When you visit Machu Picchu, when purchasing your tickets, you’ll find three main circuits divided into routes. These divisions facilitate your journey by better specifying the destinations you’ll visit. Within Circuit 3, you’ll find four main routes: Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Wayna Picchu (Route 3A), Temples of the Lower Part or Designed Royalty (Route 3B), Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cave (Route 3C), and Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (Route 3D). This circuit covers the destinations located in the lower part of the archaeological site. Likewise, these circuit routes allow you to hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cave, and Huchuy Picchu. In this article, we’ll learn more about tickets and circuits so you can choose the best option when purchasing.

• What is the Royal Route 3 Circuit to visit Machu Picchu?
• Main destinations Circuit 3 Machu Picchu Royal Route
  • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A)
  • Lower Part Temples or Designed Royalty (Route 3B)
  • Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C)
  • Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (3D Route)
• Map: This is what the circuits of Circuit 3 of the Royal Route look like.
• Why take the Royal Route Circuit 3 tours?
• Summary of the main tickets for Circuit 3 of the Machu Picchu Royal Route
• What routes were available for the high season on the Panoramic Circuit?
• Questions and answers about the Royal Route Circuit 3 through Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu – Circuit 3

What is the Royal Route 3 Circuit to visit Machu Picchu?

Royal Route Circuit 3 is one of the best options for exploring Machu Picchu. Mainly because its four routes feature Huayna Picchu. Fortunately, this route remains the same. The changes made for the peak season will no longer allow access to Intihuatana. This is one of the most significant changes to be implemented for all three circuits.

The Royal Route Circuit 3 covers the third section of Machu Picchu, meaning the destinations located to the north. We’ve already mentioned the destinations it offers, but it’s worth mentioning that this experience offers a combination of both. It offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu and a chance to explore some Inca sites after a hike. As usual, you’ll follow the trails laid out by the ancient planners of the Tawantinsuyu.

The hike through these places will be varied; in some cases, you’ll find abundant vegetation. In others, you’ll find beautiful views and Inca buildings that continue to challenge modern architectural capabilities. It’s also worth mentioning that, according to the latest updates, the high season will run from June 19th to November 2nd. The regular or low season will run from November 3rd to June 18th.

Main destinations Circuit 3 Machu Picchu Royal Route

The changes to the Machu Picchu circuits, in the case of Circuit 3 or the Royal Route, allowed for the addition of two new routes. One of them only displays the royal temples of Machu Picchu, specifically at the bottom. The other ticket that was added will allow a tour of the Temple of the Moon or the Great Cave. To reach either of these sites, fortunately, the Inca Trails, also known as Qhapac Ñam, still exist. Some sections of the route will be paved, others will be dirt trails, accompanied by abundant vegetation. Next, let’s learn more about these Circuit 3 Royal Route tickets.

Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A)

• This is probably one of the most popular tickets.
• The old Huayna Picchu ticket did not have any significant changes.
• Before entering the Huayna Picchu route, it is permitted to have a tour of Machu Picchu.
• The tour of Machu Picchu will be very similar to the “Royal Route” ticket.
• At the archaeological site of Machu Picchu, you can reach the lower part of the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows.
• After arriving at the Sacred Rock, it’s time to register at the checkpoint.
• There you must specify our entry time as well as our names.
• The ascent to Huayna Picchu is done along the Inca Trails.
• The section is ascending. You’ll encounter several staircases with sections that can be challenging.
• You reach the summit of Huayna Picchu after 3 hours of activity.
• Normally the first section through Machu Picchu takes 1 hour and the ascent takes 2 hours.
• Huayna Picchu has an altitude of 2,693 meters above sea level.
• From the top of Huayna Picchu, you can admire one of Peru’s most beautiful landscapes, thanks to the vast mountain ranges.
• The return journey follows the same route. Upon reaching the checkpoint, you must register your departure time.
• Before leaving Machu Picchu you can see other important sites in Machu Picchu.
• The exit will be through the lower agricultural sector.

Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Tour

Lower Part Temples or Designed Royalty (Route 3B)

• This is a new circuit. The tour covers only the archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
• The entrance to Machu Picchu is through the agricultural area, where several large terraces can be seen.
• The agricultural sector has beautiful views from where you can take beautiful photos.
• The tour takes in the main temples that correspond to the Hurín sector.
• You can see the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inca, and the Temple of the Three Windows, all seen from the lower area.
• Continuing along the route, you’ll reach the Sacred Rock, where you can enjoy a very short break.
• Before starting your tour, you can choose between visiting the Temple of the Condor or the Water Mirrors.
• The exit is made through lower platforms than where the entrance was.
• During this brief walk along the platforms, there are beautiful views.
• The tour lasts a total of 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Tour Ticket to the Lower Temples of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C)

• These tickets will only be available for sale during peak season.
• The high season officially begins on June 19 and ends on November 2.
• The entrance is through the agricultural area. There, you can take some great photographs.
• From the bottom, you can see the House of the Inca and the Temple of the Sun.
• Near the wide esplanades of Machu Picchu, are the Main Temples.
• We will pass near Pisonay Square, all the esplanades offer beautiful views of the grounds.
• The checkpoint is the same for all Circuit 3 tickets. That is, for those who wish to visit Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu.
• Like the route to Huayna Picchu, sections of the Inca Trail or Qhapac Ñam will be followed.
• The Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon is located at the bottom of the mountain.
• It is a place with abundant vegetation that offers an incredible view of the place.
• The hike to the Great Cave takes only 2 hours and 30 minutes. Of course, you have an hour to explore Machu Picchu beforehand.
• The total tour can last up to 5 hours.
• Before leaving Machu Picchu, we tour some important temples.
• You will also visit the Temple of the Condor or the Water Mirrors.
• Leaving the lower temples, you can see parts of the dwellings that are almost destroyed.

Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon Tour

Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (3D Route)

• The ticket is only available during peak season.
• The high season begins on June 19 and runs until November 2.
• The rest of the year is the regular season. However, ticket sales will be effective on December 30th and 31st.
• The tour of Huchuy Picchu is done from the lower platforms.
• You pass through the agricultural area and then enter the esplanades of Machu Picchu.
• From this place you can see the temples of the Sun and the Three Windows.
• As you pass through Plaza Pisonay you have beautiful views of Machu Picchu.
• You reach the Sacred Rock and a few meters from there you make the corresponding registration.
• The ascent to Huchuy Picchu takes only 1 hour.
• From the top of Huchuy Picchu you can see the pyramid where the Intihuatana is located.
• The return trip can be made in 30 minutes, as it is quite simple.
• The total tour with the ticket and Circuit through Huchuy Picchu lasts 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• It is important to take your time during the tour, especially during the climb.
• As with the other tickets, you’ll return through the same area, after visiting the Temple of the Condor or the Water Fountains.

Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu Tour

Map: This is what the circuits of Circuit 3 of the Royal Route look like.

The Royal Route Circuit 3 allows you to explore the lower part of Machu Picchu, taking less than an hour to complete. Afterward, you will be allowed to hike any of the corresponding routes, as long as you have your ticket ready. This route includes two of the most beautiful hikes in all of Machu Picchu. One of them leads to the Great Cave or Temple of the Moon. The next destination, the ever-enigmatic Huayna Picchu, is a must-see to explore all its mysteries and, especially, its beautiful views. The routes and places covered in the Royal Route Circuit 3 are as follows:

Circuit 3 (Machupicchu Royalty) – Designed route

Why take the Royal Route Circuit 3 tours?

This circuit includes a spectacular hike to Huayna Picchu among its routes. We can also visit the route to the Great Cave. This temple was closed for a long time, but it will be open to visitors during the new season. We believe these two options are ideal for purchasing your ticket to reserve one of the Royal Route Circuit 3 tickets. Below are more reasons to choose this circuit, which offers four truly amazing tickets or routes.

• As with all circuits, you can take excellent photographs.
• There is the possibility of doing only the Machu Picchu tour.
• The other 3 options allow hikes along the Inca Trail or Qhapac Ñam.
• Beautiful views of Machu Picchu from the top of the Huchuy Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains.
• The route to the Great Cave of Machu Picchu allows for a little-explored tour through stretches of abundant vegetation.
• It allows you to have panoramic views from a privileged angle.
• You can see part of the mountain range that makes up the archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
• Along the route, you’ll be able to admire the majestic Urubamba River from the top of the mountains.
• The route to the Great Cave allows you to see more Inca constructions.
• From Huchuy Picchu Mountain, you can see part of the Intihuatana (there will be a considerable distance).
• Similarly, climbing Huayna Picchu allows you to enjoy the famous steps of death (they are actually quite safe).
• The tour of Machu Picchu is quite simple to complete.
• Either route will include a short tour of Machu Picchu, including the lower platforms and temples.
• The trails allow you to learn more about the architectural capabilities of the Incas.
• During the tour of Machu Picchu, you can appreciate Inca constructions such as the Temple of the Condor.
• Tickets or routes for the Royal Route 3 Circuit are among the most popular, so you should book well in advance.
• Circuit 3 of the Royal Route allows you to learn more about Machu Picchu and the Inca Trails.
• This option is quite similar to the Panoramic Circuit 1. However, in this case, Circuit 3 allows for a tour along routes surrounded by lush vegetation.

Agricultural Zone – Circuit 3 Machu Picchu

Summary of the main tickets for Circuit 3 of the Machu Picchu Royal Route

What routes have been opened for the high season on Circuit 3 Ruta de la Realeza?

As we saw, we found four tickets. Most of the tickets for this Royal Route Circuit 3 have not undergone significant changes, and some remain the same. In some cases, their names have changed, and in others, their availability has changed. Since the change, the high season has been officially declared. This season will run until November 2nd. For the Royal Route Circuit 3, the Grand Cavern ticket has been added. Let’s learn more about this circuit and the new availability for these new routes.

Questions and answers about the Royal Route Circuit 3 through Machu Picchu

• 1) How long does it take to complete the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu?

  Circuit 3 of the Machu Picchu Royal Route offers several different routes. The tour of Machu Picchu within the Inca citadel lasts an average of 2 hours and 30 minutes. This time is independent of the route to other destinations, such as Huayna Picchu.

• 2) Who is the 3 Royal Route Circuit in Machu Picchu recommended for?

  Circuit 3 of the Royal Route in Machu Picchu is recommended for older adults or those with a physical disability. This short route is suitable for these individuals.

• 3) What tickets does the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu include?

  There are four tickets that include the Royal Route Circuit 3. The most notable of these, for its route and the experience it offers, is the Huayna Picchu Route. Below are the four tickets.

  • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A).
  • Lower Part Temples or Designed Royalty (Route 3B).
  • Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C).
  • Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (3D Route).

• 4) Does the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu include the classic photo?

  No, the Royal Route Circuit 3 is one of the options for visiting Machu Picchu that allows you to explore far from the upper platforms. Along the route, you can find two panoramic views: the first of Huchuy Picchu, and the second of the iconic Huayna Picchu.

• 5) Does the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu include a visit to the Intihuatana?

  No, none of the tours allow access to the Intihuatana stone carving. You can only get a distant view from the top of Machu Picchu. Likewise, during the tour of Machu Picchu, you can see the top of the pyramid where the Intihuatana is located. However, it’s important to emphasize that visiting the Intihuatana is closed until further notice. This applies to all tours.

• 6) Does the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu include a visit to the Temple of the Sun?

  Circuit 3 of the Royal Route in Machu Picchu allows you to tour the lower area. You can see part of the Temple of the Sun and take a brief tour of the construction of this beautiful “D”-shaped temple.

• 7) Does the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu include a visit to the House of the Inca?

  You can’t actually enter the House of the Inca; you can get close to the site by taking the detour to the Temple of the Sun. However, it’s possible to take a brief tour of the site.

• 8) Does the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu include a visit to the Main Temple?

  No, as for the Main Temple, you can see part of the Temple of the Three Windows, as well as other buildings. The view will be from the esplanades, more precisely from the paths that connect them to the other areas of the Inca citadel or llaqta.

• 9) Is it dangerous to do the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu?

  No, it’s not dangerous. Its four variations, or four routes, are considered quite safe, even the one you’ll find on the way to Huayna Picchu, which is known as the “Steps of Death” because it’s located at a high altitude. These sections, to date, remain quite solid.

• 10) Does the Royal Route Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu include a visit to the Temple of the Condor?

  Yes, although you’ll have to choose between this option and the Temple of the Water Mirrors depending on your availability. Visiting hours for the Temple of the Condor are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Paula C.

“On the roads of the Incas“

“Machu Picchu takes your breath away. Not only for the beautiful landscapes but also for its paths and routes up to high mountains like Huayna Picchu. But once at the top you feel full of energy. A place that makes you want to come back a thousand times.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, March 21, 2025