The Peruvian authorities have recently announced some changes for visitors heading to Machu Picchu.
As of the 1st June 2024, in order to guarantee the protection and conservation of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, the site will now have three new circuits divided into ten routes, allowing you to enjoy the citadel from any of these locations:
Circuit 1: is the most panoramic, you will be able to see Machu Picchu from the upper terraces
Circuit 2: the most complete and classic route, equivalent to the current circuits 1 and 2, which allow you to enter and explore the citadel.
Circuit 3: currently circuits 3 and 4, also known as the Royalty Circuit, from where you can access the Huayna Picchu mountain and Huchuy Picchu, passing through the area of the Three Gates.
The routes of Circuit 1 are renowned for their spectacular panoramic views. From the summit of the archaeological centre, visitors can enjoy an iconic view, captured in the most famous photograph of this wonder. Following this, visitors can explore various selected sites such as Machu Picchu Mountain, Inti Punku (Sun Gate), and the Inca Bridge, depending on the type of ticket they have purchased.
Its important to note that this circuit does not include access to the urban are of the citadel.
Circuit 1 – Panoramic Circuit
1-A Route: Panoramic Circuit + Machu Picchu Mountain (4-5 Hours)
1-B Route: Panoramic Circuit (1 Hour)
1-C Route: Panoramic Circuit + Inti Punku or Sun Gate (2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours) *High season only
1-D Route: Panoramic Circuit + Inca Bridge (2 Hours) *High season only
Circuit 2 represents the classic and most complete option for the visit to Machu Picchu.
Replacing the old circuits 1 and 2, this tour allows you to explore both the upper and lower terraces, providing access to a wide variety of areas within the archaeological centre. The main distinction between the two routes lies in the initial part of the circuit: while Route A offers an additional Viewpoint at the top, Route B does not.
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Circuit 2- Classic Circuit
2-A Route: Classic Circuit + Upper Terrace (2 hours 30 minutes)
2-B Route: Classic Circuit + Lower Terrace (2 hours 30 minutes)
*Both routes are nearly identical experiences, providing visitors with a complete exploration of the Citadel. These tours represent our standard entry options, subject to availability.
Circuit 3 offers a tour of the lower area of the archaeological centre, highlighting the house of the Inca, the Temple of the Condor and the area of the Three Gates. This route provides a more detailed experience of the urban area of Machu Picchu. It also provides the option to access Huchuy Picchu and the Great Cavern.
With its easy access and less physical demand, the 3B circuit, that does not connect to other sections of the archaeological site, is ideal for those who prefer a more accessible tour. This route offers access to several significant buildings in the lower section of Machu Picchu. It is characterised by minimal uphill hiking and reduced number of stairs.
Circuit 3: Royalty Circuit
3-A Route: Royalty Circuit + Huayna Picchu Mountain (3 – 5 hours)
3-B Route: Royalty Circuit (2 hours)
3-C Route: Royalty Circuit + Great Cavern (2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours) *High season only
3-D Route: Royalty Circuit + Huchuy Picchu (3 hours) *High season only
If you’re interested in visiting Machu Picchu, contact our team to discuss booking your own trip.