MACHU PICCHU CIRCUITS 2025

Que circuito elegir en Machu Picchu 2024

Machu Picchu is one of the most demanded attractions in the city of Cusco. Regarding this, routes or circuits have long been implemented for tours without deviation. However, since May 15, 2024, Machu Picchu has introduced new circuits to replace the others, offering more ways to visit based on circuits, thus managing tourist flow and protecting the site.

Travelers must choose a circuit when purchasing their entrance tickets. This article provides all the information you need to know about Machu Picchu Circuits 2025.

These circuits, in effect from June 1 to September 30, 2024, were updated by the government to visit Machu Picchu 2025, as the new way to purchase your entrance ticket. These routes are designed to offer diverse experiences while preserving the site’s integrity. Below is a detailed guide and Machu Picchu circuits Map and routes to help you decide which circuit to choose Machu Picchu.

Circuit Machu Picchu 1

Route 1-A: Route to Machu Picchu Mountain

This route includes a hike to Machu Picchu Mountain, taking approximately 3 hours round trip, offering a panoramic view of Machu Picchu from a great height. The circuit starts at the checkpoint, passing by the Guardian’s House for classic postcard photos seen on the internet.

Important:

• No access to the ruins or the urban sector of Machu Picchu.
• An additional entry ticket and a guide are required to explore the urban sector.
• Ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
• Duration: 4 hours.

Machu Picchu Circiit 1 Map of the Machu Picchu Mountain Route

Route 1-B: Route to the Upper Terrace

A shorter route starting at the checkpoint and leading to the upper terrace of the agricultural sector for panoramic photos with Machu Picchu. Ideal if you only want to take the classic photo and get a panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

Important:

• No access to the ruins or the urban sector.
• An additional entry ticket and a guide are required to explore the urban sector.
• Duration: 1 hour.
• Mainly for panoramic photos.

Machu Picchu Circuit 1 Map of the Upper Terrace Route

Route 1-C: Route to the Sun Gate

A 2-hour round trip hike to the Sun Gate or Inti Punku, offering magnificent views of Machu Picchu. This is the first view of the citadel for those tourists who hike the Inca Trail.

Important:

• No access to the ruins or the urban sector.
• An additional entry ticket and a guide are required to explore the urban sector.
• Ideal for families.
• Closed from October 16 to May 31.
• Duration: 3 hours.

Machu Picchu Circiit 1 Map of the Inti Punku Covered Route

Route 1-D: Route to the Inca Bridge

This route offers a 1-hour round trip hike to the Inca Bridge with impressive views of the Andes. It provides excellent views of the river and the forest below, the hydroelectric plant, and also Machu Picchu from a different angle.

Important:

• No access to the ruins or the urban sector.
• An additional entry ticket and a guide are required to explore the urban sector.
• Open from June 1 to October 15.
• Duration: 2 hours.

Machu Picchu Circiit 1 Map of the Inca Bridge Route

Circuit Machu Picchu 2

Route 2-A: The Classic Route

This is the best circuit for visiting Machu Picchu, the most comprehensive route covering numerous sites within the citadel, including temples, plazas, the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and the Pisonay Plaza. It also offers the best external views from the Guardian’s House and allows you to take the classic photo.

Important:

• Does not include a visit to the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, or the sundial.
• Duration: 3-4 hours.
• Recommended for those who want to explore 80% of the Machu Picchu Citadel.

Machu Picchu Circuit 2 Map of the Designed Route

Route 2-B: Route to the Lower Terrace

A route similar to Route 2-A but includes another viewpoint for postcard photos. These are similar to the classic photo but involve a much more panoramic view from the lower terrace to the Guardian’s House. Like the first, it allows you to visit important places inside and outside the citadel.

Important:

• Duration: 3-4 hours.
• Offers opportunities for classic photos.

Machu Picchu Circuit 2 Map of the Lower Terrace Route

Circuit Machu Picchu 3

Route 3-A: Route to Huayna Picchu Mountain

This route covers the lower part of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, and a Hike to Huayna Picchu, which takes about 3 hours. Note that this circuit does not include the classic postcard photo but offers an alternative photo from the lower platform. Make sure you are well prepared to Machu Picchu Altitude.

Important:

• No access to the view from the Guardian’s House.
• Ideal for visitors over 18 years old.
• Tickets must be purchased 3 months in advance.
• Duration: 4 hours.

Machu Picchu Circuit 3 Map of the Huayna Picchu Mountain Route

Route 3-B: The Royalty Route

This tourist circuit includes the lower part of Machu Picchu, visiting the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, the House of the Chosen Woman, the Water Mirror, the Temple of the Condor, and the warehouse.

Important:

• Duration: 2 hours.
• Focuses on the urban sector of the archaeological site.

Machu Picchu Circuit 3 Map of the Designed Route

Route 3-C: The Cavern Route

Visits the lower part of Machu Picchu and includes a hike to the Great Cavern, which requires moderate hiking.

Important:

• Open from June 1 to October 15.
• Duration: 4 hours.
• Ideal for those with Huayna Picchu tickets.

Machu Picchu Circuit 3 Map of the Geat Cavern Route

Route 3-D: Route to Huchuy Picchu

This tourist circuit involves a short hike to Huchuy Picchu Mountain, offering great panoramic views with less effort.

Important:

• Open from June 1 to October 15.
• Duration: 3 hours.
• Focuses on the urban sector.

Machu Picchu Circuit 3 Map of the Huchuy Picchu Mountain Route

Circuit Machu Picchu 4: Short Lower Inca Trail

Regarding the Machu Picchu Circuits 2024, take note that this last circuit is exclusively designed for Inca Trail hikers, this circuit includes agricultural terraces, the water fountain, the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, the Pisonay Plaza, and the warehouse. The purchased ticket is valid for the second day when the tour of the lower part or citadel of Machu Picchu is done.

Important:

• No access to the upper part.
• Used by Inca Trail hikers.
• Includes a second visit to the ruins or citadel.

Machu Picchu/ Cusco

FAQs about Machu Picchu Circuits 2024

What is the best Machu Picchu circuit?
Circuit 2 is recommended for the classic photo of Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu in the background. It offers the most comprehensive views and access to 80% of the sites, excluding the Temple of the Sun.

How much does the Circuit 2 ticket cost?
The ticket costs 152 Peruvian soles (around $45) for adults. Students can obtain a reduced fare of 77 soles (around $23) with a valid student ID.

What is the best Machu Picchu circuit for children?
Circuit 2 is ideal for families, offering the classic viewpoint for photos and a shorter route if needed. All circuits have stairs, so a specific circuit exclusively for children is not recommended.

How long does it take to complete Circuit 2?
It takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete Circuit 2, covering both the upper and lower sections.

How many circuits does Machu Picchu have?
Machu Picchu has three main circuits divided into ten different routes.

Which circuit Machu Picchu includes Huayna Picchu?
Huayna Picchu Mountain is part of Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu.

Is a guide required for the tour?
A guide tour guide in Machu Picchu is mandatory for many circuits that involve a visit to the main urban sector. On the contrary, doing the trek to the mountains like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu is not mandatory, but it is recommended to hire one for a more enriching experience and to learn more about the site’s history and culture.

What should I bring for any of the Machu Picchu Circuits 2024?
It is recommended to bring comfortable clothing, suitable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat or cap, and water. It is also useful to bring a camera and binoculars to better enjoy the views at any of the Machu Picchu Circuits 2024.

What is the best time of year to visit Circuit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September, when there is less rain and the weather is more favorable for the tour.

How do I get to Machu Picchu?
The most common way to get to Machu Picchu is by taking a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and then a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, however it’s possible to reach Machu Picchu walking from Aguas Calientes for around 2 hours. It is also possible to hike the Inca Trail, a multi-day trek that leads directly to Machu Picchu.

Can I get to Machu Picchu from Hidroelectrica?
Yes! A less expensive and less demanding alternative is to travel from Hidroelectrica to Machu Picchu. You can take a 6-hour car ride from Cusco to Hidroelectrica, followed by a 3-hour walk to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), this is a great option if you couldn’t secure a ticket for the Inca Trail.

Are there restrictions on what can be brought to Circuit Machu Picchu?
Yes, there are restrictions. You are not allowed to bring food, alcoholic beverages, drones, tripods, umbrellas, or walking sticks with metal tips, among other items. It is important to review the regulations before your visit to avoid any inconvenience.

Are there restrooms within the archaeological site?
There are no restrooms within Machu Picchu. Restrooms are located at the entrance, so it is advisable to use them before starting your tour.

Can you exit and re-enter Machu Picchu with the same ticket?
As part of the frequent questions about the Machu Picchu ticket, no, once you exit the archaeological site, you cannot re-enter with the same ticket. Therefore, it is important to plan your time well and bring everything you need before entering.

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