Machu Picchu Circuits 2026: All 10 Routes
Since June 1, 2024, Machu Picchu operates a strict circuit-and-route system. There are 3 main circuits, divided into 10 sub-routes. When you buy your ticket, you choose one specific route — and you walk it in one direction, with no backtracking and no re-entry.
This page is the master comparison. We explain which circuit suits which type of traveler. For deeper detail on each circuit, follow the links.
The big picture in 30 seconds
- Circuit 1 — Panoramic. Upper terraces and the classic postcard viewpoint. No access to the temples. Best for hikers who want the iconic photo and an add-on (Sun Gate, Inca Bridge, or Machu Picchu Mountain).
- Circuit 2 — Classic. The full archaeological tour: Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Three Windows, Intihuatana, residential sectors. This is the right choice for first-time visitors.
- Circuit 3 — Royalty. Lower-section route through royal residences and water fountains. Includes the only access to Wayna Picchu mountain. Good for repeat visitors and Wayna Picchu hikers.
Quick decision rule
First time at Machu Picchu? → Circuit 2 (Route 2-A or 2-B). Want to climb Wayna Picchu? → Circuit 3, Route 3-A. Mainly want the postcard photo with a hike? → Circuit 1.
Side-by-side comparison
| Aspect | Circuit 1 (Panoramic) | Circuit 2 (Classic) | Circuit 3 (Royalty) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postcard photo at Guardian's House | ✓ (best vantage) | ✓ (Route 2-B) | ✗ |
| Walk among temples | ✗ | ✓ (full) | ✓ (lower section) |
| Wayna Picchu access | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ (Route 3-A only) |
| Machu Picchu Mountain access | ✓ (Route 1-A only) | ✗ | ✗ |
| Sun Gate (Inti Punku) | ✓ (Route 1-C, high season) | ✗ | ✗ |
| Inca Bridge | ✓ (Route 1-D, high season, 18+) | ✗ | ✗ |
| Llamas often seen | Sometimes | Sometimes | Most often |
| Visit duration | 2.5h base, up to 7h with mountain | 2.5-3h | 2-2.5h base |
| Difficulty | Moderate to hard | Easy to moderate | Easy |
The 10 routes
Circuit 1 — Panoramic
- 1-A — Machu Picchu Mountain. Hike to the higher peak (3,082 m). Classic viewpoint included. Up to ~7 hours total. Demanding. Limited slots.
- 1-B — Upper Terrace. Year-round basic panoramic visit, ~2.5 hours. Closed October 16 to December 29 each year.
- 1-C — Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Adds a hike to the original Inca entrance gate. ~2 hours. High season only (June 1 – October 15).
- 1-D — Inca Bridge. Visits the cliff-side bridge on the eastern side. ~2 hours. 18+ only, high season only.
Circuit 2 — Classic
- 2-A — Designed Classic. Year-round full tour through main archaeological zones, ~3 hours.
- 2-B — Lower Terrace + Classic. Year-round. Slightly different starting angle, also ~3 hours. Excellent postcard photo from upper section.
Circuit 3 — Royalty
- 3-A — Royalty + Wayna Picchu. Includes the steep climb to Wayna Picchu (2,720 m). ~6 hours. Demanding. Only 400 daily slots — sells out fastest.
- 3-B — Designed Royalty. Year-round tour of the lower section: Temple of the Sun (exterior), royal house, water fountains. ~2.5 hours.
- 3-C — Royalty + Great Cavern. Adds the sacred cave on Wayna Picchu's flank. High season only.
- 3-D — Royalty + Huchuy Picchu. Adds the small "Young Picchu" mountain — easier than Wayna Picchu. High season only.
What I cannot do once I'm inside
- Switch routes mid-visit — you walk one way, the rangers enforce direction
- Backtrack to see something you missed
- Combine routes by buying two tickets for the same day (you'd need two separate entries on different dates)
- Re-enter after exiting — once you scan out, your visit is over
Forbidden inside the citadel
Drones, tripods (without permit), umbrellas (use a poncho), large backpacks (over 40×35×20 cm), food, and selfie sticks. Walking sticks must have rubber tips. Climbing on stones, lying on terraces, and posing in costume have explicit fines.