Starting June 1, 2024, Machu Picchu will introduce a revised system featuring only three circuits for visitors. During the high season, a stricter policy will be enforced, allowing only a 45-minute tolerance for your designated circuit.
Important Update Regarding Machu Picchu Circuits
The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Peru has recently implemented a significant change to the number of circuits available for visitors to Machu Picchu. Effective June 1, 2024, the number of circuits will be reduced from five to three. This modification aims to enhance the overall visitor experience at the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Rationale Behind the Change
This adjustment seeks to optimize the flow of visitors and safeguard the integrity of one of the world’s most esteemed cultural heritage sites. It also prioritizes the safety of tourists and the archaeological park itself.
Distribution of Circuits
The Ministry of Culture in Cusco has structured the distribution of circuits as follows:
- Machu Picchu (General) Ticket: Upon purchasing this ticket, you are granted the option to choose between circuits 1, 2, or 3.
- Machu Picchu + Machupicchu Mountain Ticket: This ticket restricts you to circuit 1 and a visit to the specified attraction.
- Machu Picchu + Sun Gate, “Inti Punku” Ticket: Similar to the previous ticket, this option limits you to circuit 1 and a visit to the designated attraction.
- Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge Ticket: This ticket also confines you to circuit 1 and a visit to the specified attraction.
- Machu Picchu + Wayna Picchu Ticket: This ticket restricts you to circuit 3 and a visit to the designated attraction.
- Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu Ticket: Similar to the previous ticket, this option limits you to circuit 3 and a visit to the specified attraction.
- Machu Picchu + Great Cavern Ticket: This ticket also confines you to circuit 3 and a visit to the designated attraction.
- The Inca Trail (Short or Classic) + Machu Picchu Ticket: Holders of this ticket must follow circuit 3.
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Additional Considerations
- Multiple Circuits: To explore two or more circuits, you will need to purchase multiple tickets.
- Re-entry: Re-entry to Machu Picchu is not permitted once you have exited the park.
- Ticket Sales: Machu Picchu tickets are not sold at the entrance to the park. Ensure you purchase your tickets in advance through authorized channels.
By implementing these changes, the Ministry of Culture aims to enhance the visitor experience at Machu Picchu while preserving this remarkable cultural heritage site for future generations.
Guided Visit to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1)
Circuit 1 in Machu Picchu, effective June 1, offers a structured exploration with several intriguing routes to suit various preferences and time constraints.
Places to Visit on This Circuit
Route 1-A:
- Kallancas
- Upper Platform
- Guardian House (classic photo)
- Mountain Machupicchu
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 4 hours
Route 1-B:
- Kallancas
- Upper Platform
- Guardian House (classic photo)
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 2 hours
Route 1-C (Available only in high season):
- Kallancas
- Upper Platform
- Guardian House (classic photo)
- Inti Punku Portal
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 3 hours
Route 1-D (Available only in high season):
- Kallancas
- Upper Platform
- Guardian House (classic photo)
- Inka Bridge
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 2.5 hours
The new structured circuits aim to ensure a balanced distribution of visitors, thus preserving the sanctity and splendor of Machu Picchu while offering a memorable experience tailored to individual interests and time constraints.
Guided Visit to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2)
Circuit 2 in Machu Picchu, effective June 1, encompasses diverse historical and architectural landmarks.
Places to Visit on This Circuit
Route 2-A:
- Lower platform (Guardian’s House)
- Entry to the urban sector
- Quarry sector
- Viewpoint of the temple of the sun
- Botanical Garden
- Main temple
- Temple of the 3 windows
- Sacred Rock
- Eastern Qolcas
- Hall of mirrors or Temple of the condor
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 2.5 hours
Guided Visit to Machu Picchu (Circuit 3)
Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu, effective June 1, traverses scenic and historically significant areas, ensuring a comprehensive tour experience.
Places to Visit on This Circuit
Route 3-A:
- Agricultural platforms
- Sacred Rock
- Wayna Picchu Mountain
- Qolqas sector
- Water mirror set
- Sun temple complex
- House of the Inka complex
- Temple of the 3 windows
- Enclosure of the Twelve Vanes
- Hall of mirrors or Temple of the condor
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 3.5 hours
Route 3-B:
- Agricultural platforms
- Qolqas sector
- Water mirror set
- Sun temple complex
- House of the Inka complex
- Temple of the 3 windows
- Enclosure of the Twelve Vanes
- Hall of mirrors or Temple of the condor
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 2 hours
Route 3-C (Available only in high season):
- Agricultural platforms
- Sacred Rock
- Great Cavern or The Moon Temple
- Qolqas sector
- Water mirror set
- Sun temple complex
- House of the Inka complex
- Temple of the 3 windows
- Enclosure of the Twelve Vanes
- Hall of mirrors or Temple of the condor
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 3.5 hours
Route 3-D (Available only in high season):
- Agricultural platforms
- Sacred Rock
- Huchuy Picchu Mountain
- Qolqas sector
- Water mirror set
- Sun temple complex
- House of the Inka complex
- Temple of the 3 windows
- Enclosure of the Twelve Vanes
- Qolqas Sector
- Hall of mirrors or Temple of the condor
- Approximate travel time: Maximum 2.5 hours
The establishment and implementation of routes outside the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Culture and the National Service of Natural Protected Areas (SERNANP), with input from the Ministry of Tourism (MINCETUR).
Requirements for Hiking Trails 1-A, 1-D, 3-A, and 3-C
Participation in these hikes is entirely voluntary and requires a good level of physical fitness. Hikers must also meet the following requirements:
- Minimum Age: Be at least 18 years old.
- Adherence to Entry Schedule: Respect the designated entry time for the chosen trail.
- Respecting Time Limits: Comply with the established time limits for both the duration of the hike and the departure time from the trail. Failure to adhere to these schedules can pose safety risks and place responsibility on both the hikers and the assigned guides.
Our Machu Picchu Tour Packages.
Our Machu Picchu Tour Packages offer an unparalleled journey through the heart of Peru’s most iconic and awe-inspiring landscape. With a combination of informative guides and carefully planned itineraries, we ensure that each traveler experiences the rich history and vibrant culture surrounding the ancient Incan citadel. Picture yourself trekking through lush valleys, ascending the majestic peaks of the Andes, and finally arriving at the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, shrouded in the morning mist. Our packages are designed to cater to various interests and fitness levels, providing options for both leisurely explorers and avid adventurers. Choose our Machu Picchu Tour Packages for a well-rounded, immersive experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites.
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- Machu Picchu Adventure Tour 5 Days
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