Important Updates to the Inca Trail and Visiting Machu Picchu: What Every Traveler Should Know.
Regulations for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are changing frequently, and many of these updates are driven by new decisions made by the Peruvian government. These changes are significantly impacting tour operators and travel agencies in Cusco, who must constantly adapt to continue offering unforgettable experiences while staying compliant with the law.
One of the most important changes was officially approved on May 27, affecting both travelers hiking the classic 4-day Inca Trail and those taking the shorter 2-day version.
What’s the new regulation about?
As of this new law, travelers are no longer allowed to enter Machu Picchu twice using just one entrance ticket. Previously, it was common for hikers to visit the site upon arrival in the afternoon, and return the next morning for a more relaxed, guided tour. Now, if you wish to return for a second visit, you’ll need to purchase an additional ticket.
Furthermore, this second visit is restricted to Circuit 3 only, which offers a more limited view of the site. Circuit 3 does not include access to the upper terraces or the famous Guardian’s House, where the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu is taken.
How does this affect your visit?
These changes primarily affect those who dream of capturing the iconic panoramic photo of Machu Picchu or want to explore the archaeological site more in-depth. It’s now more important than ever to carefully plan which circuit you will enter with and ensure that all tickets and permits are secured well in advance.
Tips for Your Next Adventure:
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Check with your tour operator to confirm which circuit your ticket includes.
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Make sure your ticket gives access to the panoramic viewpoints (usually Circuit 1 or 2).
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If you want to enter Machu Picchu twice, talk to your agency to purchase a second official entry ticket.
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Keep in mind that daily tickets are limited, and demand may increase due to this new policy.
Hiking the Inca Trail to the magical city of Machu Picchu is still one of the world’s greatest adventures. However, with these new regulations in place, your experience now requires more careful planning and preparation. Make sure to book with a knowledgeable and up-to-date operator so that your journey to this sacred site goes smoothly and remains unforgettable.
How was couple month ago the inca trail as entrance?
Travelers who completed the 4-day or 2-day Inca Trail could visit Machu Picchu twice using just one entrance ticket. Most would enter in the afternoon after finishing the hike to get their first view, and then return the next morning for a full guided tour, including the classic photo from the top terraces.
There were fewer restrictions, and you didn’t have to worry much about which circuit your ticket included. It allowed visitors to enjoy the site more calmly and completely.
But since May 27, a new law changed all of that. Now, if you want to enter Machu Picchu more than once, you’ll need to buy an extra ticket — and the second visit is limited to a shorter route that doesn’t include the panoramic views. So planning ahead is now more important than ever.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: How Many Routes Are There?
Many people think there’s only one Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but in reality, there are several trekking routes — though only one follows the original Inca path and enters Machu Picchu directly through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Let’s break it down.
1. Classic Inca Trail (4 days / 3 nights)
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This is the most famous and popular route.
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Covers about 43 km (26 miles) through ancient Inca roads.
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Arrives directly to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) early on the last day.
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Requires booking months in advance and must be done with a licensed guide.
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Includes visits to stunning archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca.
2. Short Inca Trail (2 days / 1 night)
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Perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a shorter hike.
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Starts at KM 104 along the train route to Machu Picchu.
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Also arrives at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate the same day.
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Includes a hotel night in Aguas Calientes and a guided tour the next day.
3. Alternative Treks (do not enter through the Sun Gate)
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Routes like the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, or Inca Quarry trail, Choquequirao trek, are popular alternatives.
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They do not follow the original Inca Trail, and do not arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
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These treks end in Aguas Calientes, from where you take a bus or walk up to Machu Picchu
Thinking of visiting Machu Picchu? Here’s an important tip for you.
If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu — especially by hiking the Inca Trail — plan ahead and book early. Permits for the Classic Inca Trail are limited to only 500 people per day, and they often sell out months in advance, especially during the high season (May to September).
Also, with the new ticket regulations now in effect, it’s important to know which circuit your ticket includes, as it will determine what parts of Machu Picchu you’ll be able to visit — including access to the classic photo spot.
