Are you coming to Machu Picchu with children? You have to read this
Machu Picchu is the ideal place to visit with children. In 2007, it was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It lay buried for 400 years until—kids love this story—Hiram Bingham arrived at the Inca city ‘guided by a child.’ Thus, Machu Picchu was unveiled to the world in 1911. Discover the best tickets for children to Machu Picchu and all the benefits they’ll enjoy.
- How to visit Machu Picchu with children?
- What is the recommended age for children to visit Machu Picchu?
- What places to visit with children in Machu Picchu?
- Tickets available for children under 12 years old
- Tickets available for children over 12 years old
- How to stay safe on your trip to Machu Picchu with children?
- How to buy Machu Picchu tickets for children?
- Are there discounts on Machu Picchu admission for children?
- What are the entry times to Machu Picchu and its mountains?
- How to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu with children?
- What is the train route to Machu Picchu like?
- What route to follow in Machu Picchu?
- Recommendations before going to Machu Picchu with children
- Photo gallery
- Frequently Asked Questions
Classic photo of a tourist family in Machu Picchu
How to visit Machu Picchu with children?
- Machu Picchu is a place of great biodiversity and history that children will love.
- There are many routes and tickets that allow you to enjoy leisurely tours, some with only scenic views (ideal for babies) and others with a historical tour (ideal for children).
- If the child is over 12 years old, they can take any of the 10 Machu Picchu tickets or routes.
- In Machu Picchu you can see many animals that will make your tour with children much more entertaining.
- You should follow the restrictions and constantly supervise children to avoid any inconvenience, although Machu Picchu is very safe.
- When visiting Machu Picchu, you should take certain precautions, given that the Inca citadel is located at 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) above sea level. It is recommended to acclimatize for a couple of days in Cusco with light activities to avoid altitude sickness.
What is the recommended age for children to visit Machu Picchu?
- Machu Picchu can be visited by children of any age.
- Even babies can visit the Inca City as long as they do so with a baby carrier.
- A good option for children under 6 or 7 years old is to visit Machu Picchu accompanied by an entertaining tour guide.
- Children under 3 years old do not pay admission to Machu Picchu.
- Children under 12 years old are not allowed to enter Huayna Picchu mountain.
Guiding a family through the royal circuit
What places to visit with children in Machu Picchu?
- All the landscapes you’ll find in Machu Picchu will keep your child entertained.
- The diversity of flora and fauna in Machu Picchu is so rich, you’ll always have something to do to relax and explore.
- The Inca city of Machu Picchu offers buildings that can capture a child’s mind. The Temple of the Condor, for example, is a very mysterious three-dimensional structure.
- Machu Picchu is one of the adventures open to children of all ages. Climbing to the summit is a bit difficult, but it offers safe paths and beautiful scenery.
- Just a few meters from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) is the Site Museum. There is also a butterfly farm and botanical garden, ideal for visiting with children.
Tickets available for children under 12 years old
| Tickets available for children under 12 years old | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ticket | Accesses included | Difficulty level | Duration | Availability | Reservation time |
| Machu Picchu Mountain (Route – 1A) | Upper platform, Guardian’s house, ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain | Medium – You should take a long but light walk, ideal for families | Up to 6 hours (including the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain) | All year | 1 month before |
| Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route – 1B) | Upper platform and Guardian’s house | Baja – Easy and scenic route, ideal for babies | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 1 month before |
| Inti Punku (Route – 1C) | Upper platform, Guardian’s house, hike to Inti Punku | Medium – Light hike through great landscapes, ideal for families | Up to 4 hours (including the hike to Inti Punku) | High season only (June 19 – November 2) | 1 month before |
| Classic Designed (Route – 2A) | Tour of the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Sacred Rock, Water Mirrors and the Temple of the Three Windows | Baja – Tour of the citadel, ideal for young children | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 2 months ago |
| Classic Lower Terrace (Route – 2B) | Tour of the Lower Terrace, the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Sacred Rock, the Water Mirrors, and the Temple of the Three Windows | Baja – Tour of the citadel, ideal for young children | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 2 months ago |
| Lower Temple or Designed Royalty (Route – 3B) | Lower part of the citadel: Temple of the Sun, House of the Inca, Temple of the Condor, Royal Tomb and agricultural areas | Baja – Easy route through the lower part of the citadel, ideal for small children | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 1 month before |
Tickets available for children over 12 years old
| Tickets available for children over 12 years old | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ticket | Accesses included | Difficulty level | Duration | Availability | Reservation time |
| Machu Picchu Mountain (Route – 1A) | Upper platform, Guardian’s house, ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain | Medium – You should take a long but light walk, ideal for families | Up to 6 hours (including the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain) | All year | 1 month before |
| Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route – 1B) | Upper platform and Guardian’s house | Baja – Easy and scenic route, ideal for babies | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 1 month before |
| Inti Punku (Route – 1C) | Upper platform, Guardian’s house, hike to Inti Punku | Medium – Light hike through great landscapes, ideal for families | Up to 4 hours (including the hike to Inti Punku) | High season only (June 19 – November 2) | 1 month before |
| Inca Bridge (Route – 1D) | Upper platform, Guardian’s house, walk to the Inca Bridge | Medium – Light hike through great landscapes, ideal for adventurous families | Up to 3 hours (including the hike to the Inca Bridge) | High season only (June 19 – November 2) | 1 month before |
| Classic Designed (Route – 2A) | Tour of the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Sacred Rock, Water Mirrors and the Temple of the Three Windows | Baja – Tour of the citadel, ideal for young children | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 2 months ago |
| Classic Lower Terrace (Route – 2B) | Tour of the Lower Terrace, the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Sacred Rock, the Water Mirrors, and the Temple of the Three Windows | Baja – Tour of the citadel, ideal for young children | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 2 months ago |
| Huayna Picchu Mountain (Route – 3A) | Lower part of the citadel: Temple of the Sun, House of the Inca, Temple of the Condor, Royal Tomb and the ascent to Huayna Picchu | High – High-intensity hike, ideal if the child is experienced, requires great care | Up to 5 hours (including the hike to Huayna Picchu mountain) | All year | 2 months ago |
| Lower Temple or Designed Royalty (Route – 3B) | Lower part of the citadel: Temple of the Sun, House of the Inca, Temple of the Condor, Royal Tomb and agricultural areas | Baja – Easy route through the lower part of the citadel, ideal for small children | 2 hours 30 minutes | All year | 1 month before |
| Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon (Route – 3C) | Lower part of the citadel: Temple of the Sun, House of the Inca, Temple of the Condor, Royal Tomb and the walk to the Great Cavern | Medium – Long hike, but full of biodiversity, ideal for adventurous families | Up to 5 hours (including the hike to the Great Cavern) | High season only (June 19 – November 2) | 1 month before |
| Huchuy Picchu Mountain (Route – 3D) | Lower part of the citadel: Temple of the Sun, House of the Inca, Temple of the Condor, Royal Tomb and the ascent to Huchuy Picchu | Medium – Short but uphill hike, ideal for families | Up to 4 hours (including the hike to Huchuy Picchu mountain) | High season only (June 19 – November 2) | 2 months ago |
How to stay safe on your trip to Machu Picchu with children?
- Machu Picchu is a very safe place, as long as you follow the rules and restrictions.
- If you visit the Inca citadel with children, it is important to constantly supervise them because there are many areas prone to accidents.
- Most of the trails in Machu Picchu are stone paths and terraces that can be slippery, so it’s important to be careful at all times.
- It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes to visit Machu Picchu, especially if you are visiting the Inca city with children.
- Inside Machu Picchu, there are many guards, marked barriers, and security cordons that no one should cross, safeguarding its integrity.
- Remember that parents or adults are primarily responsible for the safety of children, and they must be closely monitored.
Classic photo of Machu Picchu
How to buy Machu Picchu tickets for children?
To purchase a ticket to Machu Picchu for children, follow these steps:
- Visit the website of the Peruvian Ministry of Culture or that of an authorized tourism agency.
- Complete your personal information and that of the child.
- Please submit a copy or digital photo of your passport (or ID) for the parent and child.
- Make the payment by card (usually Visa or MasterCard).
- Print the tickets you will receive in your email.
- Print your tickets and present them on the day of your visit to Machu Picchu.
Are there discounts on Machu Picchu admission for children?
- People under 18 years old have a discount on the normal entrance price to Machu Picchu.
- Children under 3 years old do not pay admission to Machu Picchu.
- To access the special discount, parents or guardians must purchase tickets by presenting the minor’s ID or passport.
- Remember that children are not allowed to enter Machu Picchu unless accompanied by their parents or guardians.
All children (and minors) enter Machu Picchu accompanied by their parents or guardian. If you are traveling with infants, parents must carry them in baby carriers.
What are the entry times to Machu Picchu and its mountains?
There are 10 entry times or shifts to the Inca City of Machu Picchu. Additionally, some Inca structures and mountains, such as Huayna Picchu and Montaña, have 4 and 2 visiting times, respectively.
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu + Mountain (Route 1A)
First shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 6 am to 7 am. / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 7 am to 8 am
Second shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 8 am to 9 am / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 9 am to 10 am
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu classic photo or upper terrace (Route 1B)
- First shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am to 7 am
- Second shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am to 8 am
- Third shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am to 9 am
- Fourth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 9 am to 10 am
- Fifth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 10 am to 11 am
- Sixth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 11 am to 12 pm
- Seventh shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 12 pm to 1 pm
- Eighth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 1 pm to 2 pm
- Ninth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 2 pm to 3 pm
- Tenth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 3 pm to 4 pm
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (Route 1C)
First shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 8 am to 9 am / Entrance to Inti Punku: from 9 am to 10 am
Second shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 9 am to 10 am / Entrance to Inti Punku: from 10 am to 11 am
Third shift
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 10 am to 11 am / Entrance to Inti Punku: from 11 am to 12 pm
Fourth shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 11 am to 12 pm / Entrance to Inti Punku: from 12 pm to 1 pm
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge (Route 1D)
First shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 8 am to 9 am / Entrance to the Inca Bridge: from 9 am to 10 am
Second shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 9 am to 10 am / Entrance to the Inca Bridge: from 10 am to 11 am
Third shift
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 10 am to 11 am / Entrance to the Inca Bridge: from 11 am to 12 pm
Fourth shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: from 11 am to 12 pm / Entrance to the Inca Bridge: from 12 pm to 1 pm
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu Classic Designed (Route 2A)
- First shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am to 7 am
- Second shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am to 8 am
- Third shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am to 9 am
- Fourth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 9 am to 10 am
- Fifth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 10 am to 11 am
- Sixth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 11 am to 12 pm
- Seventh shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 12 pm to 1 pm
- Eighth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 1 pm to 2 pm
- Ninth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 2 pm to 3 pm
- Tenth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 3 pm to 4 pm
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu Classic Lower Terrace (Route 2B)
- First shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am to 7 am
- Second shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am to 8 am
- Third shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am to 9 am
- Fourth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 9 am to 10 am
- Fifth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 10 am to 11 am
- Sixth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 11 am to 12 pm
- Seventh shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 12 pm to 1 pm
- Eighth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 1 pm to 2 pm
- Ninth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 2 pm to 3 pm
- Tenth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 3 pm to 4 pm
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A)
First shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 7 am to 8 am. / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 8 am to 9 am
Second shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 9 am to 10 am / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 10 am to 11 am
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu: Lower Temple or Designed Royalty (Route 3B)
- First shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am to 7 am
- Second shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am to 8 am
- Third shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am to 9 am
- Fourth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 9 am to 10 am
- Fifth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 10 am to 11 am
- Sixth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 11 am to 12 pm
- Seventh shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 12 pm to 1 pm
- Eighth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 1 pm to 2 pm
- Ninth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 2 pm to 3 pm
- Tenth shift: Entrance to Machu Picchu from 3 pm to 4 pm
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu + Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon (Route 3C)
First shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 7 am to 8 am. / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 8 am to 9 am
Second shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 8 am to 9 am / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 9 am to 10 am
Ticket schedules Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (Route 3D)
First shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 9 am to 10 am. / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 10 am to 11 am
Second shift:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: From 11 am to 12 pm / Entrance to Huayna Picchu: From 12 pm to 1 pm
How to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu with children?
- The safest and fastest way to travel with children to Machu Picchu is to take one of the trains that depart from the town of Ollantaytambo.
- To get to the town of Ollantaytambo, you must take a bus or taxi from the city of Cusco.
- Trains to Machu Picchu will drop you off in Aguas Calientes. From there, you’ll have a short walk to the entrance gate.
- This route (9 kilometers uphill) can be done on foot. However, if you’re traveling with children, it’s best to take the buses to Machu Picchu.
- On the way back to Cusco, you should take the same route: take a bus to Aguas Calientes, from there a train to Ollantaytambo, and finally a bus to Cusco.
What is the train route to Machu Picchu like?
- The train route takes tourists from the Ollantaytambo station to the town of Aguas Calientes.
- During the train ride, you can appreciate the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- Additionally, some train services offer lunch and entertainment on board.
- Don’t forget that children enjoy train rides. That’s why taking the trains to Machu Picchu can be one of the best decisions you can make if you’re traveling with children.
- The train route is considered one of the most amazing short routes in the world and they will love it.
What route to follow in Machu Picchu?
- Currently, there is a limited time to visit Machu Picchu: 4 hours from the moment you enter the Inca City, although if you take mountain tours it could take up to 6 hours.
- The Inca city is a labyrinth of houses, stone walls, terraces and other impressive structures.
- Children will love to get up close to the llamas that live in Machu Picchu. They can take some great photographs there.
- The guided tour will take you to the main temples or buildings included in your ticket, on any of the three available circuits.
- All the routes in Machu Picchu will surprise you and make them one of the best experiences for your children.
Machu Picchu Photos
Recommendations before going to Machu Picchu with children
- Remember that there are no places to buy food or drinks inside the Inca City, so bring snacks and plenty of water with you.
- On the other hand, there are only restrooms at the entrance to Machu Picchu: ask the children if they want to use the restroom before entering the Inca City.
- Follow the directions given by your tour guide at Machu Picchu.
- Keep a close eye on little ones when hiking Machu Picchu Mountain.
- The best time to visit Machu Picchu with children is during the dry season (April to October), when you’ll find clear landscapes and better weather. However, if you want to explore the citadel with fewer visitors, the rainy season (November to March) is recommended.
- The best routes in Machu Picchu to visit with children are: Machu Picchu Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route 1B) and Machu Picchu Lower Temples or Designed Royalty (Route 3B).
- If you want to have an adventure with a child in the Inca citadel, the Machu Picchu + Mountain (Route 1A) ticket is your best option.
- Remember to book your tickets at least 1 or 2 months in advance to ensure your Machu Picchu experience.
- Remember that with Boletomachupicchu, you can book your dream trip to Machu Picchu. Ask our advisors about all the options available to make your trip unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Can I visit Machu Picchu with my young children?
Yes, Machu Picchu is an incredible experience for children of all ages. The citadel offers family-friendly trails, from scenic paths to historical tours. Just choose the right ticket based on your child’s age and endurance.
2) What is the ideal age for children to visit Machu Picchu?
There’s no minimum age; even babies can enter if carried in a sling or ergonomic carrier. However, children ages 6 or 7 and up tend to enjoy the tour more.
3) What type of tickets should I buy if my child is under 12 years old?
There are excellent options like the Upper Terrace Route or the Classic Designed Route, which offer gentle, scenic hikes. You can also opt for the Machu Picchu Mountain Route for a more adventurous experience.
4) Which tickets are suitable for children over 12 years old?
Children 12 and older can access all routes, including the climb to Huayna Picchu (Route 3A), if they are in good physical condition. Most tickets are available year-round, but remember to book in advance.
5) Is it safe to visit Machu Picchu with children?
Yes, Machu Picchu is a safe destination, but it’s essential to always be vigilant, keep children in check, and always follow safety instructions.
6) Are there discounts for children on Machu Picchu tickets?
Yes, children under 18 receive a special discount, and children under 3 enter free.
7) How can I get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes with my children?
From Aguas Calientes, you can take the eco-friendly bus (about 25 minutes) or walk (about 2 hours). With small children, the bus is the most recommended option for comfort and safety.
8) Which Machu Picchu route should I follow if I am traveling with children?
The most recommended routes for families are the Upper Terrace Route (1B) and the Designed Royalty Route (3C), which offer short, safe and impressive paths.
9) What precautions should I take before visiting Machu Picchu with my children?
Acclimatize your children to Cusco for a day or two before climbing. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Also, make sure they use the bathroom before entering, as there are no restrooms inside the archaeological site.
10) What is the best time of year to go to Machu Picchu with children?
The dry season (April to October) is ideal, as the weather is more stable. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, consider the rainy season (November to March), but be prepared for possible precipitation.
Advice from people who have been there
Machu Picchu
By: Mariana L.
By: Mariana L.“Machu Picchu Always Magical“
“I came with my two children we enjoyed the good everything was wonderful the stones the landscape all very beautiful ...“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, August 2, 2025