Machu Picchu rules: what to bring, bag size, banned items and guides

Machu Picchu is a protected historic sanctuary and visits are regulated by strict rules to conserve the site and manage visitor flow. Knowing them in advance avoids surprises at the gate, like having to check your backpack or being refused entry for arriving late. This guide sums up the main rules. Rules can change, so always confirm current information on the Peruvian Ministry of Culture's official channels before your visit.

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Entry, time slot and passport

• Tickets are named and have an assigned circuit and entry time. Arrive early: if you're late, you may be refused entry.
• Bring the original passport or ID used to buy the ticket; it's checked at the gate. Photocopies usually aren't accepted.
• If you have a student discount, bring a valid card.
• Buy tickets in advance, especially in high season, on the official website or through authorised operators.

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One-way circuits

Visits follow signposted one-way circuits. You can't go back or switch circuits, and time inside is limited. Choose your circuit carefully when buying: some include the classic panoramic views and others cover the lower citadel. Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain and other routes have specific tickets.

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Is a guide mandatory?

For years the regulations required visitors to tour the sanctuary with an authorised official guide, although enforcement varied. The amendment approved in September 2026 (Ministerial Resolution No. 334-2026-MC) states that you need your ticket and ID to enter and that going with a tour guide is recommended; site staff may ask for your ticket or ID inside the Llaqta. Check the current rule when you buy your ticket. You can hire a guide at the entrance or book a tour that includes one. A good guide adds lots of historical context. On the Inca Trail it remains mandatory to go with an authorised agency and an official tour guide (Inca Trail Network Regulation, R.M. 069-2017-MC).

Bag size and left luggage

Only small bags or backpacks are allowed; the rules set approximate maximum dimensions of 40 x 35 x 20 cm. Large backpacks must be left at the entrance luggage storage for a small fee. If you're on a multi-day trek, pack your day bag the night before.

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Banned items

Under the regulations, banned items include:

• Food and alcoholic drinks; eating inside the sanctuary isn't allowed.
• Single-use plastic containers; bring a reusable bottle.
• Umbrellas, selfie sticks, tripods and metal-tipped poles. Rubber-tipped poles are allowed for older visitors or those with mobility issues.
• Drones, musical instruments, speakers and megaphones.
• Animals, except assistance dogs.
• Costumes, banners or advertising.

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Behaviour rules

• Don't touch, climb or lean on walls and structures.
• Stay on paths and don't cross ropes or signs.
• Don't jump, run or make excessive noise.
• Don't feed or disturb the llamas and other animals.
• No smoking or fires.
• Follow staff and ranger instructions.

Toilets and food

There are no toilets inside the citadel; they're by the main entrance for a small fee. Go before entering. There are no restaurants inside either: eat before or after near the entrance or in Aguas Calientes. You can carry water in a reusable bottle and at most a discreet emergency snack, not eaten on site.

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What to wear and bring

There's no formal dress code, but use common sense:

• Layers: cool mornings, hot middays.
• A waterproof jacket or poncho, especially November to March.
• Comfortable shoes with good grip: there are many stone stairs.
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Insect repellent: small biting flies are common.
• Passport, printed or digital ticket, cash for toilets and left luggage.

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Reaching the gate on time

From Aguas Calientes, buses climb the zigzag road to the entrance in about 25–30 minutes, or you can walk a steep stepped trail in roughly an hour and a half. In high season there are early-morning bus queues: factor that in so you don't miss your entry time. Buy your bus ticket in advance.

• Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town): getting there, things to do and where to stay

Common mistakes

• Bringing a large backpack and losing time at left luggage.
• Leaving the original passport at the hotel.
• Not using the toilet before entering.
• Buying a circuit without the views you wanted.

Before you go

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Land connected: install an Airalo data eSIM before you travel and switch it on when you land. Check first that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.

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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).