Machu Picchu now uses timed circuits with a one-way flow. Your circuit choice determines what you see, how you move through the site, and whether you can add a mountain hike like Huayna Picchu. This guide keeps it simple so you book correctly the first time. If you prefer us to take care of everything, we build custom private Machu Picchu days that match your dates and fitness level: https://peruincreible.com/private-tours/

The three circuits at a glance

Circuit 1, Panoramic
Focus on the upper terraces and big postcard views. Sub routes include 1A Machu Picchu Mountain, 1B Upper Terrace, plus seasonal routes to the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge when open. Choose this if you love elevated viewpoints or want to hike Machu Picchu Mountain.

Circuit 2, Classic
The most complete look at the main city. You will see upper and lower terraces, the Sacred Plaza, the Intihuatana area, the Temple of the Condor, and more. Routes include 2A Designed and 2B Lower Terrace. Ideal for a first visit.

Circuit 3, Royalty
Lower city entrances and the royal sector. Add on hikes include 3A Huayna Picchu, 3C Great Cavern when open, and 3D Huchuy Picchu when open. Choose this if Huayna Picchu is your priority.

Add on hikes

Huayna Picchu
Requires Circuit 3A. Slots are limited. The trail is steep and exposed, with spectacular views from the ridge.

Machu Picchu Mountain
Requires Circuit 1A. Longer and higher than Huayna Picchu with wide panoramas and less exposure.

Huchuy Picchu
Short and easier. When available, it pairs with Circuit 3D.

Decision guide

I want the classic postcard view and the key temples Choose Circuit 2A or 2B.

I want to climb Huayna Picchu Choose Circuit 3A and book well in advance.

I prefer big panoramas and a tougher summit, not the lower city Choose Circuit 1A.

I am traveling in peak season and need flexibility Start with Circuit 2A or 2B since mountain add ons sell out first.

How ticket timing works

Tickets have fixed entry times and defined one way routes to keep the site moving. Backtracking is not allowed. Most circuits allow about two and a half hours inside. Mountain add on routes allow more time. Buy on the Ministry of Culture portal and select your Circuit and Route, for example Circuit 2A Designed.

When to book
Reserve months ahead for June through October and holiday periods, especially for Huayna Picchu. Shoulder months are easier.

What you see on popular routes

Circuit 2A, Classic Designed Route
Lower and upper terraces, Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana area, Temple of the Condor, Sacred Rock, storehouses, and more. This is the most balanced all around experience.
Official route map, PDF: https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/C2-R2A.pdf

Circuit 3A, Huayna Picchu
Royal sector walk plus the steep Huayna Picchu ascent, with epic views back to the citadel from the ridge.
Official route map, PDF: https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/C3-R3AP.pdf

Circuit 1B, Upper Terrace Panoramic
Focus on high terraces for wide vistas, minimal coverage of the urban core.
Official route map, PDF: https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/C1-R1B.pdf

Practical tips

• Bring your passport for entry checks
• Bathrooms are outside the gate and re entry is not permitted on most tickets
• Pack light, carry water, sun coverage, layers, and shoes with good grip
• Acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before any summit hikes
• The classic photo angle is from terraces on Circuits 1 and 2, early or late light is kinder

Quick FAQ

Can I get the classic view and climb Huayna Picchu with one ticket
Not fully. Circuit 3A is built around the Huayna Picchu hike with a lower city flow. Many travelers pair 3A on one day and Circuit 2 on another day.

What is the best all around circuit if I only go once
Circuit 2A or 2B gives the most complete look for a first visit.

What about daily capacity
Visitor numbers and entry windows vary by season with timed entries. Availability still sells out, so reserve early for your preferred time.

Sources
Official circuits and routes overview: https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/ Official ticket portal: https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/ Official route maps: Circuit 2A, Circuit 3A, Circuit 1B, linked above

Planning your visit
We tailor the right circuit and entry time for your dates. Start here: https://peruincreible.com/private-tours/