Machu Picchu Circuit 1 – All the information about tickets and more

Machu Picchu has several entrance tickets which changed during 2024. In this blog we want to tell you about the main changes, the new circuits, but focusing on the first circuit. Circuit 1 is also known as the Panoramic Circuit. Next, we will talk about why these changes were made, how it affects the tours, what new destinations will be visited and also what is the new availability of the tickets. Also, when to start making reservations and not miss the opportunity to visit this wonder of the world.

Why were the circuits of Machu Picchu changed?

In June 2024 a series of changes were presented regarding the visit to Machu Picchu. The main reason for the changes is to maintain a better flow of visitors and at the same time have safe tours.

Machu Picchu will now be divided into three sectors or circuits. Two of the circuits connect with other routes, while Circuit 2 focuses on the tour of the Inca citadel. Circuits 1 and 3 allow for a tour beyond Machu Picchu, as mentioned above.

The spaces that connect and also allow a walk are mostly spaces with Inca constructions. The trails that connect these places were traced by the Inca urban planners. That is to say, they follow the paths of the Inca Trail.

However, something to keep in mind is that the circuits and routes that conform them must be respected. That is, you can only do the tour or route that corresponds to you even if the tickets or routes belong to the same circuit. That is, if you purchased the ticket Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu, you can only do that route, although on the way to Huayna Picchu, you can find detours to the Temple of the Moon and Huchuy Picchu.

In strategic places of Machu Picchu you can find park rangers and security personnel. They are in charge of maintaining order and that the circuits are fulfilled with total normality. Remember that Machu Picchu is considered a sacred place and disturbances are not allowed. Try to follow the rules established by Machu Picchu.

What is Machu Picchu Circuit 1 like?

Circuit 1 or Panoramic Route of Machu Picchu, allows you to know the first part of the wonder of the world. That is to say, by visiting circuit 1 you will be able to see the upper platform of Machu Picchu and also learn more about some of the destinations that can be reached from this point.

• The overall experience of doing Circuit 1 is that you will be able to have spectacular views of Machu Picchu.
• It is possible to make a short and contemplative tour of Machu Picchu.
• It is recommended to bring a good camera for photographs of the place.
• During the tours you will have enough time to take several pictures.
• The tour is through the highest destinations or sectors of Machu Picchu.
• You will find Inca constructions in most of the trekking routes.
• Only with the tickets of this circuit you will be able to have the classic postcard photo.
• You will be able to know part of the Inca Trails, in the different routes.
• As for the longer routes, they are ideal for groups of friends.
• You will experience small hiking trails, ideal for connecting with nature or family.
• From the top of Machu Picchu Mountain you can appreciate the beautiful geography of the place.
• Option to do short and easy routes with adults or children.
• Circuit 1 or Panoramic Route, is the only one that lets you see the beautiful composition of the Inca citadel in the distance.

The routes that can be done in Machu Picchu Circuit 1

Circuit 1 of Machu Picchu is ideal for panoramic views of Machu Picchu. An important fact is that with all routes we can have the classic postcard photo. However, this will also have its own ticket. Here are more details of the routes or tickets that we can find in Circuit 1 or Panoramic Route of Machu Picchu:

• Machu Picchu + Classic Photo

  This ticket or route is probably one of the easiest to follow. The route starts from the access point and continues in the direction of the upper platform.

  Once on the upper platform you can see the way to the other tickets or routes. It is also the widest space, usually you will find several groups of people ready to continue their route.

  Likewise, this ticket will prioritize the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. You will have plenty of time to get the perfect picture. Likewise, have the time to contemplate the entire Inca citadel.

  This ticket can be the perfect complement to the other circuits or tickets. The estimated travel time is 2 hours and 30 minutes. Of which 1 hour is for the contemplation of Machu Picchu. Here is more information:

  • Ideal route for photographs, you can have the classic postcard photo and the terraces that make up the upper terrace.
  • As for the Inca enclosures, you will be able to appreciate the House of the Guardian and the agricultural area formed by the terraces.
  • There is a special view of the entire Inca citadel. The Temple of the Sun shines in the distance.
  • The tour lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes.
  • The entrance to Machu Picchu and Upper Terrace has 10 consecutive schedules every hour. It starts at 6:00 am and ends at 3:00 pm.
  • The waiting time is 45 minutes.
  • Admission is open to minors and seniors.

• Machu Picchu + Mountain

  This route allows you to reach the top of the highest mountain that surrounds the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The average walking time is 2 hours and 30 minutes.

  From Machu Picchu Mountain you can have one of the best views of the entire geography surrounding the wonder of the world. In addition, the hike itself offers a beautiful experience, especially for groups of friends.

  The Machu Picchu + Mountain ticket is one of the best options for those who could not book the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket. It offers a similar experience, since it allows you to do the whole activity in approximately 7 hours.

  You can also enjoy and have the classic postcard photo, while contemplating the Inca citadel. Here are more details of the entrance:

  • It is an ideal route for those who like long walks and extraordinary views.
  • The hike starts from the upper platform. So you can see the Guardian’s House and appreciate some terraces.
  • Unique view of the mountain range that reaches the place and also of the Vilcanota River.
  • Ideal time for the tour, breaks and also to take the best pictures (7 hours in total).
  • Machu Picchu + Mountain has 2 entrance hours. The first one starts at 7:00 am and the second one at 9:00 am.
  • The mentioned schedule is for the entrance to Machu Picchu, the entrance to the Mountain will be one hour later.
  • It is recommended to enter close to the designated time to have a better experience at the time of the hike.
  • This route is only for adults (over 18 years old).

• Machu Picchu + Inti Punku

  This entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, allows the tour of the upper platform and then continues with the ascent to the area of the Inti Punku enclosure.

  The Inti Punku is considered the original checkpoint to enter Machu Picchu. This makes a lot of sense because it is one of the first constructions to conclude the route of the Inca Trail.

  Likewise, the Inti Punku, offers a beautiful view of Machu Picchu. Similarly, at the time of making the walk to this place, you can find more Inca constructions and learn about the particularity of the Inca Trail or Qhapac Ñam.

  This ticket will only be valid during the high season. However, it can be enabled in the first months of the year. Also, mention that this ticket allows a different experience to the one you have done to date in Machu Picchu. More information below:

  • The route to Inti Punku allows a special hike, thanks to the beautiful views it offers.
  • The hike is ideal for all people. The hiking time is short and allows a great rewarding activity with little effort.
  • The total time for this activity is 4 hours.
  • You will have enough time to get to Inti Punku, return, rest and take as many pictures as you want.
  • You will be able to appreciate several Inca constructions, beyond the House of the Guardian.
  • You will be able to visit the agricultural area, walk a short stretch of the Inca Trail or Qhapac Ñam and also see the construction of Inti Punku.
  • The Machu Picchu + Inti Punku ticket has 4 entrance times, the groups are continuous and begin at 8:00 and end at 11:00 hours.
  • This route by Machu Picchu can only be done during the high season.
  • The Inti Punku route has no restrictions and can be done by adults and minors.
  • It will be important to respect the schedules to have a delicious lunch at the indicated time.

• Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge

  This entrance allows a short walk in the direction of one of the exits of Machu Picchu. The Inca bridge is a construction that combines wood and stone.

  It seems that the Inca bridge at Machu Picchu connected with the lower jungle regions. The roads were just beginning to be built when they were abandoned. On the other hand, getting to the bridge only requires 30 minutes of travel time.

  The maximum time to do the whole activity is 3 hours in total. The time is enough to reach the bridge and return. Similarly, it is considering the time for walking, rest and contemplation of Machu Picchu.

  During the short hike you can appreciate the terraces and part of the flora and fauna near the archaeological site. It is an ideal option for those who could not find a ticket. It will only be available during the high season, more information and details below:

  • It is one of the shortest trekking options to do in Machu Picchu.
  • It allows you to have the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu, in addition to several panoramic views.
  • It is possible to spend a maximum of 3 hours doing the entire tour and stay.
  • It is an ideal route for those who do not want or can not make great efforts.
  • The entrance of Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge has two defined schedules to enter. The first one starts at 8:00 am and the second one at 11:00 am.
  • The maximum waiting time is 45 minutes. However, it is recommended to check the waiting time on the entrance ticket.
  • You will be able to have an approach to the Inca Bridge, but not to cross it. You will also see the Guardian’s House and the terraces or agricultural area.
  • This is one of the routes that are only available during the high season.
  • This route can only be done by people over 18 years old.
  • The hike will follow trails of the Inca Trail that are usually quite narrow.
  • Remember to always respect the schedules to avoid unforeseen events.

Availability according to season for Circuit 1

Restrictions for Circuit 1 or Panoramic Tour of Machu Picchu

• The entrances to Machu Picchu + Classic Postcard Photo and Machu Picchu + Inti Punku, have no entry restrictions.
• The entrances to Machu Picchu + Mountain and Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge, can only be done by people over 18 years old.
• On the other hand, you cannot take large backpacks to Machu Picchu.
• Pets, strollers and luggage are prohibited.
• Professional recording equipment such as drones or large cameras are not allowed.
• You may not enter with sound or similar equipment.
• Machu Picchu is considered a sacred place, so it is not allowed to make disturbances or similar.
• The tickets and routes that are followed allow only one tour. That is to say, you will not be able to do other routes, even if this remains to Circuit 1.
• Only the route of Circuit 1 will be able to be made. No entrance of this circuit will allow the entrance as such to the Inca citadel.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does it take to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?

  The closest travel time to Machu Picchu from Cusco is approximately 5 hours. The most efficient way to achieve this in a short time is to make the trip by train. Train stations can be found in Cusco, Poroy and Ollantaytambo. From all these places trains depart in the direction of Machu Picchu Pueblo. From this district you can board an ecological bus that will end up making the trip much faster.

• During which months is it more advisable to visit Machu Picchu?

  The most recommended months to visit Machu Picchu are during the dry season. This season will coincide with the high season. This is because the weather is the main ally to have a trip without delays or unforeseen events to Machu Picchu. In this sense, the most recommendable months are May, June, July and August.

• What are the ways to get to Machu Picchu?

  There are several travel options or adventures to get to Machu Picchu. The main one is, making the trip by train. The second options include trekking routes that are normally only done by trekking enthusiasts. However, there are also shorter routes that anyone can do. Moreover, on the route by Hydroelectric you can save a little money.

• From when can I make reservations for high season tickets?

  Reservations for tickets available for the high season can be booked months in advance. Reservations can even be made from the first weeks of January. However, you must wait for the confirmation of the reservation to avoid complications. In our content we recommend the time in advance to buy each of the tickets and ensure the schedule in which we want to visit Machu Picchu.

• How many circuits are there in Machu Picchu?

  In Machu Picchu, some reforms were carried out. One of them enabled the opening of 3 new circuits. These circuits allow you to know Machu Picchu in different ways. Before making the reservation we recommend to know more about the options offered by each of the circuits as well as the restrictions they have. These are the circuits of Machu Picchu.

  • Circuit 1 or Panoramic Route.
  • Circuit 2 or Classic Route.
  • Circuit 3 or Royal Route.