Getting a last-minute ticket to Machu Picchu is one of the most challenging tasks, although it’s not impossible. Depending on the season of your trip, you may find availability even days before, although the best option is to travel to the town of Aguas Calientes, where 1000 in-person tickets are made available daily. Discover all the secrets and tips for finding available tickets to Machu Picchu at the last minute.

• Can I buy a last-minute Machu Picchu ticket?
• What about a tour to Machu Picchu?
• Can I get a Huayna Picchu ticket just a few days before?
• Can I get last-minute tickets online?
• How to get tickets in Aguas Calientes?
• What are the available tickets to enter Machu Picchu?
• More information about Machu Picchu tickets
• Frequently asked questions

Tourists observing the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu

The peak tourist season
The official peak season for tickets to Machu Picchu is from June 19 to November 2. During these dates, reservations for tickets should be made well in advance, ideally one month ahead, although if you’re looking for one of the most popular routes, you should book up to three months in advance. However, during these dates, the 1000 daily in-person tickets are also available in Aguas Calientes, an alternative plan for those who couldn’t reserve a ticket in time.

Can I buy a last-minute Machu Picchu ticket?

• Depending on the season of your trip, you may be able to buy tickets to Machu Picchu up to one day before your visit.
• During regular demand months (October to March), you’ll find tickets more easily, though it will depend on the ticket you want. Generally, there will only be availability for the less popular routes.
• To find a spot on the most in-demand routes, regardless of the season of your trip, you’ll definitely need to do so 2 to 3 months in advance.
• In the high-demand months (April to September), it will be more difficult to find tickets, although it is possible to find tickets just days before. Ideally, you should do so at least a week ahead of time.
• Alternatively, you can travel to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) the day before your visit and purchase one of the 1000 tickets available daily for in-person sale.

What about a tour to Machu Picchu?

• Tour agencies offer 1 or 2-day tours to Machu Picchu. Like you, they will also try to acquire tickets as soon as you make your reservation, so it is also necessary to book in advance to secure a spot on your preferred route.
• When booking some of the tours to Machu Picchu, you will be asked for your passport or ID to buy the Machu Picchu ticket on your behalf.
• You may also be eligible for discounts if you are under 17 years old, a university student, or a resident of the Andean Community of Nations (Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia). Children under 3 years old enter for free.
• During the peak tourist season, tours should be reserved online well in advance. If not, you run the risk of only being able to visit Machu Picchu on the route and at the time available at the last minute.

Tour guide at Machu Picchu

Can I get a Huayna Picchu ticket just a few days before?

• The route to Huayna Picchu Mountain (3A) is one of the most requested tickets at Machu Picchu. The purchase of this type of ticket must be made online up to two months in advance.
• Other highly demanded tickets include the ones for the classic Machu Picchu circuit, the Classic Designed Route (2A), and the Classic Lower Terrace Route (2B). Both require a minimum three-month reservation.
• These three tickets can also be purchased in person in Aguas Calientes, but remember they are very limited, and you will need to travel a day before your visit to secure a spot.

Can I get last-minute tickets online?

• Buying a Machu Picchu ticket online is the best option to secure a last-minute spot.
• To buy tickets online, you should first check the availability of tickets for the available routes and times.
• If you find available tickets, just register your personal information and make the payment.
• In less than 24 hours, visitors can get their Machu Picchu ticket online.
• All Machu Picchu tickets offer a unique experience. If you manage to get one at the last minute, make the most of the included tour and visit every part of the route to enjoy its historical and scenic value.

How to get tickets in Aguas Calientes?

• Trying to get a ticket to Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes should be your last resort.
• Each day, 1000 in-person tickets are made available in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
• These tickets are generally sold for visits to Machu Picchu the following day.
• Of the ten available routes, you can only purchase six in person. Each route has a limited number of tickets, so arriving early the day before your visit is crucial.
• The official ticket office in Aguas Calientes is just a few steps from the main square, on Av. Pachacútec s/n.

What is Aguas Calientes like?
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu town, is the final destination before reaching the Inca citadel (a 30-minute bus ride). There is a wide range of tourist services and recreational activities to enjoy before or after your visit to the wonder of the world. Remember, if you’re looking to buy an in-person ticket in Aguas Calientes, you need to travel a day before your visit and stay overnight there.

What tickets are available to enter Machu Picchu?

• During your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll find up to ten types of tickets depending on the season of your visit.
• During the regular ticket season (November 3 to June 18), you will find six types of routes at Machu Picchu.
• During the high ticket season (June 19 to November 2), you can choose from all ten types of routes.

More information about Machu Picchu tickets

• Each ticket to Machu Picchu includes one of the three tour circuits; additionally, some tickets also include hiking routes. Remember to book in advance to enjoy the adventure you prefer.
• High season tickets at Machu Picchu (June 19 to November 2) can also be available for virtual booking on January 1, April 2–5, and December 30–31.
• To purchase tickets to Machu Picchu, you must have a valid ID or passport. You will also need to present it to verify your identity before entering the Inca citadel.
• Also, book all complementary services in advance: hotels, train tickets, bus tickets, and professional guides.
• Reserve your ideal Machu Picchu experience with Ticketmachupicchu. Consult with our sales advisors for all the options available to ensure your visit to the Inca citadel without last-minute stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) Can I buy train tickets last minute?

  It is not recommended to buy train tickets to Machu Picchu last minute because there is a risk of not finding availability. You can buy tickets online or in Cusco up to 3 days before.

• 2) Can I buy bus tickets in Cusco?

  Yes, you can buy bus tickets to Machu Picchu last minute in Cusco. If you’re traveling independently, you can go to the Aguas Calientes ticket office and purchase them the same day of your visit.

• 3) Can I find a guide at the entrance of Machu Picchu?

  You can find tour guides at the entrance of Machu Picchu on the day of your visit. Remember, a guided tour in Machu Picchu is mandatory.

• 4) Is it safe to wait until I arrive in Cusco to get accommodation?

  It is not recommended to look for hotels in Cusco last minute. Your preferred services may not be available. You can book online if you’re visiting at the last minute.

• 5) Is it possible to buy an Inca Trail tour in Cusco?

  Unfortunately, you cannot do the Inca Trail last minute. Entrance tickets must be purchased online up to 4 months in advance. Remember, the Inca Trail is only possible with tickets.

• 5) How far in advance should I buy a ticket to Machu Picchu?

  The ideal is to do it at least 1 month in advance. However, if you want a ticket for the most in-demand routes, you need to do it three or four months before.

• 6) Can I get last-minute tickets to Machu Picchu?

  Yes, it’s possible, but not recommended. Tickets usually sell out weeks in advance, especially during high season. However, if there are spots available, you can buy them online even on the same day.

• 7) Is it better to buy tickets online or in Cusco?

  Buying online is safer and faster. You can check availability in real-time and secure your entry.

• 8) How far in advance should I buy an in-person ticket in Aguas Calientes?

  The ideal is to travel a day before your visit so you can get one of the 1000 daily tickets that are sold early in Aguas Calientes.

• 9) Do tours include the Machu Picchu ticket?

  Yes, most tours include the entrance ticket. However, like the tickets, they need to be booked in advance.

• 10) Can I get a Huayna Picchu ticket last minute?

  It is highly unlikely. This route sells out up to 2 or 3 months in advance, especially during high season.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Elisa J.

“A place that takes your breath away“

“Machu Picchu is more impressive than I imagined. The history, the landscape, and the energy of the place combine into a magical experience. Definitely, one of the most special destinations in the world.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 18, 2026