The entrance tickets to Machu Picchu have undergone several changes. Now, there are multiple routes divided into three circuits. Another change was the availability of schedules to make visiting Machu Picchu possible. In this regard, you can enter almost all day, but only with certain tickets. In this blog, we explain which tickets allow entry during the early hours of the day and which ones grant access in the afternoon. We will also go over all the details and advantages of touring in the morning or afternoon. Let’s get started!

• This is how the Machu Picchu tours work
• Exploring Machu Picchu in the morning
• Exploring Machu Picchu in the afternoon
• Which tickets allow entry in the morning?
• Which tickets allow entry to Machu Picchu in the afternoon?
• Pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in the morning
• Pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon
• Additional details to consider when visiting Machu Picchu
• What to bring to Machu Picchu?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Sunset at the Inca citadel – Machu Picchu

This is how the Machu Picchu tours work

Now, the tour of Machu Picchu is divided into three circuits. Each circuit offers a different way to explore the Inca citadel, resulting in a unique experience. Let’s take a look:

• Circuit 1 or Panoramic Routes

  • As the name suggests, it offers a panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
  • The route takes you through and from the upper terrace.
  • It allows visitors to see Machu Picchu from various viewpoints.
  • The longest route leads to Machu Picchu Mountain, standing at 3,082 meters above sea level.
  • The easiest route only grants access to the upper platform for the iconic postcard photo.
  • All tickets allow visitors to take the classic Machu Picchu postcard photo.
  • The routes available in Circuit 1 include:
    • Machu Picchu + Classic Postcard Photo.
    • Machu Picchu + Mountain.
    • Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (only in high season).
    • Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge (only in high season).

Tourists on the panoramic circuit of Machu Picchu

• Circuit 2 or Classic Routes

  • Allows visitors to take the classic route, which has remained unchanged since Machu Picchu opened to the public.
  • The tour goes through the interior of the Inca citadel, offering views of the most important temples.
  • Provides a detailed look at the Inca structures and allows for photography inside the citadel.
  • It is one of the most recommended tours for children and senior visitors.
  • It is also a great option for those visiting Machu Picchu for the first time.
  • The route is easy to walk, although it can only be done on foot.
  • All tickets allow visitors to take the classic Machu Picchu postcard photo.
  • The routes available in Circuit 2 include:
    • Machu Picchu Classic Route.
    • Machu Picchu Classic Route (lower terrace).

Classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu

• Circuit 3 or Royalty Route

  • This route explores the lower part of the Inca citadel and then connects with short hiking trails.
  • The short hiking trails begin near the Sacred Rock.
  • It allows visitors to see the lower temples, the Sacred Rock, and other structures depending on the ticket purchased.
  • One of the tickets allows access to the summit of Huayna Picchu, which stands at 2,720 meters above sea level.
  • The easiest route includes a visit to the lower temples within the citadel.
  • The most popular routes are the lower temples route and the Huayna Picchu hike.
  • The routes available in Circuit 3 include:
    • Machu Picchu + Lower Temples.
    • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu.
    • Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (only in high season).
    • Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon (only in high season).

Religious or royalty sector – Machu Picchu

Exploring Machu Picchu in the morning

• The morning tour of Machu Picchu can begin as early as 6:00 AM.
• There are several options for touring in the morning, making it possible to explore any of the circuits.
• Entering during the earliest hours requires spending the night in Machu Picchu Pueblo or Aguas Calientes.
• Early morning tours are much less crowded.
• Some tickets offer discounts, especially for the 6:00 AM entry time.
• The morning tour is much cooler, and you may even feel a bit cold.
• As the hours pass, the tour will be accompanied by sunlight, but the views will also be much clearer.
• Later in the morning, there will be a significantly larger number of visitors.
• The early time slots between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM are ideal for hiking the mountains or exploring the trekking routes.

Machu Picchu landscape in the morning shift

Exploring Machu Picchu in the afternoon

• The afternoon tour of Machu Picchu begins at noon.
• Entry after noon is only available with four specific tickets.
• It is possible to travel from Cusco without any rush.
• The later time slots in the afternoon are less crowded.
• Some tickets offer discounts, especially for the 3:00 PM entry time.
• The tour can be accompanied by plenty of sunlight.
• As the hours pass, visitors can enjoy views of the sunset.
• Later in the afternoon, there will be fewer people in the area.
• The last time slots may have cloudy conditions or occasional rain.

Machu Picchu in the afternoon shift

Which tickets allow entry in the morning?

• Machu Picchu + Classic Postcard Photo.
• Machu Picchu + Mountain.
• Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (only in high season).
• Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge (only in high season).
• Machu Picchu Classic Route.
• Machu Picchu Classic Route (lower terrace).
• Machu Picchu + Lower Temples.
• Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu.
• Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (only in high season).
• Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon (only in high season).

Which tickets allow entry to Machu Picchu in the afternoon?

• Machu Picchu + Classic postcard photo.
• Machu Picchu Classic Route.
• Machu Picchu Ruta Clásica (lower terrace).
• Machu Picchu + Lower temples.

Pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in the morning

Pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon

Additional details to consider when visiting Machu Picchu

• Morning and afternoon conditions may vary depending on the rainy or dry season.
• It is recommended to book your Machu Picchu entrance ticket one or two months in advance.
• Tickets can be booked both online and in person.
• To enter Machu Picchu in the early hours, it is recommended to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes.
• Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo offers a wide range of hotels.
• Always remember to tour Machu Picchu with a professional tour guide.

Visiting Machu Picchu at Noon

What to bring to Machu Picchu?

Regardless of the time you choose to enter Machu Picchu, here’s what you must bring.

• Insect and mosquito repellent.
• Sunscreen.
• Sunglasses and a cap for the intense sun.
• Drinks and snacks.
• Carry your ID or passport.
• Bring cash for emergencies or any needs.

A visitor’s backpack with Machu Picchu in the background

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

  Afternoon hours are the most recommended for visiting Machu Picchu (for example, tickets from 12 PM, 1 PM, or 2 PM). In the afternoon, Machu Picchu has fewer tourists, allowing visitors to explore more freely.

• 2) How long is the visit allowed at Machu Picchu?

  The ‘Machu Picchu Only’ ticket allows up to 4 hours of visit, as do the tickets for Huchuy Picchu and the Inca Bridge. The tickets that include Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu allow 7 and 6 hours of visit, respectively.

• 3) How much time do I have to visit Huayna Picchu Mountain?

  The ‘Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu’ ticket allows up to 6 hours of visit.

• 4) How much time do I have to visit Machu Picchu Mountain?

  The ‘Machu Picchu with Machu Picchu Mountain’ ticket allows up to 7 hours of visit and also permits re-entry to Machu Picchu.

• 5) How much time do I have to visit Huchuy Picchu Mountain?

  The ‘Machu Picchu with Huchuy Picchu’ ticket allows up to 4 hours of visit.

• 6) How much time do I have to visit the Inca Bridge?

  The ‘Machu Picchu with Inca Bridge’ ticket also allows up to 4 hours of visit.

• 7) What is the difference between visiting Machu Picchu in the morning and in the afternoon?

  Many tourists mention that the main difference between visiting Machu Picchu in the morning or afternoon is the comfort of starting the journey. It is important to note that in both cases, the trip can be done in just one day, but the experiences may differ. Choosing between them depends on personal preference.

• 8) What time slots are available for entering Machu Picchu?

  The tickets with the most availability also allow visits at different times. The following tickets provide access to Machu Picchu in 10 time slots from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with entry changing every hour and a waiting time of 30 minutes. Here are the tickets:

  • Machu Picchu + Classic Postcard Photo.
  • Machu Picchu Classic Route.
  • Machu Picchu Classic Route (Lower Terrace).
  • Machu Picchu + Mountain.
  • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu.
  • Machu Picchu + Lower Temples.

• 9) When is the best time to take photos at Machu Picchu?

  The best time to take photos with a clear blue sky and optimal sunlight is after 9:00 AM. It is also advisable to visit during the dry season, which has less rain and offers better scenic views.

• 10) Are there fewer tourists if I visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon?

  Yes, in the afternoon, there are generally fewer tourists because most visitors choose morning hours. Additionally, standard tour packages and travel agencies usually schedule visits in the morning. Therefore, visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon allows for a more relaxed experience with fewer tourists.

• 11) Can I visit the nearby mountains if I arrive early?

  Fortunately, the entry times for tickets that include access to the nearby mountains are relatively similar. The tickets allow entry from 7:00 AM and also from 9:00 AM. The ‘Machu Picchu + Mountain’ ticket allows entry as early as 6:00 AM.

• 12) How long do I have to wait to receive my Machu Picchu ticket?

  Once you have booked and paid for your ticket, you will receive it within approximately 24 hours. You can also purchase it on the same day, but you must book and pay in advance to allow time for processing. Additionally, you can book and buy your ticket in person for a faster process.

• 13) What are the advantages of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon?

  The main advantage of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon is that the journey is more comfortable as it does not require waking up early. However, you must strictly follow your itinerary to arrive at Machu Picchu on time.

• 14) How can I spend the whole day (morning and afternoon) at Machu Picchu?

  One way to extend your time at Machu Picchu is by booking two separate entrance tickets. In this case, you must reserve two tickets for different time slots. This will also allow you to explore two different circuits and fully appreciate the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Evangelina N.

“All the magic in one place“

“No phrase can describe this beauty. If you have the opportunity to come, come, you will not regret it. Plan your visit well, you can choose the weather, the experience and even how you want to get there if you do it in advance.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 10, 2025