Planning a visit to Machu Picchu requires more than just choosing your travel dates. The Machu Picchu tourist ticket is your key to one of the seven wonders of the modern world, but obtaining it can be more complex than you might expect. With different types of tickets, variable prices, and capacity restrictions, it’s essential to know all the details before making your purchase.
The Inca citadel receives thousands of visitors daily, but access is limited to preserve this World Heritage site. This means some tickets sell out months in advance, especially during the high season. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know to secure your entry and have an unforgettable experience at Machu Picchu.
From the different types of tickets available to entry requirements and the best purchasing strategies, here you’ll find the most up-to-date information to plan your visit without setbacks.
Everything You Need to Know About the Machu Picchu Tourist Ticket
The ticketing system for Machu Picchu operates under strict capacity control, allowing a maximum of 4,500 visitors per day, distributed across different time slots and circuits. This measure aims to protect the integrity of the archaeological site while ensuring tourists enjoy a quality experience.
Each ticket includes access to the Machu Picchu citadel and the opportunity to explore one of the established circuits. Entry times are divided into specific slots that must be strictly adhered to, as entry outside the assigned time on your ticket is not permitted.
Important Note: Your ticket is personal and non-transferable. You must present the same identification document used during the purchase to enter Machu Picchu.
The ticket is valid only for the specified date and time. Changes to the date are not possible once the purchase is made, so careful planning is crucial before acquiring your tickets.
How Many Types of Tickets Are There for Machu Picchu?
Currently, there are five different types of tickets to visit Machu Picchu, each designed to offer distinct experiences based on your interests and level of adventure. Your choice of ticket will determine not only which areas you can visit but also the duration of your stay at the archaeological site.
| Circuit | Route | Description | Includes | Availability | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit 1 (Panoramic) | 1-A | Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain | Ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain and panoramic views | Year-round | Up to 6 hours |
| 1-B | Upper Terrace | Classic view from the Guardian’s House | Year-round | 2 hours 30 minutes | |
| 1-C | Intipunku Gate | Hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) | High season only | 2 hours round trip | |
| 1-D | Inca Bridge | Hike to the Inca Bridge | High season only | 2 hours round trip | |
| Circuit 2 (Classic) | 2-A | Designed Route | Complete tour of the Inca citadel | Year-round | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| 2-B | Lower Terrace | Tour of the lower part of the citadel | Year-round | 2 hours 30 minutes | |
| Circuit 3 (Royalty) | 3-A | Huayna Picchu Mountain | Ascent to Huayna Picchu and visit to the citadel | Year-round | Up to 4 hours |
| 3-B | Designed Route | Tour of royal temples and structures | Year-round | 2 hours 30 minutes | |
| 3-C | Great Cavern | Hike to the Great Cavern (Temple of the Moon) | High season only | Up to 7 hours | |
| 3-D | Huchuy Picchu Mountain | Ascent to Huchuy Picchu and visit to the citadel | Year-round | Up to 3 hours |
Circuit 1: Panoramic
1-A. Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain
This circuit is perfect for those seeking an adventurous experience with a visual reward. The ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain allows you to view the archaeological complex from a unique, almost aerial perspective. Along the trail, nature blends with history, and every step reveals a new angle of this world wonder.
- Includes: Access to the citadel + ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain
- Total duration: Up to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to high
- Capacity: 400 people per day
- Highlight: Panoramic views from the highest accessible point of Machu Picchu
1-B. Upper Terrace (Guardian’s House)
This route is ideal for those looking for the classic postcard view of Machu Picchu. From the upper terrace, you can appreciate the harmony between architecture and nature. This is where travelers capture the most iconic images while enjoying a light walk with breathtaking views.
- Includes: Access to the citadel + upper area for photography
- Total duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Low
- Capacity: No fixed limit
- Highlight: Iconic view from the Guardian’s House
1-C. Intipunku Gate (Sun Gate)
Formerly the main entrance for Inca Trail hikers, Intipunku is a site full of symbolism. This hike allows you to experience the same access used by ancient pilgrims, and upon arrival, offers an unforgettable panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above.
- Includes: Access to the citadel + hike to the Sun Gate
- Total duration: 2 hours (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Capacity: Limited during high season
- Highlight: Historic entry point to the Inca sanctuary
1-D. Inca Bridge
This route leads visitors along lesser-traveled paths to the Inca Bridge, an astonishing structure built on a cliff. It’s an ideal option for those looking to combine a moderate hike, history, and a dose of adrenaline while walking along dramatic precipices.
- Includes: Access to the citadel + hike to the Inca Bridge
- Total duration: 2 hours (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Capacity: 300 people per day
- Highlight: Defensive masterpiece suspended over an abyss
Circuit 2: Classic
2-A. Designed Route (Complete)
This circuit is the most recommended for first-time visitors to Machu Picchu. It covers the main areas of the citadel: plazas, temples, agricultural terraces, and viewpoints. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the Inca Empire’s urban and spiritual planning.
- Includes: Full access to the Inca citadel
- Total duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Capacity: No fixed limit
- Highlight: Visit the most iconic sectors of the sanctuary
2-B. Lower Terrace
Designed for a more relaxed visit, this route through the lower part of the citadel allows visitors to observe lesser-seen architectural details. Ideal for those seeking a more introspective experience without missing key elements of Inca history.
- Includes: Access to the lower sectors of the citadel
- Total duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Low to moderate
- Capacity: No fixed limit
- Highlight: Access to agricultural and residential zones
Circuit 3: Royalty
3-A. Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain
An unforgettable experience that combines the mysticism of the citadel with the extreme adventure of climbing Huayna Picchu. From the summit, Machu Picchu can be seen from an iconic angle few get to experience. The feeling of conquering this mountain is unmatched.
- Includes: Access to the citadel + climb to Huayna Picchu
- Total duration: Up to 6 hours
- Difficulty: High
- Capacity: 200 people per day
- Highlight: Iconic view from the top of the sacred mountain
3-B. Designed Route (Royal Temples)
This route allows you to explore the most important temples and structures from a ceremonial and spiritual perspective. Visitors tour sites like the Temple of the Sun and the Sacred Rock, feeling the energy still emanating from these ancient constructions.
- Includes: Access to temples and noble areas of Machu Picchu
- Total duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Capacity: No fixed limit
- Highlight: Spiritual connection with the most sacred temples
3-C. Great Cavern (Temple of the Moon)
This lesser-known and more demanding route leads to a hidden ceremonial space: the Great Cavern. Surrounded by nature, this rock-carved temple is one of Machu Picchu’s enigmas. Ideal for explorers seeking an authentic and profound experience.
- Includes: Access to the citadel + hike to the Great Cavern
- Total duration: Up to 7 hours
- Difficulty: High
- Capacity: Limited (high season only)
- Highlight: One of the most mysterious and challenging routes
3-D. Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu Mountain
Perfect for those who want an elevated view of Machu Picchu without a strenuous hike. This smaller mountain offers a short but rewarding trail, with beautiful panoramic views and fewer visitors, allowing for a serene experience.
- Includes: Access to the citadel + climb to Huchuy Picchu
- Total duration: Up to 3 hours
- Difficulty: Low to moderate
- Capacity: 200 people per day
Machu Picchu Tourist Ticket Prices
| Ticket Type | Foreign Adult | National Adult | Student | Child (3–17 years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machu Picchu Only (circuits 1, 2, 3) | S/ 152 | S/ 64 | S/ 77 | S/ 70 |
| Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu | S/ 200 | S/ 112 | S/ 125 | S/ 118 |
| Machu Picchu + Mountain | S/ 200 | S/ 112 | S/ 125 | S/ 118 |
| Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu | S/ 152 | S/ 64 | S/ 77 | S/ 70 |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge | S/ 152 | S/ 64 | S/ 77 | S/ 70 |
Ticket prices for Machu Picchu vary depending on the type of entry and the visitor’s nationality. The Peruvian government offers significant discounts for national citizens, university students, and minors, while foreigners pay the full rate.
To access student discounts, you must present a valid university ID issued by a recognized institution. Exchange students and those with international student cards may also qualify for this special rate.
Important: Prices are subject to change without notice. It is recommended to check current rates on the official website before purchasing.
In addition to the ticket cost, you should also consider additional expenses such as transportation to Aguas Calientes, the bus to Machu Picchu (optional), meals, and lodging if you plan to stay more than one day in the area.
Where and How to Buy the Machu Picchu Tourist Ticket
There are several options to purchase your Machu Picchu ticket, each with its own advantages and considerations. Your choice of purchasing method can significantly influence your experience, especially in terms of availability and convenience.
1. Online Purchase (Recommended)
Purchasing online through the official website of the Ministry of Culture of Peru is the most recommended and convenient option. It allows you to check real-time availability, select your preferred date and time, and complete the transaction from anywhere in the world.
The online purchase process is simple but requires careful attention to details. You must have your ID handy, as the information must exactly match your ticket. Once the purchase is complete, you will receive an electronic receipt which you must either print or save to your mobile device.
- Advantages: 24/7 availability, immediate availability check, fast process
- Payment methods: Visa and MasterCard
- Official website: www.tuboleto.cultura.pe
- Confirmation: Immediate via email
It is crucial to use only the official Peruvian government website. There are many fraudulent websites that mimic the official design but charge inflated prices or sell fake tickets.
2. In-Person Purchase
If you prefer to purchase in person, you can go to authorized offices in Cusco or Aguas Calientes. This option allows you to clarify doubts directly with trained staff and pay in cash if you don’t have an international credit card.
Sales offices are strategically located to facilitate access for tourists. However, keep in mind that availability may be limited, especially during high season or for close travel dates.
| Location | Address | Hours | Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decentralized Directorate of Culture – Cusco | Maruri Street 340 | Monday to Saturday: 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Ticket sales, tourist information, maps, cultural orientation |
| Culture Office in Aguas Calientes | Av. Pachacutec s/n | Monday to Saturday: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Ticket sales (limited), visitor assistance |
| Casa Garcilaso – Ministry of Culture | Garcilaso Street s/n, Cusco | 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Ticket sales, tourist information |
3. Tips for Buying the Ticket
Successfully purchasing Machu Picchu tickets requires strategic planning and knowing the best times to complete the transaction. These tips will help you secure your spot and avoid common issues.
Expert Tip: Tickets are released automatically at 7:00 AM (Peru time). For high-demand dates, try purchasing exactly at that time.
- Plan ahead: Buy your ticket 2–4 months in advance, especially during high season
- Flexible dates: Have multiple date options to increase your chances of finding availability
- Updated documents: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
- Stable connection: Use a reliable internet connection during the purchase