Written by:
peru.travel
Monday, May 11, 2026
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Since January 1, 2019, a new management system for entering Machupicchu has been in effect. Based on the Regulations for the Sustainable Tourist Use of Machupicchu—published on July 1, 2017, and updated on June 7, 2018—the system aims to prevent overcrowding during peak hours. These updates modify the length of stay and establish new entry windows for the Llaqta Inka of Machupicchu.
Furthermore, as of June 1, 2024, three new circuits have been introduced, encompassing 10 unique visit routes throughout the Inka city. Significant changes have also been made to visitor capacity and the ticket purchasing process.
Below, you will find all the essential information to navigate these changes and plan your next journey to Machupicchu.
Increased visitor capacity
According to Ministerial Resolution N° 000285-2025-MC, the maximum carrying capacity for visits to the Llaqta (Inka City) of Machupicchu has been established for 2026.
This regulation sets a maximum capacity of 5,600 visitors per day during the following high-season dates:
• January 1, 2026
• April 2 to April 5, 2026
• From June 19 to November 2, 2026
• From December 30 to December 31, 2026
On the other hand, during the low-season months, the maximum number of visitors will be set at 4,500 per day. This capacity ensures that every traveler can fully experience the majesty of this landmark while adhering to the essential guidelines for its long-term preservation and conservation.
A group of tourists on the tour in Machupicchu. / ©SHUTTERSTOCK
Digital ticket platform
As of the same date mentioned above, all entry tickets are available through this page. Accessible from anywhere in the world, the platform features all the newly authorized routes within the Inka city. To ensure a smoother user experience, the site allows for advance ticket purchases and a streamlined booking process.
New routes to experience Machupicchu
Once you have your ticket ready, it is important to note the arrival grace periods. For high season, there is a 45-minute window, while low season offers a 30-minute window. Please be aware that if you arrive outside of the time slot stated on your ticket and beyond these grace periods, access will not be permitted.
With that in mind, here are the three new circuits and their respective routes:
1. Circuit 1 or Panoramic circuit
As the name suggests, this circuit allows visitors to access the highest points of Machupicchu, offering incredible views of the entire landscape and the Inka city. From here, you can see the kallancas, the upper platform, and the agricultural terrace sector. There are four distinct routes within this circuit, each providing a unique experience and the classic panoramic photo. However, please note that none of these routes permit access to the urban sector.
The following routes are available within this circuit:
Route 1-A: Machupicchu Mountain Route
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route
Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate Route (Available only during High Season)
Route 1-D: Inka Bridge Route (Available only during High Season)
2. Circuit 2 or Inka city circuit
For many travelers, capturing the panoramic photo of Machupicchu is the top priority. This classic shot can be taken from various platforms at the start of Circuit 2. However, the Lower Terrace is the most popular choice among visitors, as it guarantees a prime angle to capture the Inka city in all its splendor. Additionally, this circuit does allow access to the urban sector, where you can visit the Granite Chaos, the Temple of the Sun Viewpoint, the Temple Plaza, the Sacred Rock, the Twelve Openings, the Eastern Qolqas, and the Water Mirrors complex.
The following routes are available within this circuit:
Route 2-A: Designed route
Route 2-B: Lower terrace route
Stone walls and an entrance gate at Machupicchu. / ©SHUTTERSTOCK
3. Circuit 3 or Royalty circuit
This tour begins in the lower zone of the Inka city and offers a panoramic photo with a direct view toward Waynapicchu Mountain. Additionally, the circuit allows for visits to the most iconic temples of the religious sector. This route includes access to Huchuypicchu and Waynapicchu mountains, as well as the Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon. There are four types of routes offering a unique experience; during the tour, visitors see the agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, the Ceremonial Fountains, the House of the Inka, the Three Gates, the Sacred Rock, the Twelve Openings, and the Temple of the Condor.
The following routes can be enjoyed here:
Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain Route
Route 3-B: Designed Route
Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (available only during High Season)
Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu Route (available only during High Season)
Over the past few months, the Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu has seen an increase in visitor numbers; therefore, these important changes have been implemented to safeguard the integrity and preservation of this World Wonder. This ensures the best possible experience for visitors through the history, landscapes, and heritage of the citadel. Machupicchu awaits you!
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