Cusco is considered the most impressive tourist destination in South America. Machu Picchu, its most famous attraction, is among the most visited places in the world. While many travelers choose all-inclusive tours when visiting, those who prefer to explore on their own must purchase their entrance tickets independently. Not sure where to start? Here you will find all the necessary information to get tickets to the main tourist attractions in Cusco.

• Tickets to the archaeological sites in the city of Cusco
• Tickets to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
• Tickets to the Southern Valley and city museums
• Tickets to visit Machu Picchu
• Ticket for the Inca Trail
• Ticket for Rainbow Mountain
• Ticket for Humantay Lagoon
• Tickets for other tourist attractions in Cusco
• Frequently Asked Questions

Know which tickets to buy to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu

Tickets to the archaeological sites in the city of Cusco

• Upon arriving in the city of Cusco, you won’t need to travel long distances to start being amazed. Some of the most important archaeological sites from the Inca era are just a few steps away.
• Among the most notable are: the Sacsayhuamán archaeological fortress, the Qenqo archaeological complex, the Puca Pucara archaeological site, and the Tambomachay archaeological park.
• All of these places are close to each other, allowing you to have a diverse tour in a short time.
• The ticket required to enter all these archaeological sites is the Cusco Tourist Ticket in Circuit 1.
• The cost of the Cusco Tourist Ticket in Circuit 1 is 70 Peruvian soles (approximately 21 US dollars) and it is valid for only one day.

You can only purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket in person with your passport at the following addresses:
Main office COSITUC: Galerías Turísticas, Av. Sol No. 103 (Monday to Friday 8 am to 5:30 pm and Saturday 8:30 am to 12:30 pm). Branch: Calle Garcilaso s/n (Monday to Saturday 8 am to 5 pm and Sunday 8 am to 8 pm).

Tickets to the Sacred Valley of the Incas

• The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a territory full of mountains, green fields, rivers, and Andean towns. It is one of the main attractions of Cusco, offering so many activities and destinations to visit that one day is not enough to appreciate its grandeur.
• Within the valley, you can also visit archaeological sites of great importance such as: the Pisac archaeological site, the Chinchero archaeological park, the Ollantaytambo archaeological fortress, and the circular terraces of Moray.
• Although you can visit all these places in one day, it will be very exhausting, and you may miss some details. It is highly recommended to do it over two days to fully explore each tourist attraction.
• The ticket required to enter all these archaeological sites is the Cusco Tourist Ticket in Circuit 3.
• The price of the Cusco Tourist Ticket in Circuit 2 is 70 Peruvian soles (approximately 21 US dollars) and it is valid for two days.

Tickets to the Southern Valley and City Museums

• If you want a tour with fewer tourists but still full of amazing attractions, the Southern Valley is a place filled with archaeological sites, colonial towns, and stunning natural landscapes.
• Among the most important destinations you can visit are: Tipón Archaeological Park and the pre-Inca citadel of Pikillacta.
• The ticket required to access all these archaeological sites is the Cusco Tourist Ticket for Circuit 2, which also allows you to enter the main museums of the city.
• The most important museums in the city, which you can visit with the same ticket, are: Qoricancha Site Museum, Regional Historical Museum, Contemporary Art Museum, Pachacútec Monument, Museum of Popular Art, and the Qosqo Center of Native Art.
• The Cusco Tourist Ticket Circuit 3 costs 70 Peruvian soles (approximately 21 US dollars) and is valid for two days.

The Comprehensive Cusco Ticket
If you want a complete tour of the city of Cusco, the Comprehensive Cusco Tourist Ticket includes access to all three circuits. This ticket is valid for 10 days, giving you enough time to explore each tourist attraction in detail. The cost is 130 Peruvian soles (approximately 40 US dollars) and offers a discount for children aged 10 to 17 and for students aged 18 to 25; the cost for them is 70 soles (approximately 21 US dollars).

Tickets to Visit Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu is the main tourist destination of Cusco. To visit this place on your own, you must purchase one of the 10 types of tickets, each offering different experiences and routes so that you can choose the experience you prefer.
• All tickets can be purchased online, either through the official website or via Boletomachupicchu, an authorized travel agency.
• These tickets also offer discounts for children under 18, university students, and citizens of the Andean Community of Nations (Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia).

Entry to Machu Picchu during high season

High Season and Regular Season for Machu Picchu Tickets
When purchasing tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel, you should be aware that there are two different seasons, each with a different number of tickets available. From June 19 to November 2 is the high season, during which all 10 entry tickets are available. In the regular season, from November 3 to June 18, only 6 tickets are enabled, although these are the most popular routes.

Inca Trail Ticket

• The Inca Trail is an adventurous route to reach Machu Picchu and is considered one of the most impressive and immersive hikes in the world.
• It is a 4-day, 3-night route that follows historical paths used by the Incas, set amidst nature with mountains rich in biodiversity.
• It is also an opportunity to visit exclusive archaeological sites such as Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñaywayna, and upon arriving at Machu Picchu, the Inti Punku Gate.
• The only way to do this hike is with an authorized tour company, which helps preserve the trail and manage visitor access.
• The Inca Trail tour must be booked 4 to 5 months in advance due to high demand and limited tickets.
• There is also a shorter 2-day version of the Inca Trail, which requires less effort, and reservations can be made just 2 months in advance.
• The Classic Inca Trail tour costs approximately 795 USD, and the short Inca Trail costs 585 USD.

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Ticket

• After Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain is the second most visited tourist attraction in Cusco.
• This attraction consists of a group of mountains with a wide variety of minerals that give them their vibrant colors.
• It is located more than 100 kilometers from the city of Cusco, towards the Southern Valley, at over 5,000 meters above sea level.
• It is not an easy destination to reach, as it involves a 3-hour drive and a 2-hour hike. Horses are available for rent to make the ascent easier.
• Although most people visit via an all-inclusive tour, it is also possible to go independently. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. The ticket costs approximately 20 Peruvian soles (around 6 USD).

Humantay Lagoon Ticket

• Humantay Lagoon is one of the most impressive natural attractions in Cusco. It is a beautiful crystal-clear lagoon located under the snow-capped Humantay mountain.
• It is located almost 130 kilometers from the city of Cusco at 4,200 meters above sea level.
• Reaching the lagoon involves two segments: a 3-hour drive and a 2-hour hike. Horses are also available to help facilitate the hike.
• Although most visitors go via an all-inclusive tour, it is also possible to visit independently. Tickets can be purchased at the site. The ticket costs 20 Peruvian soles (approximately 6 USD).

The Best Way to Visit Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain
If you want to explore two of Cusco’s most amazing natural landscapes —Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain— the best option is to do it with an organized tour. Both experiences are full-day trips and require careful planning: early departure, breakfast, lunch, entrance tickets, transportation, and a professional guide accompanying you throughout the route. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the adventure with full comfort and without worrying about the itinerary, an all-inclusive tour is the most recommended option.

Tickets for Other Tourist Attractions in Cusco

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What does the Cusco Tourist Ticket include?

  The Tourist Ticket gives you access to the main archaeological and cultural attractions of the city, the Sacred Valley, and the Southern Valley, depending on the circuit you choose. If you purchase the Full Ticket, you will have access to all three circuits and can enjoy over 16 tourist sites within 10 days.

• 2) What is the difference between the Full Tourist Ticket and partial tickets?

  The Full Ticket allows entry to all attractions across the three circuits for 10 days, while Partial Tickets only include one circuit (City, Sacred Valley, or Southern Valley) and are valid for one or two days. The choice depends on the time you have to visit Cusco.

• 3) Do I need a separate ticket for Machu Picchu?

  Yes, Machu Picchu has its own ticketing system. There are 10 types of tickets offering different routes and experiences within the Inca citadel. It is important to book in advance, as availability is limited and varies by season.

• 4) How far in advance should I book my Machu Picchu ticket?

  It is recommended to book at least one month in advance, especially during the high season (June to November). If you want to hike Huayna Picchu or the Classic Circuit, you should book three months in advance, as these tickets sell out quickly.

• 5) Where can I buy tickets for Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon?

  Both destinations allow ticket purchase at the entrance. However, if you book a full-day tour, the company will handle tickets, transport, and meals, making the experience much easier.

• 6) Can I visit Cusco’s tourist sites on my own, or do I need a tour?

  You can visit on your own, but many sites are remote or require long walks. Tours are a comfortable and safe option, as they include transport, a professional guide, and tickets, letting you enjoy the visit without worrying about planning.

• 7) How much does it cost to visit the main attractions in Cusco?

  It depends on the type of ticket. The Full Tourist Ticket costs around 130 soles, while partial circuits cost 70 soles. Individual entries, like the Maras Salt Mines or Cusco Cathedral, range from 10 to 25 soles.

• 8) Are there discounts for students or minors?

  Both the Cusco Tourist Ticket and Machu Picchu tickets offer reduced rates for accredited university students and minors under 18. For the Full Ticket, students pay 70 soles instead of 130.

• 9) What is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu and Cusco?

  The best time is from May to October, during the dry season. These months have less rain and ideal weather for hiking and excursions. However, this is also the busiest season, so it is recommended to book tickets and services in advance.

• 10) Can I do the Inca Trail on my own?

  No, the Inca Trail can only be done with an agency authorized by the Ministry of Culture. This ensures the preservation of the site and a safe experience. Additionally, tickets are limited, so you must book at least 4 to 5 months in advance.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Mónica Z

“A Horribly Beautiful Experience“

“We went during the high season, there were many people, trains were expensive, hotels were expensive, buses were expensive, there were long lines everywhere; however, seeing the incredible structures of the lost city of the Incas and feeling the energy of this place in the mountains made all the hassle worth it. I would do it ten times more, with more people and even higher prices. I recommend going before too many people ruin this wonder.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, November 12, 2025