Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu

Written by: Andenes del Inca | December 9, 2024

One of the most confusing things about Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu these days are the different circuits that you will have to decide upon. Why are there circuits you may ask? Years ago, you could just go to Machu Picchu, do a tour, roam around the site for as long as you like. But these days, this is not the case. The government of Peru along with UNESCO have changed the rules, now there are restrictions on how many people can enter the site daily, once these tickets have sold out no more people are able to enter. They made this decision to help preserve and protect the historical site.

Along with this you will need to choose a circuit, here in this article, we try and cut down on the confusion about the circuits at Machu Picchu. Which sell out the quickest and what each circuit entails, to help you make an informed decision about your tour to Machu Picchu.

Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu

Circuit 1 or Panoramic

Circuit 1 A : is for those who wish to hike to Machu Picchu Mountain; First you will hike to the Guardhouse above Machu Picchu, here you will get the perfect postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. The hike to Machu Picchu Mountain is around 3 hours round trip and is considered a moderate to difficult hike.
Circuit 1 B :This is the shortest route at Machu Picchu, the hike includes the Guardhouses for great photo opportunities of the ancient Inca citadel, spend time enjoying the views spread before you.
Circuit 1 C: is reserved for those who want to hike up to the Sun Gate or IntiPunku. The hike is about 2 hours roundtrip. The views of Machu Picchu are magnificent so be sure to have plenty of space on your phone to take photos. The gate was reserved for Royalty and Nobles and you will see why when you take in the views of Machu Picchu.
Circuit 1 D : for those who want to visit the Inca Bridge, this fascinating trek takes you past the beautiful scenery of the Andes and also the views of Machu Picchu are breathtaking.

Note, it is very important to note that all Circuit 1 tickets do not include a visit to the ruins of Machu Picchu. If you wish to visit you will need to buy an extra entrance ticket to Machu Picchu and a pay for guide.

Circuit 2 or Inca City Circuit

Considered the Best Circuit Machu Picchu

Circuit 2A traditionally was the most popular with day trippers, as this Circuit explored the most sites of the ruin and includes the best views from the Guardhouse. The sites that Circuit 2 includes are Temples, Plazas, The Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor and the Pisonay Plaza, to name a few.
Circuit 2B, includes mostly the same sites as 2A, without the guardhouse.

Circuit 3: Machu Picchu City & Huayna Picchu

Circuit 3A this will include the lower part of Machu Picchu, not including the Guardhouse view point of Machu Picchu. This circuit is used by all 2, 4 and 5 Inca Trail hikers. Sites you will see on Circuit 3 are The Stone Houses, The Farming Terraces, The Water Mirrors, The Temple of the Sun, The Work Shops, The Temple of the Condor, The Inca House and the Royal Houses.

This circuit also can be combined with the extra hike up to Huayna Picchu mountain (usually extra fee $75), the cone shaped mountain that you see in all the postcards. The hike roundtrip is 2 hours.

Circuit 3B, this circuit includes the lower part of Machu Picchu only. Visit the sites of Temple of the Sun, The Inca House and the Temple of the Condor. You will need a guide to complete your tour of Machu Picchu.

Circuit 3C, again this circuit visits the lower part of Machu Picchu including the sites mentioned above. Plus, a visit to the Big Cave (templo of the moon), this applies ONLY if you have Huayna Picchu tickets.

Circuit 3D, this circuit take you to Huchuy Picchu Mountain. A short hike that is new to the Machu Picchu area. The site has great views and does not take a lot of effort. As part of circuit 3D, you will visit the lower part of Machu Picchu with a guide.

Note: The lower circuits at Machu Picchu do not have access to the viewing points, you will need to purchase an extra ticket if you want to visit.

As you can see there are many circuits to choose from, hope this article help you with your decision on which circuit of Machu Picchu you wish to visit. Contact one of our friendly sales team today for more information.