The Inca citadel is considered one of the Wonders of the World and one of the top places to visit in Peru. The tickets to Machu Picchu are the main way to enter the popular Inca citadel. If you dream of visiting it, and you want to know how, when, and where to buy Machu Picchu tickets for 2024, Machu Picchu Travel will tell you everything about these entrances, and types. Schedules, prices. Our team is ready to help you with any item regarding the Incas Citadel tickets.
Everything you need to know about the Machu Picchu tickets for 2024
- What is new in 2024
- Circuits
- Tickets and schedules
- Prices
- How to buy tickets
- Tips 2024
- Frequently asked questions
What is new in 2024
1. The Machu Picchu Archaeological Park office is modernizing its online ticketing system and website. And will soon launch its new web.
2. For the moment, tickets to Machu Picchu can be purchased from the Joinnus ticket sales platform. https://tuboleto.cultura.pe
3. The hiking to closed mountain citadels, like Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu will be completely open again this 2024.
4. Huchuy Picchu is a new option for hiking, in addition to the traditional ones like Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu hiking. This hike has its own ticket.
5. The green circuit for visiting Machu Picchu is the new option for those who arrive from the Inca Trail to the citadel.
6. The Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge is a new ticket type. It is destined to offer a short hike to the famous Inca Bridge.
7. The Machu Picchu Archaeological Park office eliminated the COVID protocols this 2024. The World Health Organization declared the end of the COVID-19 health emergency.
Circuits
Circuits are routes determined inside the Inca citadel, to visit it. Separating people, avoiding crowds and traffic of visitants. Once you start a circuit, you can’t go back (Unidirectional routes) or pass from one route to another one, during the tour. Also, there are no hygienic services inside Machu Picchu. Therefore, if you want to use the bathrooms during your visit to Machu Picchu, better you’ll have to use them before entering the citadel. For this purpose, there are bathrooms situated on one side of the entrance (checkpoint post) of Machu Picchu citadel.
1. Circuit 1 – Red
The circuit is perfect for those who ask what is Machu Picchu or visit the citadel for the first time. And it is also called the Short-High route. Circuit 1 runs the low and high parts of Machu Picchu, passing Inca terraces. With the possibility of getting to Intipunku (Sun Gate) and the Inca Bridge. The visit through this route lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes approx.
- Main gate. (Where you can take the classic photo with the citadel as background)
- Sun temple. (Opened from 13:00 – 16:00)
- House of the Inca.
- Water fountains.
- Granitic chaos.
- Sacred square.
- Three-windows temple.
- Intiwatana pyramid. (Opened from 07:00 – 10:00)
- Sacred Rock.
- Three gates.
- Mirror’s water.
- Condor temple. (Opened from 10:00 – 13:00)
2. Circuit 2 – Blue
The High-Long route is the most demanded circuit among Machu Picchu tours. Why? because it covers most of the citadel’s areas and more places than other circuits. The high and low zones, Inca terraces, and the three gates zone inter alia. To complete this circuit you will need from 3 to 4 hours approx. Similar to the first case, the visitors will be able to visit the Intipunku and Inca Bridge attractions, too.
- Main gate. (Where you can take the classic photo with the citadel as background)
- The same attractions of the previous circuit (Red)
- Inca cemetery.
- The prisoner’s zone.
- Water fountains.
- East Inca’s terraces.
3. Circuit 3 – Yellow
This circuit is known as the Low-Short route. The route passes through Sun Temple, the Inca’s house, water fountains, and the Condor temple. All of them are located at the bottom of the citadel. Its complete tour lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes. Furthermore, it is short and doesn’t offer the possibility of visiting the Guardian’s house (Another perfect zone to take photos of Machu Picchu), Intipunku, or the Inca bridge. After all, it is the least route taken for visitors who want to get a complete experience of Machu Picchu. In addition, it is recommended for the elderly and people who have difficulty walking for a long time.
- Sun Temple.
- Inca’s house.
- Water fountains.
- Condor temple.
4. Circuit 4 – Sky Blue
This route is called the Low-Long circuit and passes by the same place as circuit 3 (Yellow), with the difference of visiting some more places of the Urban sector, like Sacred Stone and Three-Windows Temple. Its complete tour lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes. Also, this circuit brings you access to the start point of hiking to the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains. Consequently, it is considered in the entrance tickets of both hiking.
- Similar zones of Circuit 3.
- Sacred rock.
- Three-windows temple.
5. Circuit 5 – Green
The Machu Picchu management office thought of a middle route. It would have to pass for the most important points in the citadel and be useful for the Inca Trail trekkers. Once finished trekking, they can enter the citadel and tour it. In this form, the green circuit was born.
- Qolqas.
- Agricultural area.
- Waterway.
- Dry ditch.
- Sun Temple.
- House of the Inca.
- Water sources.
- Three covers.
- Pisonay square.
Tickets and schedules
In 2024, 5 types of tickets are available depending on which zone of the Machu Picchu map you plan to visit. From simple circuits to more complete ones. Of course, you can avoid all this information if you prefer to take a Machu Picchu virtual tour. But believe us, visiting the citadel in person, being able to walk through its narrow corridors, touching its stone blocks, and seeing the beautiful landscapes of the Peruvian jungle are priceless.
Please note that with the new regulations imposed in the year 2021, the visitor has to choose one of the four available ticket types to enjoy a determinate zone of Machu Picchu.
So, if you choose one ticket type, this will give you access to visit the Inca citadel following a determinate circuit, and a determinate zone. In addition, note that you will not be able to go from one circuit to another during the visit. The park rangers are always attentive.
1. Llaqta Machu Picchu – Circuits 1 or 2
A. What includes?
- This provides the entrance to Machu Picchu, and you can go through circuits 1 or 2.
- Circuit number 2 is the longest of all and the ideal route to know the meaning of Machu Picchu.
- It does not provide entry to hike any of the mountain peaks neither Machu Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, nor Huayna Picchu mountain.
B. Schedule
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Ticket | Range of time to entrance |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 06:00 – 07:00 am |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 07:00 – 08:00 am |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 08:00 – 09:00 am |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 09:00 – 10:00 am |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 10:00 – 11:00 am |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 11:00 – 12:00 pm |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 12:00 – 13:00 pm |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 13:00 – 14:00 pm |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 14:00 – 15:00 pm |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu Entrance | From 15:00 – 16:00 pm |
- The entries are divided into ten shifts available to check on the Joinnus page.
- The range of time to entrance is 1 hour. After this time, your ticket will no longer be valid and you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu. Be punctual.
- Taking into account that the maximum stay in Machu Picchu is 4 hours from the entrance, you can enjoy the circuits with the greatest tranquility.
- The circuit that passes through most areas of the historic sanctuary is number 2.
2. Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4
A. What includes?
- This ticket provides the experience of the Huayna Picchu trek (access to climbing Huayna Picchu). There, you will have panoramic views of the entire Inca citadel and the possibility of visiting the Temple of the Moon.
- In addition, the ticket includes the visit to Machu Picchu through Circuit 4, which is the low short circuit and passes for a few zones of the citadel.
- If the visitor wants to get a complete visit to the citadel, consequently he will have to acquire another ticket. The “Llaqta Machu Picchu” ticket, (that includes the largest circuits 1 and 2)
B. Schedule
| Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4 ticket | Range of time to entrance |
| Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | From 07:00 – 08:00 am |
| Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | From 08:00 – 09:00 am |
| Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | From 09:00 – 10:00 am |
| Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | From 10:00 – 11:00 am |
- There are also 4 groups or main shifts to go.
- Considering the time of visit the short circuit 4 and the trekking throughout Huayna Picchu mountain, 5 hours is the approximate time to visit duration this route. (2 hours to climb the mountain and 3 hours to visit the citadel)
- The scale is very demanding, so you must be in excellent physical condition to carry out this trekking.
3. Machu Picchu Mountain + Circuit 3
A. What include?
- Ticket Machu Picchu Mountain provides you with the opportunity to climb the mountain of the same name as the citadel, Machu Picchu.
- The mountain is not usually as crowded as Huayna Picchu, as it has no ruins around, and is a long climb. Despite this, the views it offers are indescribable and it is an activity not so physical demand for those who want to spend a special moment, like a honeymoon in Machu Picchu.
- Also, a visit to the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu through circuit number 3.
- Circuit 3 allows a short visit to a few zones of the citadel. If the visitors want a complete visit to the Citadel, they will have to buy another entrance that allows them to make circuits 1 or 2, the longest and most complete (Usually the “Llaqta Machu Picchu” ticket)
- It is the only ticket that offers the possibility of re-entry to the complex.
B. Schedule
| Machu Picchu mountain + Circuit 3 ticket | Range of time to entrance |
| Mountain + Circuit 3 Entrance | From 07:00 – 08:00 am |
| Mountain + Circuit 3 Entrance | From 08:00 – 09:00 am |
| Mountain + Circuit 3 Entrance | From 09:00 – 10:00 am |
- The majority of visitors with this ticket use the first schedule, from 07 to 08 am, to climb the mountain and take advantage of the beautiful sunrise.
- Depending on your schedule, you will first enter the Machu Picchu Mountain trek and then enjoy the short circuit of the citadel.
- You could enjoy this alternative in 2 different shifts.
- The complete tour using this ticket lasts 6 hours approx. (4 hours to climb the mountain and 2 hours to visit the citadel)
4. Huchuypicchu Mountain + Circuit 4
A. What include?
- This ticket provides you with the opportunity to climb Huchuy Picchu mountain, the new alternative to Machu Picchu traditional visit.
- Also, it includes a visit to the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu through circuit number 4. As in the case of Huayna Picchu, circuit 4 is short and does not offer a full visit to the citadel.
- Depending on your physical condition, the walk does not last more than 45 to 60 minutes in length.
B. Schedule
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 ticket | Range of time to entrance |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 06:00 – 07:00 am |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 07:00 – 08:00 am |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 08:00 – 09:00 am |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 09:00 – 10:00 am |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 10:00 – 11:00 am |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 11:00 – 12:00 pm |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 12:00 – 13:00 pm |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 13:00 – 14:00 pm |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 14:00 – 15:00 pm |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 Entrance | 15:00 – 16:00 pm |
- Keep in mind, that the footpath is halfway along circuit 4.
- You can enjoy this alternative in 10 different turns.
5. Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge (Circuit 1 or 2)
A. What include?
- The visit to the Inca Bridge increases the alternatives of better things to do in Machu Picchu. And it brings the opportunity to visit an attraction that was closed for a long time, the Inca Bridge.
- This is an Inca bridge leaning against the side of a mountain. It is made from the bark of a tree and delimits the citadel on its west side. It could be dismantled in case of an invasion. The pictures that can be of Machu Picchu from it are unmatched.
- To get there, the visitor will have to walk 1 km with a head west up to the entrance of the Inca bridge. The entrance combines the Inca bridge hike with the visit to Machu Picchu, by its 1, or 2 circuits. These circuits are the most complete to visit the most of the citadel.
B. Schedule
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge | Range of time to entrance |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 07:00 – 08:00 am |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 08:00 – 09:00 am |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 09:00 – 10:00 am |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 10:00 – 11:00 am |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 11:00 – 12:00 pm |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 12:00 – 13:00 pm |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 13:00 – 14:00 pm |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 14:00 – 15:00 pm |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Entrance | 15:00 – 16:00 pm |
- Taking into account that the maximum stay in Machu Picchu is 4 hours from the entrance with this ticket, you can enjoy one of the circuits (1 or 2) plus the Inca bridge with the greatest tranquility.
- The circuit that passes through most areas of the historic sanctuary is number 2.
Prices
The prices of the Machu Picchu tickets may vary depending on if you are looking for discounts as a student, as a minor, or as a local person Or, if you are looking to hike through Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu mountain, among others. For this reason, your Machu Picchu trip cost will vary on the ticket you decide to purchase.
- Adults: From 18 and older.
- Students: Between 18 and 25 years old. (Only showed the original University Student card at the moment of entrance)
- Minor: Under 17 until 8 years old.
- Kids: Under 8 years old. Not pay entrance. As long as they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
| Foreign | Andean Comm. | ||||||
| Ticket Type to Machu Picchu | Adults | Students | Minor | Adults | Students | Minor | |
| Llaqta Machu Picchu | $ 40 | $ 20 | $18 | $ 17 | $ 09 | $ 09 | |
| Huayna Picchu + Circuit 4 | $ 53 | $ 33 | $ 31 | $ 30 | $ 21 | $ 21 | |
| Machu Picchu Mountain + Circuit 3 | $ 53 | $ 33 | $ 31 | $ 30 | $ 21 | $ 21 | |
| Huchuy Picchu + Circuit 4 | $ 40 | $ 20 | $ 18 | $ 17 | $ 09 | $ 09 | |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge (Circuit 1 or 2) | $ 40 | $ 20 | $ 18 | $ 17 | $ 09 | $ 09 |
How to buy tickets
To be honest, the availability of tickets in some circuits tends to run out very quickly, especially those used during the high season. It is due to people from Peru having the same opportunity as you to get an entrance through these options, so you better buy them early. Remember, if there are no more tickets available for a certain day, you will have to look for tickets for another date. Having said that, the visitors have three options to buy Machu Picchu tickets.
A. Online (highly recommended)
If you were wondering how to get to Machu Picchu, then you must first get your Machu Picchu tickets, and the easiest way to do it is online.
1. Visit https://tuboleto.cultura.pe and click on the “Machu Picchu” image, or select the Machu Picchu option and press “Ir” (Go) button.
2. In the next window, on the top right, you will find a “Sign Up” button (Registrarse). Registration is mandatory before purchasing any tickets. In this way, the Peruvian government keeps better statistics related to Machu Picchu.
3. In the next window, you will have to select the rate type for your tickets: General rate for foreign visitors, promotional rate for inhabitants of the Andean Community (Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru), and Cusco people rate. After, you’ll have to select the type of ticket (route), the date of visit, and finally the schedule.
4. The bottom of the same page shows the total price that you will have to pay according to the number of adults, students, and minors selected. Don’t forget to check the box that authorizes you to share your data with the person in charge of the attraction, in this case, the Peruvian Government. Finally, you’ll have to click on “Buy tickets” (Comprar entradas)
5. In the following window, you will have to complete a form with personal data, like your country of origin, the type of document that you have (Passport or local personal ID. We recommend selecting passport), the number of the chosen document, your last name, your name, your date of birth and your gender. Finally, click on the “Follow” button.
6. The next step is a pop-up where you’ll have to validate your data and verify once again that your data and that of your companions are correct and in accordance with your international identity document, in this case, the passport.
7. After the validation of your data, you will have to accept the terms and conditions of the website and then you will have to click on the button “Confirm and Continue” (Confirmar y continuar)
8. In the next window, you must select the payment method where you will click on “International Credit card method” and check the box for acceptance of terms and conditions. Finally, click on the “Buy” (Pagar) button.
9. In the following pop-up, enter your Credit Card information, and click on of “Buy (the total amount of the tickets)” green button and… Well done!
Once your purchase is complete, you will receive an email. This email includes a reservation number. Within the page of the Ministry of Culture, you will have to click on the Check-In button. There you will have to enter your reservation number. And that’s it, from that page, you can print and save your tickets.
Don’t forget to keep these tickets in a safe place until it’s time for your visit!
B. Via tour operator (Recommended)
Another option to obtain the Machu Picchu tickets is by getting them in advance through a travel agency (like Machu Travel Peru), which will get the entrance ticket for you in an easy and simple way. You only have to make contact with them and ask your requirements and questions. They will guide you gently to get your tickets and will explain to you in detail the circuits, ticket types, activities, and experiences that you can combine with the Inca Citadel experience. So, if you are planning a trip to Machu Picchu, this is the easiest way to get them. Also, be sure to check out the different tours in Peru that Machu Travel Peru offers.
Tips 2024
- Booking in advance: All Machu Picchu tickets have limited availability and these can go out of stock overnight. So, don’t trust that you’ll get them one day before the Machu Picchu tour once in Cusco. The sooner you buy them, the better, therefore buying them online will be your best option and with a minimum of 6 months in advance.
- Make sure your passport is up to date when you buy your tickets: And be sure that the passport you used to buy your tickets is the same one that you will present to the control guards when entering the citadel. There are some cases in which a visitor buys his tickets in advance with a passport about to expire, changes his passport, and comes to Peru with the new one, forgetting the old one in his home country, big mistake!
- Besides your entrance tickets, entering the Inca citadel without a tour guide is forbidden (According to the rules of the Culture minister, the government institution that manages the world wonder) Therefore, if you chose the travel agency as your option to buy your Machu Picchu entrances, you can also book a tour guide. But don’t worry, if you bought your tickets yourself online, you can find many official tour guides close to the citadel entrance. A private tour guide costs around $20 during the 02:30 hrs of the tour. And $8 if you want to join a group.
- Tickets can be changed to another date, but cannot be refunded: If you suffer from a personal, family, or work inconvenience, you can change your travel plans to Peru and, consequently, change the date of entry on your tickets to Machu Picchu. You just have to write to the following email to obtain the requirements to change the date on your ticket (callcenter@culturacusco.gob.pe) or you can call +51 84 582030. However, if you want a refund this will not be possible, according to the policies of the Ministry of Culture.
- Discount for students: Are you a student between 18 and 25 years old? So, this information is for you! Among Machu Picchu facts of ticket purchase, let us inform you that the student tickets have a great discount! In the process of buying Machu Picchu tickets, instead of entering the passport number, you only have to put the number on your University Student card, and done! Follow the next steps (as a normal purchase) and you will get your entrance to Machu Picchu with a special discount. Only remember to show your Machu Picchu ticket and your original University Student Card at the moment of your entrance to the Citadel (To contrast information)
Frequently asked questions
1. Is Machu Picchu Open 2024?
Yes, Machu Picchu was and is open all of 2024. Best of all, the restrictions due to the pandemic were being lifted, and now the visit is practically normal and fluid. 2024 will even stay the same or even better. So, What are you waiting for to visit this world wonder?
2. Can you visit Machu Picchu with your children?
Yes, of course, you can! The archeological complex and all its tourist attractions are available for both children and adults. The only exception is the mountain of Huayna Picchu, which only people over 12 can undertake it.
Machu Picchu Mountain is a better option to go with children. This mountain is available for all ages. It is a much less steep hike and full of beautiful scenery.
Another great option to go with children is the Machu Picchu site museum. Apart from the display of the objects found in the complex, there is a beautiful botanical garden and a butterfly garden. Both are very attractive to children. Being able to know what Machu Picchu is? It is a great way to entertain the children with a little history.
3. Are pets allowed?
Pets are forbidden.
4. What is the fastest ticket sold out?
The circuit 4 + Huayna Picchu tickets are the one that runs out the fastest. This is because there are few spaces available per day. It is recommended that you book it about 6 months in advance if you are looking to enjoy this walk. Especially if you plan to travel during peak tourist season.
Of Course, there is another one that sells out very quickly, the ticket for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but the path is not part of the visit to the citadel, as such. This information can be found in our Inca Trail section.
5. Is Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain better?
The Huayna Picchu hike is, without a doubt, one of the best hikes in the world. It is much more popular and the most challenging due to the Inca landscapes and temples available, such as the Temple of the Moon. However, both hikes offer exceptional hikes and views of the citadel and its surroundings.
If you are looking for an adventurous alternative, Huayna Picchu Mountain is the best option.
6. What do I need to travel to Machu Picchu?
First, you will need the Machu Picchu tickets. But also, your passport is necessary. Make sure your documents are valid until the date of your visit to Machu Picchu. At the entrance door, they will verify that your document matches the information provided on your tickets. And, of course, a travel guide.
7. What is the best way to buy tickets?
Although there are a few ways to get your tickets to the citadel, we recommend doing it online. It is one of the best ways to ensure that you will have a place to visit Machu Picchu, this magical adventure. Plus, it’s one of the safest ways to book your tickets in advance. And if you don’t like to go through all the steps, you can choose to buy them with a tourism agency or a qualified tour operator.
8. What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
To visit Machu Picchu between June to September, it is highly recommended to get your tickets well in advance, at least six months early. The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is open every day of the year, from 6 AM to 5 PM. In general, the best time to visit Machu Picchu is in the dry season. Since you will have clear skies and good weather during your visit. The only downside is that the dry season usually coincides with the high tourist season. So you will have to book in advance.
Regarding the schedule, keep in mind that the citadel is about 4 hours away from the city of Cusco. So it is convenient to have tickets with shifts between 9 AM to 10 AM or more. But if you are lucky enough to stay in Aguas Calientes, you can enter from 6 AM. Most tourists choose to visit the citadel very early. So in the evenings, you will find a lot fewer people in the queues.
9. Can I do Machu Picchu in a day?
Yes, you can visit Machu Picchu in a day. You’ll have to note the schedule of your ticket and the frequency of your train to Machu Picchu (the train is the only transportation to get to Aguas Calientes town, the closest town to Machu Picchu). For example, if your ticket has an entrance schedule of 10:00 am, you’ll have to count 4 hours before departing from Cusco or Sacred Valley, depending on where your hotel is located. In this case, you’ll have to leave from Cusco at 06:00 am. Another example is if your entrance ticket says 08:00 am, your train would have to depart from the imperial city at 04:00 am (But there is no train schedule departing from this hour) So, all will depend on your train schedule to visit the Inca citadel in only one day.
10. Can I bring my selfie sticks to Machu Picchu?
Selfie sticks are forbidden in the Citadel.
11. Can I bring my drone to Machu Picchu?
You can use your drone in Machu Picchu with the special permission of the Machu Picchu administrative office. Of course, your usage request will have to be sent with many months of advantage.
12. Can I go to the bathroom inside Machu Picchu?
Inside Machu Picchu citadel are not any bathrooms. Therefore, you will have to use the sanitary facilities before your entrance to Machu Picchu. (Bathrooms are located outside the citadel, on one side of the post control of the Machu Picchu entrance)
“BUY THE TICKET, TAKE THE RIDE”
We hope together with Machu Travel Peru has been helpful. Remember that you can enjoy Machu Picchu throughout the year. But it is always a good idea to start organizing your visit and buying Machu Picchu tickets a few months in advance. If you want to know more about the guided tours to the Inca citadel, you can consult with our advisors. They will be more than happy to help you with your next trip.
