Machu Picchu has a daily visitor limit and every ticket comes with a fixed circuit and entry time. Here is how far ahead to book, and what we need from you to secure it.
Machu Picchu is not a place you can just turn up to. The citadel has a daily visitor limit, and every ticket is issued in your name for a specific date, circuit and entry time. In the busiest months they sell out weeks or even months ahead — which is why, when you book a tour with us, the first thing we secure is your entrance ticket.
How many people can enter each day
In 2026 the Ministry of Culture allows up to 4,500 visitors a day for most of the year, and up to 5,600 on high-demand dates: from late June to early November, Easter week and the end of the year. A small share of tickets is sold in person in Aguas Calientes, in limited numbers and on a first-come, first-served basis — so it is not something to count on.
Your ticket has a fixed circuit and entry time
Since June 2024 each ticket is sold for one circuit and route, chosen at the time of purchase. You cannot switch circuits once inside, and you cannot re-enter after leaving the citadel. Circuit 2, the classic route with the famous postcard view, is the most popular and the first to sell out. Early-morning entry times also go fast.
How far in advance should you book?
June to September: 3 to 6 months ahead. This is the dry season and the busiest time of the year.
April, May and October: 1 to 2 months ahead.
November to March: a few weeks are usually enough, although the first entry times of the day sell out earlier.
Huayna Picchu: as early as possible. It has very few daily spots and is always the first ticket to sell out.
Inca Trail: permits are limited and usually sell out 6 months or more ahead for the dry season. The trail closes every February for maintenance.
What we need from you to book
Tickets are personal, so we need your full name, passport number, nationality and date of birth exactly as they appear on your passport. Bring that same passport on the day: it is checked at the entrance and on the train.
What if tickets are sold out?
There are still options: a different entry time or circuit, a different date, or a multi-day trek that includes its own entrance. Tell us your dates and we will check real availability before you pay anything.
Book your tour early
All our Machu Picchu tours include the entrance ticket, the train or transport and a professional guide. The sooner you confirm, the more circuits and entry times we can choose from.
