Machu Picchu Entry Tickets

The Machu Picchu tourist ticket is the official and mandatory document that allows access to the Machu Picchu archaeological park, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Cusco is the institution responsible for administering and selling Machu Picchu entrance tickets. Learn about the importance of this ticket for your visit to Machu Picchu.

Which Machu Picchu ticket should you choose?

Ready to visit Machu Picchu?

Choosing the right route depends on the experience you want to have. At CuscoPeru.com, we can help you choose the option that best suits your trip, including the services you need so you can enjoy your visit without worrying about the organization.

Machu Picchu Tickets 2026

There are 10 different Machu Picchu tickets, each offering a different way to visit the Inca citadel, as well as alternative routes outside Machu Picchu. Here we explain what they are and their main differences.

Important: Each tourist ticket is unique and non-transferable, so it is essential to enter each visitor's name, surname, and document number correctly.

Circuit 1: Panoramic

This circuit offers a panoramic view of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, with the main highlight being the panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the Guardian's Hut. However, you will not have access to the interior of the Inca citadel.

Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain

Duration: 4 hours
Entry time: There are 2 entry times, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

This ticket covers the upper terraces of Machu Picchu and includes a visit to the Guardian's Hut, where you can take the classic Machu Picchu postcard photo. It also includes the hike to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain, with a walk of approximately 4 hours, including the ascent and descent. You will be surrounded by vegetation throughout the route, making it an excellent option for trekking enthusiasts.

Route 1-B: Upper Terrace

Duration: 2 hours
Entry time: There are 10 entry times, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

With this ticket, you can explore the upper terrace of Machu Picchu and take the classic postcard photo from the Guardian's Hut. You can also explore the Guardian's Hut sector and remain on the upper terrace, where you can take panoramic photos of Machu Picchu.

Route 1-C: Intipunku Sun Gate

Duration: 3 hours
Entry time: There are 4 entry times, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Restrictions: Available only during high season.

With this ticket, in addition to exploring the upper terrace of Machu Picchu and taking the classic postcard photo from the Guardian's Hut sector, you can hike for 2 hours, including the ascent and descent, to the Sun Gate or Intipunku. This site was used by the Incas to observe the winter solstice.

Route 1-D: Inca Bridge

Duration: 2 hours
Entry time: There are 10 entry times, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Restrictions: Only available to visitors over 18 years old.

This route covers the upper terrace of Machu Picchu. In addition to taking the classic Machu Picchu photo from the Guardian's Hut, you can hike for 1 hour, including the ascent and descent, to the Inca Bridge, a structure built along the edge of the mountain that connected Machu Picchu with the jungle settlements.

Circuit 2: Classic

This circuit covers most of Machu Picchu, which is why it is the most recommended option. Booking requires at least 4 months' advance planning, as it is the most complete circuit and has higher demand.

Route 2-A: Designed Classic

Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Entry time: There are 10 entry times, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This is the most complete circuit, as it covers most of Machu Picchu and also offers the classic Machu Picchu photo from a platform below the Guardian's Hut. You will explore the interior of Machu Picchu on a route that takes no more than 3 hours.

Route 2-B: Lower Terrace

Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Entry time: There are 10 entry times, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This ticket is the second option within Circuit 2. The route is almost identical to Route 2-A, with the only difference being a detour that allows you to reach the lower terrace of the Guardian's Hut more quickly. You will visit important sites such as the Temple of the Condor, the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, and many more.

Circuit 3: Royalty

With this circuit, you will have the opportunity to reach the summits of Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Mountains, which are iconic in the classic Machu Picchu photo. You can also explore surprising and less-visited places.

Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain

Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Entry time: There are 2 entry times, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Restrictions: Only available to visitors over 18 years old.

This circuit provides the opportunity to explore the lower part of the Inca citadel. In addition, you can take a three-hour hike, including the ascent and descent, to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain. From there, you will enjoy a privileged view of Machu Picchu and see the archaeological remains at the summit.

Route 3-B: Designed Royalty

Duration: Approximately 2 and a half hours
Entry time: There are 10 entry times, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

With this ticket, you will have access to enclosures built exclusively for Inca royalty. However, it is important to note that it does not include the opportunity to take the classic Machu Picchu photo. Nevertheless, from the agricultural sector, you can take a similar postcard-style photo. The walk takes approximately 2 hours and immerses you in Inca history.

Route 3-C: Great Cavern

Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Entry time: There are 2 entry times, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Restrictions: Only available to visitors over 18 years old.

This ticket allows you to visit exclusive areas of Machu Picchu, such as the Temple of the Condor, the Water Mirrors, the Twelve Openings, and the Sacred Rock, among others. You will also have the opportunity to explore the mysterious Temple of the Moon, a structure inside a natural cave in the middle of Huayna Picchu Mountain. However, it is important to note that this ticket does not include the opportunity to take the classic Machu Picchu photo.

Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Mountain

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Entry time: There are 4 entry times, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

With this ticket, in addition to exploring the Inca royalty sector, you can hike to the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain, located next to Huayna Picchu Mountain. However, it does not include the classic Machu Picchu photo.

How to buy a tourist ticket for Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu tickets can be purchased online and in person only in Machu Picchu Pueblo. At CuscoPeru.com, we can assist you with purchasing your tickets safely through a sales agent who will be happy to help you. If you prefer to avoid this process and have everything organized from Cusco, you can book a Machu Picchu tour with entrance included to secure your ticket, transfers, and guided visit in a single service.

Buying tickets online

You must log in to the ticket sales website and indicate the date you will visit Machu Picchu, the time you will enter, enter your personal information, and follow all the steps provided until the payment is completed.

In-person purchase

Tickets can be purchased upon presentation of the original and valid passport and/or national identity document.

Access differences between low and high season routes:

High season: Usually runs from late June to early November. You will have access to routes such as the Inca Bridge or Intipunku Sun Gate; however, Huayna Picchu tickets sell out more quickly.
Low season: Usually runs from early November to late June. You will find fewer tourists at archaeological sites and popular places in Machu Picchu; however, some places such as Mandor may be restricted due to the rainy season.

Authorized Offices

Entrance tickets can be purchased in Machu Picchu Pueblo at the Machu Picchu Pueblo Cultural Center office, from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. every day. These tickets are valid for entry the day after purchase.

ATTENTION: It is important to emphasize that looking for tickets in Aguas Calientes is not recommended because you must wait in line starting at 8:00 a.m. We recommend purchasing your tickets through CuscoPeru.com three months in advance, so you can secure your entrance safely and conveniently.

1 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco

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Tour Machu Picchu And Rainbow Mountain 6 Days

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Discounts on Machu Picchu tickets

• Minors between 3 and 17 years old with an original and valid passport and/or national identity document.
• Members of the Andean Community only: Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador.
• All students up to 25 years old, upon presentation of a valid university student ID.

2026 Regulations

To preserve the archaeological park of Machu Picchu and make visits more orderly, new regulations have been introduced and have been in effect since June 1, 2024. Here are the most important ones:

• Ten entry times have been established for most circuits, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Visitors may remain in the Machu Picchu citadel for a maximum of three hours from entry until departure, except for tickets that combine the visit with alternative routes.
• Failure to comply with the maximum visiting time will result in the immediate removal of visitors.
• Valid documents for foreign visitors are: passport, foreign resident card, or diplomatic ID.
• Foreign students up to undergraduate level must present their original valid student ID and passport with the corresponding visa issued by the Peruvian consulate, Embassy, or National Superintendence of Migration.
• Visitors from the Andean Community of Nations will pay the same rate as Peruvians and must present their original identity card or identity document.
• The valid document for Peruvian visitors is the original DNI.
• Peruvian students up to undergraduate level must present their valid student ID issued by SUNEDU.
• Tour guides may enter the citadel with a maximum of 16 visitors per group and must carry an identification flag.

Remember that Machu Picchu is a World Wonder, an iconic and highly visited place, so it is important to respect the site and follow the rules and regulations established to preserve its beauty and authenticity.

What you should know before visiting Machu Picchu

• To enter the citadel, you must present your ticket and identification document. The maximum visiting time is three hours, and re-entry is not permitted.
• You have 3 circuit options to choose from; however, Circuit No. 2 is the most complete and recommended.
• You cannot bring or consume alcoholic beverages inside the Machu Picchu archaeological park.
• You must not climb the walls or other structures of the Inca citadel.
• Do not make inscriptions on floors, walls, stones, or other surfaces, as this may result in a penalty.
• Do not remove samples of stone materials and/or plants or flowers.
• Do not throw solid or liquid waste.
• Do not carry backpacks with a capacity greater than 20 kg.
• Do not bring professional filming or photography equipment for commercial purposes. The corresponding permit and authorization must be obtained from the Regional Directorate of Culture of Cusco.
• Do not feed wild animals.

Tips and recommendations for buying my Machu Picchu tourist ticket.

Buying a Machu Picchu ticket can be an exciting and memorable experience. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you with the process:

• Plan ahead: Machu Picchu is a very popular destination and tickets sell out quickly, especially during high season. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit several months in advance to ensure you get a ticket.
• Choose the right type of ticket: There are 3 types of circuits available for Machu Picchu, which vary in terms of visit duration and the places you can explore. Make sure to select the ticket type that best suits your preferences and needs.
• Hire a guide: Hiring a guide can enrich your experience at Machu Picchu. Guides are familiar with the history and cultural aspects of the site and can provide additional information and interesting perspectives.
• Learn about current regulations and recommendations: Before your visit, learn about the current regulations and recommendations for Machu Picchu. These may include entry restrictions and safety measures.
• Prepare physically: Machu Picchu is located at a high altitude, and exploring the site involves walking and climbing stairs. Make sure you are physically prepared for the visit, especially if you plan to climb the mountains. Wearing comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing is also important.
• Confirm your transportation: Before selecting your Machu Picchu visit date and time, confirm your transportation arrangements by bus and train, your arrival time in Aguas Calientes, and allow enough time for the bus transfer to the entrance point because tickets can only be used during the selected time slot. 
• For people with disabilities or older adults: For visiting Machu Picchu, the best option for older adults or people with disabilities is to choose Route 3-B. It has fewer stairs and allows you to see the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and the agricultural area. It is recommended to book your ticket two months in advance due to high demand.

Frequently Asked Questions