Machu Picchu tickets 2026: circuits, time slots and how to book
Everything to know before buying your ticket: ticket types, circuits, mountains, time slots, rules and when to book.
The essentials in 30 seconds
- Tickets have an assigned date, time and circuit.
- They are personal: bring your original passport.
- Huayna Picchu sells out: book 30+ days ahead.
- There are no toilets inside the citadel.
Visiting Machu Picchu requires planning your ticket in advance. The Ministry of Culture regulates entry with time slots, circuits and limited daily capacity, and the rules change often. This guide explains the essentials.
How entry works
- Each ticket has an assigned date, entry time and circuit.
- Tickets are personal: you must show the same passport used to buy it.
- Circuits are one-way routes; you cannot go back.
Ticket types
Citadel only
Includes the assigned circuit (panoramic views, urban sector or combinations). It is the most common option and the one included in our tours.
Citadel + mountain
Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak behind the citadel: a steep climb of about 1 hour on Inca stairs. Machu Picchu Mountain is higher and longer, with spectacular views and less vertigo. Huchuy Picchu is a short option. These tickets sell out first.
How far ahead to book?
- Citadel only: at least 3 days; in high season, 2 to 4 weeks.
- With Huayna Picchu: more than 30 days, ideally 2 to 3 months between May and August.
Important rules
- Small backpacks only (about 20 L); no tripods, drones or metal-tipped poles.
- There are no toilets inside: they are at the entrance.
- Food and disposable bottles are not allowed inside.
- An official guide is mandatory on most circuits.
Frequently asked questions
01Can I enter twice on the same day?
Not with the same ticket. To go back in you need a second ticket.
02Is a guide mandatory?
On most circuits, yes. All our tours include an official guide.
