Machu Picchu, an Inca city surrounded by temples, platforms, and water channels, was built on top of a mountain. It was constructed using large blocks of stone that were joined together without the use of mortar. Currently, it is considered a cultural heritage site and was recognized as an important political, religious, and administrative center during the time of the Incas.
Built in the fifteenth century, possibly at the request of Inca ruler Pachacuteq, Machu Picchu is divided into two sectors: an agricultural sector with a vast network of terraces, and an urban sector with various buildings and plazas, including the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Temple, and the Temple of the Condor.
Would you like to visit Machu Picchu? It's very easy to get a ticket to one of the wonders of the world. You can purchase them from home in a few simple steps through our website. Here's the simplest and fastest way to get tickets to Machu Picchu. Secure your Machu Picchu ticket and enjoy a worry-free trip.
There are many reasons why you should dedicate a day to visiting Machu Picchu. However, if you have more time, you will not only see it, but also fully understand why the Inca city was built.
Machu Picchu tickets facts
- According to the date of entry, the ticket to Machu Picchu is only valid for one day.
- You can enter Machu Picchu between 6:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The sanctuary closes at 5:00 p.m.
- After purchasing your tickets, you can start planning your trip by purchasing additional train tickets, hotels, guides, and tours.
- Currently, the Ministry of Culture of Cusco offers special discounts to ISIC cardholders and to children between the ages of 8 and 17. To receive this discount, please contact us.
- Children under eight years of age do not pay the entrance fee to Machu Picchu but must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult who can present the child's identity document or passport. Those who cannot present these documents will not be able to enter the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
- Revenues from additional visits, such as ascents to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, are included in the Machu Picchu Sanctuary ticket. Reservations cannot be made separately.
- During the high season (May through October), all Machu Picchu entrance tickets must be reserved well in advance.
- You can also visit Machu Picchu by hiring a tourism agency. The advantage of buying tickets online is that you can do so independently and manage your itinerary.
Important Information for Booking Machu Picchu
In order to make a reservation, please complete the reservation form with the following information:
Enter your information exactly as it appears in your passport.
Note: If you have a university student ID card, please send us a scanned copy of it, along with a copy of your passport or identity document. If you are traveling with a child, send a copy of your passport or identity document, as appropriate.
How can you book the Inca Trail for 2026 with us?
Book your Inca Trail 2026 now! See the next steps below:
TTypes of Tickets to Machu Picchu and Reservations for 2026
The main change to the entry schedule for Machu Picchu in 2019 was the length of time visitors could stay in the citadel. Previously, tourists could stay for up to four hours, but now, depending on the ticket, the stay ranges from two and a half to three hours for standard tours and up to five or six hours if the ticket includes one of the mountains.
As in previous years, re-entry to the citadel is not allowed once you have left, except in cases of emergency. Therefore, it is essential to bring everything you need (water, sunscreen, etc.) with you from the beginning. Finally, the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum of Machu Picchu offers free admission to all visitors (national and foreign) from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Simply present your original identification document or passport at the entrance.
For 2026, the visit system has been modernized with a structure of three main circuits divided into ten specific routes. The goal is to distribute travelers more evenly and protect the heritage. It's important to understand that the ticket you choose determines which parts of the citadel you can see and whether you can take the famous "postcard photo."
The 3 Official Circuits
Circuit 1 - Panoramic
This tour is designed to offer the best panoramic views of the citadel. Unlike other tours, this one remains in the upper terraces and does not descend to the urban sector or the main temples. This tour is ideal for photographers and those who want to admire Inca engineering in relation to the surrounding mountains.
Variants of Circuit 1
- Route 1-A (Machupicchu Mountain Route): This is the perfect option for trekking enthusiasts looking for the highest observation point.
Entry times: There are two entry shifts to the mountain.
→First shift: from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
→Second shift: from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
→Daily capacity: Maximum 200 people per day.
- Route 1-B (Upper Terrace Route): This is the most popular route for taking the "postcard photo" without having to hike up the peaks.
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Entries every hour).
→ Daily capacity: Approximately 800 to 1,000 people per day (it is the route with the most availability in the circuit).
- Route 1-C (Intipunku Portal Route): It is only available during the high season, from June 1 to October 15.
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
→ Daily capacity: Maximum 150 people per day.
- Route 1-D (Inka Bridge Route): It is only available during the high season, from June 1 to October 15.
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
→ Daily capacity: Maximum 150 people per day.
Circuit 2 - Classic
This is the most popular and comprehensive circuit, as it allows you to explore most of the urban and agricultural areas of the citadel. Unlike Circuit 1, this route goes down to the heart of Machu Picchu so you can visit the temples, squares, and main buildings. This circuit is recommended for first-time visitors who want to see the Inca architecture up close.
Variants of Circuit 2
- Route 2-A (Classic Route): This is the ultimate tour. It includes the classic panoramic view from the Guardian's House, as well as a complete descent to visit the Temple of the Sun, the Main Temple, the Intihuatana, the Sacred Rock, and the Temple of the Condor (according to schedule).
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
→ Daily capacity: Approximately 1,800 people per day.
- Route 2-B (Lower Terrace Route): This variant is very similar to the classic one, but the tour is done from a slightly lower platform. You can visit the same important archaeological sites in the urban sector, such as temples and squares, and enjoy an excellent view of the citadel. However, the panoramic photo is taken from a slightly lower angle.
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
→ Daily capacity: Approximately 400 people per day.
Circuit 3 - Royalty
This tour is popular among those looking to explore the citadel's detailed architecture. The tour goes through the lower part of the city and visits places such as the Temple of the Sun (from the base), the Royal Enclosure, and the Temple of the Condor. While it is the least physically demanding circuit on its basic routes, it includes the most challenging climbs in its mountain variants.
Variants of Circuit 3
- Route 3-A (Waynapicchu Mountain Route): This is the most famous and desired route in the entire sanctuary. It combines a tour of the royal sector with a climb up the iconic mountain visible in all photos of Machu Picchu.
Entry times: The mountain is divided into two shifts:
→ First shift: from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. o Second shift: from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
→ Daily capacity: Maximum 200 people per day.
- Route 3-B (Designed Royalty Route): This is the standard tour of the lower part of the citadel. Since it does not include climbing mountains, it is ideal for older adults or those looking for a shorter, more cultural visit without steep slopes.
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
→ Daily capacity: Approximately 600 people per day.
- Route 3-C (Great Cavern / Temple of the Moon Route): This route is only available during the high season, from June 1 to October 15. This route takes visitors to the mystical Temple of the Moon, which is located in a natural cave.
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
→ Daily capacity: Maximum 100 people per day.
- Route 3-D (Huchuypicchu Route): This route is only available during the high season, from June 1 to October 15. It is an easy, short walk to the small mountain located next to Huayna Picchu. It offers an excellent side view of the citadel.
→ Entry times: From 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
→ Daily capacity: Maximum 100 people per day.
READ MORE: NEW MACHU PICCHU ENTRANCE SYSTEM 2026
Booking Machu Picchu tickets Price 2026
How much is the Machu Picchu ticket?
Machu Picchu Reserve Tickets
Visit the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu, in 2026. Prices vary according to ticket type, as well as the tourist's age and nationality. Additionally, university students receive a discount. Learn more about the 2026 rates for Machu Picchu.
General rate for foreign visitors
| | Adult | Student
(No older than 25 years old) | Child
(8-17 years old) |
| Route 1-A (Machupicchu Mountain) | PEN 200 | PEN 125 | PEN 118 |
| Route 1-B (Upper Terrace) | PEN 152 | PEN 77 | PEN 70 |
| Route 1-C (Intipunku Portal) | PEN 152 | PEN 77 | PEN 70 |
| Route 1-D (Inka Bridge) | PEN 152 | PEN 77 | PEN 70 |
| Route 2-A (Classic Route) | PEN 152 | PEN 77 | PEN 70 |
| Route 2-B (Lower Terrace) | PEN 152 | PEN 77 | PEN 70 |
| Route 3-A (Waynapicchu Mountain) | PEN 200 | PEN 125 | PEN 118 |
| Route 3-B (Designed Royalty) | PEN 152 | PEN 77 | PEN 70 |
| Route 3-C (Great Cavern) | PEN 200 | PEN 125 | PEN 118 |
| Route 3-D (Huchuypicchu) | PEN 152 | PEN 77 | PEN 70 |
→The ticket rate was established in soles (PEN), the legal and regular currency in Peru.
Promotional rate for CAN members: People from Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru
| | Adult | Student
(No older than 25 years old) | Child
(8-17 years old) |
| Route 1-A (Machupicchu Mountain) | PEN 112 | PEN 80 | PEN 80 |
| Route 1-B (Upper Terrace) | PEN 64 | PEN 32 | PEN 32 |
| Route 1-C (Intipunku Portal) | PEN 64 | PEN 32 | PEN 32 |
| Route 1-D (Inka Bridge) | PEN 64 | PEN 32 | PEN 32 |
| Route 2-A (Classic Route) | PEN 64 | PEN 32 | PEN 32 |
| Route 2-B (Lower Terrace) | PEN 64 | PEN 32 | PEN 32 |
| Route 3-A (Waynapicchu Mountain) | PEN 112 | PEN 80 | PEN 80 |
| Route 3-B (Designed Royalty) | PEN 64 | PEN 32 | PEN 32 |
| Route 3-C (Great Cavern) | PEN 112 | PEN 80 | PEN 80 |
| Route 3-D (Huchuypicchu) | PEN 64 | PEN 32 | PEN 32 |
→ The ticket rate was established in soles (PEN), the legal and regular currency in Peru.
How can you get a discount on Machu Picchu tickets?
Machu Picchu offers discounted entrance prices for university students, minors, and citizens of the Andean Community of Nations (CAN): Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia.
Discounts for university students
- This benefit applies to undergraduate students under the age of 25 who are currently enrolled in a degree program.
- To purchase the ticket, present a valid university ID.
- The ISIC student card is no longer accepted for purchasing the Machu Picchu ticket.
- Student discount tickets can only be purchased in person in Cusco or through the website of an authorized tourism agency.
Discounts for minors
- This benefit applies to children and adolescents between the ages of 8 and 17 from all countries.
- To purchase the ticket, present a passport or other identity document that certifies the minor's age.
- The minor must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or proxy.
- This type of ticket can only be purchased in person in Cusco or through the website of an authorized travel agency.
Discounts for CAN citizens
- This benefit applies to citizens of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia.
- To receive the discount, visitors must present a passport or identity document that certifies their nationality.
- Minors and university students from these countries receive an even higher discount.
- This type of ticket can be purchased in person in Cusco.
- It can also be purchased online through the official website of Peru's Ministry of Culture or an authorized tourism agency.
Methods of payment of the Machu Picchu tickets
In Cusco, you can pay for your ticket in person with cash, credit, or debit card.
Online payments can be made using these methods:
Payment by Visa card
- The Ministry of Culture of Peru's official website only accepts "Verified by Visa" cards for purchasing Machu Picchu tickets.
- Authorized tourism agency websites also accept Visa as a payment method.
Payment with PayPal
- Tourist agency websites use PayPal as their main payment method.
- PayPal is a fast and secure online payment method. It accepts any type of credit or debit card, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
Payment with Western Union
- Not all tourist agencies use Western Union as a payment method.
- Western Union has thousands of locations around the world. To make a payment, you just have to fill out a form, pay, and wait for the transaction to go through.
Payment with a bank transfer
- Tourism agencies use the method of paying for the Machu Picchu ticket by bank transfer.
- This method is easy. It only requires filling out a form, making the payment, and waiting for the deposit to go through.
How to Buy Machu Picchu Tickets in Cusco
Tickets can be purchased at the Ministry of Culture, which is open Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. It is located at Casa Garcilaso on Calle Garcilaso. You must bring your passport and either a credit card or cash.
How to buy Machu Picchu tickets in Aguas Calientes
Tickets can be purchased at the Machu Picchu Cultural Center (Regional Directorate of Aguas Calientes Office) in Aguas Calientes. The address is Av. Pachacutec (just off the main square). The center is open Monday through Sunday from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. You must bring your passport.
Tips to get Machu Picchu tickets easy and fast
- PayPal is recommended as the first payment option. This method of transferring money is fast and secure. The fees are reasonable.
- It is advisable to purchase tickets well in advance. This is especially important for the entry ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- The Machu Picchu ticket is only valid for the specified date and time of visit. Yes, you can change the entry date or cancel a Machu Picchu ticket. In both cases, there is a fee.
Frequently asked questions about Machu Picchu tickets
How far in advance should you book your trip to Machu Picchu?
The time needed to make a reservation on our web platform depends on the chosen route and travel season (low or high). For 2026, the system is divided into ten official routes, which are distributed among three circuits. The spots are much more specific:
Adventure and High Demand Routes
These sell out first because of their exclusivity and limited capacity.
- Route 3-A (Waynapicchu Mountain): * Normal booking time: 4 to 5 months.
- Route 2-A (Designed Classic): * Normal booking time: 3 months.
Classic and Panoramic Routes
It's ideal for taking postcard photos and visiting the main attractions.
- Route 1-B (Upper Terrace) and Route 2-B (Lower Terrace): * Normal booking time: 4 weeks.
- Route 1-A (Machupicchu Mountain): * Normal booking time: 4 weeks.
Royalty and High Season Routes
Only specific months are available for cultural options and routes.
- Route 3-B (Designed Royalty): * Normal booking time: 3 to 4 weeks.
- Route 2-B (Lower Terrace): * Normal booking time: 3 to 4 weeks.
- High Season Routes (1-C Intipunku Portal, 1-D Inka Bridge, 3-C Great Cavern and 3-D Huchuypicchu)
Note: These 4 routes are only available from June 1 to October 15. It is recommended to book as soon as the spots are opened in the system.
Is it safe to purchase a Machu Picchu ticket online?
Of course it is safe! We are the safest and fastest website for booking tickets to Machu Picchu. Here are some reasons to trust us: We have SSL security certificates. This ensures your data is protected when making any transfer. We are part of Machu Picchu Terra, a travel agency authorized by Peru's Ministry of Culture for selling entrance tickets to Machu Picchu. Thousands of customer testimonials position us as the most reliable website for buying tickets to Machu Picchu.
Can I make a correction if I have already purchased a ticket?
Yes, you can make changes to your electronic ticket to Machu Picchu once you have purchased it. However, you can only change the date of the visit and the name or information of the person. Depending on when they are submitted, modifications are subject to penalties.
Can I cancel my ticket after I've purchased it?
Yes, you can cancel your electronic ticket after purchasing it. However, a penalty may apply depending on how much time is left before your chosen entry date to Machu Picchu. Refunds will be issued via the original payment method.
How can you visit the Machu Picchu Museum for free in 2026?
In 2019, visitors can enter the Manuel Chávez Ballón Machu Picchu Museum for free during the late shift (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.). To do so, they must present their passport or university ID at the time of entry.
Book Machu Picchu Tour:
During your visit to Machu Picchu, you can choose from a variety of tours. These range from full-day excursions through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to tours of Machu Picchu from Cusco. Multi-day tours can include climbing Huayna Picchu or Rainbow Mountain and trekking through villages in the Andes with living traditions. If the classic trail is sold out, the next best option is the short Inca Trail; it is part of the larger Inca path. There are also alternative treks to Machu Picchu, such as the Salkantay Trek, the Lares Trek, the Inca Quarry Trek, and the Huchuy Qosqo Trek. Your thirst for adventure knows no limits at Machu Picchu!
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