Machu Picchu: Circuit 1 Entry Ticket

Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel high in the Andes, draws visitors from around the world. The Circuit 1 Entry Ticket provides access to this UNESCO World Heritage site for 2.5 hours, allowing travelers to explore key attractions like the Temple of the Sun. While self-guided tours are an option, hiring an accredited guide can enhance the experience. With discounted rates for children and youth, and the need to book in advance, the Circuit 1 ticket offers a compelling way to witness the breathtaking landscapes of this ancient wonder.

Good To Know

• The Machu Picchu Circuit 1 entry ticket costs $79.00 per person and provides access to the key sites, including the Temple of the Sun.
• The non-refundable ticket has a duration of 2.5 hours, and availability is subject to approval by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.
• Printed vouchers with full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number are required for entry, and discounted rates are available for children and youth.
• The Circuit 1 ticket allows for self-guided exploration of the citadel, with optional accredited guide hire available, and offers breathtaking photo opportunities from the observatory.
• The original passport is required at the entrance, and prohibited items include pets, smoking, large bags, drones, plastic bottles, and food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Ticket Details

The Machu Picchu entry ticket costs $79.00 per person.

The Machu Picchu entry ticket costs $79.00 per person.

This non-refundable ticket includes access to Circuit 1, which allows visitors to explore the iconic archaeological site at their own pace. The ticket has a duration of 2.5 hours, and availability is subject to approval from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

Printed vouchers are required for entry, and visitors must provide their full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number when confirming their booking.

Children and youth can receive discounted rates by providing passport copies. However, the site may not be suitable for those with high blood pressure or wheelchair users.

Highlights and Features

Visitors can explore Machu Picchu at their own pace via Circuit 1, which provides access to key sites like the iconic Temple of the Sun.

Booking tickets in advance helps avoid long lines. From the observatory, travelers can capture breathtaking photos of the historic citadel.

While an optional accredited guide is available for hire, visitors can also discover the site independently. The overall experience offers excellent value, with travelers praising the stunning views and knowledgeable guides.

However, those with high blood pressure or mobility issues should note the site’s restrictions and plan accordingly for the high-altitude environment.

Entry Requirements and Restrictions

To visit Machu Picchu, travelers must provide their original passport at the entrance. Guests must also submit their full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number during ticket confirmation.

Additionally:

1. Children and youth can receive discounted rates by providing passport copies.

2. The experience isn’t suitable for people with high blood pressure or wheelchair users.

3. Prohibited items include pets, smoking, large bags, drones, plastic bottles, and food.

Adhering to these entry requirements and restrictions ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience at the iconic Inca citadel.

Transportation and Access

Common transportation to reach Machu Picchu involves taking a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, which takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. From there, visitors must take a 30-minute bus ride to reach the Machu Picchu site. The total travel time from Cusco may exceed 5 hours.

| Transportation Options | Duration | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes | 3h 50m | Varies |

| Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu | 30m | Included |

| Private transfer from Cusco | 4-5h | Higher |

| Hiking the Inca Trail | 4 days | Requires planning |

The meeting point for ticket holders is the Machu Picchu Ticket Office.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Machu Picchu at Your Own Pace

Once visitors have arrived at the Machu Picchu site, they can explore the ancient Inca citadel at their own pace via Circuit 1.

This self-guided tour allows travelers to discover the site’s key highlights, including:

1. The iconic Temple of the Sun, a sacred structure with intricate stonework and astronomical significance.

2. Capturing panoramic photos from the observatory, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding Andes mountains.

3. Wandering through the ruins at a comfortable pace, taking in the history and atmosphere without the constraints of a group tour.

Capturing Iconic Photographs

Where can visitors capture iconic photos at Machu Picchu? One of the best spots is the observatory, which offers panoramic views of the entire site.

From here, travelers can frame the iconic stone structures against the majestic Andes mountains. Another prime location is the Temple of the Sun, where the sun’s rays perfectly align with the stone walls during the summer solstice.

With advance ticket booking, visitors can avoid long lines and have more time to explore the photogenic ruins.

While exploring, it’s important to stay on designated paths and avoid prohibited items like drones to capture the best shots.

Optional Guide Services

While visitors can explore Machu Picchu independently, hiring an accredited guide can enhance the experience.

Guides:

1. Provide in-depth knowledge of the site’s history, architecture, and significance, offering valuable insights you may miss on your own.

2. Help navigate the complex network of trails and pathways, ensuring you don’t miss key landmarks and viewpoints.

3. Offer personalized recommendations, such as the best times to visit specific areas or photo ops, tailoring the experience to your interests.

An accredited guide can make your Machu Picchu adventure more enriching and memorable.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers consistently praise the Machu Picchu entry ticket experience, awarding it an impressive 4.5-star rating out of 536 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the ticket’s value, with a 4.1/5 score for value for money. Many note the breathtaking views and knowledgeable guides, though some recommend a slower pace to better handle the high altitude.

The ticket allows visitors to explore Machu Picchu at their own pace via Circuit 1, capturing iconic photos from the observatory.

With a non-refundable policy, it’s essential to plan carefully, but the advance booking helps avoid long entry lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at Machu Picchu?

Photography is generally allowed at Machu Picchu, but visitors can’t use drones or large bags. It’s best to check the latest entry requirements, as rules may change to protect the site’s preservation.

Can I Bring Food and Water Into Machu Picchu?

Visitors can’t bring food or large bags into Machu Picchu. However, they can bring water in small bottles. Carrying only essential items is recommended to avoid any prohibited items being confiscated at the entrance.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Visiting Machu Picchu?

There are no strict age restrictions for visiting Machu Picchu. However, children and youth must provide passport copies to receive discounted ticket rates. The site isn’t suitable for those with high blood pressure or wheelchair users.

Can I Leave and Re-Enter Machu Picchu on the Same Ticket?

The ticket does not allow re-entry. It’s a one-time entry ticket, so visitors can’t leave and come back on the same day with the same ticket. They’ll need to purchase a new ticket if they want to re-enter Machu Picchu.

How Long Do I Need to Explore Machu Picchu Thoroughly?

The recommended duration to thoroughly explore Machu Picchu is 2.5 hours. This allows visitors to see the key sites at a comfortable pace and capture iconic photos, though they may need more time if they want an in-depth guided tour.

The Sum Up

The Machu Picchu Circuit 1 Entry Ticket provides a comprehensive 2.5-hour experience at this iconic Incan citadel. Visitors can explore key landmarks, capture stunning photos, and have the option to hire a guide. Advanced booking is strongly recommended to avoid long lines and fully take in the breathtaking scenery. With discounted rates for children and youth, the ticket caters to a range of travelers seeking to uncover the wonders of Machu Picchu.

You can check availability for your dates here: