How to go to Machu Picchu on my own?
Machu Picchu is a destination that is being rediscovered every day. There are so many angles and structures to explore that a single visit is simply not enough. Visiting the archaeological sanctuary now will be an unforgettable experience, given the much better layout, allowing for a more authentic experience. Additionally, depending on the type of experience you want, you can select one of the three available circuits. Discover what Machu Picchu is like now.
- What is it like to travel to Machu Picchu now?
- Distribution circuits
- Machu Picchu tickets
- The routes to get to Machu Picchu
- Tips for traveling to Machu Picchu now
- Frequently Asked Questions
Tourist observing the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu
What is it like to travel to Machu Picchu now?
Since Machu Picchu was unveiled to the world in 1911, the ancient Inca city continues to be recorded, studied, documented, restored, and prepared to welcome visitors, seeking to provide them with the best experience while preserving the entire archaeological sanctuary.
Visiting Machu Picchu is a complete experience, from the route you follow in Cusco through the Sacred Valley to the circuits surrounding the archaeological site. Moreover, surrounded by the lush vegetation typical of the jungle, the natural landscapes will be with you at every turn.
Remember that you can visit Machu Picchu every day of the year, including holidays. Admission is from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additionally, each ticket has its own entry time, with the last entry being 3:00 p.m.
Distribution circuits
To experience a more immersive visit to Machu Picchu, the Inca citadel has been divided into three tour circuits. Each one allows you to enjoy different experiences through the additional tickets and routes they include. Find out what each of the Machu Picchu circuits includes.
| The Machu Picchu Circuits | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit | Journey | Travel time | Additional routes | Type of experience |
| Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route | You’ll visit the upper reaches of Machu Picchu, with panoramic views that will allow you to capture the classic postcard photo. | You can walk it in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. |
| It’s a relaxing, panoramic experience, with plenty of space to spread out and admire Machu Picchu and take unforgettable photos. |
| Circuit 2 – Classic Route | The central area of Machu Picchu is explored, along with some of the main temples and buildings. | You can walk it in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. |
| It is a historical and immersive experience through some of the most important constructions of Machu Picchu. |
| Circuit 3 – Royalty Route | There is a parade through the lower area of Machu Picchu, next to some of the most important buildings and temples. | You can walk around it in approximately 2 hours. |
| It’s an authentic and immersive experience where you’ll discover some very important buildings. |
Machu Picchu tickets
Machu Picchu offers 10 types of entrance tickets, each with a different tour experience. You should also know that availability of some will depend on the date of your visit. Therefore, we’ll now detail their main features so you can choose the best one when purchasing.
| Tickets to Machu Picchu | Circuit included | Advance booking time | Availability | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machu Picchu + Mountain (Route 1A) | Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route | 1 month before | All year | Suitable for all ages |
| Machu Picchu + Upper Terrace or Classic Photo (Route 1B) | Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route | 1 month before | All year | Suitable for all ages |
| Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (Route 1C) | Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route | 1 month before | High season June 19 to November 2 | Suitable for all ages |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge (Route 1D) | Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route | 1 month before | High season June 19 to November 2 | Suitable for ages 12 and up |
| Machu Picchu Classic Designed (Route 2A) | Circuit 2 – Classic Route | 3 months ago | All year | Suitable for all ages |
| Machu Picchu Classic Lower Terrace (Route 2B) | Circuit 2 – Classic Route | 3 months ago | All year | Suitable for all ages |
| Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A) | Circuit 3 – Royalty Route | 2 months ago | All year | Suitable for ages 12 and up |
| Machu Picchu Designed Royalty (Route 3B) | Circuit 3 – Royalty Route | 2 months ago | All year | Suitable for all ages |
| Machu Picchu + Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon (Route 3C) | Circuit 3 – Royalty Route | 1 month before | High season June 19 to November 2 | Suitable for ages 12 and up |
| Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (Route 3D) | Circuit 3 – Royalty Route | 2 months ago | High season June 19 to November 2 | Suitable for ages 12 and up |
The routes to get to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city nestled amidst mountains and jungle regions, which always means adventure. There are only three routes to reach this remote place, although there are many more experiences that will allow you to enjoy and experience to the fullest not only Machu Picchu, but also the entire journey there. Discover the best options:
Train from Ollantaytambo: The most popular route to Machu Picchu is the train from Ollantaytambo, which first involves traveling from the city of Cusco. Both trips—by car from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town)—take two hours each.
The journey is very scenic, traveling through the Sacred Valley and seeing how the landscape changes as you enter a jungle area. Remember to book your train tickets a month in advance to secure your preferred time, seat, and service.
Inca Trail Route: One of the world’s greatest adventures is the Inca Trail, a 4-day (42-kilometer) experience that includes camping and immersive nature hikes. It’s a chance to walk the same trails the Incas traveled, alongside archaeological sites you can only visit on this route.
On the fourth day, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku gate, an unforgettable moment. Remember to book your Inca Trail adventure up to three or four months in advance.
Hike to the Hydroelectric Power Station: The cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu is via the Hydroelectric Power Station. It’s a half-day adventure that begins in Cusco, where you’ll travel to the town of Santa María (a 5-hour drive) and then to the Hydroelectric Power Station (a 30-minute drive).
The hike to Aguas Calientes begins from the hydroelectric station. It takes just two hours and follows a flat, easy-to-follow trail. The path is lined with lush vegetation, and with luck, you might even spot animals typical of this region.
Trip from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you’ll find two ways to reach Machu Picchu. The first option is the most popular, involving a 25-minute eco-friendly bus ride; you can also choose to return by the same means. The second option is a steadily ascending hike through steps surrounded by lush vegetation. The journey takes two hours and can be very exhausting. It’s best to ascend by bus and then walk back down, this way you’ll get to see more of this incredible site. Walking back down can take less than an hour.
Routes to get to Machu Picchu
Tips for traveling to Machu Picchu now
- Aguas Calientes is a town that offers top-quality tourist services, such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars.
- It also has many attractions to visit. Among the main attractions are its hot springs, the on-site museum, the butterfly farm, and numerous hikes through its rich biodiversity.
- Tickets to Machu Picchu should be the first step in organizing your trip, although if you book an all-inclusive tour, you won’t have to worry about a thing.
- Only 5,600 tickets are available daily for entry to Machu Picchu. Of these, 4,600 are available online, while the remaining 1,000 can be purchased in person in Aguas Calientes.
- Today, Machu Picchu is a must-visit destination, offering a more authentic experience along with a wide variety of adventures that will make your trip unforgettable.
- High-season tickets are also available on December 30th and 31st.
- The most convenient and fastest way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a train from Ollantaytambo.
- The most authentic and adventurous way to reach Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail. Remember that there is also a shorter, two-day version.
- The most economical option to get to Machu Picchu is the Hydroelectric Route; the two-hour walk to Aguas Calientes is very easy.
- With Boletomachupicchu, you can book your ideal Machu Picchu experience. Ask our advisors about all the options available for an unforgettable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is it worth visiting Machu Picchu now?
Yes, visiting Machu Picchu today offers an authentic experience where you can explore the citadel at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for a panoramic tour, a historical tour, or a hike to iconic sites, you’ll find it all.
2) How long does it take to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
The usual trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu takes approximately 5 hours, which includes: Car trip from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (2 hours), train trip from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (2 hours) and the bus trip from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
3) Is Machu Picchu open all year round?
Yes, Machu Picchu is open every day of the year, including holidays. It’s ideal to visit at any time of year, as you’ll find unique landscapes, regardless of the month of your visit.
4) How many tickets are available for Machu Picchu?
There are 10 types of tickets to Machu Picchu. During high season (June 19th to November 2nd), all tickets are available, while during regular season (November 3rd to June 18th), only six tickets are available.
5) How many circuits are there in Machu Picchu?
There are three circuits in Machu Picchu: Circuit 1 (Panoramic Route), Circuit 2 (Classic Route), and Circuit 3 (Royal Route). Each offers different experiences in alternative sections of the Inca citadel.
6) What are the opening hours of Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is open from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The last ticket entry time is 3:00 p.m.
7) How long can I stay at the archaeological site?
Tickets for a tour of the archaeological site only allow an average stay of 2 hours and 30 minutes. If your ticket includes an additional hike, you can extend your stay up to 6 hours.
8) What is the walk through Hidroeléctrica like?
It’s a fairly peaceful hike, only two hours long. The route follows train tracks that help you follow the right path, and the entire trail is well marked. On this experience, you’ll learn more about the flora and fauna surrounding Machu Picchu.
9) How far in advance should I purchase my tickets to Machu Picchu?
It’s best to book a month in advance, although if you’re planning to purchase one of the most popular tickets (the classic circuit or Huayna Picchu mountain tour), you’ll need to buy it three months in advance.
10) What other alternative routes are there to get to Machu Picchu?
Other available routes include trekking tours such as the Salkantay Trek, the Lares Trek, and the short 2-day Inca Trail.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Sebastián R.“A place that surpasses everything imagined“
“Machu Picchu is really impressive. Walking within its walls and contemplating the mountains that surround it is something magical. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, August 28, 2025