Machu Picchu Has New Routes: Here's What You Need To Know | Travel Blog

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu can feel overwhelming with all the details and the different circuit choices. Good news: we tested out all the new tour routes that were made available from June 1, 2024. This article explains these routes, how they aim to reduce tourist crowds, and preserve the site.

Keep reading for all you need to know!

All the details for visiting Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu introduced new routes starting June 1, 2024, offering a more personalized visit. You can pick paths that fit your interests and fitness level.
• Prices for tickets vary from S/.152.00 to S/.200.00 ($40 to $52) for visitors from abroad, depending on the chosen path.
• Three main circuits each have special trails open all year or just during the high season (June 1 to October 15). This includes unique views and experiences like climbing Wayna Picchu mountain.
• Planning ahead is essential as you need separate passes for different trails. Check out all options online before your visit to make sure you see everything you're excited about.
• The update aims to reduce crowds and protect the site by spreading visitors across various paths, ensuring a memorable and less crowded experience at this ancient wonder.

• Which are the best routes for first time visitors?

  The short answer is: Circuit 2 visting the Inca City – either the designed route or Lower terrace route. The Ticket to purchase is Machu Picchu Classic 1 or 2.

Short Inca Trail Hike To Machu Picchu Tour

Hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, visiting stunning landscapes and archaeological sites along the way.

Request a quote

Machu Picchu Package

If you're planning to visit Peru, the 6-day package combines the mystical Machu Picchu ruins with the cultural and natural beauty of the Amazon.

From $2,026.00

Exploring Galápagos + Machu Picchu and Peru's Land of the Inca

If you're planning to visit Peru, the 9-day package combines the mystical Machu Picchu ruins with the cultural and natural beauty of the Amazon.

Request a quote

Peru By Belmond Tour

Experience the magic of Machu Picchu and explore Peru's other incredible sights with our comprehensive 5-day travel package.

From $6,337.00

Unveiling the Wonders of Galapagos and Machu Picchu

Experience a 12-day adventure combining the Galapagos Islands' wonders with the ancient allure of Machu Picchu.

Request a quote

Journey to the Seventh Wonder, Machu Picchu Sanctuary

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Request a quote

Circuit comparison table

Explanation of New Tour Circuits at Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is getting exciting new ways to explore. These changes let you have your own adventure and help protect the place from too many visitors at once.

Personalized Experience

Travelers to Peru visiting Machu Picchu now get a more personal touch on their journey. They can pick from various circuits to match what they like best. This means if someone wants to see everything in one go, they can.

It’s all about making the visit fit you, not the other way around. You get to choose your path based on what you’re into – whether that's hiking steep trails or taking in the views at a leisurely pace.

This system cuts down on crowds too. By letting visitors mix and match routes, everyone spreads out more. That makes for a better experience – less waiting, more seeing. Plus, you’ll feel like you’ve got Machu Picchu just to yourself at times.

Imagine walking through ancient ruins or climbing a mountain with much less of a crowd than in past years and no long lines blocking the view.

Reduction of Mass Tourism Impact

Machu Picchu plans to cut down on too many visitors. This helps keep the ancient site safe for years to come. The new routes let fewer people in each day. This means less wear on old paths and buildings.

It also gives each visitor a chance to see Machu Picchu without big crowds.

By offering tours like the Inca Trail and visits to places like Huayna Picchu, visitors now have a choice. They can pick what fits their interests and how hard they want to hike. People get to enjoy views of the Sacred Valley  or explore Incan sites with fewer people around them.

This way, everyone gets a special look at this historic place without harming it.

Three New Circuits with Multiple Sub-Routes

The Peruvian ministry of culture and other authorities that manage Machu Picchu have opened three new circuits this year, each with its own set of paths. These trails offer fresh views and challenges for all types of explorers, making your trip even more special.

Six Available Year-Round

Travelers can visit Machu Picchu anytime and enjoy six sub-routes all year round. These paths are open regardless of the season, giving you the freedom to plan your trip from January to December.

You won't have to worry about missing out on seeing famous places like Intihuatana or experiencing the stairs of death due to seasonal closures. Each route offers a unique view of this ancient site, ensuring that no matter when you go, your experience will be unforgettable.

Every path leads to discovery in Machu Picchu.

Choosing one of these available routes means you get to see parts of Machu Picchu that stay open rain or shine. From exploring old Inca bridges to marveling at panoramic views, visitors have the chance to dive deep into history and nature without time limits.

So grab your identity card, pack for an adventure any month you choose, and get ready for an incredible journey through time in Peru's most famous ruin site.

Four Only Available During High Season

From June 1 to October 15, the high season at Machu Picchu lets you see four special paths. These are times when more visitors come, but also when the weather is best for exploring.

You can walk the Intipunku (sun gate) route and Puente Inka route on Circuit 1. On Circuit 3, try the Great cavern path or Huchuy Picchu path. Each offers unique views of ancient ruins and nature.

I walked these paths myself this past June. The Great cavern gave me a peek at hidden spots not all get to see. I felt like I was taking steps back into history with every turn.

Walking these routes is a must-do for real adventurers seeking to uncover all of Machu Picchu's mysteries beyond the crowded main areas.

Ticketing and Planning for Multiple Circuits

To visit different parts of Machu Picchu, travelers must buy a separate pass for each path. Prices vary from S/.152.00 to S/.200.00 for visitors from other countries. It means planning ahead is vital to explore as much as you want without missing out.

Think about which trails catch your eye and match your fitness level before buying your tickets.

Do not assume one ticket covers all circuits, only to realize you needed different ones for the Panoramic Route and the Inca City Circuit. This mix-up can mean re-arranging your entire schedule on the spot, queuing again for new passes, and paying more than planned – or even worse – not having the opportunity to visit the area you wanted.

Our Peru travel experts can help you decide which Machu Picchu circuits you'd like to walk through before you go.

Circuit 1: The Panoramic Circuit

Circuit 1 lets you see Machu Picchu in a new way. You will find paths leading to breathtaking views and hidden spots that not everyone gets to see.

Routes and Highlights of the Panoramic Circuit

The Panoramic Circuit at Machu Picchu offers four routes, each giving a unique view of this ancient wonder. Route 1-A takes you up the Machu Picchu mountain, where your effort gets rewarded with breathtaking views.

This path is perfect for those who love a challenge and want to soak in the vistas from above.

On Route 1-B, you'll explore the upper terrace route, less steep but full of scenic spots ideal for memorable photos. This choice suits anyone looking to enjoy the beauty without too much strain.

Routes 1-C and 1-D are special; they open only during high season. The Intipunku route lets you enter through the Sun Gate, offering that magical first glimpse of Machu Picchu just like trekkers on the Inca Trail experience it.

If adventure calls you more strongly, take the Puente Inka route to witness how ancient engineers mastered their environment.

Each step at Machu Pichhu reveals a story crafted by time.

These paths allow travelers to see Macchu Picchu from different angles and manage foot traffic effectively, preserving its integrity for future generations. Whether seeking calm moments or thrilling hikes, visitors find what resonates most with them along these trails.

1-A: Machu Picchu mountain route

Moving from the general overview of the Panoramic Circuit, we explore the Machu Picchu mountain route. This path offers stunning views that stretch far and wide. You'll see the ancient citadel in a new way.

Every step on this trail feels like walking through history. The Incas built this place long ago. Imagine seeing what they saw.

This route is open all year. It means you can plan your trip anytime you want to visit Peru. People who love adventures will find this trail exciting. It’s not just a walk; it's a journey back in time to when Pachacuti, an Inca emperor, ruled these lands.

Attractions: Machu Picchu Mountain, Guardhouse, panoramic views of the entire citadel.

1-B: Upper terrace route

Leaving the Machu Picchu mountain behind, we find ourselves on the upper terrace route. This path gives tourists a chance to see the ancient site from above. You'll get views that are hard to beat.

From here, you can look down on all of Machu Picchu and feel like you're floating above it.

This route is open all year. It lets visitors take their time and soak in the sights without rush. You'll walk where Inca feet once did, close to the sky. The panoramic views include not just Machu Picchu but also the surrounding mountains.

Attractions: Upper terraces, Guardhouse, panoramic views for classic photos of Machu Picchu.

1-C: Intipunku cover route (high season only)

Visitors in high season and good physical shape get to explore the Intipunku route. This path is only open during these busy months. It brings a unique view of Machu Picchu that most don't see.

You will walk through parts not seen by everyone. This makes your trip special.

The Intipunku or Sun Gate gives an amazing sight of the city below — early in the morning, it's breathtaking. Think about standing where Inka people stood long ago, seeing Machu Picchu wake up with the sun.

This route is for those who love adventure and want to see more than just what every tour shows.

Attractions: Sun Gate (Intipunku), views along the ancient approach path to Machu Picchu.

1-D: Puente Inka route (high season only)

The Puente Inka route is a special path for those visiting Machu Picchu during the busy months. This route gives you a closer look at the site's engineering marvels. Visitors walk to see an ancient bridge, part of the clever designs made by the Inkas.

Old bridges like this helped them connect their vast empire. It's open just in high season, showing how they managed steep mountainsides and rivers with ease.

This hidden path takes us back, showing how Inkas bridged worlds.

Attractions: Inca Bridge, strategic views of Machu Picchu’s surrounding mountains and valleys.

Circuit 2: The Inca City Circuit

Circuit 2 lets you walk through ancient city spaces. You'll see old houses and key spots that were important to the Inca people.

Routes and Highlights of the Inca Circuit

The Inca Circuit at Machu Picchu offers travelers two unique paths, each showing off the site's ancient beauty. The Classic Designed Route invites visitors to wander through the main areas.

Here, you can see famous spots like the Temple of the Sun and the Room of the Three Windows. It's a journey back in time, where every stone tells a story of Inca engineering and culture.

On the Lower Terrace Route, explorers get closer to nature with views that are hard to beat. This path goes around Machu Picchu’s edges, allowing for less crowded walks and more moments of peace.

You'll find yourself standing above terraced fields that once fed an empire, all while capturing perfect photos against a backdrop of towering mountains and deep valleys. For those wanting to dive deeper into what de Machupicchu has to offer beyond just looking around—this is it.

2-A: Classic designed route

The Classic designed route takes you through the heart of Machu Picchu. It's available all year and covers major landmarks of the Inca City. You'll walk paths where ancient people did, seeing sites that have stood for centuries.

Walking this path is like stepping back in time.

You get to feel what it was like living in Machu Picchu long ago. The experience is personal; you're not just seeing it through pictures or stories.

Attractions: Main urban sector, Temple of the Sun, Royal Palace, Main Square, Three Windows Temple, Condor Temple, Sacred Rock, agricultural sector.

2-B: Lower terrace route

Explore the lower terrace route at Machu Picchu for a unique look at this famous place. This path is great year-round, so you can plan your trip anytime. You'll see parts of Machuiccu from different views not all travelers get to see.

It's a special way to learn about how people long ago used the land.

This trail takes you close to ancient terraces carved into the mountainside. Walking here feels like stepping back in time. As you move along, picture how these terraces were once gardens or fields.

Each step on this route brings new surprises and stories from the past.

Attractions: Lower terraces, view of the Temple of the Condor from below, access to the main urban sector from a lower perspective.

Circuit 3: Royalty Circuit

Circuit 3 offers a walk fit for kings through Machu Picchu's grand spaces. It guides visitors on paths where ancient leaders once roamed, promising an unforgettable journey.

Routes and Highlights of the Royalty Circuit

The Royalty Circuit at Machu Picchu takes travelers on a unique path, mixing adventure with history. This circuit includes the challenging climb up Wayna Picchu mountain. From its peak, visitors can look out over all of Machu Picchu and feel like they are touching the sky.

The journey here is not just about reaching the top but feeling a connection to the past.

Another choice on this route is the designed royalty route that guides you through areas once walked by Inca royals. This part lets you see close-up how these leaders lived and ruled.

For those visiting in high season, exclusive paths like the great cavern route offer a peek into hidden spots most don't see. Exploring Huchuy Picchu adds another layer to your visit, offering sights that stay with you long after you leave.

3-A: Wayna Picchu mountain route

The Wayna Picchu mountain route at Machu Picchu offers a thrilling climb for travelers. This hike takes you up narrow, steep stairs to the top of the iconic peak overlooking the ancient city.

It's not just a walk but an adventure into history, where each step gives you a closer look at how the Incas lived and built in harmony with nature.

For those planning this journey, know that it involves challenging paths best suited for those in good physical condition. Prices for foreigners to experience this exclusive part of Machu Picchu tours are around S/.200.00 (~$52).

The effort pays off with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment once you reach the summit. So, pack your courage along with water and snacks – Wayna Picchu awaits to tell its tales through silent stones and timeless landscapes.

Attractions: Huayna Picchu, Temple of the Moon, Great Cavern, views of Machu Picchu from above.

3-B: Designed royalty route

The designed royalty route at Machu Picchu takes you through parts of the site once walked by Inca kings and queens. This path shows off the Temple of the Sun, a stunning spot that catches the early morning light in ways that seem magical.

It's perfect for travelers who love to feel like they're stepping back in time, walking where leaders of old did. You'll pay about S/.152 (~$40) for a ticket.

You can literally feel the weight of history with each step on the stone paths. Walking through areas meant for royalty, I couldn't help but admire how these ancient builders made such grand places high up in the mountains.

Every corner seemed to hold stories from centuries ago. It was like being part of those royal processions, minus the fancy attire! Knowing that every penny spent goes to preserving this historical gem makes it all more worthwhile.

Attractions: Royal Palace, Temple of the Sun, Principal Plaza, Sacred Rock.

3-C: Great cavern route (high season only)

This route is special because it's open only during the high season. It takes you through stunning caverns, offering views that are unique to this path. You get to see parts of Machu Picchu many others don't.

This makes your trip extra special.

Walking this path, you feel like an explorer discovering hidden secrets. Each step shows more of the ancient site's beauty.

Attractions: Great Caves or the Temple of the Moon, unique flora and fauna along the route.

3-D: Huchuy Picchu route (high season only)

Moving on from the Great cavern track, the Huchuy Picchu trail is another path open only in the high season. This way offers unique views of Machu Picchu. Travelers choose this route for a fresh perspective on the famous site.

You see parts of Machu Picchu that others miss.

The Huchuy Picchu path stands out because it's less crowded. It gives you space and peace to enjoy the view. The time to go is during high season if you want this experience. This way shows you a different side of Machu Pichu, full of beauty and quiet moments.

Attractions: Huchuy Picchu, close-up views of the central sector of Machu Picchu, lesser-known terraces and constructions.

Pricing and Ticket Information

Tickets to see these new paths at Machu Picchu will have different costs for visitors from other countries. The price range varies, so check the official site for the latest info before you plan your trip.

Range of Prices for Foreigners

Prices for exploring Machu Picchu in these new routes vary for travelers from outside the country. They range from S/.152.00 to S/.200.00, depending on what path you choose to take.

For example, if you decide to climb Wayna Picchu Mountain, it will cost about S/.200.00, which is roughly $52. On the other hand, taking the Designed Royalty Route is a bit cheaper at S/.152.00 or around $40.

Based on our own inspection trips, each route offers its unique charm and challenges. These prices allow access to ancient paths and breathtaking views that are worth every penny. 

Visitor Experience and Decision Making

Choosing your visit to Machu Picchu now calls for some thinking ahead. This new setup lets you have a more special trip. You need to pick what you want to see and do before you go.

This way, everyone gets a chance to enjoy without too many people in one place.

This choice helps make sure that your trip feels just right for you. Planning early is key. It lets you fit in all the spots you're excited about. Plus, it helps keep the site nice for years to come.

It is seems overwhelming you can contact a Peru travel advisor at Voyagers and we will help you plan your vacation to your expectations.

Final notes on the circuits

Machu Picchu's new routes in 2024 are an important change. They give you more ways to see this amazing place. You can pick from three new paths with many smaller trails. Some are open all year, and others just in the busy season.

This means you have lots of choices on how to explore and what you'll see. With these options, planning ahead is key to get the tickets you want for your adventure at Machu Picchu.

FAQs

1. What's new about the Machu Picchu routes for 2024?

The Machu Picchu routes for 2024 will be different, there are 3 new circuits each with sub-routes, with changes designed to enhance the visitor experience and preserve this world heritage site.

2. How will these new routes affect my visit to Machu Picchu?

These new paths may alter your travel plans a bit...but remember, they're made to offer you a more enriching journey through this ancient citadel.

3. Why are they changing the routes at Machu Picchu?

The authorities aim to manage tourist flow better—ensuring preservation of the site while delivering an unforgettable experience.

4. What is Circuit 1 like at Machu Picchu?

Circuit 1 takes you to both the top and bottom parts of Machu Picchu. You'll see important Inca places and the highest terraces where you enter Machu Picchu. It's moderate to walk and great for most travelers with an average level of fitness. It takes about 2 hours.

5. What is Circuit 2 like at Machu Picchu?

Circuit 2 gives you the most complete look at Machu Picchu. You get to see famous spots like the Temple of the Sun and the Main Temple. It's the most popular path and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. This is also the easiest circuit to walk and is great for younger kids, seniors and travelers who are not prepared for a strenuous hike.

6. What is Circuit 3 like at Machu Picchu?

Circuit 3 focuses on the central part of Machu Picchu, down below. You'll visit places like the House of the Inka and the Temple of the Sun, plus see where they farmed on the Royalty route. It's a bit shorter, about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and also good for senior travelers. The Wayna Picchu and Great cave routes are better options for active travelers who are in a good level of fitness.

7. Which is the best circuit at Machu Picchu?

Many people think Circuit 2 is the best because it shows you the most of Machu Picchu citadel and goes through most of Inca construction areas. Plus, you can take that famous photo everyone loves!

8. Which circuit lets you take the classic Machu Picchu photo?

You can snap the classic Machu Picchu picture from Circuit 1 and 2 at the Guardian's House. These circuits are linked with the solo entry ticket and the ticket that includes the Inca Bridge.

9. Which circuit lets you climb Huayna Picchu mountain?

If you want to climb up Huayna Picchu, you need the ‘Machupicchu with Huaynapicchu’ ticket. This lets you follow Circuit 4, which goes through the lower part and includes the Casa del Inka.

10. Which Machu Picchu circuit should older adults choose?

Older adults who are fit can go on Circuit 2 (A or B) without trouble. If that’s too much, Circuit 1 Upper terrace route and Circuit 2 lower terrace route, are easier. For those who find walking difficult, Circuits 3 or 4 are best because there are places to sit and enjoy the view from below.

11. What Machu Picchu circuit is good for kids?

Kids can handle any of the circuits, but Circuit 2 is especially recommended because it shows a lot of cool places.