Currently, Machu Picchu offers 6 entry tickets during the regular season, while in the high season, this increases to 10 tickets. Therefore, there are many options for booking, purchasing, and touring the Inca citadel. Choosing the best ticket can be quite complicated and subjective. However, in this blog, we can help you select a ticket that allows you to enjoy and have the best possible experience at Machu Picchu. Let’s get started!

• Comparison of Machu Picchu tickets
• The experience of doing Circuit 1 or Panoramic Route
• The experience of doing Circuit 2 or Classic Route
• The experience of doing Circuit 3 or Royalty Route
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Classic Photo ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Mountain ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Inti Punku ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu Classic Route ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu Classic Route (Lower Terrace) ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Lower Temples ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon ticket?
• Why choose the Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu ticket?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Observing the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu

Comparison of Machu Picchu tickets

The experience of doing Circuit 1 or Panoramic Route

• It is one of the new circuits that allows visitors to explore the first sector of Machu Picchu.
• Although it does not allow entry into the Inca citadel, it offers the opportunity to admire the entire site.
• Some tickets allow access to routes leading to Inti Punku, the Inca Bridge, and the highest mountain, Machu Picchu.
• The experience can be summarized as a journey through the highest part of Machu Picchu.
• The difficulty of the route depends on the ticket chosen. Be prepared for an activity under the sun.

Panoramic view of Machu Picchu

The experience of doing Circuit 2 or Classic Route

• This circuit allows visitors to explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• It offers a deeper understanding of Inca architecture by visiting its structures.
• Tickets grant access to most temples, agricultural areas, and smaller temples in Machu Picchu.
• It is an ideal circuit for exploring with a tour guide.
• This experience is educational, cultural, and perfect for taking photographs inside the citadel.
• The route is relatively easy, making it ideal for children, seniors, and all types of visitors.

Tourists walking the classic route of Machu Picchu

The experience of doing Circuit 3 or Royalty Route

• This circuit explores the lower area of Machu Picchu and includes short hiking trails.
• It also allows an ascent to Huayna Picchu Mountain, offering a high-altitude view of Machu Picchu.
• The ticket to the Temple of the Moon includes a descent through Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• Some tickets grant access to routes leading to Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, and the Temple of the Moon.
• This circuit offers a combined experience, although the Machu Picchu portion is shorter.
• All route options in this circuit are under the open sky and sun exposure.

Inca structures on the Royalty Route

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Classic Photo ticket?

• This ticket allows you to take an easy tour and access the upper platform.
• You can take the classic postcard photo and capture other panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
• The ascent is easy, and you can rest once you reach the upper platform.
• You will have the chance to visit the Guardian’s House and a carved stone.
• This ticket is ideal for all ages, with no restrictions.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so one or two months in advance.
• There are 10 entry times available, every hour from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Mountain ticket?

• This ticket allows you to take a hiking route and admire Machu Picchu from the upper platform.
• You can take the classic postcard photo and capture other panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
• The hike up the mountain is steep and requires physical effort.
• The ascent takes approximately 2 hours, while the descent is shorter.
• You will have the chance to visit the Guardian’s House and a carved stone.
• This ticket is available only for visitors aged 18 and older.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so one or two months in advance.
• There are two available entry times. The first allows entry at 6:00 AM, and the second at 8:00 AM.

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Inti Punku ticket?

• This ticket allows you to take a short hiking route and admire Machu Picchu from the upper platform.
• You can take the classic postcard photo and also capture views from Inti Punku, the former main entrance.
• The hike to Inti Punku follows the trails originally built by the Incas.
• Inti Punku served as the original checkpoint of Machu Picchu.
• The ascent takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the descent is shorter.
• You will have the chance to visit the Guardian’s House and a carved stone, as well as several Inca constructions along the route to Inti Punku.
• This ticket is ideal for all ages, with no restrictions.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so one or two months in advance.
• There are four available entry groups. The first starts at 8:00 AM, and the last group enters at 11:00 AM.
• This route is only available during the high season.

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge ticket?

• This ticket allows you to take a short hiking route and admire Machu Picchu from the upper platform.
• You can take the classic postcard photo and visit the famous Inca Bridge.
• The hike to the Inca Bridge is quite easy and offers the opportunity to appreciate the local flora and fauna.
• It is believed that the Inca Bridge was part of an extension of the Inca Trail network.
• The hike takes approximately 30 minutes one way, with a similar time for the return.
• This ticket is ideal for all ages, with no restrictions.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so one or two months in advance.
• There are four available entry groups. The first starts at 8:00 AM, and the last group enters at 11:00 AM.
• This route is only available during the high season.

Why choose the Machu Picchu Classic Route ticket?

• This ticket offers the most immersive experience in Machu Picchu.
• It allows you to walk through the narrow streets and get a close look at the temples built with finely carved stones.
• To make the most of this tour, it is recommended to go with a professional tour guide.
• The walk is quite easy, with well-maintained and safe paths.
• The ticket allows you to see the agricultural terraces, water fountains, the Inca’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, and the large open plazas.
• This ticket is suitable for all ages and can be used year-round.
• There are 10 available entry times, starting at 6:00 AM, with the last group entering at 3:00 PM.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so 2 or 3 months in advance.

Why choose the Machu Picchu Classic Route (Lower Terrace) ticket?

• This ticket offers the most immersive experience in Machu Picchu.
• The tour starts from the upper area of Machu Picchu, near the upper platform.
• It provides stunning views of the Inca citadel.
• It allows you to walk through the narrow streets and get a close look at the temples built with finely carved stones.
• To make the most of this tour, it is recommended to go with a professional tour guide.
• The walk is quite easy, with well-maintained and safe paths.
• The ticket allows you to see the agricultural terraces, water fountains, the Inca’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, and the large open plazas.
• This ticket is suitable for all ages and can be used year-round.
• There are 10 available entry times, starting at 6:00 AM, with the last group entering at 3:00 PM.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so 2 or 3 months in advance.

Which is the Best Machu Picchu Entry Ticket?
Choosing a ticket depends on the type of experience you want. Sometimes, it also depends on how far in advance you book your Machu Picchu entrance. As we have seen and will continue to explore in this blog, there are different options, each offering a unique experience. It is up to visitors to choose their ideal ticket. One important thing to note is that most people opt for the Circuit 2 routes with either of the two tickets available. More adventurous visitors combine these with additional hiking routes. Why miss the chance to spend the entire day at Machu Picchu?

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Lower Temples ticket?

• Grants access to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu through the lower and agricultural zones.
• Allows you to admire the large open plazas and the temples in the lower area of Machu Picchu.
• The tour leads to the Sacred Rock, from where hikes can begin.
• Experiencing this route can be more enriching when accompanied by a professional tour guide.
• You can visit the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, and the Temple of the Condor.
• This ticket offers 10 entry times, starting at 6:00 AM, with the last group entering at 3:00 PM.
• The ticket is suitable for all ages and is also ideal for individuals with limited mobility.
• This ticket provides one of the easiest routes to explore.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so two months in advance.

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket?

• Grants access to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu through the lower and agricultural zones.
• Allows you to admire the large open plazas and the temples in the lower area of Machu Picchu.
• The tour leads to the Sacred Rock, from where hikes can begin.
• The hike is an uphill climb along a section of the Inca Trail, leading to the summit of the mountain.
• Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Machu Picchu from different perspectives.
• You can visit the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and Inca structures at the summit of Huayna Picchu.
• This ticket is designed for adventurous visitors who are of legal age.
• Entry to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu is limited to two schedules: the first at 7:00 AM and the second at 9:00 AM.
• This ticket offers one of the most thrilling experiences at Machu Picchu, allowing you to explore Inca trails and new routes.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so 2 or 3 months in advance.

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon ticket?

• Grants access to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu through the lower and agricultural zones.
• Allows you to admire the large open plazas and the temples in the lower area of Machu Picchu.
• The tour leads to the Sacred Rock, from where hikes can begin.
• The hike follows a descending route leading to the foothills of Huayna Picchu mountain.
• The trail follows the paths built by the Incas, leading to the Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern.
• The experience immerses you in dense vegetation, making it ideal for discovering the local flora and fauna.
• This ticket is designed for adventurous visitors who are of legal age.
• Entry to Machu Picchu and the Temple of the Moon is limited to two schedules: the first at 7:00 AM and the second at 9:00 AM.
• This ticket offers a unique adventure and is only available during the high season.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so 1 or 2 months in advance.

Why choose the Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu ticket?

• Grants access to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu through the lower and agricultural zones.
• Allows you to admire the large open plazas and the temples in the lower area of Machu Picchu.
• The tour leads to the Sacred Rock, from where hikes can begin.
• The hike is a short uphill climb, taking only 45 minutes to reach the summit of Huchuy Picchu.
• Along the way, you can enjoy different perspectives of Machu Picchu.
• You can visit the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, and the Temple of the Condor, as well as admire Machu Picchu from Huchuy Picchu.
• This ticket is designed for adventurous visitors who are of legal age.
• Entry to Machu Picchu and then to Huchuy Picchu is only available at two times: the first at 11:00 AM and the second at 1:00 PM.
• This ticket offers a simple hiking experience and is only available during the high season.
• If you wish to purchase this ticket, it is recommended to do so 1 month in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) Can I visit Machu Picchu all year round?

  Yes, it is possible to visit Machu Picchu throughout the year. In case access is restricted, you will be informed in advance. This usually happens due to social demonstrations, environmental issues, or similar force majeure reasons.

• 2) Are there any discounts for Machu Picchu tickets?

  Yes, the main discounts are available for national tourists, especially those from Cusco. Additionally, tourists from the CAN (Andean Community of Nations) countries also receive discounts. Other discounts are offered for minors and university students.

• 3) Can I book multiple tickets for the same day?

  Yes, with the new ticketing system for Machu Picchu, adventurous tourists often book multiple tickets to explore the citadel thoroughly and experience at least one hiking route. These are known as double tickets, allowing two consecutive entries to Machu Picchu.

• 4) What are the busiest entry times?

  The busiest times are in the morning, especially between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. After 11:00 AM, the number of visitors decreases. However, during the high season, the site may reach full capacity.

• 5) Are the hiking routes near Machu Picchu difficult?

  Most of them are quite easy to complete. All routes are safe and are constantly monitored for landslides or other issues. Additionally, maintenance is carried out regularly by park staff.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Cecilia M.

“Machu Picchu is all that you expect“

“It was a very pleasant experience to be in the wonder of Peru. My friends and I bought different entrance tickets and we were all very happy with every moment lived in Machu Picchu. Walking through the city made of stone and climbing its mountain was unforgettable. A thrill forever.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 19, 2025