Machu Picchu is the most visited site in Peru and a must see on any trip to South America. In the past many thousands of visitors flocked to the site everyday causing overcrowding and damage that is unrepairable. To that end the Government of Peru has enforced strict rules and regulations for the preservation of this wonderful and fascinating site.
Today there is a limit to how many people can pass through the gates of Machu Picchu, here we will explain the regulations.
Tickets for Machu Picchu
In total, 4500 visitors are allowed to purchase Machu Picchu tickets for 2024 every day.
Machu Picchu New Circuits
The Regulation of Sustainable Use and Tourist Visits for the Conservation of Llaqta of Machu Picchu established new circuits. According to the regulation, visitors must follow and respect the circuits at Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
There are 3 Circuits to enter Machu Picchu they are as follows
The Machu Picchu Circuits as of 1st June 2024
- Circuit 1 A, The 2 viewing points at the top of Machu Picchu and the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Circuit 1 B, The 2 viewing points at the top of Machu Picchu.
- Circuit 1 C, The 2 viewing points at the top of Machu Picchu and the hike to the Sun Gate
- Circuit 1 D, The 2 viewing points at the top of Machu Picchu and the hike to the Inca Bridge
- Circuit 2 A, The 1 viewing point at the top of Machu Picchu and the complete tour of Machu Picchu
- Circuit 2 B, The complete tour of Machu Picchu, no viewing points.
- Circuit 3 A, The hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain, no viewing points.
- Circuit 3 B, The tour of the lower half of Machu Picchu, no viewing points
- Circuit 3 C The hike to the Grand Cave, no viewing points
- Circuit 3 D The hike to Huchuypicchu, no viewing points.
If you wish to do extra hikes ie, Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu, Huchuypicchu, Sun Gate or the Grand Cave, you will need to buy an extra tickets to view Machu Picchu. Circuits that do not include a viewing point, you must purchase an extra ticket to see the viewing points.
How Long Can I Stay at Machu Picchu?
The new Machu Picchu rules restrict visitors to two-hour stays maximum. Most visitors do not take more than four hours on average to explore the site. Officials exercise control over the amount of traffic at any given time to maintain control of the Inca sanctuary. It Is regulation that all tourists must be led by a tour guide in order to preserve the world heritage site. Each guide can go with a maximum of 10 tourists. No reentry permissions. The guided tour duration was set in 2 hours in order to free room for more groups, avoid crowds and especially protect the Inca town of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Entry Conditions
To enter Machu Picchu, you must hold an entry ticket, an official ID, be accompanied by a Tour Guide. Machu Picchu staff may request your ticket and/or ID at any time during your time there.
If you are a foreigner, a valid identity card is your passport, immigration card, or diplomatic identity card. If you are a foreign student, you must present a valid ISIC card.
Important Rules to Follow When Visiting Machu Picchu
1.-Stay on designated paths, refrain from touching the structures, avoid leaning against walls to prevent unnecessary damage.
2.-To manage the flow of visitors and minimize impact, Machu Picchu now offers three distinct circuits. Choose your route wisely and respect the pathways.
3.- Immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings, but remember to leave no trace. Carry out all waste, including wrappers and containers, and dispose of them responsibly. Help safeguard the delicate balance between history and nature.
We recommend opting for a reusable water bottle or canteen. This small change contributes to reducing plastic waste and supports sustainability efforts. Note: No Hiking Poles allowed.
However, if you have a specific need due to a leg issue, we advise you to contact the Ministry of Culture to request a special permission.
During the rainy season, skip the plastic poncho. An eco-friendlier choice is a raincoat it will keep you dry while exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu.
4.- Take as many photos of Machu Picchu as you like, but do so thoughtfully. Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited as they can obstruct pathways. And while it’s great to take selfies, ensure your safety and do not compromise on rules or your fellow visitors’ experience.
5.- Machu Picchu is a place of reverence and contemplation. Keep conversations at a considerate volume and embrace the serenity of Machu Picchu.
6.- Respect the boundaries that separate visitors from certain areas. Avoid venturing into off-limit zones.
7.- Preservation begins with each visitor. Refrain from leaving any marks, such as graffiti or etchings, on the stones. Let your memory of Machu Picchu remain intact without altering its physicality.
Some Prohibited Behavior at Machu Picchu
- Carry Sharp Knives and Weapons
- Smoking
- Taking Illegal Routes
- Cause Disorder
- Using Drones
- Feeding the animals
Prohibited Objects at Machu Picchu
- Tripods and Selfie Sticks
- Heels
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Baby Carriages
- Backpacks larger than 40 x 35 x 20
- Plastics
Inca Trail + Machu Picchu New Rules 2024
- All visitors must be accompanied by a Tour Guide.
- A group must not exceed 16 visitors.
- A maximum of 500 people per day (including supporting staff) are allowed to start an Inca Trail.
- Porters can carry maximum 14 kg.
- The route remains closed during the month of every February for its maintenance.
- An Inca Trail Booking 2024 can be through an authorized travel agency/tour operator that is responsible for an entry ticket purchase.
- An Inca Trail permit can only be purchased at the Ministry of Culture’s box office. No payment and for any reason will be accepted at the entrance and checkpoints of the Inca Trail
- Staying in the trail network must not exceed the deadline set for each route.
- Lavatories (bathrooms) are intended for public use and are properly marked. They are not for washing dishes or sleeping.
Rules for entering Huayna Picchu
- There are only 200 tickets per day which sell out quickly so book months in advance to avoid disappointment.
- The first entrance group is at 7am and the last is at 9am, the site closes at 1pm so all visitors are to leave at this hour.
- Children under 12 years old are not allowed to do the Huayna Picchu trek.
- You need to be of good psychical condition to do this hike and the climb in places can be steep.
Rules for trekking to Machu Picchu Mountain
- There are only 200 per day which sell out quickly so book months in advance to avoid disappointment.
- The first entrance group is at am and the last is at am, there are no restrictions on the amount of time you can spend at the site.
- The trek is open to people of all ages
- You need to be in reasonable psychical condition to this trek.
All these rules and regulations are put in place to make your Machu Picchu experience memorable. Book with a licensed local travel agent to ensure a smooth trip to the ancient Inca City of Machu Picchu.
