Machu Picchu, the world-renowned Incan citadel nestled in the Peruvian Andes, is undoubtedly one of the most visited and iconic archaeological sites in the world. Every year, millions of tourists flock to this breathtaking destination to experience its stunning beauty, delve into its rich cultural history, and explore its mysterious ruins. In order to help preserve this UNESCO World Heritage site and regulate the flow of visitors, it is now mandatory to purchase tickets for entry. Furthermore, there are specific rules and guidelines that all visitors must adhere to in order to ensure a safe and respectful visit.
Machu Picchu Entry Fees: Overview
The Peruvian government has implemented a structured ticketing system to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable visitor experience. Visitors must purchase their tickets in advance, as the site has a daily visitor limit and is often sold out, especially during the peak tourist season.
Types of Machu Picchu Entry Fees
There are several different ticket options, each designed to cater to different interests and levels of exploration. The most common types are:
1. Machu Picchu General Admission Ticket
Description: The most basic and widely used ticket for visitors who want to explore the main archaeological site. It allows access to the ruins, terraces, and areas surrounding the central citadel, including the Inca structures and the famous Intihuatana (the “Hitching Post of the Sun”).
Duration: Visitors can stay in the site for up to 3 hours. It’s important to manage time effectively, as there is much to see.
Timings: Visitors can choose between a morning or afternoon entry time. Morning tickets are for entry between 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, and afternoon tickets are for entry between 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
Recommended For: Those who want a general tour of the site without hiking or additional activities. It’s a good choice for first-time visitors.
Machu Picchu Circuits
To help manage the large number of visitors, Machu Picchu has been divided into several circuits (designated routes), each providing a different experience within the archaeological site. These circuits allow you to visit key areas of the ruins in a set order, ensuring you don’t miss important highlights while minimizing the environmental impact.
There are four primary circuits inside Machu Picchu, and you will be assigned one when you purchase your ticket. These circuits are clearly marked, and visitors must follow the prescribed path to ensure the smooth flow of visitors throughout the site.
Circuit 1: Upper Circuit (Panoramic Views).
Description: This circuit takes visitors on a more elevated route around Machu Picchu, allowing for magnificent panoramic views of the entire site and its surroundings.
Key Features:
Panoramic Views: This circuit offers s weeping views of the entire site, the valley below, and the surrounding mountains. Classic bets views to Machu picchu
Duration: About 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.
Recommended For: Visitors looking to capture incredible photos and experience the high-altitude, expansive views of the citadel.
Circuit 2: Classic Circuit (Main Areas) – most prefered one.
Description: Circuit 1 is the most common and includes all the main points of interest within Machu Picchu. This includes the Inca Plaza, Intihuatana Stone, the Temple of the Sun, the Room of the Three Windows, and the Inca Trail entrance.
Key Features:
Inca Plaza: The central square of the citadel.
Intihuatana: The ritual stone associated with the solar calendar.
Temple of the Sun: A temple dedicated to the Sun God with a window for solar alignment.
Room of the Three Windows: A ceremonial room with stunning views of the mountains and the valley.
Duration: About 2.5 to 3 hours to complete.
Recommended For: First-time visitors who want to experience the main highlights and understand the significance of the site’s layout.
Circuit 3: Lower Circuit (Terraces & Main Plaza)
Description: This circuit focuses on the lower section of the Machu Picchu site and offers visitors a closer view of the terraces, the main plaza, and other archaeological features.
Key Features:
Terraces: Visitors get an up-close look at the agricultural terraces used by the Incas.
Inca Trail Entrance: See where the famous Inca Trail begins.
Main Plaza: The large open area used for ceremonies and gatherings.
Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
Recommended For: Visitors who want to focus on the terraces, agricultural areas, and the central parts of Machu Picchu.
2. Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Ticket
Description: This ticket grants access to both Machu Picchu and the famous Huayna Picchu mountain, the steep peak that rises above the citadel. The Huayna Picchu hike is one of the highlights of the visit, offering stunning panoramic views of the ruins and surrounding mountains. The hike is strenuous and takes around 1.5-2 hours.
Duration: Visitors are allowed up to 4 hours to explore the site (including the hike). The time slot for the Huayna Picchu hike is set and must be adhered to.
Timings: Entry for the Huayna Picchu hike is available at two set times: 7:00 AM or 10:00 AM. You must choose one of these time slots when booking.
Recommended For: Adventurous visitors who want a more challenging hike and spectacular views of the site. It’s ideal for those looking for a physical challenge along with their cultural exploration.
3. Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket
Description: This ticket includes entry to Machu Picchu and also allows visitors to hike up to Machu Picchu Mountain, a different peak with equally impressive views of the ruins. The hike is less steep than Huayna Picchu, making it a good alternative for those who want a less intense trek but still want expansive views of the site and the surrounding valley.
Duration: Visitors can stay for about 4 to 5 hours, which includes the hike and time to explore the ruins.
Timings: Hike times for Machu Picchu Mountain are 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM.
Recommended For: Those looking for a longer and slightly less difficult hike than Huayna Picchu. It’s also a good option for visitors who want to avoid the crowds on the more popular Huayna Picchu trail.
4. Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Ticket
Description: This ticket includes entry to Machu Picchu and gives you access to the Inca Bridge, a fascinating and lesser-visited part of the site. The bridge is carved into the cliffs and was once part of a strategic trail used by the Incas for defense. The walk to the Inca Bridge is relatively easy and takes about 30-45 minutes.
Duration: Visitors can spend 3-4 hours at the site, which includes time to visit the Inca Bridge. Additionally, the time allocated for the Inca Bridge visit should be considered when planning your schedule.
Timings: The site is available throughout the day; however, it’s important to manage your time effectively to fit in the extra visit to the Inca Bridge.
Recommended For: History enthusiasts and those looking for a quieter experience away from the main crowds.
Ticket Prices
Machu Picchu ticket prices can vary depending on factors such as nationality, type of ticket, and whether you choose to add any extra hikes or activities. Additionally, prices are subject to change, so it’s important to stay informed. As of the most recent updates, the general pricing is as follows:
Machu Picchu General Admission:
Foreigners: $50 – $60 USD.
Peruvians & Residents: $30 – $35 USD.
Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu:
Foreigners: $75 – $80 USD.
Peruvians & Residents: $40 – $50 USD.
Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain:
Foreigners: $75 – $80 USD.
Peruvians & Residents: $35 – $45 USD.
How to Buy Machu Picchu Tickets
Official Website: The most reliable and recommended way to buy tickets is through the official Machu Picchu website (www.machupicchu.gob.pe). This site allows you to book your tickets well in advance, which is essential during the high season (May to September). We have a easy form to see the AVAILABILITY, either for Inca Trail and Machu picchu entry fees.
Authorized Agencies: You can also purchase tickets through authorized travel agencies like us. We offer packages that include transportation, guides, and additional activities like hiking.
In-Person at Aguas Calientes: Tickets can be purchased in person at the ticket office in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. However, ticket availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons, so it is not recommended to wait until the last minute.
There are many questions you may have about Machu picchu, see our FQA below
How high is located Machu picchu?
Machu picchu is located at 2400m, its humid place, its the beggining of the jungle and there are mosquitoes, Aguas Calientes the capital of the district is located at 2000m , is where is all hotels, restaurants, train station, bus station, all services are located in Aguas Calientes, then you take bus to visit Machu picchu
How is the weather like?
It has 2 season, wet season from November to Mid April, where usually is raining, we highly recommend you to bring your rain gear, and dry season where usually is sunny everyday is from May to October, they are consider the best time to visit the new wonder, as you will have the best views all around, during the dry season temperature is around 20°C – 25°C and during wet season is around 15°C.
How can I get there?
There are couple option hoe you can get there.
1.- take train, there are 2 train companies working on the railway Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and viceversa,
a) Peru Rail has many option mostly day have train leaving each hour, they have Expeditions train, Vistadome train and the luxury Hiran bingham train. we include the expedition tourist class train in our trek and package, but we can upgrade to Vistadome or Hiran bingham, you can check and request at booking time.
b)Inca Rail , they have train going with regularity, they have train called VOYAGER which is same category than Expeditions, then 360 which is similar than Vistadome, lastly they have good service without any delays, Perurail mostly have delays in the service. traveling either train company you will have amazing experince, its about 1h 45 minutes either way, all train has window and you will have amazing views,
2.- Another option to get Machu picchu is hikking the famous Inca Trail , the Classic Inca Trail are the most popular one, its about 45km , it start at km 82 and takes you directly walking throuhg sun gate to Machu picchu, you will have 3 night camping along the way, each day you will walk around 14km,and the last day is by 5km from Wiñayhuayna campsite to Machu picchu. Another option is the Short Inca Trail 2D1N, it only one day hiking, it starts at km 104 then is about 12km walking, along the way you will visit Chachabamba Inca site, then Wiñayhuayna, its consider the most beautiful on the Inca Trail and finally Sun gate, once you get this point you will have the first view of Machu picchu . ANother popular route that takes you to Machu picchu is the Salkantay trek, it takes you in 5days
Are there hotels in Machu picchu?
There are many hotels and they are located in Aguas Calientes, there are luxury ones like Inka Terra pueblo, Sumaq and Santuary lodge, the last one is located next to Machu picchu citadel, there are many 3 *** hotels like Casa Andina. Tierra Viva, Inti Punko, Taypicala, If you search online you will find them. the popular search is throuhg tripadvisor.
Can I travel alone or need to do with Travel agency?
You may travel alone but you need to buy your tickets in advance, however we highly recommend you to travel with a local travel agency, that way you will have all logistic ready and you will just enjoy the beauty of each place, we take care all tickets and logistic in advance according which tour or trek you will book it. permits are selling out quickly and needs to buy at least 2 month in advance.
Do I need to buy the entry fee in advance or can I get once i there?
Only 3044 permits per day are available, that is why is very important you may purchased your entry fee in advance, check with our booking team and get your ticket in advance, we can get you to purchase just tciket as well, in case you are not interested in one of our tours, check with our eamil team, If you decide to get your ticket in Cusco , there is low chance you will get one. is better you can get in advance.
Can I cancel my ticket?
Once the Machu Picchu tickets are purchased they are not refundable or transferable, It is very important that you are sure that ticket you are getting the correct one, travel date and your passport information need to be correct, then you will not have a problem, once you are in Machu Picchu there are is main control gate where you will need to show your passport and ticket and all details need to be correct.
which route do I need to book?
Machu picchu is possible to visit now in different circuit, you can visit only one, the most popular ones are the circuit 1 and 2, they cover most of the top sites in the citadel, it gives you chance to be in the upper part of citadel from where you will have the best views of Machu picchu, circuit 3 are made for Inca trail hikers, they arrive from the trail the upper part of citadel, they have time to enjoy the nest views then they will do the circuit 3 which is the middle part of citadel. circuit 4 and the below part of the citadel, its included with huayna picchu mountain ticket. for these reasons we highly recommend you to book your tour ot package in advance, so we will guarantee your ticket with circuit 1 or 2.
do I need to get yelow feber vaccination?
No, there is not regulation that says you need this vaccination, Machu picchu is located just at the beggining of jungle, if you are traveling to amazon in that case you will need it.
How can I get a train ticket?
There are 2 train companies, Peru Rail is the one working already for many year and had many trains going from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes Viceversa . they have train leaving almost each hour. they have 3 kind of services. Expeditions are the tourist class train that most travelers use. Vistadome and Hiran Bingham. the last one the luxury one, it cost by 500 USD each way.
Another train company is Inca Rail, they are new one in the route doing well, they have less options than Peru rail, they have Voyager consider same as expedition, 360° same than Vistadome. they have trains in the morning , midday and afternoon , they are usually ontime on departure and arrivel. while Perurail mostly has delays.
which train company is better?
Perú rail and Inca Rail for being only 2 of them in the market, there is not much choice, you muct choose one of them, according the latest repor or travelers experience, Inca Rail is more confident, they depart and arrive the destination ontime, while Peru rail has many delays and they had tecnical problems.
Can I climb huayna picchu Mountain?
Huana Picchu is the famous mountain which is land in the background of Machu picchu, only 200 spots per day are available, if you are hoping to hike huayna picchu mountain, you have to book it in advance at least 3 monht before travel date, it cost $75 each ticket. it takes you around 45m up way and 45m down, approximately 2hours up and down. the path is steep, and its not recommended for travelers who are afraid of cliffs.
How high is Huayna picchu mountain.
Huayna Picchu mountain is located at 2700m, its about 300m up you will hike from Machu picchu citadel. once you are on the summit you will have amazing views to Machu picchu and around.
Can I hike Machu picchu mountain?
Machu picchu mountain is located in one of the sides of Machu picchu citadel, its the higher mountain, it takes about 3h up and down, all way is steps, the latest time to acces the Machu picchu mountain is from 8 to 9am, for that reason is mostly recommend you hike first the mountain and one you back you can do the guided tour the Machu picchu citadel. it cost $75 each ticket, it needs to book in advance at least 2 month before to travel date.
How high is Machu Picchu Mountain?
Machu picchu mountain is located at 2800m, hikking this mountain you will hike about 400m up, the path is just one way until the summit and back the same way to back, once you are at the summit of this mountain you will see all around Machu picchu and back side where the inca trail is.
Can I hike Sungate?
Only Inca trail hikers can have chance to get sun gate now, before ws possible to hike sun gate from Machu picchu, but after covid 19 pandemic, the Peruvian goverment changed the regulation and now only hikers who are doing the Classic Inca Trail, or short Inca Trail have chance to get the Sun date walking then get into the Machu Picchu citadel.
Can I visit Inca bridge?
Yes, Inca bridge are part of the Machu picchu ticket with circuit 1 or 2, if you able to get this tciket, you will be able to visit and see the Inca bridge, it was one of the main access to Machu picchu from jungle area where was located the Vilcabamba , it was another inca town, we still have an amazing inca site now called Vilcabamba where was the possible the lost city of the Incas.
which months are the best to visit Machu picchu?
If you are planning to Travel Cusco and visit Machu picchu, we highly recommneded you to consider the winter season which is consider as dry season which is from May to October, between those months you will have good weather with sunny days which allows you to enjoy the best views that each atrctions offers, from Nomber to mid April are the wet season where we usually have rain, from January to March are more intense the rain, almost everyday, for those months we highly suggest you may bring a rain gear (jacket and pant), as Machu picchu is located at the cloud forest area.
Can I get money in Machu picchu?
Machu picchu’s capital is Aguas Calientes Village where is located all hotels, restaurants, train station, there are ATM where you can get cash, but as many travelers getting there everyday, sometime there is not cash, its better you may take some cash with you from Cusco, most of the restaurants and hotels take credit cards as well.
Are there Hotels in Machu picchu?
Yes, there are many hotels in Aguas Calientes, only 3 luxury hotels, Inkaterra Pueblo hotel, Sumaq and Santuary lodge, this last one is located next to Machu picchu citadel, another option are the 3*** hotels, they have private rooms with hot shower, wifi and breakfast included, you will find many option, the most popular ones are Tierra Viva Machu picchu, Casa Andina, La Jaya, Grupo Inti, Taypicala, Intipunko Machu picchu, etc. if you search online throuhg tripadvisor you will find them and more.
Can I travel with my kids?
Yes, you can travel with your kids, from 3 to 17 year old are consider kids or students and they pay less than adults, if you have baby less than 3 years, you need ticket as exonerated, everyone needs a ticket to visit the Machu picchu citadel.
We know there are still many questions about Machu Picchu, if you have any other questions feel free to contact us throuhg our online chat, we will assist you quickly and make the perfect plan trip, that way you will have a lifetime experience.
