Machu Picchu Entrance Rules: What to Know

By Hannah Pentin | December 3, 2024

Machu Picchu, the iconic, 15th-century Inca citadel high in the Peruvian Andes, has been captivating travelers for decades.

These breathtaking ruins are top of most people’s South American bucket lists, with Peru drawing millions of visitors each year to experience the magic of the lost city.

Despite its huge popularity, it can be challenging to plan a trip on your own. This guide includes information on prices, buying tickets, arranging accommodation, treks, tours, and transport.

What is Machu Picchu?

600 years ago, among the lush and dramatic Andes mountains, the Incas’ greatest city was being built. It was abandoned during the Spanish conquest around 100 years later and was only rediscovered in 1911 by US explorer Hiram Bingham. The famous city, now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, attracts millions of tourists each year. 

Where do you buy tickets?

You can buy tickets online via the official website or through a tourism agency. Adult tickets for Machu Picchu only are 172 PEN (45 USD), and 86 PEN (23 USD) for students. Tickets for other circuits, such as Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu mountain, cost up to 200 PEN (53 USD) for adults and 125 PEN (33 USD) for students.

You can purchase tickets in person in Cusco and also in Aguas Calientes, the town closest to Machu Picchu. In Cusco, you can visit the office at 324 Calle Maruri, near the Plaza de Armas, or at the Ministry of Culture on Calle Garcilaso (near Plaza Regocijo). In Aguas Calientes, you’ll need to go to the Machu Picchu Cultural Center in Avenida Pachacutec, close to the Plaza de Armas.  

When making your reservation online or in person, make sure to mention if you qualify for a discount – for example, if you are a minor, student, or citizen of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, or Bolivia.

You’ll need to provide identification, whether it is proof of age for minors, a university ID card for students, or a passport/ID card for citizens of the countries mentioned. 

On arrival at the entrance, you must present a printed ticket and the document you used for your reservation (ID, passport, etc.).  

How do you get to Machu Picchu?

Most visitors to Peru will arrive by air in Lima, Peru’s capital. From there, you can catch a short, domestic flight to Cusco. 

You’ll then take a train journey through the colossal mountains, which follows the Urubamba River, from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of rail services such as Expedition, Vistadome, and Belmond Hiram Bingham. Prices can vary depending on seating, whether you’d like luxurious dining and entertainment, or scenic views to accompany your journey. 

If you’re after more of an adventure, then you can go on foot. This is the best way to fully immerse yourself in the diverse landscape of the region’s mountains, lakes, and fields – and it is recommended to go with a guide. Treks range from 1 to 12 days in duration, and you can pick from a wide range of routes such as the classic Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares, and the Mountain Lodges of Peru. You can also break up your journey with an overnight stay in Ollantaytambo, to fully experience the magic of the Sacred Valley.

It’s a good idea to get accustomed to the high altitude in Cusco (11,000 ft) before you start any of the treks to Machu Picchu (which actually stands at a lower altitude of 7,900 ft). Altitude sickness is common, and it can make doing anything energetic feel like a struggle. Some of the treks, like Salkantay and Lares, have sections that reach even more challenging altitudes (up to 15,000 ft) in places. 

Aguas Calientes, the tourist town close to Machu Picchu, is a useful hub that visitors pass through to reach the site. Buses depart from here as early as 5 am to take tourists to the entrance. 

How to visit?

It’s best to stay a night in Aguas Calientes or near Machu Picchu itself if you want the full experience of the ruins without the overwhelming crowds.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is just yards away and the closest accommodation to the entrance, but the convenience makes this an expensive option.

In Aguas Calientes, there are a range of hotels to pick from. You can take a bus to Machu Picchu and you will still arrive well ahead of other visitors.

Best time to visit

July and August are the peak months when it’s most touristy, and the hardest time to get a space on the Inca Trail. This is also the time of year in which the Andes mountains are driest. The rainy season is from November to March, so April to October is the ideal time to visit. The Inca Trail is closed in February to allow for restoration efforts.

The site is busiest between 11 am and 3 pm. You should go early in the morning, or at dusk, to avoid the crowds. It’s best to book your trip well in advance if you are planning to visit during the high season, as there are regulations in place that restrict how many people can enter each day. 

Due to the high altitude, the weather at Machu Picchu is chilly all year round, so be sure to bring multiple layers to keep warm. The markets in Aguas Calientes sell jumpers made locally from llama wool if you need to purchase something last-minute. 

Is it sustainable?

It’s the first carbon-neutral Wonder of the World. There are many sustainable practices in place – from the hydroelectric plant below the ruins to nearby eco-friendly restaurants. There are also waste management initiatives in place managed by organizations like Inkaterra Hotel Group and AJE. 

You should avoid littering, treat the site with respect, and follow the restrictions that combat over-tourism, such as adhering to the time limits and entry windows stipulated on your tickets. You might consider taking one of the less-hiked trails, such as the Lares Trek, to avoid congestion on other paths. Employing local guides and traveling in the off-season are other ways you can contribute to the local economy. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you enter Machu Picchu?

You can reach Aguas Calientes by train, bus, or on foot. The safest and fastest method is via train. However, some prefer the challenge and immersive experience of hiking. From Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus right to the entrance of Machu Picchu. 

Can you buy Machu Picchu tickets at the entrance?

No, you can only buy tickets in Cusco, Aguas Calientes, or online. Doing it via the online website is the safest, quickest, and cheapest way, and helps avoid frustration on arrival if there isn’t availability. You can also book an all-inclusive tour through a reliable travel agency, and they will purchase the tickets on your behalf. 

Do I need to pre-book Machu Picchu? 

Yes – you should buy a ticket at least two to three months in advance if you’re planning on visiting during the high season, and three to four weeks beforehand for low-season tickets.  

Can I go to Machu Picchu without a tour?

Yes you can. However, hiring a professional tour guide means you don’t have to worry about logistics, and you’ll learn more about the place you’re visiting. Guides are available at the entrance to the site. To have professional assistance from start to finish, book an all-inclusive tour.  

Want to learn more? Contact one of our friendly team members today!