95% of tourists make this mistake…
95% of travelers buy their Machu Picchu tickets online… but many do it wrong. They choose the wrong circuit, don’t validate the QR code, or worse: they buy for the wrong date.
The result? They lose access, their money… and the chance to visit Machu Picchu. Don’t let this happen to you. In this guide, I’ll explain which Machu Picchu ticket to choose, when to buy it, how much it costs, and what each ticket includes. Planning your visit properly is more important than you think.
Why You Need to Plan Your Machu Picchu Tickets
Machu Picchu is not a place where you can just show up and buy your ticket at the gate. Access is strictly controlled by Peru’s Ministry of Culture to protect the historic sanctuary.
- Limited daily entries: Only about 5,600 Machu Picchu tickets are released each day, distributed across several circuits and time slots.
- High season: From May to September, tickets usually sell out weeks in advance.
- Mandatory online reservations: 95% of tourists buy their Machu Picchu ticket online.
Tip: If you’re traveling between May and August, buy your tickets at least 2 to 3 months in advance.
Types of Machu Picchu Tickets
Since 2024, entry to Machu Picchu is organized into three official circuits, each with specific routes that allow you to explore different areas of the Inca citadel.
This system seeks to preserve the heritage and avoid crowds, ensuring a safer, more enriching experience for visitors.
Below, I explain each circuit and its routes so you can choose the one that best fits your trip:
Circuit 1 – Panoramic
This circuit is perfect for those seeking breathtaking, panoramic views of Machu Picchu and its sacred mountains.
It includes four routes that take you to the highest part of the citadel, ideal for photography and connecting with the natural surroundings.
Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route
- Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and view the Salkantay and Pumasillo snow-capped peaks.
- From the summit, capture the best panoramic photos of the cultural landscape surrounding the Inca city.
- Distance: 3.8 km (round trip).
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
- Daily capacity: 400 people.
- A demanding, less crowded route perfect for adventurous travelers in good physical condition.
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route
- Reach the viewpoint to enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
- See the Vilcabamba Batholith and the Vilcanota River.
- Distance: 1.6 km (round trip).
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours.
- Daily capacity: 600 people.
- An accessible, easy trail ideal for the classic photo.
Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate of the Sun Route (available only in high season)
- Walk to the mythical entry portal of the Inca Trail, Intipunku (Gate of the Sun).
- Enjoy a different panoramic view of the city.
- Distance: 3.4 km (round trip).
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours.
- Daily capacity: 250 people.
- A moderate hike for history and photography lovers.
Route 1-D: Inca Bridge Route (available only in high season)
- Discover the historic Inca Bridge built with stone and wood.
- Enjoy views of the Vilcanota Valley.
- Distance: 2.6 km (round trip).
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Daily capacity: 250 people.
- A trail with narrow, elevated sections; requires caution and moderate fitness.
Circuit 2 – Classic Machu Picchu
This circuit combines the terraces in the middle section with the urban area of the city. You’ll walk through temples, plazas, and ritual spaces dedicated to observing the stars.
Route 2-A: Designed Classic Route
- Visit the most important sectors: agricultural area, Llaqta Punku, Temple of the
- Sun Viewpoint, Main Square, Sacred Rock, and Water Mirrors.
- Distance: 2.5 km (round trip).
- Duration: 2 hours 30 min.
- Daily capacity: 800 people.
- Ideal for first time visitors to Machu Picchu.
Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route
- Start in the agricultural sector and ascend to the lower terrace for a unique view of the city.
- Visit Llaqta Punku, the Quarries, Main Square, Sacred Rock, and Water Mirrors.
- Distance: 2.7 km (round trip).
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Daily capacity: 600 people.
- A variant of the classic route, perfect for those seeking different photography angles.
Circuit 3 – Royalty Machu Picchu
This circuit brings together four routes and takes you to the most sacred spaces of the Inca royalty: the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, the Temple of the Condor, among others. It requires little physical effort, unless you choose to hike the mountains or to the Great Cavern.
Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain Route
- Begin in the agricultural sector, visit the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, and the Three Gateways.
- Climb Huayna Picchu Mountain for stunning views.
- Distance: 2.4 km (round trip).
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
- Daily capacity: 200 people.
- A steep trail, recommended only for travelers in excellent physical condition.
Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route
- Start on the terraces of the agricultural sector.
- Visit the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, the Ceremonial Fountains, and the Temple of the Condor.
- Distance: 1.3 km (round trip).
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Daily capacity: 500 people.
- A calm route with partial accessibility for wheelchair users.
Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (available only in high season)
- Tour the main temples and continue on to the Great Cavern.
- On the way back, visit the Temple of the Condor.
- Distance: 3 km (round trip).
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours.
- Daily capacity: 150 people.
- A demanding route that requires trekking experience.
Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu Route (available only in high season)
- Start in the agricultural sector and ascend to the summit of Huchuypicchu.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
- Distance: 1.7 km (round trip).
- Duration: 2 hours 30 min.
- Daily capacity: 200 people.
- Perfect for families, beginners, and photographers.
Updated Machu Picchu Ticket Prices
Prices vary depending on the type of ticket, nationality, and age. Here’s an approximate reference table:
Circuit 1 – Panoramic (Routes 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D)
| Visitor Type | Route 1A (Machu Picchu Mountain) | Route 1B (Upper Terrace) | Route 1C (Intipunku – Gate of the Sun) | Route 1D (Inca Bridge) |
| Foreign adult | S/ 200 (USD 52) | S/ 152 (USD 40) | S/ 152 (USD 40) | S/ 152 (USD 40) |
| Foreign student | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 77 (USD 20) | S/ 77 (USD 20) | S/ 77 (USD 20) |
| Peruvian national | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 64 (USD 17) |
| CAN citizen (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador) | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 64 (USD 17) |
| Cusco residents | S/ 80 (USD 21) | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 32 (USD 8) |
| Children (3–17) | S/ 80 (USD 21) | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 32 (USD 8) |
Circuit 2 – Classic Machu Picchu (Routes 2A and 2B)
| Visitor Type | Route 2A (Full Designed Route) | Route 2B (Lower Terrace) |
| Foreign adult | S/ 152 (USD 40) | S/ 152 (USD 40) |
| Foreign student | S/ 77 (USD 20) | S/ 77 (USD 20) |
| Peruvian national | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 64 (USD 17) |
| CAN citizen (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador) | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 64 (USD 17) |
| Cusco residents | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 32 (USD 8) |
| Children (3–17) | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 32 (USD 8) |
Circuit 3 – Royalty (Routes 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D)
| Visitor Type | Route 3A (Huayna Picchu) | Route 3B (Designed Route) | Route 3C (Great Cavern) | Route 3D (Huchuy Picchu) |
| Foreign adult | S/ 200 (USD 52) | S/ 152 (USD 40) | S/ 200 (USD 52) | S/ 200 (USD 52) |
| Foreign student | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 77 (USD 20) | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 112 (USD 29) |
| Peruvian national | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 112 (USD 29) |
| CAN citizen (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador) | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 64 (USD 17) | S/ 112 (USD 29) | S/ 112 (USD 29) |
| Cusco residents | S/ 80 (USD 21) | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 80 (USD 21) | S/ 80 (USD 21) |
| Children (3–17) | S/ 80 (USD 21) | S/ 32 (USD 8) | S/ 80 (USD 21) | S/ 80 (USD 21) |
Tips
- Prices can change each year. Always check the updated information on the official Ministry of Culture website.
- Cash payments are not accepted for online purchases.
- It’s recommended to bring a printed ticket and your original passport or valid ID.
- If you’re a Cusco resident, you can visit Machu Picchu for free every Sunday. You just need to reserve your ticket through the official website.
Entry Schedules and Time Slots
Since 2024, tickets are divided into 10 entry times, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Once inside, you can stay for a maximum of 4 hours, depending on the ticket type.
| Entry Time | Grace Period – Regular Season | Grace Period – High Demand (June 1–Oct 15, Dec 30–31) |
| 06:00 a.m. | Until 06:30 a.m. | Until 06:15 a.m. |
| 07:00 a.m. | Until 07:30 a.m. | Until 07:15 a.m. |
| 08:00 a.m. | Until 08:30 a.m. | Until 08:15 a.m. |
| 09:00 a.m. | Until 09:30 a.m. | Until 09:15 a.m. |
| 10:00 a.m. | Until 10:30 a.m. | Until 10:15 a.m. |
| 11:00 a.m. | Until 11:30 a.m. | Until 11:15 a.m. |
| 12:00 p.m. | Until 12:30 p.m. | Until 12:15 p.m. |
| 01:00 p.m. | Until 01:30 p.m. | Until 01:15 p.m. |
| 02:00 p.m. | Until 02:30 p.m. | Until 02:15 p.m. |
| 03:00 p.m. | Until 03:30 p.m. | Until 03:15 p.m. |
Important Notes About Schedules
- “Entry time” refers to the moment you must pass through the main gate to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
- The grace period is the maximum allowable window after your official entry time.
- At the mountain checkpoints (Machu Picchu Mountain, Waynapicchu, Huchuy Picchu) there is NO grace period. You must arrive at the exact time indicated on your ticket.
Tips for Choosing Your Entry Time
- First slot (6:00 a.m.): perfect for sunrise and enjoying the site with fewer people.
- Mid-morning slots (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.): the busiest, but with excellent light for photos.
- Last slot (3:00 p.m.): ideal if you prefer a calmer visit and want to avoid crowds.
Where to Buy Machu Picchu Tickets
You can officially buy your Machu Picchu tickets in two ways: through the Ministry of Culture’s website or in person at authorized offices in Cusco and Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).
Purchase on the Official Website
The most practical and safest way to get your entry is via the Ministry of Culture’s official page TuBoletoCultura.pe.
- The system accepts credit and debit cards.
- You receive your electronic ticket instantly.
- It’s the most reliable option, avoiding intermediaries.
- You can buy from anywhere in the world and months in advance.
In high season, tickets sell out fast. Buy online in advance.
Ministry of Culture Offices in Cusco
- Calle Maruri 324 – Office of the Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Cusco.
- Calle Garcilaso s/n – Office of Peru’s Ministry of Culture.
In Cusco you can buy your ticket in person, but only if tickets remain. Keep in mind most visitors purchase online and in advance, so in person quotas are usually limited. Each day 4,500 tickets are offered and up to 5,600 in high season (June to October).
In-Person Purchase in Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes)
- Address: Avenida Pachacutec s/n.
- Availability: 1,000 tickets per day.
- Restriction: you can only enter the day after purchase.
- Important: purchase is personal intermediaries are not allowed.
This option works as a last-minute alternative, though it’s not advisable to rely on it alone because tickets tend to sell out quickly.
Authorized Tour Agencies
There are reliable operators who can help you buy your Machu Picchu entry tickets, especially if you book a complete package.
- Make sure they are registered with MINCETUR.
- Verify that they issue the official ticket in your name.
Recommendations to Avoid Scams
- Buy your Machu Picchu ticket only from websites with HTTPS and verifiable contact details.
- Avoid payments through WhatsApp links or informal transfers.
- Do not buy from street resellers always use the official website or authorized agencies.
Bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
From Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo) you can go up on foot or by bus. The bus is the fastest and most comfortable option.
Where to Buy the Bus Ticket?
You can buy them in three ways:
- In Aguas Calientes, at the Consettur ticket office (Av. Hermanos Ayar, in front of the Ruinas bridge).
- In Cusco, at the Consettur office (Av. Infancia 433, Wanchaq).
- Online at https://www.consettur.com
How Much Is the Bus to Machu Picchu? (2025)
Foreigners
| For | One way | Round trip |
| Adults | USD 12.00 | USD 24.00 |
| Children | USD 7.00 | USD 12.00 |
Nationals
| For | One way | Round trip |
| Adults | USD 8.00 | USD 15.00 |
| Students | USD 6.00 | USD 10.00 |
| Children | USD 5.00 | USD 8.00 |
| Tour guides | S/ 6.00 | S/ 12.00 |
Residents
| For | One way | Round trip |
| Cusco residents | S/ 9.50 | S/ 19.00 |
| Machupicchu residents | S/ 4.00 | S/ 8.00 |
| Tour guides | S/ 4.00 | S/ 8.00 |
Frequency and Schedules
- Uphill: 5:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Downhill: 6:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
- Buses depart every 20 minutes.
- The ride takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
Is It Worth Walking Up?
The uphill hike takes between 1 hr 30 min and 2 hours, with considerable elevation gain. It requires good physical condition. The bus is highly recommended if you have a fixed entry time on your ticket or if you’re traveling with children or older adults.
Train Tickets to Machu Picchu
The train is the most popular and scenic way to reach Aguas Calientes from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Two companies offer the service: PeruRail and IncaRail.
Main Routes
- Cusco (San Pedro / Poroy) - Aguas Calientes, duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes, duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Urubamba - Aguas Calientes (limited service)
Tip: Most travelers take the train from Ollantaytambo, as it’s faster and more frequent than from Cusco.
Train Types and Services
PeruRail:
- Expedition (economy)
- Vistadome (panoramic windows)
- Hiram Bingham (luxury, with gourmet meals and entertainment)
IncaRail:
- The Voyager (economy)
- The 360° (panoramic windows + snack)
- The First Class (premium with lunch)
- The Private (personalized luxury)
How Much Are Train Tickets? (2025)
- From USD 55 to USD 500 round trip, depending on train type, season, and how far in advance you book.
- It’s recommended to buy at least 1 month in advance in high season.
Where to Buy?
- Official PeruRail or IncaRail websites
- Offices in Cusco, the airport, and train stations
- Authorized travel agencies (packages)
What to Keep in Mind When Buying?
- Make sure the train time is compatible with your Machu Picchu entry time.
- Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID to board.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early at the station.
Availability and Advance Reservations
The most common mistake is waiting until the last minute.
Here’s a guide to avoid it:
- High season (May–September): Buy 3 months in advance.
- Low season (October–April): Book at least 1 month in advance.
- Huayna Picchu: Tickets limited to 400 people per day, they sell out very quickly.
Expert tip: Before buying, check availability on the official website and adjust your itinerary according to the available time slots.
Rules and Requirements to Visit Machu Picchu
Entry to Machu Picchu is regulated to protect this World Heritage Site.
- Mandatory document: Bring your passport or ID; it must match the ticket.
- Non-refundable: Once issued, tickets are non refundable.
- Prohibited items: Drones, tripods, large umbrellas, food.
- Time limit: Depending on the ticket type, between 2 and 6 hours maximum.
Tips for Choosing the Best Ticket
- If it’s your first time: Choose Machu Picchu Solo to explore the citadel unhurriedly.
- If you seek adventure: Buy Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (book early).
- If you love photography: Opt for Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain.
- If you’re into history: Add the Site Museum to your ticket.
Common Mistakes When Buying Machu Picchu Tickets
When purchasing your Machu Picchu tickets, many travelers make mistakes that can ruin their experience. Here are the most frequent and how to avoid them:
- Waiting too long to book: availability is limited, especially in high season.
- Buying on unofficial sites: always use the official website or authorized agencies.
- Not checking time slot availability: remember access is divided into shifts.
- Forgetting your ID: your ticket must match your valid passport or ID.
- Choosing the wrong ticket for your fitness level: some circuits and mountains are more demanding.
- Buying for the wrong date: make sure it matches your train and bus tickets there are no changes or refunds.
- Not verifying ticket details: check that name, document number, and date are correct before paying.
- Not printing or carrying the digital QR: you can enter with the QR on your phone, but bringing a printed copy is recommended as a backup.
- Thinking you can buy at the gate: there’s no ticket sales at the entrance; if you arrive without a ticket, you won’t be allowed in.
What Do You Need to Buy Your Ticket?
Valid passport or ID
Mandatory for purchase and entry. The name on the ticket must match the document exactly.
ISIC student card (if applicable)
It’s the only document accepted for student rates. It must be valid.
Requirements if Buying Through an Agency
They will generally ask for a copy of your passport and/or student card, plus advance payment.
When Should You Buy Your Ticket?
Minimum Recommended Advance
- High season: 1 to 2 months ahead.
- Low season: at least 1 week ahead.
High and Low Seasons
High: June–August and holidays. Low: November–March. In high season, tickets sell out quickly.
Tips if You Don’t Find Availability
- Try other dates or circuits.
- Check with agencies.
- Consider alternatives like Huchuy Picchu.
Machu Picchu Ticket + Train + Bus: What Should You Coordinate?
Correct Order to Buy Everything
First the Machu Picchu ticket, then the train (PeruRail/IncaRail), and finally the bus from Aguas Calientes to the gate.
Tips if You’re Doing the Inca Trail or Salkantay
Check whether your agency includes the entry ticket. You don’t need to buy it separately if you’re doing the classic Inca Trail.
Can You Enter Machu Picchu Without a Guide?
Since 2021, the Ministry of Culture recommends entering with a tour guide, especially for your first visit.
However, it is not mandatory for all circuits. The rules are:
- You may enter without a guide if you visit any route of Circuits 1, 2, or 3 on your own.
- A guide is mandatory if you do the 4-day Classic Inca Trail (the guide is included with the tour).
- Some routes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain do not require a guide, but they do require punctuality and good physical condition.
Recommendation: Even if it’s not mandatory, hiring a guide at the gate or in advance in Cusco greatly improves the experience. You’ll learn more and avoid missing key details.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I buy my Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Machu Picchu tickets sell out quickly, especially during high season (June to August). Peru’s Ministry of Culture limits daily access to just over 5,000 visitors to protect the sanctuary. If you leave your purchase to the last minute, you’ll likely find no availability. The best practice is to reserve your Machu Picchu ticket several weeks ahead to secure your visit.
- Can you buy a Machu Picchu ticket at the gate?
No. Unlike other tourist sites, the Machu Picchu ticket is not sold at the access gate. You must purchase the ticket beforehand on the official website or at authorized points. Trying to show up without a reservation is one of the most common tourist mistakes and can ruin your trip.
- Do Machu Picchu tickets include a guide?
No. The Machu Picchu ticket only grants access to the archaeological site. The guide service is separate, although for certain circuits it’s mandatory to enter with one. Hiring a guide is highly recommended to get the most from your visit and to learn about Machu Picchu’s history, architecture, and secrets.
- What is the most common mistake when buying Machu Picchu tickets?
The most frequent mistake is not booking in time or choosing the wrong type of ticket. Many people buy only the Machu Picchu entry and then realize they wanted to climb Huayna Picchu, but there’s no availability left. Planning ahead and carefully reviewing the options will help you avoid this.
- What do I need to present along with my Machu Picchu ticket?
Besides your Machu Picchu ticket, you must show your original ID or passport. Students must also present their valid university card. Without these documents, your Machu Picchu entry will not be valid.
- Is there a discount on the Machu Picchu ticket for Peruvians?
Yes, Peruvian citizens and those from the Andean Community (Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador) have reduced rates for Machu Picchu tickets. This helps more people visit this cultural heritage site without paying the international price.
- Which Machu Picchu tickets sell out fastest?
Combined tickets that include Huayna Picchu are the most in demand, as there are only 200 spots per time slot. If you want this experience, buy your Machu Picchu ticket at least 2 to 3 months in advance.
- Can I buy multiple Machu Picchu tickets for different days?
Yes, you can purchase more than one Machu Picchu ticket, but each ticket is valid only for the selected date and time. This is useful if you want to explore different circuits on different days.
- What happens if I arrive late for my Machu Picchu entry time?
Your Machu Picchu ticket is valid only for the time slot you selected. If you’re late, you risk being denied entry. It’s recommended to arrive in Aguas Calientes the day before or with enough time to avoid setbacks.
- Which items are prohibited inside Machu Picchu?
With your Machu Picchu ticket, you may not enter with drones, large umbrellas, tripods, musical instruments, food, or bulky backpacks. The goal is to preserve the archaeological heritage and avoid damage. There are lockers at the entrance to leave your belongings before entering.
- How do I coordinate buying the Machu Picchu ticket, train, and bus without mistakes?
The correct order is:
- Buy the Machu Picchu ticket first, as it defines your visit date and time.
- Book the train (PeruRail or IncaRail) compatible with your entry time.
- Finally, purchase the bus from Aguas Calientes to the gate.
If you’re doing the Inca Trail, check with your agency whether the Machu Picchu entry is already included.
Planning your visit to Machu Picchu is easier than you imagine. If you choose the right ticket, buy in advance, and apply the tips in this guide, you’ll enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience.
Now that you have all the information, take the next step: secure your spot at one of the wonders of the world.
Remember: Machu Picchu awaits you don’t improvise your visit. Choosing the right ticket, time slot, and circuit will make the difference between an amazing experience and a disappointing one. Do you have questions or need guidance to choose your ticket? Leave them in the comments or explore our detailed guides.
