Machu Picchu Circuits

Machu Picchu Circuits Explained

The issue of which of the Machu Picchu circuits to choose is a question we hear all the time. So let us try to explain a little more about each version of the circuit. Booking as far in advance as possible is very important, and has become even more so in recent years. Buying tickets in person in Aguas Calientes is very risky, and many people are disappointed; this should be avoided at all costs.

One Entry Ticket or Two?

If you are on a tight tour schedule and can visit just once, you will still have a fantastic visit, and regardless of the circuit you choose. But for a more complete experience, we suggest taking the Machu Picchu visit over two days, asking us to purchase two separate tickets.

IMPORTANT: If you wish to buy your own Machu Picchu entry tickets, we are happy to book the rest of the visit around those; trains, hotels, guided tours, etc. Or we can include the tickets in our package. A link to the official booking system is below.

Machu Picchu Tickets | Tu Boleto

The Machu Picchu Circuit Breakdown at a Glance

This extensive Inca site is essentially split into two levels: the Higher Levels (Circuits 1 and 2) for more panoramic views, and the Lower Levels (Circuit 3) for more in-depth exploration of lesser-visited buildings and temples. The table below gives you an overview:

Circuit 1: The Panoramic Route

Circuit 1 takes you around the upper terraces and viewpoints. While it offers some jaw-dropping elevated views, it does not allow you to walk among the stone houses and main temples in the heart of the citadel.

• Route 1-A (Machu Picchu Mountain): A strenuous, steep climb to the highest peak overlooking the complex. This includes access to the upper platform, which affords the classic postcard photo. (Time: 3.5–4 hours)
• Route 1-B (Upper Terrace): The easiest and fastest route on this circuit, so if you are short on time this is the one for you. It includes the Guardian’s House, for capturing the classic postcard photo. Perfect for people with decreased mobility. (Time: 1–1.5 hours)
• Route 1-C (Inti Punku / Sun Gate): Leads to the historic gateway where Inca Trail hikers arrive at the site. Note: This is only open during the high season (June 1 to October 15). (Time: 2 hours)
• Route 1-D (Inca Bridge): A relatively flat, tranquil walk along an exposed path to see a historic timber bridge used by the Incas. High season only. (Time: 1.5 hours)

Circuit 2: The Classic Route

This is probably the most comprehensive of the Machu Picchu circuits because it gives you both the classic postcard photo and an in-depth look at the inner buildings. Because it offers the best of both worlds, Circuit 2 always sells out 3 to 4 months in advance. Hence our note about booking well in advance!

• Route 2-A (Designed Route): Takes you around the lower platforms for some iconic photo opportunities, then deeper into the urban sectors of the site. You will explore the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Sacred Rock, and the Water Mirrors. (Time: 2.5 hours)
• Route 2-B (Lower Terrace): Nearly identical to 2-A, offering the classic postcard photo opportunity but from a slightly lower angle and then a quite complete exploration of the ruins. (Time: 2.5 hours)

Circuit 3: The Royal & Adventure Route

Known as the “Royal Circuit,” these route variations explore the lower residential areas where the Inca elite actually lived. Circuit 3 does NOT include access to the upper terraces and the classic postcard view. However, you are provided with the chance to climb the spectacular Huayna Picchu peak on one of these circuits.

• Route 3-A (Huayna Picchu Mountain): Not for the faint-hearted, but with a spectacular payoff! This route includes a loop through the lower temples followed by a steep, vertigo-inducing climb up the iconic peak directly behind the ruins. (Time: 4+ hours)
• Route 3-B (Designed Route / Royal Sector): A more relaxed, less demanding route showing you the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, and the Temple of the Condor. This circuit is perfect for those who want to enjoy a masterclass in Inca stonework without having to endure steep stairs. (Time: 1.5 hours)
• Route 3-C (Great Cavern / Temple of the Moon): A rugged trek that heads down behind the Huayna Picchu peak to a mystical temple built inside a natural cave. High season only. (Time: 4 hours)
• Route 3-D (Huchuy Picchu): A shorter, less demanding alternative to Huayna Picchu. Allows you to climb the smaller hill right next to the main peak. High season only. (Time: 2 hours)

Top Tip: There are no restrooms once you pass through the checkpoint. Make sure to use the services outside the main gate before you enter. If you leave the site to use the bathroom, you will not be allowed back in.

Two Ticket Option; “Peak & Palace” Circuit 1-B + Circuit 3-A

If you are physically fit, not worried about heights and would like to climb the world-famous peak that rises directly behind the ruins on your second day, after enjoying site highlights on a guided tour the first day, this is your ideal combination of Machu Picchu circuits.

• Day 1: Circuit 1-B (Upper Terrace Route)
  • Highlights: This route gives you the classic postcard shot; that box is ticked. Because the Huayna Picchu ticket does not let you access the upper platforms, you must secure this ticket to get that particular view.
• Day 2: Circuit 3-A (Huayna Picchu Mountain)
  • Highlights: This allows you to explore the lower Royal sector loops first, and then tackle the exhilarating, steep climb of the peak. You will navigate the “stairs of death” and marvel at the views from the summit.