Why are there no tickets for Machu Picchu?

Controlling the number of people who visit every day
As mentioned in the past, there was no control and the numbers were large. Most days, you could move around freely, and taking those iconic pictures was almost impossible.
The government of Peru now has a limit on the number of people who can enter the site each day. The number of available tickets also depends on the season.
Visitors are divided between different circuits and routes and are allowed to enter at different times. These tickets keep the people flowing and the crowds moving, so everybody gets to enjoy the different viewing points.

Why are there limited tickets for Machu Picchu?

The next reason is that with fewer people passing through daily, there is much less stress on the ancient stones and walkways. To help preserve Machu Picchu for future generations, control was needed and is now enforced. Visitors are not allowed to walk on any stone walls, and this is heavily policed. If you are seen by one of the many guards, you will be escorted to the gate and not allowed to return.
The government hopes to preserve Machu Picchu, as the citadel is not only a wonder of the world but also one of Peru's national treasures. You would think that 4,500 tickets is a lot, and it seems to be, but the reality is that once that number is divided between the different circuits, routes and trekkers, the tickets can sell out fast.
This is why finding Machu Picchu tickets for your preferred date, route or entrance time is not always easy, especially during the busiest months.

What are the Machu Picchu circuits?

Let's talk about the circuits. There are 3 circuits in total, with different routes available within each circuit.
The route you choose will determine which parts of Machu Picchu you can visit, and some routes also include hikes to famous places such as Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu, the Sun Gate and the Inca Bridge.

Circuit 1: Panoramic Route

Route 1-A, Machu Picchu Mountain: this route includes the viewing platform, where you will get great views of Machu Picchu from above, and the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain. The hike takes around 3 hours, but the views are spectacular.

Route 1-B, Upper Terrace: this route includes the viewing platforms only. You will be able to take those great photos and spend time enjoying the view.

Route 1-C, Intipunku Gate: this route is only available in the high season. If you are lucky enough to get tickets, you will enjoy the last part of the famous Inca Trail. Hike up to the Sun Gate, the former entrance of the Royal Incas, and take in the views from this vantage point.

Route 1-D, Inca Bridge: this route is again only available in high season. After taking in the viewpoints that overlook Machu Picchu, hike to the famous Inca Bridge. This hike will take a few hours, but the walk through the jungle and lush green forest will be a highlight. Not to be missed if you can get tickets.

Circuit 2: Machu Picchu Classic Route

Route 2-A, Classic Route: this ticket is the most popular and sells out the quickest. This is because it covers most of Machu Picchu. With this ticket, you will see many of the important temples, sacred sites and plazas.

Route 2-B, Lower Terrace: this route is also popular, and as with Route 2-A, you will get to see important areas of the site. This route concentrates on the lower half of Machu Picchu and the residential sector.

Circuit 3: Machu Picchu Royalty Route

Route 3-A, Huayna Picchu Mountain: these tickets are for those who want to climb Huayna Picchu, the mountain that overlooks Machu Picchu. This is a strenuous hike, and you need a certain level of physical fitness.

Route 3-B, Lower Route: this ticket is mostly used by Inca Trail hikers as they come down from the Sun Gate. On this ticket, you will see the lower portion of Machu Picchu. There are plenty of famous sites to see, and this ticket is popular with those who miss out on Circuit 2.

Route 3-C, Grand Cave Route: this route is only available in high season. Pass through Circuit 3 and hike to the Grand Cave. The hike is green and lush, with beautiful high jungle scenery.

Route 3-D, Huchuypicchu: this route is also only available in high season. Once again, pass through Machu Picchu and hike to Huchuypicchu Mountain. The scenery is spectacular, and there are many photo opportunities.
What about the Inca Trail and other treks?

Hikers on the 4-day Inca Trail visit Circuit 3 of Machu Picchu. This is also the case for hikers on the Salkantay Trek and 2-Day Inca Trail.

If you are planning one of these treks as part of your Peru travel packages, the Machu Picchu visit and entrance arrangements are an important part of planning your itinerary.

How long can you stay in Machu Picchu?

As with the circuits, there are new rules that apply to how much time you are allowed inside the site.
The rule is that you are able to spend around 2 hours exploring Machu Picchu, depending on the route you choose. If your ticket includes one of the mountain hikes, you should allow additional time for the hike.
You also need to be aware that you cannot enter Machu Picchu without a guide. You can either book a guide with a reputable travel agency, or there are guides available at the gate.

How to get Machu Picchu tickets?

If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu, it is important to organise your entrance tickets before building your entire itinerary around a specific date. Machu Picchu tickets are linked to a particular date, route and entrance time. The most popular options can sell out quickly, particularly during the high season.

If your preferred route is sold out, check the availability of other routes and entrance times. You may find that one option is unavailable while another still has tickets. 

If you have some flexibility with your travel dates, checking a different day can also help.
For travellers booking Peru tours or Peru private tours, a travel agency can also help coordinate Machu Picchu tickets together with trains, guides and the rest of the itinerary.

How to get to Machu Picchu?

Most people in 2026 take one of the many train services on offer, from tourist trains to wonderful trains with glass ceilings. For those who want ultra luxury, there is the Hiram Bingham that will give train lovers one of the best train experiences in the world.
For those who are up to a challenge, there are a variety of treks on offer. The most famous is the 4-day Inca Trail that starts in the Sacred Valley.
If you are short on time, there is a 2-day option that gives you a taste of hiking in the Andes.
Whether you are planning Machu Picchu tours, Peru private tours or a longer Peru travel package, organising your Machu Picchu tickets early can make planning the rest of your trip much easier.

What to do if Machu Picchu tickets are sold out?

If you search for your preferred date and see that Machu Picchu tickets are sold out, don't panic.
First, check the availability of other circuits and routes. You may find that one route is sold out while another still has tickets available.
You can also check different entrance times or, if your itinerary allows, look at nearby dates.
Another option is to check the official availability for tickets sold in person in Machu Picchu Pueblo. A limited number of tickets are made available for in-person purchase, so this can be another option for travellers who were unable to find tickets online.
However, these tickets are limited and availability is not guaranteed.
The important thing is to plan ahead whenever possible, especially if you are travelling during the busiest months of the year.

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is one of the highlights of any trip to Peru, but the ticket system can be confusing, especially if it is your first visit.
At Peruvian Sunrise, we can help you organise your Machu Picchu tickets, train arrangements, guides and the rest of your itinerary according to your travel plans.
Whether you are looking for Machu Picchu tours, Peru travel packages or a personalised Peru itinerary, we can help you plan your trip.
Contact us for more information about Machu Picchu tickets and travelling to Peru.