Machu Picchu is a popular tourist destination in Peru, and tickets to visit the site can often sell out well in advance. If you’re looking for last-minute Machu Picchu tickets, there are a few options to consider.
One option is to check with travel agencies or tour operators in Cusco, the city closest to Machu Picchu. They may have last-minute openings or cancellations that you can take advantage of.
Another option is to check with the official ticket office for Machu Picchu, which is located in the town of Aguas Calientes, the base for visiting Machu Picchu. They may have last-minute availability, although this is often not the case during the peak tourist season.
It’s also worth noting that there is a limited number of visitors allowed into Machu Picchu each day. So, even if you are able to get a last-minute Machu Picchu entry ticket, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to enter the site on the day you want to visit.
Just bear in mind that last-minute tickets do tend to cost a bit more, so booking your ticket ahead of time is best. If you don’t have much luck, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure you grab your last-minute ticket.
Top Tip: Book one of our Sparrow Explorer guided treks to avoid the hassle of organizing your last-minute tickets.
Things to Know About Last-Minute Machu Picchu Tickets
Let’s have a quick look at all the finer details you should consider when getting your tickets.
Do You Need Tickets for Machu Picchu?
Yes, you need tickets to enter Machu Picchu, and it is recommended that you purchase tickets in advance as they are limited and can sell out quickly. As a matter of fact, you can’t enter the archeological site without a ticket, so securing your ticket is essential
Where to Find Machu Picchu Last-Minute Deals
Before diving into which ticket you should book, let’s have a look at the options at your fingertips. There are a couple of ways to find your last-minute tickets, and these include:
- Contact a Travel Advisor: One of the best options is to call a travel advisor, such as Sparrow Explorer. They can help you discuss the dates you need your tickets and assist you in obtaining last-minute tickets.
- Book Through a Tour Agency: Tour operators and agencies often have access to last-minute tickets due to cancellations or may be able to make arrangements for you.
- Check The Official Website: It’s recommended you check the official websites for Machu Picchu ticket bookings. The official website is Tuboleto Cultura, which allows you to book tickets online. You can choose the type of visit, select the ticket type and date, and pay online.
- Book in Person: You can purchase Machu Picchu tickets in person in Aguas Calientes, Lima, and other cities in Peru via the Banco de la Nacion or at the Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC) offices located in the Cusco historic center.
It’s important to note that the number of visitors allowed per day is limited, so it’s best to book in advance to ensure you get a spot.
Top Tip: If you’re pressed for time, our 1-day Machu Picchu tour will include your ticket and much more.
Tips for Securing Your Machu Picchu Last-Minute Tickets
Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when looking to book your tickets.
- Be Flexible: Try to be flexible with your travel dates. If you’re able to visit on a less popular day or during a less busy season, you may have a better chance of finding available tickets.
- Be Prepared: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date when booking last-minute trips to Machu Picchu.
- Visit the Ticket Office at Machu Picchu: Some tickets may be available for purchase on the day of your visit, but these are limited and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
It’s important to note that availability for last-minute tickets may vary, and it’s recommended that you plan ahead and book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Additionally, it’s advisable to avoid purchasing tickets from doubtful re-sellers and to check the official sources for ticket availability.
What Are the Different Types of Machu Picchu Tickets Available?
There is a wide variety of options available for those looking to purchase tickets to Machu Picchu. The following is a rundown of the various ticket options you can purchase on the official site:
Circuit 1 — Panoramic
There are four options you can pick from within the panoramic circuit. These include:
- Route 1A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route — A 2.4-mile (3.8 km) round trip that requires significant fitness levels.
- Route 1B: Upper Terrace Route — An easy 1-mile (1.6 km) route along the upper terraces.
- Route 1C: Intipunku Cover Route — A relatively challenging 2.1-mile (3.4 km) trek through the famous Intipunku Gate. Only available in high season.
- Route 1D: Inka Bridge Route — An easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hike to the infamous Inka Bridge. Only available in high season.
Circuit 2 — Classic Circuit
There are two available routes to choose from for Circuit Two. These are:
- Route 2A: Classic Route Designed — Allows you to experience the two main sectors of this archeological site. It’s approximately a 1.5-mile (2.5 km) round trip with medium physical effort.
- Route 2B: Lower Terrace Route — Starts in the agricultural sector before exploring the lower terrace. It is a 1.7-mile (2.7 km) trek that requires medium to high physical effort.
Circuit 3 — Machu Picchu Royalty
The final possibility has four options to pick from. These are generally a bit more strenuous and require good fitness levels. They are:
- Route 3A: Waynapicchu Mountain Route — This 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trek allows you to experience all the top landmarks at Machu Picchu.
- Route 3B: Royalty Route Designed — This is a short circuit designed for those requiring wheelchair assistance.
- Route 3C: Great Cavern Route — This is a 1.9-mile (3 km) trek that leads through Machu Picchu to the Great Cavern. Only available in high season.
- Route 3D: Huchuypicchu Route — This is a short 1-mile (1.7 km) hike that includes visiting the summit of Huchuypicchu. Only available in high season.
Combo Tickets Available Online and In Person
You can purchase the following tickets in person at the Banco de la Nacion or at the Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC). Alternatively, you can use Ticket Machu Picchu to book these combo tickets online:
- Machu Picchu Only: This is the most popular and basic ticket that allows you to visit the Machu Picchu citadel.
- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu: This ticket includes access to Huayna Picchu, the iconic mountain that overlooks Machu Picchu. It offers a more challenging hike and stunning panoramic views.
- Machu Picchu + Montana: This ticket includes access to Montana Machu Picchu, another mountain that offers breathtaking views of the citadel. The hike to Montana Machu Picchu is longer and more strenuous compared to Huayna Picchu.
- Machu Picchu + Museum: This ticket includes access to the Machu Picchu Museum, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the Inca civilization.
- Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge: This ticket includes access to the Inca Bridge, a fascinating stone bridge that was once used as a secret entrance to Machu Picchu.
How Far in Advance Should I Purchase Machu Picchu Tickets?
It’s recommended you purchase Machu Picchu entrance tickets as far in advance as possible to secure your preferred ticket type and avoid disappointment. Only 4,500 tickets are available for entry into Machu Picchu per day, with them being distributed amongst official sellers and specific entry requirements.
Here are some guidelines to consider:
- Circuit 1 — Panoramic: It is possible to find tickets up to two weeks in advance, but it’s still best to book sooner rather than later.
- Circuit 2 — Classic Circuit: These tickets are also available up to two weeks in advance. That said, getting your tickets earlier is best.
- Circuit 3 — Machu Picchu Royalty: You can find tickets around two weeks in advance, but it’s best to book well ahead of time if possible.
- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu: If you want to climb Huayna Picchu mountain, it’s recommended to buy tickets at least 3 months in advance since there are only 200 tickets available per day.
Note: The above recommendations are both for online bookings and on-site bookings. Be advised you’ll have a better chance of finding last-minute tickets in the off-season.
How Much Does an Online Machu Picchu Ticket Cost in 2024?
The price of a ticket to Machu Picchu in 2024 will vary according to the kind of ticket purchased and the age of the traveler. Note that rates can change from time to time, so it’s best to visit the official site for up-to-date prices.
The following is a rundown of the various ticket prices:
Circuit 1 — Panoramic
- Route 1A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route
• Adult: 54 US$ (200 Sol)
• Student: 33 US$ (125 Sol)
• Child: 31 US$ (118 Sol) - Route 1B: Upper Terrace Route
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Student: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
• Child: 19 US$ (70 Sol) - Route 1C: Intipunku Cover Route
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Student: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
• Child: 19 US$ (70 Sol) - Route 1D: Inka Bridge Route
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Student: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
• Child: 19 US$ (70 Sol)
Circuit 2 — Classic Circuit
- Route 2A: Classic Route Designed
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Student: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
• Child: 19 US$ (70 Sol) - Route 2B: Lower Terrace Route
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Student: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
• Child: 19 US$ (70 Sol)
Circuit 3 — Machu Picchu Royalty
- Route 3A: Waynapicchu Mountain Route
• Adult: 54 US$ (200 Sol)
• Student: 33 US$ (125 Sol)
• Child: 31 US$ (118 Sol) - Route 3B: Royalty Route Designed
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Student: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
• Child: 19 US$ (70 Sol) - Route 3C: Great Cavern Route
• Adult: 54 US$ (200 Sol)
• Student: 33 US$ (125 Sol)
• Child: 31 US$ (118 Sol) - Route 3D: Huchuypicchu Route
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Student: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
• Child: 19 US$ (70 Sol)
Top Tip: We recommend getting your tickets from the official website or booking a tour with Sparrow Explorer, as we’ll sort out tickets for you.
What Are the Machu Picchu Combo Ticket Prices?
The most recent prices for the combo tickets are:
- Machu Picchu Site Only
• Adult: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Child: 20 US$ (77.00 Sol) - Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu
• Adult: 59 US$ (220 Sol)
• Student: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Child (8 to 17 years old): 40 US$ (152 Sol) - Machu Picchu + Montana
• Adult: 59 US$ (220 Sol)
• Student: 40 US$ (152 Sol)
• Child (8 to 17 years old): 40 US$ (152 Sol) - Machu Picchu + Museum
• Adult: 65 US$ (246 Sol)
• Student: 36 US$ (134 Sol)
• Child (8 to 17 years old): 36 US$ (134 Sol) - Machu Picchu + InKa Bridge
• Adult: 40 US$ (152.00 Sol)
• Child: 20 US$ (77 Sol)
What Is the Maximum Number of Tickets That Can Be Purchased Per Person?
Entry into Machu Picchu is limited to 4,500 people per day, so Peru’s Ministry of Culture has to have strict control over the sale of tickets. Generally speaking, a single person can book a maximum of 5 tickets at any given time.
That said, tour companies such as us are granted access to larger amounts of bookings in relation to our tour group size. So, if you are planning a trip for more than 5 people, our tailor-made services allow us to organize your entire trip without any issues.
Note: The availability of tickets may vary, and it’s advisable to check the official websites or authorized ticket dealers for the most up-to-date information and to purchase tickets in advance to secure your preferred ticket type.
Can I Purchase Machu Picchu Tickets in Advance?
Yes, it is possible to purchase Machu Picchu tickets in advance for a future date. It is recommended you do this because the number of tickets is limited, and they sell out fast.
The official website to purchase Machu Picchu tickets for 2024 is https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/. To purchase tickets online, you can visit the official website and follow the steps provided.
How to Purchase Your Machu Picchu Ticket Online
- Check availability on the official website.
- Choose the type of ticket as well as the date and time you’d like to visit.
- Complete the requested information with your personal data: name, age, type and number of identity document (or passport), etc.
- Make the payment for the entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Print the tickets that you will receive in your email.
Additional Details About Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu
As one of the more popular additions to a Machu Picchu excursion, knowing more about Huayna Picchu can prove helpful. As such, here’s a quick look at the extra details you’ll need to know about this additional hike from Machu Picchu.
What Do I Need to Know About Huayna Picchu Tickets?
The following is some information that was discovered as a consequence of the search:
- Tickets for Huayna Picchu may be purchased through the Internet. They are also available for purchase in person at authorized offices located inside the city of Cusco (at a lower price).
- It is recommended that Huayna Picchu tickets be booked months in advance.
- The availability of Huayna Picchu tickets is limited, as only 200 people are allowed to enter each day.
- Climbing Huayna Picchu requires a regular physical condition and a lack of fear of heights. However, only individuals over 12 years old are permitted to climb.
- The availability of Huayna Picchu tickets can be checked and reserved online through the Ticket Machu Picchu website.
- It is important to be aware of when Huayna Picchu tickets go on sale and purchase them as soon as possible.
- Huayna Picchu tickets are often sold as a combo ticket with entry to the Machu Picchu ruins.
What Is the Difference Between Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Tickets?
Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tickets are different types of tickets that allow visitors to access different areas of the Machu Picchu citadel. Here are the differences between the two ticket types:
Machu Picchu Tickets
- This ticket allows visitors to access the whole citadel using circuits 1, 2, and 3.
- The Machu Picchu-only tickets are available in hourly slots from 6 am to 2 pm.
The cost of this ticket varies depending on the age of the visitor and whether they are a student or not.
Huayna Picchu Tickets
- This ticket allows visitors to access the Machu Picchu ruins and the Huayna Picchu hike, which is the smaller, popular mountain that overlooks the ruins to the north side.
- Only 400 people are allowed to buy this combo ticket per day, with a limit of 200 visitors per day.
Note: Visitor access to the Machu Picchu ruins is usually included in other combo tickets as well, such as the Montana, museum, and Inka Bridge specials.
Most Frequently Questions about Machu Picchu Tickets
You may have a few more questions in mind. As such, here are some quick answers to commonly asked questions.
Does Machu Picchu Sell Out?
Machu Picchu tickets can indeed sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you find that tickets are sold out for your desired dates, consider checking alternative dates or exploring other ticket options, like guided tours that may include ticket reservations.
Can I Do Machu Picchu on My Own?
You can visit Machu Picchu without a tour. That said, tour guides can provide you with detailed insights into this archeological masterpiece, so it’s definitely worth joining a guided tour.
Can You Bring a Backpack Into Machu Picchu?
Yes, you can bring a daypack into the archeological site, granted it is no bigger than 16 x 14 x 8 inches (40 x 35 x 20 cm). When joining one of our multi-day hikes to Machu Picchu, our porters will carry most of your belongings so your backpack does not exceed these measurements.
Does Machu Picchu Offer a Premium Ticket?
Machu Picchu doesn’t offer a specific “premium” ticket, but there are options for additional experiences such as guided tours, special hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, and entrance to certain restricted areas. These may come at an additional cost.
Can You Get Machu Picchu Same-Day Tickets?
Same-day tickets for Machu Picchu can be quite tricky to obtain, especially during peak seasons when they sell out quickly. It’s advisable to purchase your tickets well in advance to secure your entry. However, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you might have better luck finding availability.
What Is the Best Machu Picchu Ticket?
The best Machu Picchu ticket depends on your preferences and interests. Options include the standard entrance ticket, which grants access to the main archaeological site, or tickets that include additional experiences like hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views.
If you want help organizing a last-minute ticket or simply want to experience the joy of Machu Picchu during your trip, feel free to contact us for support.
