Can I get Machu Picchu tickets at the last minute?
The truth is that getting a last-minute ticket to Machu Picchu is not the best option. However, it is still possible to get a ticket just a few days before your trip to Peru. You can buy your ticket in person at Aguas Calientes. Here is the correct information for finding a last-minute ticket to Machu Picchu.
How last-minute tickets work in Aguas Calientes
- Go to the Ministry of Culture office in Aguas Calientes. This is the only place to purchase tickets in person.
- Have your original passport or ID ready. You must present your identification to purchase the ticket.
- Check availability. Tickets are sold first come first served and there are limited quantities.
- Purchase your ticket. If tickets are available, you can buy them for the following day visit.
- Consider staying overnight. If tickets are sold out, you may need to stay in Aguas Calientes and try again the next day.
- Be aware of time slots. Tickets are assigned to specific time slots and you must enter within that time.
- Have cash in soles. Payment at the Aguas Calientes office is in cash only.
In conclusion, booking in advance is your optimal strategy. Although it is possible to visit Machu Picchu at the last minute by purchasing one of the 1,000 daily tickets released in Aguas Calientes, it comes with risks such as long queues, limited circuit availability, and the need to stay at least one or two extra days. There is also a chance of not getting a ticket during high season.
DAY 01: Cusco | Train to Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: Enjoy one of the most scenic train journeys in the world as you descend through the Andes into the lush cloud forest.
Your 2 day adventure begins early in the morning when we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00am and transfer you to Ollantaytambo. There you will board the 6:10am Expedition train that takes you through breathtaking landscapes of valleys, rivers and high jungle, gradually descending to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival at 7:40am, your guide will be waiting to welcome you and accompany you throughout the process of getting the tickets. Our guide will help secure an early number in the queue at the Ministry of Culture office, which opens at 3:00pm. Together you will walk through town, visit the ticket office to purchase your Machu Picchu entrance tickets in person with your original passport and cash in soles, and get familiar with the area. The ticket will be purchased by yourself with the full assistance of our guide.
Later you will enjoy lunch not included at one of the top local restaurants. In the afternoon you will have time to explore Aguas Calientes at your own pace. You may choose to visit the hot springs, stroll along the river, or relax in one of the many cafes surrounded by the green peaks of the cloud forest while our guide holds your place in line.
In the evening you will have dinner with your guide and receive a detailed briefing for the next day visit to Machu Picchu. Afterward we recommend resting early to be ready for the highlight of your trip.
Please note: On Day 1 we travel to Aguas Calientes and do our best to secure your tickets for Machu Picchu for Day 2. People queue from 4:00am for numbers, so our early arrival gives you the best chance.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Dinner included
DAY 02: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Highlight of the day: Discovering every corner of the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
Depending on your ticket time slot, you will take the bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu early morning. The ride follows a steep winding road and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Once inside the citadel, your guide will lead you on a comprehensive two hour private tour, visiting important areas such as temples, plazas, terraces and ceremonial centers. You will learn about the fascinating history, architecture and spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After your visit, you will return to Aguas Calientes where you will have time for lunch not included and a bit of shopping or relaxation before boarding the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo. From there a private transfer will take you to your hotel in Cusco. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
If tickets are sold out for Day 2 despite early arrival, you will stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu on Day 3. Extra hotel night is 55 USD per person and train is rearranged at no extra charge.
- Accommodation: None
- Meals: Breakfast
What is included in the Machu Picchu Tour 2 days?
Included
- Pickup at your hotel in Cusco at 4:00am
- Professional guide fluent in English and Spanish for both days
- Private comfortable transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station
- Round trip Expedition train Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu purchased in Aguas Calientes with our guide assistance. Ticket cost is included in price
- Round trip bus tickets Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- 1 breakfast at hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 2
- 1 dinner with your guide on Day 1 in Aguas Calientes
- 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room, private bathroom, hot shower and wifi
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco via private van
- Assistance throughout the entire process of securing last minute tickets
- All taxes and service charges
Not Included
- Water and snacks
- Lunch on Day 1 and Day 2
- Upgrade to Vistadome train 67 USD per person for return train only. Panoramic windows in roof, leather seats and snack included
- Other meals as indicated on itinerary
- Tips for your guide optional
- Travel insurance recommended
Price – Machu Picchu Tour 2 Days with Last Minute Tickets
Tour Details: Licensed Operator in Cusco | Train tickets guaranteed | Free luggage storage in Cusco | All taxes included
Price Per Person – Based on 2 Minimum
- Machu Picchu 2 Days Last Minute Tickets – 2 to 12 People: $497 USD
- Hotel 1 night with private bathroom, Expedition trains (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes return), round-trip bus tickets (Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu), Machu Picchu ticket assistance and cost included, private guide 2 days, 1 breakfast + 1 dinner, private van (Ollantaytambo to Cusco), and all taxes.
Extras – Optional Upgrades
- Upgrade to Vistadome (Per Person Return Only): + $67 USD
- Panoramic roof windows, leather seats, snack, and fashion show included. Departure times: 2:55 PM, 3:20 PM, 4:22 PM, 4:43 PM. Larger windows for canyon views.
- Private Service Upgrade (2 People Minimum): + $80 USD pp
- Private guide and private van both days, flexible departure times, personalized queue assistance, and briefing.
Added Values For FREE
- Hotel with Private Bathroom and Wifi – FREE: 1 night in Aguas Calientes, centrally located 2 minutes walk to train station and Ministry office.
- Train Tickets Guaranteed – FREE: Expedition train (6:10 AM Day 1 and return 2:55 PM to 4:43 PM Day 2) included, rearranged free if extra night is needed.
- Free Luggage Storage in Cusco – FREE: Store large luggage at our office or hotel; travel light with a small daypack (25L max) to Aguas Calientes.
- All Taxes Included – FREE: No hidden fees; Machu Picchu ticket cost included in $497, along with assistance at the Ministry of Culture office (3:00 PM to 10:00 PM).
- Last Minute Ticket Assistance – FREE: Guide secures an early queue number upon 7:40 AM arrival, holds place in queue for 4:00 AM numbers, and helps purchase tickets with passport and cash in Soles.
Availability & Key Information
- Operating Details: Available any day with a minimum of 2 people. Depart Cusco at 4:00 AM to arrive in Aguas Calientes by 7:40 AM for an early queue number.
- Ticket Process: The Ministry of Culture office sells 1,000 tickets daily from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM for next-day entry on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Backup Policy: If tickets are sold out despite early arrival, an extra hotel night is $55 USD per person, and train tickets are rearranged at no extra charge. Book online in advance when possible; this tour serves as your reliable backup plan for last-minute entry.
What to Pack for Machu Picchu Tour 2 Days with Last Minute Tickets
Trek Details: 2 Days / 1 Night | Easy activity (No heavy trekking) | Train + Bus + Hotel | Includes Last Minute Ticket Queue Assistance | Licensed local operator in Cusco
Essential Documents and Cash
- Original Passport (Mandatory)
- You MUST carry the original passport used for booking (no copies or digital photos accepted)
- Checked at the train station, Ministry of Culture ticket office in Aguas Calientes, bus boarding, and Machu Picchu entrance gate
- If you renewed your passport, bring both your old and new original passports
- Cash in Peruvian Soles (CRITICAL)
- Bring at least 152 to 200 Soles cash per person in small bills to purchase your Machu Picchu ticket directly at the Ministry of Culture office (credit cards are often not accepted or payment systems fail)
- Cash for Day 1 and Day 2 lunches (not included), hot springs (20 Soles), souvenirs, and guide tips
- Note: ATMs in Aguas Calientes have long lines and high transaction fees
Packs and Gear
- Small Daypack Only (25L Max)
- Travel light with a small daypack (20L to 25L max) for passport, water, rain jacket, snacks, and overnight toiletries
- Large backpacks over 25 liters, tripods, selfie sticks, and drones are strictly prohibited inside Machu Picchu
- Store your main luggage for FREE at your Cusco hotel or our Cusco office
Footwear and Clothing
- Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes or light trail shoes with good traction (paths in Machu Picchu have uneven stone steps; heavy hiking boots not required, avoid new shoes or high heels)
- Hotel / Casual shoes or sandals for evening in Aguas Calientes
- Clothing Layers
- Base Layer: 2 quick-dry t-shirts and 1 long-sleeve shirt
- Insulating Layer: Fleece or light jacket for early 4:00 AM pickup in Cusco (3,400m)
- Outer Layer: Lightweight waterproof jacket with hood and small rain poncho for cloud forest mist (umbrellas are not allowed inside the citadel)
- Bottoms: 1–2 pairs of comfortable, breathable pants for walking inside the citadel
Hydration, Sun, and Insect Protection
- Hydration & Snacks
- Reusable water bottle (1L to 1.5L capacity) and energy bars/snacks for waiting in ticket lines
- Single-use disposable plastic water bottles are strictly forbidden inside Machu Picchu
- Sun & Insect Protection
- Wide-brim sun hat, UV-protection sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, and SPF lip balm
- Insect repellent with DEET for Aguas Calientes town and Machu Picchu (2,040m – 2,430m)
Personal Health, Toiletries, and Electronics
- Personal Health & Toiletries
- Personal medication, altitude pills (sorojchi) if sensitive, hand sanitizer, tissues, and toilet paper
- Overnight toiletries and swimsuit for the local Aguas Calientes hot springs
- Electronics & Extras
- Camera or phone with extra battery and memory card
- Portable Power Bank (minimum 10,000 mAh; essential while waiting in queue and for full days out)
- Small book, card game, or entertainment for waiting in line at the Ministry of Culture ticket office
