Your visit to Machu Picchu encompasses a variety of routes, offering unique experiences within the Inca citadel. Ten routes allow you to discover unique angles and adapt to your desired experience. Some offer a peaceful and photogenic tour, while others immerse you more in the history of the citadel through its temples and buildings. If you’re more adventurous, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu’s most impressive mountains, such as Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu. Each route offers an unforgettable experience. Discover each one!

• Panoramic Routes in Machu Picchu
  • Route 1A – Ascent to the incredible Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Route 1B – Machu Picchu Tour with Classic Photo
  • Route 1C – Tour of Machu Picchu through the magical Inti Punku
  • Route 1D – Tour of Machu Picchu along the mystical Inca Bridge
• Classic Routes in Machu Picchu
  • Route 2A – Machu Picchu Classic Circuit Tour
  • Route 2B – Tour of Machu Picchu along the Lower Terrace Circuit
• Royal Routes in Machu Picchu
  • Route 3A – Ascent to the enigmatic Huayna Picchu or Waynapicchu Mountain
  • Route 3B – Tour of Machu Picchu through the Lower Part Temples
  • Route 3C – Tour in Machu Picchu through the Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon
  • 3D Route – Ascent to the amazing Huchuy Picchu Mountain
• Summary of the routes in Machu Picchu
• Recommendations for your visit to Machu Picchu
• Questions and answers about Machu Picchu tour routes

Which route allows me to experience a unique and different view of Machu Picchu?
Each route in the Machu Picchu citadel is designed to provide a memorable experience during your visit, but some tours offer even better views. One of these is the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain (Route 3A) ticket, which gives you a peripheral view of the entire Inca citadel and embarks you on an adventure through Machu Picchu’s biodiversity. Remember that each route has its own unique charm. Why not explore them all?

Panoramic Routes in Machu Picchu

Panoramic routes are ideal for those seeking a stunning visual experience. This circuit offers four routes that ascend to the highest points of the Machu Picchu citadel. Along narrow, rocky paths, you’ll access breathtaking landscapes that surpass even the classic postcard view of the citadel. Each route presents a different level of physical challenge, but all reward you with unparalleled views of Inca architecture and the perfect harmony it enjoys with the natural surroundings.

Route 1A – Ascent to the incredible Machu Picchu Mountain

• The tour of the citadel will allow you to see the upper platform, where you’ll get the classic postcard photo everyone dreams of.
• The route includes a visit to Machu Picchu plus the ascent of Machu Picchu Mountain.
• From the top of the mountain you can see the snow-capped mountains of Salkantay and Pumasillo, allowing for spectacular photographs.
• The route to Machu Picchu Mountain is on average 4 kilometers (round trip), so the stay time is longer than usual.
• Because the hike is uphill, good physical condition is required.
• The route is considered to be of high difficulty, so you should take precautions before your visit.
• From this viewpoint in Machu Picchu, you have a panoramic view of the main Inca structures: the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana, and more. However, this ticket does not allow you to tour these structures.
• The total tour time extends up to 5 hours, allowing you to see many angles of Machu Picchu.
• Admission is open to people of all ages.
• This route is open all year round.

Route 1A – Machu Picchu + Mountain Tour

Route 1B – Machu Picchu Tour with Classic Photo

• The charm of this route is that it offers you a panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the main viewpoint.
• The route runs through the upper terraces and the Guardian’s House area.
• From the top you can see the citadel’s most emblematic structures.
• You can see buildings such as: the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the 3 Windows, the Intihuatana and more.
• You’ll also be able to see the iconic Vilcabamba mountain range and the sacred Urubamba River.
• This route is ideal if you want to get the classic photo of the citadel.
• The total route averages 1.7 kilometers, making it an easy route to explore.
• The total tour time can be extended to more than 3 hours, so you don’t miss any detail of Machu Picchu.
• Admission is open to people of all ages.
• This route is open all year round.

Route 1B – Machu Picchu Upper Terrace Tour

Route 1C – Tour of Machu Picchu through the magical Inti Punku

• The trail will allow you to get the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu from the Casa del Guardián viewpoint.
• From the viewpoint you can see the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana.
• The route to Inti Punku is very iconic because it will take us to the entrance gate of the citadel along the Inca Trail.
• From here we can appreciate the trails of the popular Inca Trail, immersing ourselves further in the ancestral culture.
• From Inti Punku you can appreciate Machu Picchu from a privileged angle, experiencing all its magnanimity.
• The total length of the tour can extend up to 3.5 kilometers (round trip).
• Being a long route, the effort required is a bit high, as you must be in good physical condition to complete it.
• The total tour time can be extended to more than 3 hours, so you won’t miss any detail of the Machu Picchu citadel.
• Admission is open to those over 18 (children 12 and older must be accompanied by a guardian or other person).
• This route is only available during the high season (June 19 to November 2).

Route 1C – Machu Picchu + Intipunku

Route 1D – Tour of Machu Picchu along the mystical Inca Bridge

• This route will also allow you to take the classic photo of Machu Picchu from the main viewpoint.
• During your visit, you’ll be able to appreciate important Inca buildings from afar, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Main Temple, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana, and more.
• The magic of this route is provided by the enigmatic Inca Bridge, built of stone. From a short distance, you can appreciate it and imagine all the mysteries it hides.
• You’ll find stunning views of the trails of Machu Picchu, as well as the valley below.
• The route will cover approximately 2.7 kilometers (round trip).
• The route is not very long, so the effort involved will not be great, making the journey very accessible.
• The total tour time will be approximately 3 hours.
• Admission is open to those over 18 (children 12 and older must be accompanied by a guardian or other person).
• This route is only available during the high season (June 19 to November 2).

Route 1D Tour – Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge

Classic Routes in Machu Picchu

These routes are perfect for those who want to explore both the agricultural terraces and the urban area of Machu Picchu. Two easy routes pass through buildings that served as homes, ceremonial sites, and astronomical observation areas. It’s the best option for a balanced mix of history, architecture, and physical activity, allowing you to capture the classic photo of Machu Picchu.

Route 2A – Machu Picchu Classic Circuit Tour

• This route will allow you to explore the main areas of the urban zone of the Inca citadel.
• During the tour, you’ll be able to see the Llaqta Punku (main entrance) area, the Temple of the Sun Lookout, the main plaza, the Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors.
• Along this route, you’ll discover the ideal spot for taking the iconic photo of Machu Picchu.
• Part of the tour will allow you to enter the House of the Inca, appreciate the religious buildings, and also take a tour from the entrance to the Temple of the Sun.
• The route has a distance of approximately 2.5 kilometers (round trip).
• The effort required on this route is medium, making it suitable for any physical condition.
• The approximate travel time for this route is 2 hours and 30 minutes, but it can be extended slightly.
• Admission is open to people of all ages.
• This route is open all year round.

Route 2A – Machu Picchu Classic Designed Tour

Route 2B – Tour of Machu Picchu along the Lower Terrace Circuit

• On this route, we’ll explore the agricultural sector until we ascend to the lower terrace for our first impressions.
• In this panorama we will see Machu Picchu in all its splendor and thus obtain the long-awaited iconic photo.
• From here you can also see the Llaqta Punku or Main Entrance area, the stone quarries used to construct the buildings, the Main Plaza, the Sacred Rock, and the Water Mirrors.
• The difference with Route 2A is that this ticket doesn’t go as far as the Guardian’s House, but it does allow you a view of the lower terraces.
• The route has an approximate distance of 2.7 kilometers (round trip).
• Visiting this route is easy, making it suitable for all physical conditions.
• The tour takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is enough time to immerse yourself in the magic of Machu Picchu.
• Admission is open to people of all ages.
• This route is open all year round.

Route 2B – Machu Picchu Lower Terrace Tour

Royal Routes in Machu Picchu

These routes are designed to explore the most emblematic spaces associated with Inca nobility. This circuit includes four access routes to sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inca, and the Temple of the Condor. Some of them involve light physical exertion, making them an ideal option for those seeking a more relaxing experience. However, if you choose to complement the tour with the ascent of Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, or the hike to the Great Cave, greater physical exertion is required on longer routes.

Route 3A – Ascent to the enigmatic Huayna Picchu or Waynapicchu Mountain

• The route begins with a visit to the agricultural sector of Machu Picchu.
• During your first impressions, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the main viewing platform, where you’ll get a magical classic photo of the citadel.
• From here you can see the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inka, the Ceremonial Fountains, and the Tres Portadas sector.
• The ascent to Huayna Picchu mountain will offer you unique views amidst the biodiversity of Machu Picchu.
• The route is considered an adventure through Machu Picchu.
• The mountain is the most iconic of Machu Picchu, being the highest, allowing you impressive views of the entire citadel.
• On the way back to the citadel, you can visit the enigmatic Temple of the Condor.
• The route has an uphill stretch of approximately 2.5 kilometers (round trip).
• The entire route can take up to 5 hours, so we can’t share any details with you.
• Given the ascent to Huayna Picchu mountain, this route is considered difficult, so you must be in good physical condition to complete it.
• Admission is open to those over 18 (children 12 and older must be accompanied by a guardian or other person).
• This route is open all year round.

Route 3A – Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu

Route 3B – Tour of Machu Picchu through the Lower Part Temples

• The first impression of this route will be found in the agricultural sector where we will appreciate the terraces of Machu Picchu.
• Along the way, we’ll visit a nearby urban area from where we can take the classic postcard photo of the citadel.
• During the tour, we will visit iconic sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inka, the Ceremonial Fountains, the Tres Portadas sector, and the Temple of the Condor.
• The total route is short compared to the others, approximately 1.4 kilometers.
• Given the short distance, it is one of the easiest routes to take in Machu Picchu.
• The visit lasts more than 3 hours to explore the entire Inca royal area.
• It is an ideal route for people in wheelchairs or people who require assistance during their visit to Machu Picchu .
• Admission is open to people of all ages.
• This route is open all year round.

Tour Route 3B – Machu Picchu Temples Lower Part

Route 3C – Tour in Machu Picchu through the Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon

• The route begins in the agricultural sector of Machu Picchu, where we will appreciate the terraces that adorn the citadel.
• From this path we will get the classic photograph near the urban area.
• We will visit essential places such as the Temple of the Sun , the House of the Inka, the Ceremonial Fountains and the Tres Portadas sector.
• We will discover the mythical Great Cave (also known as the Temple of the Moon) and all its secrets.
• On the return route we will visit the incredible Temple of the Condor.
• The section will take a distance of approximately 3 kilometers (round trip).
• The route is considered an adventure through Machu Picchu.
• The trail involves a section of medium difficulty, being accessible to the majority of the public.
• The journey will take approximately 4 hours to visit, appreciating unique and magical angles.
• Admission is open to those over 18 (children 12 and older must be accompanied by a guardian or other person).
• This route is only available during the high season (June 19 to November 2).

Tour Route 1A – Machu Picchu + Great Cavern

3D Route – Ascent to the amazing Huchuy Picchu Mountain

• We’ll begin by exploring the agricultural sector of the citadel, and then admire the magical terraces of Machu Picchu.
• The urban area is the ideal spot to take the classic postcard photograph to preserve the eternal memory.
• During the tour, we will visit essential structures such as the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inka, the Ceremonial Fountains, and the Tres Portadas sector.
• The path to Huchuy Picchu will be an ascent to its summit, allowing us impressive views.
• From here we will contemplate all the beauty of Machu Picchu and every one of its corners.
• Upon returning to the citadel we will visit the amazing Temple of the Condor.
• The tour will take us around 2 kilometers per visit (round trip).
• It will take us an average of 4 hours to explore the entire route, so we won’t miss any details.
• The climb up the mountain is not that difficult, so the route is considered of medium difficulty, making it suitable for almost everyone.
• Admission is open to those over 18 (children 12 and older must be accompanied by a guardian or other person).
• This route is only available during the high season (June 19 to November 2)

3D Route Tour – Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu

Summary of the routes in Machu Picchu

Recommendations for your visit to Machu Picchu

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to enrich your experience.
• Stop every chance you get during your hike to appreciate the full magnificence of Machu Picchu.
• Bring comfortable adventure clothing and a jacket to protect against possible rain.
• Take advantage of the opportunity to take a break from your routine and reflect amidst beautiful landscapes.
• Acclimatization is essential for visiting Cusco. Try to spend at least a couple of days there before venturing to higher altitudes.
• Keep a notebook to write down your experiences so you don’t miss a single detail and make them last forever.
• Immerse yourself in Inca culture by learning more about why the Incas built such magnificent buildings and temples.
• Having a disability is not a problem for your visit to Machu Picchu; there are routes that allow you to enjoy the experience without major complications.
• The adventure in Machu Picchu is a must, so get to know the most iconic mountains (Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain).
• From any of the routes you can get an unforgettable photograph of Machu Picchu.
• Thank Pachamama (Mother Earth) for allowing you to experience the impressive citadel of Machu Picchu.

Questions and answers about Machu Picchu tour routes

• 1) How many routes exist and how are they classified?

  There are 10 routes in total offered in Machu Picchu, distributed in three circuits:

  • Circuit 1 (Panoramic Route): Routes 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D.
  • Circuit 2 (Classic Route): Routes 2A and 2B.
  • Circuit 3 (Royal Route): Routes 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D.

• 2) What distinguishes Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route?

  This circuit focuses on elevated, panoramic views that allow you to capture the iconic, classic photo of Machu Picchu. It includes hikes that ascend to mountains or strategic points, ideal for those seeking spectacular scenery and willing to tackle more difficult trails.

• 3) What options does the Classic Routes offer?

  Designed to explore both the agricultural terraces and the urban area, the classic routes (2A and 2B) combine history and architecture without demanding excessive physical effort, making them perfect for enjoying photography in the citadel.

• 4) What is the ideal option for adventure lovers?

  The Royal Route is your best ally if you’re looking for a challenge. Route 3A, which includes the ascent of Huayna Picchu, and Route 3C, which leads to the Temple of the Moon or Great Cave, offer adventurous trails with unforgettable views, recommended for those in good physical condition.

• 5) When are peak season routes available?

  Some routes are open only during the high season, which runs from June 19 to November 2.

• 6) What is the best route for people with reduced mobility?

  Route 3B – Lower Temples or Designed Royalty, is an accessible option that allows you to enjoy the main attractions without requiring great physical effort.

• 7) Which routes offer more historical and cultural information?

  The Royal Routes and some Classic Routes are ideal for exploring architectural and ceremonial details, as they cover key areas such as the House of the Inca, the Temple of the Sun, and the ceremonial fountains.

• 8) What are the differences between visiting Machu Picchu during high and low season?

  During the high season (June 19 to November 2), some exclusive routes are open, such as the route to the Temple of the Moon or Great Cave (Route 3C) or to the Inka Bridge (Route 1D), allowing you to enjoy experiences that complement the classic route.

• 9) Is it possible to combine several routes in the same day?

  Yes, depending on your fitness level and available time, it’s possible to plan a visit that combines different routes. Many travelers choose to start with a scenic route to get the best photos and then explore Huayna Picchu mountain.

• 10) What routes are recommended for those looking for spectacular photographs?

  The panoramic routes (especially (Route 1B) Machu Picchu Classic Photo or Upper Terrace and (Route 1A) Machu Picchu + Mountain, are the favorites of photography lovers, as they offer elevated views and unique angles that capture the magic of Machu Picchu in all its splendor.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Marcus R.

“Huayna Picchu Experience“

“Climbing Huayna Picchu was an incredible experience, the views are breathtaking and the feeling of being at the top is indescribable. I recommend wearing good shoes and being prepared for the challenge, but it is definitely worth the effort. It is an adventure that makes the visit even more memorable.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, March 31, 2025