Machu Picchu Circuit 2 Full information – tickets and routes

Circuit 2 of Machu Picchu is one of the most visited and most popular circuits. This circuit is made up of two routes, so you can buy two tickets with a slight difference for the route. In this blog we want to explain more about the tickets that belong to Circuit 2, the exact route they follow over the Inca citadel and also the availability in both cases. Another important aspect that we have to deal with is the official high season that was enabled in mid-2024.

What is the official high season like in Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu now has an official high season. This is thanks to the changes made by the Ministry of Culture in mid-2024. One of the main changes is that the official high season has been enabled, which will start every June 1st and last until October 15th.

During this period of time, more routes and entrance tickets to Machu Picchu will be enabled, as well as a greater number of tickets so that more tourists can visit the wonder of the world. There are now 3 new circuits in Machu Picchu, which at the same time will offer 3 new experiences during the corresponding tours.

Why was a high season established? The high season was established mainly because during the months mentioned or that make up the season there are more tourists, since it coincides with the best time to visit Machu Picchu. The main reason is that there is no rain and the days are much sunnier and warmer.

In the high season to visit Machu Picchu, we can also find that the number of tickets and types of tickets will increase. A total of 4 new tickets are added. These tickets will not belong to Circuit 2 that we are talking about. However, in Circuit 2 or Classic Route, we will find an increase in availability. The tickets that are added in high season are:

• Machu Picchu + Inti Punku.
• Machu Picchu + PInca Bridge.
• Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu.
• Machu Picchu + TemTemple of the Moon or The Great Cavern.

What is the regular season like in Machu Picchu?

This is the season with the most months of the year. The regular season of Machu Picchu will begin once the high season is over. That is, from October 16 to May 31. The regular season, due to its length, usually coincides with the rainiest months or the rainy season.

During the regular season of Machu Picchu, there are only 6 types of tickets, 2 for each of the circuits. These tickets are usually sufficient for the number of visitors received. However, some months they usually open some of the routes or tickets for an adequate distribution of tourists on Machu Picchu. The regular season tickets are:

• Machu Picchu + Classic postcard photo.
• Machu Picchu + Mountain.
• Machu Picchu Classic Route.
• Machu Picchu Classic Route 2.
• Machu Picchu + Route of royalty.
• Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu.

The routes of Circuit 2 of Machu Picchu

Now we have to answer the question: What is Circuit 2 of Machu Picchu like? Everything will start from the access area. Before that, it will be important that the ascent is made in the ecological buses, since the journey of Circuit 2 can take more than 2 hours in total. Let’s look in more detail at the classic routes of Machu Picchu.

• It has 2 tickets or routes that can be found that are very similar.
• The difference between the routes is that the Machu Picchu ticket or route only allows you to get close to the lower terraces in one of them.
• Both enter through the same area.
• The Machu Picchu Classic ticket (Lower Terrace) offers a photo similar to the classic postcard photo.
• The Machu Picchu Classic ticket enters through the agricultural area and continues with the passage to the main entrance to Machu Picchu.
• The tour covers the main attractions of Machu Picchu as well as passing through the narrow streets of the place.
• The main destinations that can be visited are the Plaza de los Templos, the Temple of the Sun, the Casa del Inka, a walk near the Intihuatana pyramid and more.
• The tour to Intihuatana is closed. You will visit both agricultural areas surrounding the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• It allows you to learn more about Inca architecture and the differences between them.
• You will reach the Sacred Rock and from that point you have to go through the lower Temples.
• The travel time for Circuit 2 is 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• You only have a 45-minute window to enter according to the schedule.
• There are 10 entry times for the two Circuit 2 tickets.
• The first entry time starts at 6:00 a.m. and the last group can enter from 3:00 p.m.
• The entire tour is within the Inca citadel.
• This ticket is ideal for those who want to know every detail of Machu Picchu.
• The tour of the citadel is easy to do, making it ideal for seniors and children.
• You can have a tour of

How to purchase entrance tickets for Circuit 2 to Machu Picchu?

As we mentioned, only two tickets can be purchased for Circuit 2. These tickets are available throughout the year. That is, they can be reserved as normal every day of the year. On the other hand, they can be purchased online and in person in Cusco and Machu Picchu Pueblo.

It is advisable to make a reservation in advance, especially if you want to take the tour at a set and planned time. The advance time to make the reservation should be 3 to 4 months in advance. Only in this way, you will be able to have a good experience and follow everything you planned.

Machu Picchu Classic Circuit and Machu Picchu Classic Circuit (Lower Terrace)

Availability for Circuit 2

The Machu Picchu Classic and Machu Picchu Classic (Lower Terrace) tickets have many things in common and, in truth, a slight difference in terms of the route, as can be seen in the maps above. Now we will learn more about availability both in the high season and regular season.

Machu Picchu Classic Circuit: 110 and Machu Picchu Classic (Lower Terrace): 115 (by schedule).

Machu Picchu Classic Circuit: 130 and Machu Picchu Classic (Lower Terrace): 125 (by schedule).

Restrictions on the route or recommendations for the classic circuit

• Tickets must be reserved in advance.
• Advance booking time is 2 to 3 months.
• Although there is a large availability of daily tickets, they sell out almost immediately.
• This tour has no age restrictions. That is, children and adults can enter.
• Pets, baby strollers, suitcases or luggage are not allowed in Machu Picchu.
• Backpacks for entering Machu Picchu must be small.
• Professional recording equipment or drones are not allowed.
• It is prohibited to cause disturbances, alter the circuits or cause any damage to the buildings.
• You must only take the tour on the designated and purchased circuits.
• There is a team of park rangers dedicated to verifying that people comply with each of the established rules.
• It is recommended to check the time allowed to enter or wait for each ticket.
• It is recommended to make the ascent on the ecological buses of Machu Picchu.
• Carry and use mosquito repellent and sunscreen from time to time.
• Wear comfortable and light clothing.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When should I book my ticket for Circuit 2 or Classic Route?

  Tickets for Circuit 2, on both routes, Machu Picchu Classic and Machu Picchu Classic (lower terrace), can be reserved throughout the year. However, you should keep in mind that if you plan to make the trip during the first days of January, you will have to be aware of the reservations and availability that are issued during the month of December. Of course, a travel agency can help you purchase your ticket.

• Which months are best for visiting Machu Picchu?

  The ideal months to visit Machu Picchu begin in June, continue in July, continue in August and it is still possible to make visits with certain precautions for the rain, during the months of September and November.

  However, it is worth mentioning that during the rest of the year, it is possible to visit Machu Picchu, as long as you keep in mind that it is quite possible that it will rain. Sometimes you will only need a rain poncho.

• Which ticket is better?

  Many people prefer to book the Classic Machu Picchu Ticket (lower terrace). This is only because this ticket takes you to the lower terraces located near the Guardian’s House, so it offers similar photos to those that can be taken on the upper terrace.

• Can I book other tickets on different circuits?

  Of course, many of the people and tourists who visit Machu Picchu, after the modifications of 2024, are allowed to make reservations for other Circuits. Of course, the tour will have to be done taking into account the entry times and the time that the corresponding tour may take.

• Is there a special season or time to make a reservation?

  For tickets for circuit 2 or tickets in general, it is recommended to purchase or reserve tickets well in advance. The recommended time is 2 or 3 months in advance. The latter is for high season tickets in general. On the other hand, reservations can be made throughout the year.