Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is attracting more and more visitors every year. The number of travelers has grown from 4,000 to 10,000 daily, and this number could increase even more by 2025. While this increase benefits tourism in Peru and boosts the economies of the surrounding regions, it also raises concerns about the preservation of the Inca citadel. In particular, the Peruvian government is concerned that the current ticket restrictions are not sufficient to sustainably manage the growing number of visitors.
In 2024, the Ministry of Culture and the Peruvian government worked together to increase the number of tickets by introducing new categories of entry, now known as "Machu Picchu Circuits". These Machu Picchu Circuits 2025 are divided into three types: Panoramic, Royalty and Classic. The Classic Machu Picch circuit is the most popular and offers the best routes to explore the citadel. Each circuit is further divided into four routes that offer different ways to explore Machu Picchu. Below, we explain the differences between the circuits and recommend the best one for viewing the citadel's stunning landscapes.
High and low tourist seasons
In order to manage the flow of visitors and increase capacity, the Ministry of Culture has also established two different tourist seasons with varying ticket availability:
High Season (April to August and December): 5,650 tickets available daily.
Low season (January to March and September to November): 4,600 tickets available daily.
Due to these limitations, it is essential to purchase your Machu Picchu tickets in advance. Machu Picchu tickets 2025 can be booked online through the Ministry of Culture website.
Are you having some problems buying your Machu Picchu Tickets 2025? we can help you to book it. these tickets for next year are already available. Buy your Machu Picchu tickets.
Table of Contents
- Machu Picchu Circuits
- Circuit 1 Machu Picchu Ticket
- Circuit 2 Machu Picchu Ticket
- Circuit 3 Machu Picchu Ticket
- Machu Picchu Museum Tickets
- General map of the circuits Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu Tickets Rates 2025
- Factors That Affect the Purchase of Machu Picchu Tickets
- Machu Picchu Discount Tickets
- Latest Updates on Machu Picchu for 2025
- How to Book and Buy the Machu Picchu Tickets?
- Machu Picchu Hike
Machu Picchu Circuits 2025
The Peruvian government has released new information about the Machu Picchu tickets for 2025, introducing changes to the way visitors can explore the citadel. The tickets are now divided into circuits, each clearly marked. Park rangers are present to ensure compliance. If you deviate from the authorized circuit, the park rangers have the authority to remove you from the Inca citadel, and this action may also include your guide, leading to the cancellation of your entry. Please exercise caution.
The introduction of circuits is aimed at safeguarding the citadel for future visitors, aligning with UNESCO guidelines for the preservation of this esteemed world heritage site. These circuits are the following:
Machu Picchu circuits 2025 | Machu Picchu Route |
Circuit 1 Machu Picchu | Route A: Circuit 1 Machu Picchu Mountain |
Route B: Circuit 1 Panoramic | |
Route C: Circuit 1 Inti Punko - Available high tourist season | |
Route D: Circuit 1 Inca Bridge - Available high tourist season | |
Circuit 2 Machu Picchu | Route: Circuit 2 Classic |
Route: Circuit 2 Lower Terrace | |
Circuit 3 Machu Picchu | Route: Circuit 3 Huayna Picchu |
Route: Circuit 3 Royalty | |
Route: Circuit Great Cavern - Available high tourist season | |
Route: Circuit Huchuy Picchu - Available high tourist season |
Circuit 1 Machu Picchu
Circuit 1 Machu Picchu: Permit to see Machu Picchu
Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain
Circuit 1 is the second most popular hike to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the landscape surrounding this beautiful Inca citadel.
Begin your hike by checking in at the control gate with your passport and Machu Picchu ticket. From there you will begin your hike to the upper sector where the Guardian's House is located. This spot offers a stunning view of the citadel and is ideal for taking that iconic postcard photo.
The hike to Machu Picchu Mountain takes approximately three hours to climb and two hours to descend. After reaching the summit and enjoying the panoramic views, return to the Citadel's exit gate. Note that this ticket only allows one entry, meaning that you cannot re-enter the citadel once you have left.
All you need to know about Mount Machu Picchu before you book
- This ticket does not include exploration to the citadel. You can only see the citadel from the guardian's house and along the trail.
- The recommended time for this visit, according to the Ministry of Culture, is approximately 7 hours.
- This Machu Picchu circuit is available all year round.
- The first photo spot is just before the upper terrace, where you can capture the classic postcard view of the citadel.
- The second photo spot is on the upper terrace itself.
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route
The Upper Terrace Route allows visitors to view Machu Picchu exclusively from the Guardian's House. You can stay at this viewpoint for up to 2 hours and enjoy the panoramic view of the citadel. However, it is not possible to descend into the citadel from this route. After enjoying the view, you must descend to the exit gate.
All You Need to Know About the Upper Terrace Route
- This ticket does not include admission to the Inca Citadel.
- The Upper Terrace Route takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete and is specially designed for panoramic photography.
- This ticket is popular with visitors who want to capture the traditional postcard image.
- No guide is required for this route.
- This Machu Picchu Circuit is available throughout the year.
- It offers a brief exploration of the upper part of the citadel.
Route 1-C: Sun Gate Route
After passing through the checkpoint, begin your hike to the Guardian's House, where you can take some of the best pictures of Machu Picchu. From there you will continue your hike to the Gate of the Sun (Intipunku). On the way you will see the Vilcanota River flowing below and pass Puente Ruinas (an old train station). You will also have views of Huayna Picchu and the Putucusi Mountains.
The hike to the Sun Gate takes about 2 hours. From this point you'll be rewarded with some of the best panoramic views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
After enjoying the scenery, follow the same trail back to the checkpoint where your visit ends.
All you need to know about Sun Gate circuit
- The Sun Gate route does not allow access to the Inca urban sector.
- The Circuit 1: Intipunku hike takes about three hours to complete.
- This circuit is suitable for families as the trail has a gradual climb and is wide.
- During the hike to the Sun Gate, you may encounter trekkers finishing the Inca Trail trek.
- This circuit is only available during the low season, from January to March and from September to November.
Route 1-D: Inca Bridge Route
The Inca Bridge Circuit offers a short route with a quick hike to view Machu Picchu. From the checkpoint to the Inca Bridge it's about a 1 hour 30 minute hike at a leisurely pace. The Inca Bridge at Machu Picchu is a remarkable example of ancient Inca engineering, showing the ingenuity used to create paths across the rugged Andean landscape. Not only was it a practical passageway, but it also served as a defensive feature, highlighting the strategic planning of the Inca Empire.
On the return hike, you'll have the opportunity to view the Inca citadel from a fascinating route. Entering through the guardhouse, you can take a panoramic photo of the citadel of Machu Picchu. Finally, you'll descend and leave Machu Picchu.
All you need to know about the Sun Gate Circuit
- This circuit offers views of Machu Picchu from the Guardian's House and provides ideal spots to take the best photos of the site.
- Several overlooks along the way offer stunning views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscapes.
- This ticket does not allow access to the urban area of Machu Picchu.
- The Inca Bridge Circuit is only available during the high tourist season.
- During the trek, you may meet travelers who have completed the Inca Trail tours.
- From the Inca Bridge Circuit you'll be able to see Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from different vantage points.
Circuit 2 Machu Picchu Ticket
Circuit 2 Machu Picchu ticket: Best Circuit Machu Picchu
Route 2-A: The Classic Route
After passing the checkpoint, you will proceed to the upper sector, just below the Guardhouse, where you can take a postcard-perfect photo of Machu Picchu. From there, you will walk down to the main gate to explore various sites including the Inca Quarry, the viewpoint of the Sun Temple, the Main Temple, the Sacred Rock, the Twelve Spans, the Eastern Qolqas, the Water Mirror, the Temple of the Condor, and Pisonay Square. After visiting all these sites, you will exit through the lower part of the area.
Things to know
- The Circuit 2 – Classic Route is comprehensive and lengthy, making it ideal if you want to explore the entire Machu Picchu Citadel.
- This route includes access to the classic viewpoint where you can see Machu Picchu in all its splendor.
- With this route, you will explore about 80% of the Machu Picchu Citadel.
- Please note, however, that this ticket does not grant access to the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inca, or the Sundial.
- Additionally, you won't have access to the Upper Terrace or the Guardhouse with this ticket, as they are not included in the circuit.
Route 2-B: The Lower Terrace Route
After passing the checkpoint, you will enter the lower part of the site, starting with the Qolqas (storehouses) and terraces. From there, you'll continue to the House of the Inca, the Water Fountains, and the Water Mirrors. Your visit concludes as you exit through Pisonay Square.
Circuit 3 Machu Picchu Ticket
Route 3-A – Huayna Picchu Mountain Route
You will begin your journey at the lower section of Machu Picchu. This path will lead you to the Temple of the Sun, the Inca's Residence, and the Sacred Rock. Afterward, you'll embark on a two-hour hike up Huayna Picchu. Upon completing the hike, you'll continue exploring Machu Picchu by visiting the House of the Chosen Women, the Water Mirrors, the Temple of the Condor, and the Storehouses before exiting the site.
Things to know
- Following this route, you won't be able to take the classic postcard picture of Machu Picchu as you will explore its lower section.
- Instead, you'll visit the urban sector of Machu Picchu.
- From the top of Huayna Picchu, you'll capture a unique angle of Machu Picchu.
- The entire circuit takes approximately four hours to complete.
- Note that only visitors aged 18 and over are permitted to access this mountain.
- It's essential to purchase your ticket at least three months in advance due to high demand.
Route 3-B: Royaly Route
Your tour will begin at the lower section of Machu Picchu. This route includes visits to the Sun Temple, the Inca's House, the House of the Chosen Woman, the Water Mirrors, the Temple of the Condor, and the Storehouses. After exploring these sites, you will exit Machu Picchu.
Things to know
- This route takes you through the royal area of Machu Picchu.
- Although you won't have access to the classic postcard view of Machu Picchu, you will explore its lower sections, including the urban sector.
- From the top of Huayna Picchu, you'll capture a unique perspective of Machu Picchu.
- The entire circuit takes about two hours to complete.
Route 3-C: Caverna Route
Your journey will begin at the lower section of Machu Picchu. Following this route, you'll visit the Sun Temple, the House of the Inca, and the Sacred Rocks. Afterward, you'll embark on a two-hour hike to La Caverna. Upon completing the hike, you'll continue exploring Machu Picchu by visiting the House of the Chosen Woman, the Water Mirrors, the Temple of the Condor, and the Storehouses before exiting Machu Picchu.
Things to know
- With this route, you won’t have access to the classic postcard view of Machu Picchu as it focuses on the lower sections.
- You will explore the urban sector of Machu Picchu.
- The entire circuit takes about four hours to complete.
- Please note that this route is only open during the high season, from June 1st to October 15th.
Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route
Your tour will start at the lower section of Machu Picchu. This route includes visits to the Sun Temple, the Inca's House, and the Sacred Rocks. Afterward, you'll take a one-hour hike to Huchuy Picchu. Once the hike is complete, you'll continue your exploration by visiting the House of the Chosen Woman, the Water Mirrors, the Temple of the Condor, and the Storehouses before exiting Machu Picchu.
Things to know
- This route focuses on the lower part of Machu Picchu, so you won’t get the classic postcard view.
- Instead, you’ll explore the urban sector of Machu Picchu and capture unique photos from the top of Huchuy Picchu Mountain.
- The entire route takes about three hours to complete.
- Please note that this route is only open during the high season, from June 1st to October 15th.
Machu Picchu Museum Tickets
The museum of Machu Picchu called Museo de Sitio Manuel Chávez Ballón is located in Aguas Calientes. It houses a collection of pieces found at Machu Picchu. This allows you to learn more about the history of the citadel as well as the Inca Empire. All details are explained carefully. It also offers an interesting multimedia exhibition. The Machu Picchu + Museum Tickets provide with a unique and complete cultural experience since one is enable to travel back in time to the era when the Incas inhabited Machu Picchu.
Opening hours of the museum:
Monday – Sunday: 9 am to 4:30 pm
The schedule of your visit depends on the shift you chose to enter Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Circuits Map
Machu Picchu Tickets Rates 2025
How much is a ticket to visit Machu Picchu? The new prices of Machu Picchu Tickets 2025 can be found below. Ticket prices vary according to the type of a ticket and nationality of a tourist. In addition, students can get a discount.
Peruvian Tourists and Andean Community (Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador)
- Children aged 3 to 17: USD 21.00
- Adults aged 18 and above: USD 31.00
- Students: USD 21.00
Foreign Tourists
- Children aged 3 to 17: USD 35.00
- Adults aged 18 and above: USD 60.00
- Students: USD 35.00
Schedules:
- Morning: from 06:00 to 12:00
- Afternoon: from 12:00 to 18:00
- Both: from 06:00 to 18:00
Foreigner | National Tourist | |||
Adult | Student | Adult | Student | |
Only Machu Picchu Tickets | US $62 | US $41 | US $37 | US $27 |
Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4 Tickets | US $86 | US $57 | US $54 | US $40 |
Machu Picchu Mountain + Circuit 3 Tickets | US $86 | US $57 | US $54 | US $40 |
Huchuypicchu Mountain + Circuit 4 Tickets | US $62 | US $ 22 | US $19 | US $9 |
Machu Picchu Museum Tickets | US $10 | US $5 | US $10 | US $5 |
IMPORTANT NOTE:
- Tickets can only be used at the selected time.
- The admission capacity to the llaqta will be enabled 100% from October 18 to December 31, 2021, except for modifications that may be given by virtue of the Supreme Decrees of alert levels in the Cusco Region.
- Tickets must be purchased in advance exclusively at the offices on Calle Garcilaso s / n Cusco, office on Calle Maruri No. 340 or on the website www.machupicchu.gob.pe.
- If you like to book Machu Picchu + Mountain Tickets online, you can select an hour of your entrance to Machu Picchu at first only. In the next step, it allows you to choose a time slot of your preference to climb up the mountain too.
- It is very important to pay 100% of your tickets.
- Once paid, our reservation department will email you a copy of your Machu Picchu ticket.
- After that, it is not possible to change the date or cancel the ticket!
Factors That Affect the Purchase of Machu Picchu Tickets
- Time – many people would like to have enough time to make their Machu Picchu Vacation Package. But work and/or studies do not allow it often. Do not believe there will be enough Machu Picchu tickets and buy yours beforehand. Especially, if you are short of time. It may happen that they will be sold out upon your arrival at Cusco.
- Price – it increases more and more over the years. It is even worse when a booking is made at the last minute. For that reason, it is recommended to buy Machu Picchu and train tickets in advance. You will save yourself a lot of stress.
- Limited Access – one of the main reasons for not visiting Machu Picchu is the limited access. That is why, travelers are advised to buy a ticket to Machu Picchu as soon as possible.
- Circuits – The most popular circuits at Machu Picchu are Circuits 1 and 2, which are often requested by travelers. These circuits allow visitors to explore the entirety of the Inca City, and are the only circuits available at Machu Picchu ticket
Machu Picchu Discount Tickets
Students
If you’re a student planning to visit Machu Picchu, you’ll be pleased to know that there are student discounts available on admission tickets. To qualify, you must have a valid student ID or university card at the time of entry. The discount applies to both the regular Machu Picchu entrance ticket and the mountain entrance ticket. Be sure to check the official Machu Picchu website or authorized ticket vendor for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices and availability.
Child
If you’re planning a family trip to Machu Picchu, you’ll be happy to know that child discounts are available on admission tickets. Children under the age of 12 are eligible for discounted tickets, while children under the age of 2 can enter the site for free. To take advantage of this discount, be sure to bring proof of age for each child, such as a passport or birth certificate. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to share this unforgettable experience with your family at a discounted rate!
Peruvian and The Andean Community of Nations (CAN)
If you’re a citizen of Peru or a member country of the Andean Community (CAN), you may be eligible for a discounted rate on Machu Picchu tickets. The discounted rate applies to both the regular entrance ticket and the mountain entrance ticket. To qualify, you must show a valid national identification card or passport at the time of entry. It’s important to note that the availability of these discounted tickets may be limited, and we recommend checking with the official Machu Picchu website or authorized ticket vendor for the most up-to-date information on pricing and availability.
What is The Andean Community of Nations or CAN?
It is a South American trade bloc that includes Peru, as well as Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador. So, Peruvians and citizens of other CAN member countries may have certain discounts or different ticket rates for Machu Picchu.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this incredible wonder of the world at a discounted rate!
Machu Picchu News 2025
Railway Restoration Triumph: Machu Picchu Access Reopened After Rock Slide
On the 26th of February 2025, heavy rainfall in the Cusco region triggered a rock slide, obstructing the railway used by tourists to reach Machu Picchu. The blockage occurred at kilometers 109 (known as Rocatal) and 110 (Cedrobamba sector), along the Ollantaytambo section leading to Machu Picchu. In response, the Ferrocarril Trasandino company promptly deployed heavy machinery to clear the affected area.
After more than five hours of concerted efforts, the concessionaire successfully completed the restoration work on the railway line, allowing for the resumption of transportation to this world wonder. The landslide had forced the suspension of all transportation activities for both tourists and local residents.
During the emergency, six tourist and local service trains operated by the PeruRail company suspended their activities from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. Additionally, two trains were held at the Aguas Calientes station, awaiting the clearance of the railway.
Starting February 15th, 2023: Machu Picchu will be fully open to all visitors, operating at 100% capacity. This is great news for travelers who have been waiting to visit this iconic site, as it means that there will be no restrictions on the number of visitors allowed in each day.
However, it’s important to note that with the increased capacity, it’s more important than ever to book your Machu Picchu tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. With the site now fully open, demand for tickets is likely to be high, and there is always the risk that tickets will sell out for a particular day.
Booking your tickets in advance is easy and can be done online or through a travel agency. The Ministry of Culture recommends booking your tickets at least a few weeks in advance to ensure availability. It’s also worth noting that there are some restrictions in place for visitors to Machu Picchu, such as the requirement to follow a designated route through the site and restrictions on the use of certain equipment.
Despite the new regulations, visiting Machu Picchu remains an unforgettable experience that is well worth the effort. From the stunning mountain scenery to the awe-inspiring ancient ruins, there’s truly nothing else like it in the world. So if you’re planning a trip to Peru, be sure to add Machu Picchu to your itinerary and book your tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises!
News: Updated February 2nd, 2023: Tthe Ministry of Culture in Peru will be implementing new rates for Machu Picchu tickets 2025. The new rates are as follows: The Ministry of Culture in Peru will be implementing new rates for Machu Picchu tickets. The new rates are as follows:
Adult: S/ 172
Student: S/86
Kid (3-year-old): S/43
These rates represent an increase from the previous rates, and it’s worth noting that they may be subject to further changes in the future.
The Machu Picchu tickets include access to the Machu Picchu citadel, as well as entry to the Machu Picchu Museum in Aguas Calientes. There are also options to purchase additional tickets for climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
It’s important to note that tickets for Machu Picchu should be purchased in advance, as there are limited daily ticket quotas in order to preserve the site and prevent overcrowding. Visitors are encouraged to book their tickets well in advance of their planned visit in order to ensure availability.
In addition to the updated ticket rates, there are also some new regulations in place for visitors to Machu Picchu. For example, visitors are now required to follow a designated route through the site and are no longer permitted to backtrack or visit areas that are not included in the route. There are also restrictions on the use of certain equipment, such as tripods and drones.
Overall, the updated rates and regulations for Machu Picchu are aimed at preserving and protecting this iconic site for future generations to enjoy. While the increased ticket prices may be a bit of a surprise to some visitors, the experience of visiting Machu Picchu is truly unforgettable and well worth the investment.
July 10th, 2022: the Peruvian government has increased the number of visitors allowed into Machu Picchu to 1000 tickets per day. This decision was made in response to the collapse of tourism during the months of June, July, and August 2022, which prevented many visitors from being able to visit the site.
With the increased capacity, more travelers will be able to experience the wonders of Machu Picchu. However, it’s important to note that even with the increase in capacity, demand for tickets is still likely to be high, particularly during peak travel seasons. Therefore, it is still recommended that visitors book their Machu Picchu tickets in advance to avoid any inconvenience or disappointment.
Booking your tickets in advance can be done through a travel agency or online, and it is recommended that you do so as early as possible to ensure availability. It’s also important to note that there are regulations in place for visitors to Machu Picchu, such as following a designated route through the site and restrictions on the use of certain equipment.
Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Machu Picchu remains one of the most incredible and iconic destinations in the world. By booking your tickets in advance and following the regulations in place, you can ensure that you have an unforgettable experience at this awe-inspiring site.
Peruvian News (Updated, July 08th): The Peruvian government increased the number of tourists who will be allowed to enter the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The capacity for admission to the llaqta will increase from 3,044 to 4,044 visitors per day following the approval of the proposal by Mincetur (Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism), Ministry of Culture Cusco. On June, July and August 2022, many visitors could not visit the citadel. We recommend you book in advance!
How to Book and Buy the Machu Picchu Tickets?
- Go to the Ministry of Culture website. Be patient as the website can take a little while to load. You will need to have installed Adobe Flash (free download) to be able to view the website. You can change a language to English by clicking the UK’s flag at the top right.
- Select a site you wish to visit. Above the calendar before picking a date, you must first select a place of visit. Here you need to decide if you prefer to see Machu Picchu only or if you like to combine it with a visit the site museum too. The Museo Manuel Chávez Ballon is a small museum, but it is worth seeing it before getting to Machu Picchu itself. It houses some neat artefacts, all described in English. The museum is situated near Aguas Calientes (a town just below Machu Picchu). As a next step, you need to select a route. It means you must decide whether you visit in addition to Machu Picchu (or Machu Picchu and the museum) also Huayna Picchu and/or the Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Choose your date. Once you have selected your route, you can choose a day by clicking on the calendar.
- Choose the number of tickets needed. Click the arrows under Quantity to pick the number of tickets needed.
- Please Note: If you need to buy a CHILD ticket, click the button to the right above it (Tickes for students). Children aged 8+ years pay the student rate. Children 7 years and younger are FREE of charge!
- Fill in your personal details. Now, you must complete your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport.
- Finash your order. You are now on the final page. You may get a pop up window saying “Read the terms and conditions”. Enter your e-mail address, double check if all details provided are correct. Remember, it must match the ID provided. When you are ready, click “Generate reservation”. Then, you get a couple of pop-up windows including your Reservation Form. This is important! So, do not close it since you have not paid for your ticket yet! Copy the Reservation number displayed on the page. Then, select the Payment tab on the main panel above. This takes you to a new page.
- Pay for your tickets. You need to paste your reservation code into the payment page now.
- Save & print the tickets. Once your payment is complete, print your receipt and tickets and save them into your computer as a PDF.
How to Book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Tickets for The Next Year?
Each year, the Ministry of Culture starts selling Machu Picchu tickets for the next year only at the end of December. We recommend you to be patient and watch the moment when the tickets go on sale.
Another recommendation is to buy a Machu Picchu ticket for a date close to June 24th when the Inca festival of the sun “Inti Raymi” is celebrated. So, you can enjoy the Inti Raymi Tour 2025 and visit the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu in a single trip to Peru. Also, you might add one day to your Machu Picchu Vacation Package and book a Palcoyo Mountain Tour for a more complete view of Peru.
Machu Picchu Hike
Also, you might get to Machu Picchu hiking one of the following options such as Inca Trail Tours, Salkantay Trek, Inca Quarry Trail or an Alternative Trek.
Amazing Tours to Machu Picchu
Related Treks:
Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain
Machu Picchu Hike
Also, you might get to Machu Picchu hiking one of the following options such as Inca Trail Tours, Salkantay Trek, Inca Quarry Trail or an Alternative Trek.
Amazing Tours to Machu Picchu