Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu 2026
One of the most confusing things about Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu these days are the different circuits that you will have to decide upon. Why are there circuits you may ask? Years ago, you could just go to Machu Picchu, do a tour, roam around the site for as long as you like. But these days, this is not the case. The government of Peru along with UNESCO have changed the rules, now there are restrictions on how many people can enter the site daily, once these tickets have sold out no more people are able to enter. They made this decision to help preserve and protect the historical site.
Along with this you will need to choose a circuit, here in this article, we try and cut down on the confusion about the circuits at Machu Picchu. Which sell out the quickest and what each circuit entails, to help you make an informed decision about your tour to Machu Picchu.
Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu
Circuit 1 or Panoramic – This is mainly to take the famouse poscard Pictures!
- Circuit 1 A : is for those who wish to hike to Machu Picchu Mountain; First you will hike to the Guard house above Machu Picchu, here you will get the perfect postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. The hike to Machu Picchu Mountain is around 3 hours round trip and is considered a moderate to difficult hike.
- Circuit 1 B :This is the shortest route at Machu Picchu, the hike includes the Guard houses for great photo opportunities of the ancient Inca citadel, spend time enjoying the views spread before you.
- Circuit 1 C: is reserved for those who want to hike up to the Sun Gate or IntiPunku. The hike is about 2 hours roun-dtrip. The views of Machu Picchu are magnificent so be sure to have plenty of space on your phone to take photos. The gate was reserved for Royalty and Nobles and you will see why when you take in the views of Machu Picchu.
- Circuit 1 D : for those who want to visit the Inca Bridge, this fascinating trek takes you past the beautiful scenery of the Andes and also the views of Machu Picchu are breathtaking.
Note, it is very important to note that all Circuit 1 tickets do not include a visit to the ruins of Machu Picchu. If you wish to visit you will need to buy an extra entrance ticket to Machu Picchu and a pay for guide.
Circuit 2 – Which is consider to be the BEST one!
Considered the Best Circuit Machu Picchu
- Circuit 2A traditionally was the most popular with day trip visitors, as this Circuit explored the most sites of the ruin and includes the best views from the Guard-house. The sites that Circuit 2 includes are Temples, Plazas, The Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor and the Pisonay Plaza, to name a few.
- Circuit 2B, includes mostly the same sites as 2A, without the guard-house, however still include the best view point.
Circuit 3: Machu Picchu City & Huayna Picchu
Circuit 3A this will include the lower part of Machu Picchu, not including the Guard-house view point of Machu Picchu. This circuit is used by all 2, 4 and 5 Inca Trail hikers. Sites you will see on Circuit 3 are The Stone Houses, The Farming Terraces, The Water Mirrors, The Temple of the Sun, The Work Shops, The Temple of the Condor, The Inca House and the Royal Houses.
This circuit also can be combined with the extra hike up to Huayna Picchu mountain (usually extra fee $75), the cone shaped mountain that you see in all the postcards. The hike roundtrip is 2 hours.
Circuit 3B, this circuit includes the lower part of Machu Picchu only. Visit the sites of Temple of the Sun, The Inca House and the Temple of the Condor. You will need a guide to complete your tour of Machu Picchu.
Circuit 3C, again this circuit visits the lower part of Machu Picchu including the sites mentioned above. Plus, a visit to the Big Cave (templo of the moon), this applies ONLY if you have Huayna Picchu tickets.
Circuit 3D, this circuit take you to Huchuy Picchu Mountain. A short hike that is new to the Machu Picchu area. The site has great views and does not take a lot of effort. As part of circuit 3D, you will visit the lower part of Machu Picchu with a guide.
Note: The lower circuits at Machu Picchu do not have access to the viewing points, you will need to purchase an extra ticket if you want to visit.
As you can see there are many circuits to choose from, hope this article help you with your decision on which circuit of Machu Picchu you wish to visit. Contact one of our friendly sales team today for more information.
What is the best Circuit for Visiting Machu Picchu?
The best circuit for Machu Picchu is Circuit 2, also known as the Classic or Designed Classic Route. This route offers a comprehensive experience of the Inca citadel, including the iconic panoramic view from the upper terrace and access to the heart of the ruins.
Why it’s the best?
Circuit 2 allows visitors to see the classic postcard view, explore the upper and lower sections of the citadel, and visit significant landmarks like the Sacred Plaza, Temple of the Three Windows, and Main Temple.
Alternatives:
If you are interested in specific hikes or have visited Machu Picchu before, other circuits like Circuit 1 (for the classic view and shorter visit) or those including Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain might be more suitable.
When to book the Circuit 2?
It’s highly recommended to book your tickets and chosen circuit well in advance (At least 3 or 4 month), especially during peak season, as they can sell out quickly.
Frequent Asked Questions About The Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu.
Which Circuit Is Best For Machu Picchu?
Circuit #2 is the best circuit for taking the classic photo of Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu in the background. It offers the most beautiful views. You will also visit most of the sites (except the Temple of the Sun). It takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete the circuit.
How Much Is The Circuit 2 Machu Picchu Ticket?
The price for this entry is 152.00 Peruvian soles (equivalent to US $45.00) for adults. Students can get a reduced rate by showing their student ID, then it’s 77.00 Peruvian soles (about US $23.00).”
Which Machu Picchu Circuit Is Best For Kids?
Circuit 02 is best for visiting Machu Picchu with kids because you will be able to take the classic Picchu of Machu Picchu with your kids. If your kids are tired, they don’t need to complete the full circuit, you can take the short cut and finish visiting Mapi quickly. Every circuit has stairs so there is no specific circuit that we can recommend for your kids.
How Long Does It Take To Do Machu Picchu Circuit 2?
Circuit 2 will require about 3 to 4 hours to complete, covering both the upper and lower sections of the route. This is the circuit purchased by Expeditions for their customers.
How Many Circuits Does Machu Picchu Have?
Machu Picchu is organized into three main circuits, and these circuits are further divided into ten different routes.
Which Circuit Is Huayna Picchu In?
Actually, Huayna Picchu Mountain is part of Circuit 3 at Machu Picchu
