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Your Guide to the New Machu Picchu Visitor Rules & Restrictions
To enter Machu Picchu the rules have changed since 2021, in addition to the 4 different circuits taken 5 different ways, there are maximum tickets for the site every day. The Park administration has taken measures to facilitate the visit with circuits to try to conserve the site for future generations.
These four different circuits enable the sustainability of the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE. They are regulated by regulation on sustainable use and tourists visits for the conservation of Llacta Machu Picchu and can be booked online on the Ministry of Culture website or we can help you book them. There are only 4,500 tickets released every day for Machu Picchu. These tickets are distributed between Inca Trail treks, Machu Picchu citadel, Huchuy Picchu, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. Booking in advance is essential.
Tickets per Day
- Machu Picchu Citadel 3950 Tickets
- Huayna Picchu Mountain 400 Tickets
- Machu Picchu Mountain 400 Tickets
- Huchuy Picchu Mountain 200 Tickets
- Inca Trail 500 Tickets
- Short Inca Trail 250 Tickets
Total 5500 Tickets
Circuits
New updated information on the Machu Picchu circuits
There are 5 Circuits to enter Machu Picchu, Circuits 1 and 2 normally for the day trippers and Circuits 3 and 4 for those who want to do the extra treks and for people doing the Inca Trail.
- Circuit 1 involves the all of the Inca citadel – the entrance times you can visit from 6am to 09:00 am
- Circuit 2 involves the Inca citadel without the Intihutana stone, the Temple of Three Windows and the Temple of the Condor. You can visit from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
- Circuit 4 and Huayna PicchuTicket allows entry to the Inca city from 6 am. The total daily capacity of 200 people is divided into two groups (100 persons each): This Circuit includes the lower part of Machu Picchu.
- Circuit 3 and Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket enables access to Machu Picchu from 6 am. The total daily capacity is of 400 people is divided into two groups (200 persons each): This Circuit includes the lower part of Machu Picchu. The visitors can re-enter the Machu Picchu to explore circuit 3.
- Circuit 4 and Huchuy Picchu Mountain Tickets enables access to Huchuy Picchu mountain from 6 am. The total daily capacity is of 200 people is divided into two groups (100 persons each): This Circuit includes the lower part of Machu Picchu. Two group entries per day 6am to 7am and 2pm to 3pm.
How Long Can I Stay at Machu Picchu?
The new Machu Picchu rules determine that tourists are strictly limited to four-hour stays. Most visitors do not take more than four hours on average to explore the site. Officials exercise control over the amount of traffic at any given time to maintain control of the Inca sanctuary. It Is regulation that all tourists must be led by a tour guide in order to preserve the world heritage site. Tourist groups are made up of a maximum of 10 people per guide. Reentry to the site is prohibited. The guided tour duration was set in 2 hours in order to free room for more groups, avoid crowds and especially protect the Inca town of Machu Picchu.
New Rules for Entering Machu Picchu
1. Preserve the Past: Machu Picchu has survived for 500 years, but it requires our help to continue sharing its magnificence with future generations. We recommend you stay on designated paths, refrain from touching the structures avoid leaning against walls.
2. Follow the Designated Circuits: To manage the flow of visitors and minimize impact, Machu Picchu now offers five distinct circuits. Choose your route wisely and respect the indicated pathways.
3. Respect the Environment: Immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings, but remember to leave no trace. Carry out all waste, including wrappers and containers, and dispose of them responsibly. Help safeguard the delicate balance between heritage and nature.
4. Water Bottle Choice: Instead of bringing plastic bottles, we recommend opting for a reusable water bottle or canteen. This small change contributes to reducing plastic waste and supports sustainability efforts.
5. Hiking Poles: Please note that carrying hiking poles is prohibited. However, if you have a specific need due to a leg issue, we advise you to contact the Ministry of Culture to request a special permission.
6. Rainy Season: A rain jacket is an eco-friendlier choice and will keep you dry while exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu.
7. Photography Etiquette: While taking photos at Machu Picchu is necessary, tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited at Machu Picchu as they obstruct the pathways. Avoid taking selfies to ensure your safety and your fellow visitor’s experience.
8. Silence: As you travel the pathways, remember that Machu Picchu is a place of reverence and contemplation. Keep conversations at a considerate volume and embrace the serenity that envelopes this ancient city.
9. Guided Tours: With an experienced guide, unlock the fascinating stories that lie within Machu Picchu’s stones. Their knowledge shed light on the site’s historical, architectural and cultural significance, enhancing your connection with its past.
10. Beyond the Gates: Respect the boundaries that separate visitors from certain areas. Avoid venturing into off-limit zones, as they’re cordoned off to ensure both your safety and the preservation of the site.
11. Leave No Trace: Preservation begins with each visitor. Refrain from leaving any marks, such as graffiti or etchings, on the stones. Let your memory of Machu Picchu remain intact without altering its physicality.
12. Waste Management: Dispose of waste thoughtfully by utilizing the provided trash receptacles. Minimize the impact of your visit by embracing the ‘pack-in, pack-out’ principle, ensuring the citadel remains as pristine as it was meant to be.
Inca Trail + Machu Picchu New Rules 2025
- All visitors must be accompanied by a Tour Guide.
- A group must not exceed 16 visitors.
- A maximum of 500 people per day (including supporting staff) is allowed to start an Inca Trail.
- Porters are not authorized to carry more than 7 kg.
- The route remains closed during the month of every February for its maintenance.
- An Inca Trail booking must be through an authorized travel agency/tour operator that is responsible for an entry ticket purchase.
- Admission of an Inca Trail permit can only be made at the Ministry of Culture’s box office. No payment and for any reason will be accepted at the entrance and checkpoints of the Inca Trail!!
- Staying in the trail network must not exceed the deadline set for each route.
- Lavatories (bathrooms) are intended for public use and are properly marked. They cannot be used for washing dishes or sleeping!
Tour Operators
You will need a tour operator who is well-versed in the new rules and how they affect treks and tours. You will also need to arrange your tickets in advance, never arrive without Machu Picchu tickets organized or you could end up not being able to visit the mountain or citadel at all.
Sam Travel Peru is a locally owned and operated Peruvian tour operator based in Cusco that uses an innovative approach to provide our clients with extended access to these sites without circumventing the new restrictions.
Our college-educated, English-fluent tour guides also have a clear understanding of what visitors are allowed to bring in with them as well as the route they must follow once inside the site. To make the most of your trip – and to avoid getting caught unawares by the new rules and restrictions – trust the local experts at SAM Travel Peru for your trip or trek to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu’s allure lies not just in its extraordinary architecture but also in its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and respect for history. The entrance rules have been introduced to preserve the site for future generations. By adhering to these rules, you contribute to the site’s preservation. Hopefully we have given some clarity to the new regulations for you tour to Machu Picchu.
