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Which is better in the morning or afternoon
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Machu Picchu in the morning or in the afternoon, which is better?

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!



Sunset at the Inca citadel - Machu Picchu
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 + Mountain (Route 1A).
      • Machu Picchu Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route 1B).
      • Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (Route 1C) (only in high season).
      • Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge (Route 1D) (only in high season).
Tourists on the panoramic circuit of Machu Picchu
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 Circuit or Designed Classic (Route 2A).
      • Machu Picchu Classic Circuit or Lower Terrace (Route 2B).
Classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu
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 + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A).
      • Machu Picchu Temples Lower Part or Designed Royalty (Route 3B).
      • Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C) (only in high season).
      • Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (3D Route) (only in high season).
Religious or royalty sector - Machu Picchu
Religious or royalty sector – Machu Picchu

What time will I arrive at Machu Picchu if I take the Inca Trail?

  • If you take the 4-day Inca Trail, you will arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning, enjoying the privilege of witnessing the sunrise from Inti Punku.
  • If you take the 2-day Inca Trail, you will arrive at Machu Picchu in the evening and can stay until the site closes. You will get to see the sunset from the upper terraces.

Exploring Machu Picchu in the morning

  • The morning tour of Machu Picchu can start as early as 6:00 a.m.
  • There are several options for taking the tour in the morning, so it’s possible to explore any of the circuits.
  • Entering during the early hours will require an overnight stay in Machu Picchu Pueblo or Aguas Calientes.
  • The route during the first hours is much less congested.
  • Some tickets are discounted, especially during the 6:00 a.m. entry time.
  • The route is much cooler, even feeling a little cold.
  • As the hours pass, the route will be accompanied by sunshine, but it will also be much clearer.
  • Also as the hours go by you will be able to find many more people.
  • The early hours between 6:00 and 7:00 in the morning are ideal for hiking in the mountains or following trails.
Machu Picchu landscape in the morning shift
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
Machu Picchu in the afternoon shift

Which tickets allow entry in the morning?

  • Machu Picchu + Mountain (Route 1A).
  • Machu Picchu Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route 1B).
  • Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (Route 1C) (only in high season).
  • Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge (Route 1D) (only in high season).
  • Machu Picchu Classic Circuit or Designed Classic (Route 2A).
  • Machu Picchu Classic Circuit or Lower Terrace (Route 2B).
  • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A).
  • Machu Picchu Temples Lower Part or Designed Royalty (Route 3B).
  • Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C) (only in high season).
  • Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (3D Route) (only in high season).

Which tickets allow entry to Machu Picchu in the afternoon?

  • Machu Picchu Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route 1B).
  • Machu Picchu Classic Circuit or Designed Classic (Route 2A).
  • Machu Picchu Classic Circuit or Lower Terrace (Route 2B).
  • Machu Picchu Temples Lower Part or Designed Royalty (Route 3B).

Pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in the morning

Advantages of Entering in the MorningDisadvantages of Entering in the Morning
The tour is much quieter.Some tourists feel cold in the early morning hours.
You can take better photos of certain details of Machu Picchu.Requires waking up early to travel from Cusco.
You can witness the sunrise over the Inca citadel.It may sometimes rain or feel misty.
The tour is much cooler for hiking routes.The morning fog can obstruct views and photographs.
There are several types of tickets available.Finding transportation may be challenging due to high demand.
You can see some birds and even hear their morning songs.Some visitors may need to bring extra layers of clothing.

Pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon

Advantages of Entering in the AfternoonDisadvantages of Entering in the Afternoon
The number of tourists decreases as the hours pass.The heat feels more intense.
Better lighting for warm-toned photos.Fewer ticket options for entry.
You can enjoy the sunset.The tour may not be fully completed if you enter too late.
Less rush, allowing you to explore each site in greater detail.Access to transportation may take longer.
Ideal for those who don’t want to wake up early.You will need to apply good sunscreen.
A relaxed atmosphere due to fewer crowds.Risk of rain in the late afternoon.
The slow change of sunlight over the Inca structures.Weather conditions with high temperatures.

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

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

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 + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A)’ ticket allows up to 6 hours of visit.

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

    The ‘Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Wayna Picchu (Route 3A)’ ticket allows for up to 7 hours of visits. It also allows re-entry to Machu Picchu.

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

    The ‘Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (3D Route)’ ticket allows up to 4 hours of visit.

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

    The ‘Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge (Route 1D)’ 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 + Mountain (Route 1A)
    • Machu Picchu Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route 1B).
    • Machu Picchu Classic or Classic Designed Circuit (Route 2A)
    • Machu Picchu Classic Circuit or Lower Terrace (Route 2B)
    • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A).
    • Machu Picchu Temples Lower Part or Designed Royalty (Route 3B).
  • 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 entrance times for the main route leading to the nearby mountains are relatively consistent. Entrance is available from 7:00 a.m. and again from 9:00 a.m. The Machu Picchu + Mountain ticket (Route 1A) allows entry from 6:00 a.m.

  • 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

Evangelina N.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, March 24, 2025