On the far side of the Machu Picchu complex lies a strange bridge that at first left archeologists puzzled. The bridge was constructed on a pathway cut into the side of a cliff high above the ground and has been since given the name Inca Bridge. Because of the location, danger, and how narrow the bridge is it was most likely not used as a typical passage. The most accepted theory is that it was intended as an evacuation route for the Inca in the event Machu Picchu was attacked by invaders. The bridge consists of a couple logs placed across a large gap. Once the Inca escaped, the logs would be removed preventing anyone from perusing the fleeing Inca.
The Inca bridge is located in the northern most part of the Machu Picchu complex. In order to get to the Inca Bridge, you will need to purchase a ticket for “circuit 1D Inca Bridge”. To get to the Inca Bridge you’ll need to hike up past the guard house and the agricultural terraces. The hike is short, just follow the wooden signs marked “Inca Bridge” if you’re confused or cannot find the trail leading to the bridge you can always ask one of the staff for guidance. Please be aware you cannot access the Inca Bridge as there is a locked gate just before it. But honestly, you really don’t want to walk across this bridge. Being so narrow and with a 1,000-foot drop, a slight misstep or slip could easily prove fatal.
As stated before, you can only get to the Inca Bridge by purchasing the ticket type “circuit 1D Inca Bridge”. There are however multiple different types of entries depending on the Individual.
| Entry type | Cost |
| General Admission | $75 |
| International Student | $75 |
| Minors (3 to 17 years) | $75 |
There are 3 different circuits at Machu Picchu, all these circuits have sub circuits that are listed below.
Machu Picchu Mountain Route.
This is the circuit you will need to buy to hike to Machu Picchu Mountain. Included in this ticket is the 2 best viewing points, to see the best views of Machu Picchu. The hike is not difficult and offers great views at the top. This is a great hike for all the family. You will need to buy an extra ticket to see the ruins of Machu Picchu.
Circuit 1B
This circuit is for the 2 viewing points above Machu Picchu. Here you have spectacular views of the Inca Citdel. Many combine this ticket with a Circuit 3B entrance for the best Machu Picchu Experience.
Circuit 1C
This is the ticket you will buy if you wish to walk to the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu. Including in this ticket are the 2 viewing points, for the best views of Machu Picchu. You will need to buy an extra ticket to see the ruins of Machu Picchu. This is only offered in high season
Circuit 1D
This is the ticket that you will need to buy to see the Inca Bridge. Included in this ticket are 2 viewing points above Machu Picchu. If you want to visit the main ruins of Machu Picchu you will need to buy a seperate entrance ticket. . The Inca Bridge route is only available in high season.
This circuit is the most popular and the most complete of all the Machu Picchu Circuits. This circuit covers most of Machu Picchu with 1 viewing point included. This ticket sells out the quickest so book early.
Circuit 2B
Also a complete tour of Machu Picchu, visiting the important sites. This circuit doesnt include the viewing points above the Citadel. For those who want to see the viewing points you will need to buy an extra circuit 1 ticket.
Circuit 3A
This ticket is for those who want to hike to Huayna Picchu. This challenging hike will test your fitness. The views from the top of Machu Picchu are spectacular. This route sells out quickly so book in advance. If you wish to tour the ruins of Machu Picchu you will need to purchase an extra ticket.
Circuit 3B
Circuit 3 is the lower half of the Machu Picchu ruins, see many of the important parts of Machu Picchu. Many buy this ticket and also another Circuit 1 ticket to see the viewing points. This ticket is included in most of the trekking packages.
Circuit 3C
This ticket is for those who want to see the Gran Caverna. Tickets are mostly availble and this route is only availble in high season. For those who want to see the ruins of Machu Picchu you will need to buy another entrance ticket.
Circuit 3D
Tickets to Circuit 3D to Huchuypicchu are readily available. As with most of the other circuits you will need to buy another entrance ticket if you want to visit the ruins at Machu Picchu. This route is only available in high season.
The best time of the day to visit the Inca Bridge is as early as possible. Try and get the earliest time group so you can see the most of Machu Picchu.
For most people, the best time of year to visit the Inca Bridge, Machu Picchu and the region in general is in the dry season. The dry season starts in May and continues until the end of October. Because of the good weather you are guaranteed great views of Machu Picchu during this time of year. However, it’s important to consider this is the busiest time for the region and Machu Picchu.
One of the most peculiar parts of Machu Picchu, The Inca Bridge escape route is a testament to the preparedness and organization of the Inca Empire. They really though of everything when constructing the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.
