Machu Picchu tickets 2026: circuits, routes and how to buy them

Buying your Machu Picchu tickets is more complex than it used to be: it's no longer enough to ask for "a ticket". You have to choose a circuit, a specific route and an entry time. In this guide we explain, for 2026, how the circuits and their routes work, which one suits you and how to buy your ticket without mistakes.

How Machu Picchu tickets work

Since 2024, and also in 2026, entry to the citadel works with a system of 3 circuits grouping 10 routes. When you buy, you don't just choose "Machu Picchu entrance": you choose a circuit, a route and an entry time. Each route has a fixed, one-way path: once inside, you cannot go back or switch to another.

• Your ticket states circuit + route + time (for example, 2-A at 9:00).
• Daily capacity is limited, so access is subject to availability.
• You need your passport: the name and number must match the ticket.
• The fee varies by route and by whether you are a foreigner or a national.

Here's what each circuit and its routes offer.

Circuit 1 (Panoramic): the classic photo and the mountains

This is the circuit of views from above: it takes you to the upper terrace, where the classic postcard of Machu Picchu is taken, but it does not explore the urban sector in depth (temples and plazas). Ideal if you prioritize the photo or want to add a big hike. Its 4 routes:

• 1-A, Machu Picchu Mountain: the demanding hike to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain (about 3,080 m) and then the terrace for the photo.
• 1-B, Upper Terrace: direct access to the Guardian's House viewpoint for the iconic photo and exit. The shortest option, with the fewest stairs.
• 1-C, Intipunku Gateway: a hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), about 3 hours round trip. High season only.
• 1-D, Inca Bridge: a short walk to the Inca Bridge, with canyon views. High season only.

Circuit 2 (Classic): the most complete route

It is the most recommended for a first visit and the one that sells out first: it combines the classic photo from above with a walk through the citadel's main sectors (plazas, temples, the Sacred Rock). Its 2 routes:

• 2-A, Classic Designed Route: the most complete experience of the circuit, with the longest walk through the urban sector.
• 2-B, Lower Terrace: it also gives you the classic view and access to most of the main structures, with a slightly different flow.

Circuit 3 (Royalty): Huayna Picchu and the lower sector

It covers the lower part of the citadel, the royalty sector and the temples, with views from below, closer to the structures. It is the circuit that gives access to Huayna Picchu. Its 4 routes:

• 3-A, Huayna Picchu Mountain: the steep climb up Huayna Picchu, the pointed mountain in the photos. Very limited capacity, sells out first.
• 3-B, Designed Route: the walk through the lower and royalty sector.
• 3-C, Great Cavern (Temple of the Moon): a longer hike on the far side of Huayna Picchu. High season only.
• 3-D, Huchuy Picchu: a short, easy summit, good for a quick hike with views. High season only.

Which circuit and route should you choose?

• First time and the classic photo: Circuit 2 (2-A or 2-B).
• You want to climb Huayna Picchu: Circuit 3-A (book months in advance).
• You want the highest mountain: Circuit 1-A (Machu Picchu Mountain).
• Little time or fewer stairs, just the postcard: Circuit 1-B.
• A short hike with different views: Circuit 1-D (Inca Bridge) or 3-D (Huchuy Picchu), in high season.

Remember: since the routes are one-way, choose the circuit and route first and only then adjust the train, the bus and your entry time.

How and when to buy them

Tickets are sold through the official channel of the Ministry of Culture (Tu Boleto) and through authorized agencies. Two golden tips:

• Book in advance: in high season (June to October), and for Circuit 2 and Huayna Picchu, spots sell out months ahead.
• Check your details: your passport name and number must be correct, because they are checked at the entrance, and keep in mind you cannot re-enter.

Machu Picchu entry is always subject to availability, and the ticket is specific to a circuit, route and time: the sooner you book, the more options you'll have.

If you'd rather forget about spots, times and circuits, we handle it for you: at Inka Planet Adventure we organize your visit with the panoramic train, the entrance ticket (subject to availability), the official guide and transfers included.