What to Know About Machu Picchu Tickets.
Update on Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets
As of now, Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are nearly sold out through July. The 4-day Inca Trail is fully booked for almost the entire year, while the 2-day Inca Trail is sold out until June, with only a few spots remaining. Due to high demand, tickets are being booked out quickly and continuously, so it’s highly recommended to plan well in advance if you’re hoping to visit this Wonder of the World.
Start of the Dry Season in Machu Picchu
The rains are gradually decreasing, signaling the beginning of the dry season starting in May. This period is known for sunny days and clear skies. At the same time, we are also entering the winter months in the Andean region. Therefore, all visitors planning multi-day hikes —such as the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, the Lares Trek, among others— are advised to bring warm clothing for the nights, which can be quite cold. Proper preparation will ensure a more comfortable and safer experience throughout the journey.
What You Should Know About Buying Machu Picchu Tickets in Aguas Calientes
Every day, 1,000 Machu Picchu tickets are made available for purchase in Aguas Calientes — the town located at the base of the Inca citadel. However, many visitors are unaware that when buying tickets there, you cannot choose exactly which circuit you’ll get.
Machu Picchu is divided into four official circuits (Circuits 1, 2, 3, and 4), each offering a different route through the archaeological site:
• Circuit 1 and Circuit 2: These are the most complete and popular routes. They include the upper part of Machu Picchu, where you get the famous panoramic views and the opportunity to take the classic postcard-style photos. These routes also cover key sectors like the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and other important areas.
• Circuit 3 and Circuit 4: These are shorter routes that do not include the upper viewpoints. As a result, you won’t be able to see the entire citadel from above or take the iconic photos. These circuits are mainly intended for visitors who also have tickets to hike Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu.
So, if you buy your ticket in Aguas Calientes on the same day (or even the day before), chances are that only Circuits 3 or 4 will be available. This often leads to disappointment for travelers who were expecting the full Machu Picchu experience.
Our recommendation:
To make the most of your visit and enjoy the best views, we strongly advise buying your ticket in advance, either online or through a licensed travel agency. Make sure to select Circuit 1 or 2 for the most complete and unforgettable experience at Machu Picchu.
Want to Hike Straight into Machu Picchu? The 2-Day Inca Trail Is Your Best Option
At the moment, the only way to hike directly into Machu Picchu via the original Inca Trail is by taking the 2-Day Short Inca Trail. This route is perfect for travelers who want an authentic trekking experience without the physical demands or time commitment of the classic 4-day Inca Trail.
But if you have more time and want a deeper experience in the Andes, we recommend combining the Short Inca Trail with an alternative trek. These combinations allow for better acclimatization, offer breathtaking scenery, and give you the chance to connect with remote Andean communities before arriving at the iconic citadel.
For example, we offer the following unique combinations:
• Lares Trek + 2-Day Inca Trail (4 Days Total):
A beautiful blend of culture and nature. You’ll start with a trek through the Lares Valley, visiting traditional villages and relaxing in natural hot springs, before joining the Short Inca Trail to hike into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
• Inca Quarry Trek + 2-Day Inca Trail:
This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you through ancient Inca quarries, scenic mountain passes, and peaceful trails, before connecting with the Short Inca Trail for a magical entrance into Machu Picchu.
These options are ideal for travelers looking for a more immersive and varied journey, without missing the unforgettable experience of entering Machu Picchu on foot, just like the Incas did. Let us help you plan an unforgettable adventure—tailored to your time, interests, and fitness level.
Secure Your Spot on the 2-Day Inca Trail – Book Early for June or July
If you’re dreaming of hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it’s important to know that permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during the peak travel season.
As of now, May is completely sold out, and June and July are booking up fast. These are some of the busiest months of the year due to the dry season, when the weather is ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
To avoid missing out, we highly recommend that you book your trip in advance through a trusted travel agency. Why? Because they will take care of all the logistics, making your journey stress-free and fully organized. This typically includes:
• Your official Inca Trail permit
• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu
• Round-trip train tickets (to and from Aguas Calientes)
• Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance
• Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
• A professional tour guide
• Meals and all necessary transfers
Keep in mind that during high season, it can be very difficult to find hotel rooms at a reasonable price — or at all. Prices often increase due to high demand. That’s why booking with an agency not only secures your space on the trail, but also ensures you have guaranteed services and accommodations waiting for you.
Don’t wait until the last minute — permits are limited, and high season is approaching fast. Reserve your spot now and let the professionals handle everything, so all you have to do is enjoy the journey to Machu Picchu.
Train to machu picchu
Why You Should Book Your Short Inca Trail Early — High Season is Coming
If you’re planning to hike the 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it’s important to understand that the months of June and July are part of the high travel season in Peru — especially in the Cusco region. This is when both local and international demand peaks, and availability becomes extremely limited.
Here’s why booking early is essential:
1. Train Prices Increase Due to High Demand
During the dry season (especially June through August), train tickets to and from Machu Picchu become more expensive, and the most convenient schedules often sell out first. Travelers who wait too long may only find very early or very late train departures — or no availability at all.
2. Hotels in Aguas Calientes Fill Up Quickly
Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu) has limited hotel capacity. During high season, accommodations can be fully booked weeks in advance, and prices tend to rise significantly. Booking late often means paying more for lower-quality options — or not finding a room at all.
3. Cusco Celebrates Its Most Important Festivals
June is a particularly special month in Cusco, as the city celebrates Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) and other patron saint festivals. These events attract thousands of visitors from around the world and across Peru. With such a large influx of people, demand for everything — including flights, hotels, guides, and Machu Picchu tickets — skyrockets.
4. Limited Inca Trail Permits
The 2-Day Inca Trail has a limited number of daily permits, and during peak season, these can sell out weeks or even months in advance. Once they’re gone, there’s no way to get more, and you’ll need to consider an alternative route.
Our Recommendation
To avoid stress and disappointment, we highly recommend booking your trip as early as possible through a trusted travel agency. Agencies handle all the details, including:
• Inca Trail permits
• Machu Picchu entrance tickets
• Round-trip train tickets
• Buses to and from the site
• Hotel reservations in Aguas Calientes
• Professional guide and support team
Booking early not only guarantees your spot on the trail but also locks in better prices and better services. we are also inca trail classic
