Machu Picchu Circuits 2026: Which Route to Choose
For a first visit, route 2-A is the most complete option. Before you buy, check which routes are closed through December 29.
Quick answer
- First visit: choose route 2-A. It's the most complete.
- If 2-A is sold out: try 2-B, then 3-B.
- Just the classic photo: route 1-B, when it's open. It doesn't enter the buildings.
- A hike with views: 1-A to Machu Picchu Mountain or 3-A to Huayna Picchu.
All 10 routes compared
| Route | What it includes | Time and limits |
|---|---|---|
| 1-A Mountain | Classic photo and Machu Picchu Mountain. | About 4 h. Ages 18+ only. |
| 1-B Upper Terrace | Classic photo, with no access to the buildings. | Up to 2 h 30. Closed Oct 16 to Dec 29. |
| 1-C Inti Punku | Classic photo and the Sun Gate. | About 2 h. Closed in low season. |
| 1-D Inca Bridge | Classic photo and the Inca Bridge. | Up to 2 h. Ages 18+ only. Closed Oct 16 to Dec 29. |
| 2-A Classic | Classic photo and the urban and religious sectors. | Up to 2 h 30. |
| 2-B Lower Terrace | Photo from below and the same sectors. | Up to 2 h 30. |
| 3-A Huayna Picchu | Lower section and the Huayna Picchu climb. | Climb of up to 3 h. Closed Oct 16 to Dec 29. |
| 3-B Royal | Lower section and religious sector, with no mountain hikes. | Up to 2 h 30. All ages. |
| 3-C Great Cavern | Lower section and the Temple of the Moon. | Up to 4 h. Ages 18+ only. Closed Oct 16 to Dec 29. |
| 3-D Huchuy Picchu | Lower section and the Huchuy Picchu summit. | About 2 h 30. Ages 18+ only. High season only. |
Details published by PeruRail. Closure dates can change, so confirm your route when you buy.
Important through December 29
According to that source, routes 1-B, 1-D, 3-A and 3-C are closed from October 16 to December 29. If you're traveling on those dates, don't count on Huayna Picchu.
Which route suits your trip
- With kids: routes 2-A, 2-B and 3-B are the simplest.
- Short on time: avoid the mountain routes, which take several more hours.
- If you're fit: the mountains offer the widest views, but leave less time in the citadel.
Arrive on time
Your ticket shows your entry time. The same source lists a grace period of 30 minutes in low season and 45 in high season. If you're taking the bus, check its rules and fares.
Once you've chosen a route, follow this guide to buying your ticket.
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