MACHU PICCHU CIRCUITS AND SCHEDULE TO VISIT 2024

In order to preserve Machu Picchu as a crucial Inca archaeological site, the Peruvian government has established new visitor-access regulations. The regulations require that tours adhere to specific schedules and follow specific routes during predetermined time frames. The objective of the regulations is to protect the cultural heritage and overall integrity of the historic site.

It is crucial for visitors to familiarize themselves with the regulations. They ensure a visit that’s respectful, responsible and one that delivers a better overall experience down at Machu Picchu. In service of these guidelines.

ROUTES OR CIRCUITS TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU

The routes at Machu Picchu guide you through different portions of the site. While no single route will show you the entire breadth of the ruins, each offers a different journey, with different sites of interest along the way. Their design ensures you get the best out of your visit to this legendary destination.

Every Machu Picchu tours begins with your entrance ticket. Navigating the complexities of the permits and regulations for visitors to the Machu Picchu site is no small matter: upon securing your entrance ticket, we guarantee your access to Machu Picchu, at least one of its circuits — either Circuit 01 or Circuit 02 as a matter of availability - and a preference for a morning time slot.

Securing your desired itinerary comes down to timing - your tour booking, to be exact. Be forewarned that itineraries, morning time slots, and Circuits 01 and 02 are in demand and that we highly recommend booking your Machu Picchu tour well in advance. 

If morning slots are unavailable, our team will work to secure the soonest available time slot for your visit. Please note that entry to Machu Picchu is permitted until 2 PM, regardless of your scheduled time slot. Throughout your time exploring the ancient Inca citadel, you’ll be accompanied by one of our experienced Salkantay Trek Machu guides. An expert on Inca history, this guide will walk you through the site, detailing the purpose of each building, explaining their historical accuracy and sharing countless other interesting stories and facts. The tour with the guide lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Should either circuit be fully booked for dates requested, the most immediate available circuit will automatically be arranged for you – with availability for circuit 03, 04, or 05 often becoming the subsequent option. Alternative circuits may not boast the iconic postcard view of Machu Picchu you originally envisioned, but each still provides a unique perspective of the site, covering the most significant landmarks. Regardless of circuit or timing, we guarantee your visit to Machu Picchu will be an extraordinary highlight of your trip, complemented by the expertise of our Salkantay Trek Machu team.

CIRCUIT NUMBER 1 (HIGH SHORT ROUTE – Available any time)

For those planning a visit to Machu Picchu, there are four distinct circuits available to explore within the ancient Inca citadel. The first circuit encompasses the elevated region near Machu Picchu mountain, offering glimpses into the agricultural sector and initial views of the citadel. This journey commences at the renowned junction on the access route to the Inca Llaqta of Machu Picchu, where visitors ascend to a platform approximately 240 meters high. Here, a panoramic vista of the entire citadel unfolds, leading to the ceremonial platform housing the famed Guardian’s House.

Descending from this platform, the path leads towards Puente del Inca, meandering from the Sun Gate down to the urban sector of the citadel. Here, the Main Gate stands as the original entrance to Machu Picchu's urban expanse. Continuing through the urban sector reveals the citadel's alternative perspective, with the route extending towards the quarry area known as the Granitic Chaos. The journey continues downward, passing a collection of Inca structures en route to the Temple of the Sun. Further exploration unveils architectural marvels such as the Casa del Inca, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Temple of the Condor.

CIRCUIT NUMBER 2 HIGH LONG ROUTE – Available anytime and it been considered the best route.

Explore the depths of the Inca Citadel with Circuit number 2, a captivating journey that unveils the rich heritage of Machu Picchu. Diverging from the familiar path of Circuit number 1 after the Temple of the Sun, this route invites you to ascend the enchanting steps of the fountains. Traverse through the Sacred Plaza, ascend the majestic Intihuatana pyramid, and descend towards the Sacred Rock before continuing onward to expansive vistas.

Discover the intricacies of the Three Gates, a testament to the Inca elite's architectural prowess. Remember, each site demands no more than 20 minutes of admiration. Transition seamlessly to the Hall of Mirrors and the Temple of the Condor, completing a comprehensive exploration unlike any other.

Unlike Circuit one, this tour meticulously incorporates the Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana, Sacred Rock, and the Three Gates. Embark on one of the finest Machu Picchu tours available, delving into the heart of the Inca citadel and its myriad sectors with unparalleled depth.

CIRCUIT NUMBER 3 (SHORT LOW ROUTE)

The journey commences at the divergence on the access road leading to the revered Inca stronghold of Machu Picchu. However, unlike the preceding circuits 1 and 2, this particular route traverses through the expanse of agricultural terraces, providing a direct path to the urban enclave. Remarkably, this circuit stands as the briefest passage through the Inca citadel. Initially, you'll descend no more than 30 meters to reach the storage facilities (Colcas), then proceed along the trail cutting through the agricultural sector. Here, you'll marvel at the array of agricultural terraces until arriving at the Main Gate, marking your entry into the Urban Sector.

From there, your journey leads to the Ceremonial Fountains before heading south to access the Temple of the Sun. Continuing onward, you'll encounter the Casa del Inka before ascending the fountain steps. Beyond this point, the circuit follows the same path as circuit 1.

CIRCUIT NUMBER 4 

Circuit 4 follows the same path as circuit 3 but with notable additions, including the Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana, and the Sacred Rock. It also encompasses the Three Gates, Hall of Mirrors, and the Temple of the Condor. This segment mirrors the previous one but diverges by ascending to the Sacred Plaza and continuing a route reminiscent of circuit 2, while encircling both the Sacred Plaza and Intihuatana. This circuit is included in select Machu Picchu tickets, particularly those offering alternative routes such as Huchuy Picchu and the Huayna Picchu Mountain climb.

Note: In the case of these additional climbs, they supplement circuit #4, enabling access to either of them for an additional fee of $75 each. Buy your tickets in tu boleto cultura pe

Frequently Asked Questions about Circuits in Machu Picchu

Why are there new circuits in Machu Picchu?

This helps prevent the excessive accumulation of visitors, who will thus have the opportunity to make the most of the new circuits and enjoy the impressive archaeological complex. This also ensures that visitor satisfaction is maintained at a high level, preventing crowds or long waits.

Consequently, efforts have been made to ensure its preservation. The inflow of people can be regulated by leading visitors along predetermined routes and thus alleviating congestions at critical points. This strategy helps in reducing degradation that occurs due to overpopulation thereby maintaining the integrity of both buildings and the ecological environments surrounding them.

Regulating time for visits prevents too many tourists from flocking this place making sure all the tourists get enough time to enjoy themselves fully. It assists in maintaining higher levels of satisfaction among visitors as it keeps off crowds and long waiting times.

What is the best circuit to do in Machu Picchu?

Circuit 2, which represents an all-inclusive trip to the holy land of Machu Picchu, does not give a peek into the Temple of the Sun from up there, but it is undoubtedly the best circuit for a meaningful experience.

Which is the best Machu Picchu circuit for older adults?

For elderly individuals in good physical shape, the perfect option is Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu Tickets. If this is not possible, the best choice will be Circuit 1. Most importantly, you must follow all instructions given by the guides and comply with all rules aimed at conserving this invaluable historical monument as a cultural attraction.

Can you backtrack once the Machu Picchu circuit has started?

Circuits in Machu Picchu are built on one-way routes only. Once you embark on a particular circuit, there is no way back or switching to any other pathway during your stay. Therefore, this system was put in place to smoothly regulate the number of tourists at the site.

This objective can be achieved through the implementation of a uni-directional approach that optimizes people’s movement, reduces congestion in sensitive zones and allows all visitors to have an equal opportunity to fully comprehend diverse attractions. Additionally, it helps maintain safety and ecological sensitivity by allowing for better management of visitor numbers in every sector of the citadel.

In which Machu Picchu circuit can the best photographs be taken?

To capture the iconic photograph of Machu Picchu, you can achieve this on either Circuit 1 or Circuit 2. These routes offer an ideal panoramic view of the citadel, perfect for capturing that quintessential photo.