Machu Picchu circuits explained: which to choose (1, 2 or 3) and what you see

Since 2024, visits to Machu Picchu are organised into three circuits, each with several routes. Choosing well matters more than it seems: not every circuit passes the classic postcard viewpoint, not all of them enter the temple area, and some include a mountain climb. This guide explains in plain language what each circuit offers and which one suits your trip.

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The basics before choosing

• Each ticket is for one circuit and one route. Inside the site the path is one-way and signposted.
• You can't switch circuits or freely walk back.
• Routes and names are defined by the Ministry of Culture and can be adjusted. Check the current map on the official site before buying.
• Time inside is limited by route (generally a few hours).

Circuit 1: panoramic (the upper area)

Circuit 1 covers the upper part of the citadel, with the broadest panoramic views. Its strength is the view; its limitation is that it barely enters the lower temple area. Routes include:

• Machu Picchu Mountain route: the upper area plus the climb up the mountain — long and demanding.
• Upper terrace route: focused on the high viewpoints, ideal for photos.
• Sun Gate (Intipunku) route: climbs the old Inca Trail to the gate where trekkers arrive.
• Inca Bridge route: a short cliffside path to a wooden bridge over a drop.

Circuit 2: classic (the most complete)

Circuit 2 is the most popular because it combines the classic view from the terraces with a walk through much of the citadel: plazas, compounds, the temple area seen along the way and residential sectors. It has two variants:

• Classic route: passes the upper terrace with the postcard view, then descends through the citadel. The most requested and first to sell out.
• Lower terrace route: tours the citadel from a lower level, with a more limited version of the classic view.

If the iconic photo is your priority, check that your specific route includes the upper terrace before paying.

Circuit 3: royalty (lower area and Huayna Picchu)

Circuit 3 focuses on the lower area and sectors linked to the Inca elite. It doesn't include the classic view from above, but it gives access to the most famous climbs:

• Huayna Picchu route: the pointed peak behind the citadel in every photo. Narrow, steep steps; very limited quota.
• Great Cavern route: a trail to the so-called Temple of the Moon on the back slope of Huayna Picchu.
• Huchuy Picchu route: a short small hill, good if you want a gentle climb.
• Royalty route: the lower citadel without an extra climb.

• Huayna Picchu vs Machu Picchu Mountain: which to climb and what each hike is like

Which one suits you?

• First visit, one day: Circuit 2, classic route.
• Widest views plus a hike: Circuit 1 with the Mountain or Sun Gate.
• Heights don't scare you: Circuit 3 with Huayna Picchu.
• Small children or older travellers: Circuit 2 or the short Huchuy Picchu route.
• Two days: combine a viewpoint circuit (1 or 2) with a temples or mountain circuit (3).

Times and logistics

Tickets are sold in hourly slots from early morning. If you sleep in Aguas Calientes you can choose the first slots; arriving by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo the same day, you'll need a mid-morning or afternoon slot. Also allow for the bus queue, which can be long in high season.

• Machu Picchu tickets: how to buy them on the official site and not miss out
• Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town): getting there, things to do and where to stay

With or without a guide?

The regulations, as amended in September 2026 (Ministerial Resolution 334-2026-MC), recommend entering with a tour guide, and in practice a guide adds a lot: the route is signposted but has almost no explanatory panels. You can hire one at the entrance or as part of a tour.

Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).