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 norther most part of the Machu Picchu complex. In order to get to the Inca Bridge, you will need to purchase a ticket for “circuit 1 or 2 + Inca Bridge”. Make sure you get one of the earliest time slots possible because some of the attractions offered in circuits 2 close in the later part of the day. 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 1 or 2 + Inca Bridge”. There are however multiple different types of entries depending on the Individual.
| Entry type | Cost |
| General Admission | S/ 152.00 ($40) |
| International Student | S/ 77.00 ($20) |
| Minors (3 to 17 years) | S/ 70.00 ($18) |
There are 9 different entry groups each with a one-hour window. If you miss your time slot you will not be allowed to enter, so make sure you’re not late!
| Group | Entry To Machu Picchu | Entry to Inca Bridge |
| Group – 1 | 6am – 7am | 7am – 8am |
| Group – 2 | 7am – 8am | 8am – 9am |
| Group – 3 | 8am – 9am | 9am – 10am |
| Group – 4 | 9am – 10am | 10am – 11am |
| Group – 5 | 10am – 11am | 11am – 12pm |
| Group – 6 | 11am – 12pm | 12pm – 1pm |
| Group – 7 | 12pm – 1pm | 1pm – 2pm |
| Group – 8 | 1pm – 2pm | 2pm – 3pm |
| Group – 9 | 2pm – 3pm | 3pm – 4pm |
***PLEASE NOTE: If you wan to visit the Inca Bridge at explore all the sites you can you must choose one of the first three morning time groups.
When planning your visit to the Inca Bridge you will have to decide between two different circuits, circuit 1 and 2. Generally considered the best circuits in Machu Picchu, you really can’t go wrong with either circuit, however there are slight differences.
Circuit 1 is a medium length circuit which takes around 2 hours to complete. It offers a visit to the famous Guard House where the best views of Machu Picchu are. Make sure to get all the pictures you can here!
Although you do get the best views of Machu Picchu circuit 1 does not allow you to visit some of the most important sites at Machu Picchu such as the Temple of the Condor and the Mysterious Intihuatana. Circuit one is a compromise circuit of sorts. It’s best for people who want to get the Iconic pictures of Machu Picchu at the Guard House and also limit the amount of walking.
Circuit 2 is objectively the best circuit at Machu Picchu. Being the longest circuit, taking around 3 hours to complete, it’s one of only two circuits that takes you to the Guard House. You will also get to visit the most important sites of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, and The Intihuatana Stone
***PLEASE NOTE: Circuit 2 is the best circuit if you have the time and are able to walk for around 3 hours then choose this circuit!
The best time of the day to visit the Inca Bridge is as early as possible. The first entry group is 8:00am – 9:00 am. 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. The crowds will be biggest this time of year so if you are someone who prefers to stay away from the hordes of Instagramers consider going after or before the dry season.
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.
