I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten a message that starts with: ‘Help! I’m in the city of Cusco, how do I get a Machu Picchu ticket for tomorrow?’ Sadly, most of the time I have to break the bad news – tickets sell out fast. That’s exactly why I wrote this post about Machu Picchu tickets to give you all the details you need to avoid stress and make sure your Machu Picchu visit goes smoothly.
Entry to this Wonder of the World is limited, and tickets often sell out weeks or even months in advance – especially in high season.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything: types of tickets to Machu Picchu, prices, how to buy them, and essential tips to make your visit stress-free.
Top tip
the best and easiest way to get a Machu Picchu ticket is have it included in a complete package that includes train tickets, bus tickets, entry tickets and a guide. (Yes, you need a guide to get into the site!)
Very best of Cusco and Machu Picchu
Delve deeper into Cusco & the Sacred Valley: Incan salt terraces, ancient ruins, the spectacular Rainbow Mountain. Opt to trek or train to Machu Picchu.
One day Inca trail hike + Machu Picchu experience
Hike part of the Inca Trail, pass through the Sun Gate, enjoy Peruvian cuisine and sleep in a comfy bed before your once in a life-time Machu Picchu visit!
Types of Machu Picchu Tickets in 2025
Since 2021, visiting Machu Picchu has been organized into four main circuits. Each circuit follows a different path through the site, offering distinct views and access to specific areas. On top of these, you can add hikes to Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or Huchuy Picchu, depending on your entrance ticket.
It’s important to note that your ticket specifies the circuit you’ll take – and once you start, you cannot switch routes. Each path is one-way only, leading from the entrance to the exit, and re-entry is not permitted unless you hold an additional ticket. If you visit Machupicchu and want to know more about the routes, check out our blog post about Machu Picchu circuits!
Circuit 1 – The Panoramic Route
Circuit 1 is designed for breathtaking views rather than in-depth exploration of the archeological site. This upper path takes you to the classic viewpoints where most iconic photos of Machu Picchu are taken. However, it does not include entry into the central ruins or Inca temples.
Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – A 3-hour round-trip hike with incredible vistas of Huayna Picchu and the ruins.
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace – Shortest option (1.5–2 hours) with the classic postcard view, but no access to major temples.
Route 1-C: Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – Seasonal route (June 1–Oct 15). About a 2-hour hike that lets you pass through the famous Inca gateway into Machu Picchu.
Route 1-D: Inca Bridge – Seasonal route (June 1–Oct 15). A short but dramatic hike along a narrow trail to the Inca Bridge, combined with upper terrace views.
To be honest, I’ve heard from quite a few travelers who were disappointed with this ticket. It’s basically just the upper platform – great if all you want is that postcard-perfect shot, but if your dream is to actually wander through the ruins, this circuit won’t give you that experience. After a few minutes, many people feel like they’ve already seen everything this ticket has to offer. So keep that in mind when choosing – it’s beautiful, but very limited.
Circuit 2 – The Classic Circuit of the Machu Picchu Citadel
Circuit 2 is considered the most complete option. This classic route combines both upper and lower sections of the ruins, giving you access to the main temples, plazas, the temple of the sun, and other ceremonial areas, along with opportunities for sweeping views.
Route 2-A: Designed Route – Covers upper and lower ruins.
Route 2-B: Lower Terrace – Similar to 2-A, but adds an extra viewpoint from the upper terraces.
Want to see Machu Picchu…?
4 complete days around Cusco + Trek or Train to the Lost City; Colorful markets, llamas, amazing Peruvian food
Top Tip!
As Circuit 2 is considered the most complete, it tends to sell out before the others and once tickets are sold out no one can get you a ticket. Our advice – book early through a reputable travel agent!
Circuit 3 – The Royal Circuit
Circuit 3 is the second-most common option, especially for travelers who book late and find Circuit 2 sold out. It doesn’t include access to the upper terraces, so you won’t get the elevated panoramic shot – but it does include some of Machu Picchu’s most important tourist attractions.
Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain – A steep, famous hike with sheer drop-offs and cables; 1.5 hours round trip.
Route 3-B: Designed Route – Standard Circuit 3 path through the lower terraces.
Route 3-C: Great Cavern (Temple of the Moon) – Seasonal (June 1–Oct 15). A 5–6 hour round-trip including a mystical cave temple.
Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu – Seasonal (June 1–Oct 15). A short, 40-minute round-trip climb for views similar to Huayna Picchu but much easier and family-friendly.
Which Machu Picchu route should I choose?
If it’s your first visit and you want the comprehensive tour inside the ruins, the circuit 2 ticket for the Lost City of the Incas is the best choice.
For adventurous hikers, adding Huayna Picchu to your tickets iconic – but keep in mind it sells out quickly. You can also buy two different circuits and do them on that same day, just keep in mind the exact times when booking. (and that means twice the price!)
How to Buy Your Tickets
Planning a visit to Machu Picchu starts with securing your entrance tickets in advance. There are three main ways to buy a Machu Picchu ticket, each with its pros and cons:
1. Official Peruvian Government Website
This is the cheapest option since you’re buying directly. However, the site can be difficult to navigate, and it’s notorious for crashing during busy periods. If you’re patient and tech-savvy, this could work for you – but be prepared for some frustration. Think of it as your first Inca challenge… at least it’s an authentic experience, haha!
2. Authorized Agencies
Many licensed agencies can sell you a Machu Picchu entrance ticket. The process is usually much smoother than booking on your own, though agencies often charge a small service fee on top of the ticket price.
3. Tour Operators (like Apus Peru)
For the most stress-free option, booking through a tour operator is ideal. They handle everything for you – from buying your official tickets to arranging transportation from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, permits, shuttle bus ticket, and a knowledgeable tour guide. This way, all you have to do is enjoy the journey.
Machu Picchu Ticket Prices
Prices vary depending on the type of ticket you choose and the visitor category you fall into. A standard entrance ticket to Machu Picchu costs 152 soles (about $45 USD) for foreign adults. If you want to include one of the additional hikes – such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – the price increases to 200 soles (about $60 USD).
Tip: Always double-check the official government site for the latest prices, as they are subject to change from year to year.
When to Buy Machu Picchu Tickets
The golden rule for securing your Machu Picchu ticket is simple: book early! During the high season (May–September), tickets can sell out months in advance, especially the circuit 2 Machu Picchu ticket!
While you might get lucky with last-minute tickets in the low season, it’s a risky gamble – and during peak months, it’s almost impossible. To avoid disappointment, plan ahead and secure your spot as soon as you’ve set your travel dates.
What you can always do is check real-time availability on the official website if you’re booking by yourself. But honestly, I always recommend getting your Machu Picchu ticket first. Yes, it feels a bit counterintuitive because you need to lock in a date early, but this is the one thing you must organize in advance. The good news is that the rest of your activities – like Sacred Valley tours, day hikes, or even city tours in Cusco – can usually be decided more spontaneously once you’re here.
Ticket Policies You Must Know
Before purchasing your Machu Picchu ticket, there are a few important rules to keep in mind. All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, so once you’ve bought them, changes or cancellations are not allowed. The name on your ticket must match your passport exactly – even small discrepancies can cause problems at the entrance.
FAQs About Machu Picchu Tickets
Can I buy tickets at the entrance?
No. All Machu Picchu tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets are not sold at the site itself.
Do kids need tickets?
Yes, children also need tickets. Kids between 3–17 years old get discounted rates (about 77 soles / $23 USD for the standard citadel ticket). Children under 3 enter free of charge. Valid ID or passport is required to prove age.
Thinking about visiting Peru with your kids? Check out our blog by co-founder Ariana, where she shares her own experiences traveling with her children.
Are tickets included in tour packages?
Many tours do include the ticket, but it’s always best to confirm before booking. Be cautious with online platforms – some automatically accept bookings and then cancel later if tickets are already sold out. Once a Machu Picchu ticket is gone for a given date, there’s no way to get it.
Can I change my ticket date?
No. Tickets are valid only for the specific date and time printed on them, and changes are not allowed.
Do I Need a Guide?
Hiring a guide is officially mandatory, although it is not always strictly checked for every group. Either way, it is highly recommended. A knowledgeable local guide can bring the stone walls and temples to life by explaining Inca history, architecture, and cosmology.
Guides can be hired at the entrance or arranged in advance through an agency, like Apus Peru. If you want to get the most from your visit and not just walk through the ruins, this is one of the best investments you can make. Contact us and we can plan your trip to Machu Picchu!
What should I bring?
Your ticket is just one part of the logistics. When entering the Machu Picchu, site you must also present your passport – the name and number must match exactly. Besides that, pack essentials like:
- A reusable water bottle (plastic bottles are banned).
- Sunscreen and a hat (the sun can be intense).
- Rain jacket (weather changes quickly in the Andes).
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
- These items will help ensure you’re comfortable while exploring the site.
Read our Machu Picchu packing list for an unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.
Seasonal Considerations: High Season vs. Low Season
The time of year greatly impacts Machu Picchu ticket availability and your overall experience.
High Season (May–September): Dry weather, clearer skies, but very high demand. Tickets, trains, and hotels book out months in advance.
Low Season (October–April): Fewer crowds and easier ticket availability, but expect rain showers and mist that can cover the ruins. The landscape is greener, which makes photos spectacular.
Not sure when is the best time to visit the Inca citadel? Read our blog post about it!
What Happens if Tickets Are Sold Out?
If you find tickets are gone for your dates, don’t panic – (in most cases) it is still possible to buy tickets and you still have options…
One possibility is to check availability on different circuits, since sometimes one circuit is gone while others still have spaces.
Another great alternative is to trek the Short Inca Trail, which also includes a visit to Machu Picchu. I recommend booking this through an agency like Apus Peru – not only will they secure your permits and tickets, but you’ll also have someone available to answer all your questions along the way.
And here’s a little Plan B that not everyone knows about: you can travel to Aguas Calientes even without a Machu Picchu ticket. Sometimes the Ministry of Culture releases extra tickets for the following day. To try your luck, you’ll need to go in person with your passport, wait in line, and see what type of circuit and time slot is available. In this case, I recommend planning to stay at least two nights in Aguas Calientes – one night to line up and another night in case you actually manage to secure your ticket for the next day.
Final Thoughts: Book Early and Enjoy Machu Picchu Stress-Free
Booking early gives you more than just a guaranteed spot – it lets you plan your day exactly the way you want. You can pick the perfect circuit, choose the ideal time for your Machu Picchu photo or a sunrise experience, and even decide whether to include one of the amazing hikes like Huayna Picchu. These hikes are iconic, but daily spots are limited and disappear quickly.
Personally, I recommend starting with the classic Machu Picchu ticket if it’s your first visit (this is circuit 2). It takes you through the heart of the citadel, giving you access to temples, plazas, and terraces. The views from above are absolutely worth it – you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
In short, Machu Picchu is one of those once-in-a-lifetime places where a little preparation goes a long way. Book your tickets early, plan your route, and get ready to experience the wonder without the worry. I promise, seeing those stone terraces, sun gates, and towering peaks with your own eyes is absolutely worth the effort.
Book your Machu Picchu tour with Apus Peru, and we’ll take care of tickets, transport, and expert guides for you.
