Machu Picchu tickets 2026: types, prices and how to choose

Since June 2024, new circuits with specific routes for touring Machu Picchu have been in place. The measure aims to reduce the impact of tourism on the Inca citadel. So when you buy your ticket, you have to choose a circuit and a specific route. You can't mix them or change your route once you're inside.

There are currently 3 main circuits, and each has several routes. Below we explain what each one includes, so you can choose the one that best fits your itinerary and your interests.

It depends on what you want to see and do. We go through each one in detail further down. But if it's your first time, we recommend choosing one of the routes in Circuit 2, which includes the main temples and enclosures of the citadel.

In our case, for example, we wanted to climb Machu Picchu Mountain and tour the whole citadel. Since we couldn't do everything with a single ticket, we went twice and bought 2 different tickets.

These routes let you see Machu Picchu from above, from the famous viewpoint at the Guardian's House (Casa del Guardián). Some include hikes to places like Machu Picchu Mountain or the Inca Bridge.

1. Machu Picchu Mountain route (Ruta Montaña Machu Picchu)

Ideal if you want a hike with impressive views.

• Includes the classic viewpoint.
• A 3-hour hike to the top of Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082 m / 10,112 ft), easier than Huayna Picchu
• 360° panoramic view of the Sacred Valley.
• Suitable for all ages.
• Total visit time: 6 hours.
• Recommendation: book at least 2 months in advance.

2. Upper Terraces route (Ruta Terrazas Superior)

Perfect if you just want the classic photo and an easy walk.

• Includes the Guardian's House area.
• It doesn't go through temples or interior sections.
• Suitable for all ages.
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Recommendation: book 1 month in advance.

3. Inti Punku Gate route (Ruta Portada Inti Punku)

• Available from June 1 to October 15.
• Includes the classic viewpoint and a hike to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), a strategic point the Incas used to observe the solstice.
• Duration: 4 hours.
• Suitable for all ages.
• Book 2 months in advance.

4. Inca Bridge route (Ruta Puente Inka)

• Also available only from June to October.
• Includes the classic viewpoint and a hike to the Inca Bridge, an incredible structure built on the edge of the mountain.
• Only for people over 18.
• Duration: 3 hours.
• Requires good physical condition.
• Book 2 months in advance.

This is the best circuit if it's your first time at Machu Picchu. It goes through the most important buildings of the citadel and gives you the full experience.

1. Designed Classic route (Ruta clásica diseñada)

• The most complete of them all.
• It goes through the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, Intihuatana, Sacred Rock, Water Mirrors and more.
• Includes a photo from a viewpoint lower than the Guardian's House.
• Suitable for all ages.
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Book 3 months in advance.

2. Lower Terraces route (Ruta terrazas inferior)

• Similar to the classic route but shorter.
• Includes the Temple of the Condor and other important temples.
• Ideal if you're short on time or want a lighter version.
• Suitable for all ages.
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Book 3 months in advance.

This circuit includes quieter routes through the agricultural sector and the lower section, or more demanding routes like Huayna Picchu and the Great Cavern.

1. Huayna Picchu route

One of the most coveted and challenging tickets.

• Includes the hike up Huayna Picchu (2,720 m / 8,924 ft). The views from the top are impressive and the stairs are super steep, so it's not suitable for people with vertigo.
• For people over 18.
• Duration: 4 hours.
• You absolutely have to book 2 months in advance.

2. Designed Royalty route (Ruta realeza diseñada)

• A route through the agricultural sector and stone buildings.
• Includes the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inca, the Temple of the Condor and more.
• It gives you an alternative view similar to the classic one.
• Suitable for all ages.
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Book 2 months in advance.

3. Great Cavern route (Ruta Gran Caverna)

• Includes the Temple of the Moon, a structure built in a natural cave.
• It also goes through the lower part of the site and exclusive sections.
• It doesn't let you take the classic postcard photo.
• For people over 18.
• Duration: 5 hours.
• Book in advance.

4. Huchuy Picchu route

• A shorter, easier hike to the “little sister” of Huayna Picchu.
• For people over 18.
• Panoramic view from the top.
• Duration: 3 hours.
• Recommended for anyone who wants a bit of adventure without as much effort.

• Buy your ticket in advance (especially if you want to do Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain).
• Choose carefully: tickets are non-transferable and don't let you change circuits.
• Before buying your ticket, make sure your transportation to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) is sorted out.
• You can buy your ticket on the official Machu Picchu site or book a tour with the ticket included, like this one.

Here's a complete guide with transfer options, or you can buy your train ticket here.

If you want to tour the whole citadel and climb a mountain, consider going on 2 different days, as we did.

What's the best circuit for visiting Machu Picchu if it's my first time?

Circuit 2, Designed Classic route is the most complete. It goes through the main temples and sections of the citadel and has a good view for taking photos. If you can only go once, this is the one we recommend.

Can I change circuits once I'm inside Machu Picchu?

No. Once you enter, you have to follow the route of the circuit you bought. You can't change it or go back. That's why it's important to choose carefully when you buy your ticket.

Do I need to hire a guide to enter Machu Picchu?

It's not mandatory, but it is recommended. A guide can explain the meaning of each structure, the Inca rituals and the history of the place.

How long does a visit to Machu Picchu take?

It depends on the circuit you choose:

• The simplest routes take between 2 and 3 hours.
• Routes with a hike, like Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, can take between 4 and 6 hours.

How much does a Machu Picchu ticket cost?

The price depends on the circuit and your nationality.

• For foreigners, tickets range from about 152 to 200 soles (between US$40 and US$55).
• For citizens of Andean countries (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador), the price is reduced.
• There are also discounts for students and children.

Where can I buy Machu Picchu tickets?

You can buy your ticket on the official Machu Picchu site or book a tour with the ticket included, like this one.

How far in advance should I buy tickets?

• For Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: at least 2 or 3 months ahead, especially in high season (June to September).
• For other circuits: 1 month in advance is usually enough, but the sooner the better.