In order to promote sustainability and preserve the wonder of Machu Picchu for future generations, the Peruvian government has changed the entry requirements of Machu Picchu. From December 6, 2023 the Peruvian Government amended the “Regulation of sustainable use and tourist visits for the conservation of the Llaqta or Inka City of Machu Picchu”.
Why Have Circuits At Machu Picchu?
Circuits have been mandatory ever sense October 2022. They were introduced in order to comply with UNESCO by better preserving delicate section of Machu Picchu, and to alleviate congestion. Many sections of Machu Picchu have narrow pathways where only one person can pass at a time. The intention of these circuits is to better allow for free flowing exploration, and to limit the time visitors spend at certain areas.
Which Machu Picchu Circuit is the Best One?
As of 1st June 2024, the new circuits are as follows.
Here we will cover each of the circuits in detail below.
Circuits
Circuit 1 A, This circuit is designed to offer spectacular views of Machu Picchu, visit viewing points 1 and 2 for the best views of Machu Picchu. Included in this ticket is Machu Picchu Mountain hike a moderate hike considered safe for the whole family. If you wish to visit Machu Picchu you will need to buy another ticket.
Circuit 1 B, This circuit offers the viewing points 1 and 2 for the best views of Machu Picchu. If you wish to visit Machu Picchu you will need to buy another ticket.
Circuit 1 C, This circuit offers the viewing points 1 and 2 for the best views of Machu Picchu. Included in this ticket is the hike to the Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate. If you wish to visit Machu Picchu you will need to buy another ticket.
Circuit 1 D, This circuit offers the best viewing points 1 and 2 for the best views of Machu Picchu. Included in this ticket is the hike to the Inca Bridge. If you wish to visit Machu Picchu you will need to buy another ticket.
Circuit 2 A, Considered the best circuit to buy for the most comprehensive tour of Machu Picchu. On this circuit see viewing point 1, for spectacular views of Machu Picchu. Follow the circuit around and see some of the best areas of Machu Picchu including the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Rock, Water Mirrors, Temple of the Condor and much more.
Circuit 2 B, This tickets gives a complete tour of Machu Picchu including the most interesting places to visit without the viewing points. If you wish to see the viewing point you must buy an extra ticket to enter Machu Picchu.
Circuit 3 A, This ticket is solely for the hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain. This is a challenging trek for the fit. It features a set of stairs called the death stairs which will require you to use your hands to climb. The reward at the end of the climb is a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. If you wish to visit Machu Picchu you will need to buy another ticket.
Circuit 3 B, This circuit is used for those trekking to Machu Picchu. This circuit features the bottom half of Machu Picchu seeing the Water Mirrors, Temple of the Condor, the Plaza to name a few. This circuit does not include viewing points. If you wish to visit Machu Picchu you will need to buy another ticket.
Circuit 3 C, This circuit only includes the trek to the Big Cave, if you want to see the viewing points or tour Machu Picchu you will need to buy another ticket.
Choosing your circuit.
You must choose the circuit which will be the best for you. Most people these days buy 2 circuit tickets to get the complete picture of Machu Picchu. Please choose carefully as the tickets are non refundable.