The entrance tickets for Machu Picchu are running out more quickly than ever! The relatively new, more controlled ticketing system at the UNESCO world heritage site and world wonder has brought a measure of relative calm to the overall experience, but availability for certain circuits (routes) and times of day has become tricky even months out. But as long as travelers can be flexible with the entrance time and walking route, there should not be issues with booking their Machu Picchu Tours. Ideal South America’s General Manager, Donovan Hervig, visited recently to get an update on how it’s all working together.
Despite rumors of Peru’s tourist gem being overrun and degrading, all is stable and well at this special Incan city. Although the lines (queues) waiting for the bus up to the Citadel can be long, even this is being monitored, removing those with later entrance times trying to arrive early. And then there’s the check at the main entrance gate, where one cannot enter before the specified time, albeit with a half-hour grace period afterwards. All this helps to smooth out the crowds while inside the Machu Picchu complex. One might notice the casual guards posted near critical points, where the various routes connect – to enforce the many protective site restrictions, along with preventing someone with a ticket for the upper panoramic circuits 1 crossing over to visit the lower “ruins touching” circuits 3, for example.
Which Machu Picchu entrance circuit and time is best?
The best circuit and entrance time for your Machu Picchu ticket is the one you are able to book for your travel dates! The reality is most people can only travel on certain days – this will and should be the guiding factor. It’s better to witness this incredible historical Citadel from any viewpoint versus not at all! While many travelers might prefer the more popular circuits 2, which offers aspects of both circuits 1 and 3, those entrances do run out more quickly. Many argue it’s better to continue ahead with travel plans and see this amazing Inca Sanctuary in the best way possible at the time, versus changing the trip just for a particular route. In the peak summer months (June-Sept.) on some days there might be no availability for any route. Time for plan B!
Some travelers prefer afternoon entrance times, with a lesser chance of fog and clouds, especially during the rainy season (Nov.-March). But as seasons are changing these days, this is less important. There are often clear blue skies in the mornings as well. If travelers want to do one of the connected “side hikes”, such as Huayna Picchu (most famous) or Huchuy Picchu (easier option), these are each unique entrances and would be included with the respective corresponding circuits – for the mornings only.
In many cases these decisions will not be too difficult in the end, as at the time of booking, seasonality and availability for your travel dates will guide the best choice. Some routes (Sun Gate, Inka Bridge) are only available during peak season (June-Sept.). Of course if you plan well-enough ahead (9-12 months), you can look forward to some lively discussions on these matters and more!
For more info on tours in these places, see this sample itinerary – Classic South Peru Tour