arrive at Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes), and account for the bus transfer time from Aguas Calientes to the entry point (Consetur Bus) since tickets can only be used at the selected time.
Keep in mind that the weather in Machu Picchu is unpredictable as it is located in a mountainous region. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, rain, and possible slippery conditions. Bring a waterproof jacket and some warm clothing, even if you visit during the warmer months.
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