Key facts
- Tickets are sold by date, time and circuit; daily capacity is limited.
- Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require a specific ticket.
- You must show the original passport or ID used for the purchase.
- Prices and availability change: always check the official source.
In this guide
Entry to Machu Picchu is sold by date, time and circuit. Daily capacity is limited, so in peak season it’s best to buy weeks or even months in advance.
Where to buy
Official sales are handled by Peru’s Ministry of Culture, through its online platform, and through authorized travel agencies. Be wary of websites that sell tickets without showing the circuit or the entry time.
Circuits and routes
Visits follow one-way circuits. Each ticket specifies a circuit and a particular route, from the panoramic routes along the upper section to those that tour the temples below. Some tickets include climbing a mountain.
- Huayna Picchu: the mountain in the classic photo, with few spots per day.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: a longer climb with views of the entire valley.
- Other hiking routes, such as the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge, depending on availability.
Requirements
- Your original passport or ID, the same one used to buy the ticket.
- Arrive at the gate at the time shown on your ticket.
- A small backpack; tripods, drones and metal-tipped walking sticks are not allowed.
Tips
Buy your entry ticket first and the train second: tickets are what sell out first. If you’re traveling on a tour, the agency coordinates the train, bus and entry times for you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy tickets in Aguas Calientes?
There are limited in-person sales in Aguas Calientes, but spots are few and sell out quickly. Don’t count on them in peak season.
Can I change the date on my ticket?
Tickets are generally nonrefundable, and changes are very restricted. Double-check the date and your details before you pay.
