Before you visit one of the greatest wonders of the world, there is some information about purchasing tickets and new regulations that you should know about. Since 2017, new visitor guidelines to help protect the integrity and legacy of the UNESCO Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu were put in place.
Now, there are timed entries into the site and designated walking circuits to guide foot traffic and reduce overcrowding. Since the re-opening of Machu Picchu in November 2020, new regulations control the number of daily visitors allowed into the archaeological site. This guide will give you the rundown on how these new regulations might affect your visit and how to purchase tickets.
Read more about these Machu Picchu Tickets and Regulations here:
It is strongly recommended that you book a tour that includes Machu Picchu in its itinerary so that you can concentrate on enjoying your trip to Peru rather than having to purchase tickets or decide when is the best time to enter Machu Picchu. Tickets must be purchased through the Ministry of Culture with the proper information filled out appropriately. Other reasons include avoiding having to purchase bus tickets up to Machu Picchu (which is separate from your entrance ticket), or worrying about finding a group tour or private tour once at the sacred site.
Peru For Less offers full travel itineraries including multiday excursions and tickets for the Inca Trail or other expeditions. Speak with one of our travel advisors by filling out this Traveler Form to learn more about how to book your trip. For those just curious about how to get Machu Picchu Tickets and the more intrepid traveler, keep reading.
Machu Picchu Tours:
With the ticket up to Machu Picchu, you’ll be able to see over 100 different types of incredible Incan ruins including temples, grain houses, royal buildings and other significant ancient religious sites. 4 types of tickets are available for visitors to the Lost City of the Incas with each offering different views and archaeological experiences. Remember that no ticket is required to hike to the incredible Inca Bridge or Sun Gate, this is included with your entrance to Machu Picchu.
A view of Huayna Picchu peak from the southern end of Machu Picchu. Photo by Ana Castañeda for Peru for Less.
For more information on which ticket might be best for you, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Travel Advisors to learn more. Remember that the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is only valid on the day marked for entry. Once purchased, tickets cannot be exchanged or be transferred to other visitors since they have your specific document number and name on them.
A limited amount of Machu Picchu tickets are available for entry every hour from 6 am and 2 pm. When purchasing tickets for Machu Picchu you must select one of the entry times starting at 6 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, 11 am, 12 noon, 1 pm, or 2 pm. It’s possible to enter Machu Picchu for up to one hour after the time indicated on your ticket and not anytime beforehand.
There’s nothing like you’re first view of the Inca Citadel. Photo by Peru for Less
Read more about the hikes in Machu Picchu, including Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain.
Tour the urban and agricultural sectors of Machu Picchu on one of the walking circuits showcased in the map below.
Walking Circuits
Map of Machu Picchu’s Walking Circuits designed by Peru for Less
Points of Interest on the Map
A Traveler’s Guide to Machu Picchu Sights
Peru for Less guides at Machu Picchu keep our Travel Advisors and operations team up-to-date with the most current regulations and how any changes may impact upcoming tours. Check out our Machu Picchu travel guide. for more detailed information.
The Temple of the Sun situated in the heart of Machu Picchu. Photo by Dragisa Braunovic on Unsplash
How long can I stay inside the archaeological complex with my ticket?
The basic Machu Picchu ticket only allows visitors for a maximum of 4 hours, although there is no authority that checks tickets after 4 hours. Normally 4 hours is more than enough time to visit the entirety of Machu Pacchu unless your ticket includes Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu Mountain.
Can I purchase tickets in person once I’m in Peru?
No, either an agency such as Peru For Less can reserve tickets to Machu Picchu for you with a private tour with other ruins included, or you can purchase them individually through the Ministry of Culture.
Are student discounts available for entrance tickets to Machu Picchu?
Yes! There are student discounts offered to any student under 25 that has a valid student ID. Students must scan and send their Student ID to
How do I get the Machu Picchu stamp on my passport?
Inside the archaeological complex right before leaving Machu Picchu there is a small desk where you can stamp your passport.
Does my ticket include other sites in Machu Picchu?
Yes! The hike to the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge is included with the purchase of any ticket.
How long do tours run at Machu Picchu?
Tours normally take no longer than 2 hours, after your tour finishes you are welcome to continue exploring the site such as trekking to the Sun Gate. Remember it’s best to book a tour in advance, You are only allowed entrance to Machu Picchu with a tour. However, in case you book your ticket to Machu Picchu separately, there are group tours that gather at the entrance to Machu Picchu.
No tickets are needed for the Machu Picchu Museum. The small museum right outside Aguas Calientes is open to the public as long as you present a valid ID. Visit this wonderful site for more information about the discovery of Machu Picchu and botanical exhibit where you can learn more about the cloud forests around this area.
Contact our team to start planning your trip to Machu Picchu!
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