Explore Machu Picchu Circuits - Updated June 2024
Machu Picchu is a wonderful destination for those seeking an extraordinary experience during their visit to Peru. Undoubtedly, the Machu Picchu circuits are among the most important attractions offered year-round.
Already up to this fact, if you are planning to explore this impressive Incan citadel, perched high in the Peruvian Andes, you should know that the circuits have been modified starting June 1, 2024. This update aims to ensure the conservation of the natural spaces.
Accordingly, the updated Machu Picchu circuits are now limited to three. However, each circuit contains different sub-circuits based on an established system, totaling 10 visitor routes.
It's worth mentioning that the circuit you take will depend on the ticket you choose, so you should pay attention to the highlights that matter most to you.
Still don’t know which circuit is right for you? Don’t worry! In the following blog, we provide all the updated information about the three Machu Picchu circuits, what you will see in each, and detailed maps to ensure you have the best experience possible. Let's dive in!
The Tourist Circuits of Machu Picchu
The Machu Picchu circuits are one of the major attractions that draw thousands of tourists and locals to the city of Cusco every day. There are multiple good reason for it. The natural beauty, combined with ancient infrastructures, provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the world's most important citadel.
Now, you might be unsure which of the updated Machu Picchu circuits is right for you. Truthfully, it all depends on your preferences. In the following section, we will detail each circuit and its specific routes.
If you haven't yet experienced this majestic cultural stop of the Ancient Inca Empire, get ready to pack your bags and embark on all the Machu Picchu tours we have available for you! 
Circuit 1 Machu Picchu (Panoramic)
Over time, this has become one of the most popular Machu Picchu circuits for visitors to the citadel. The experience offers impressive views of the entire region and unique photo opportunities at every turn. If you choose to take the Machu Picchu Tour by Train 2D/1N with Gurú Explorers, you will have the chance to follow this circuit.
Circuit 1 Machu Picchu, also known as the panoramic circuit, offers four sub-circuits that we will detail right now: 
Circuit 1 (Panoramic) – Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route
Among the updated Machu Picchu circuits, this first route stands out for offering panoramic views of Incan architecture. It is one of the best options if you want a slightly longer tour compared to the other available routes.
The approximate duration of Circuit 1 – Route 1-A Machu Picchu is four hours. The starting point is Kallancas, then passing through the Upper Platform, reaching the Guardian's House where you can take the classic photo. Finally, the tour ends with an interesting experience at Machu Picchu Mountain. Allowed only for visitors over 18 years old.
Circuit 1 (Panoramic) – Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route
Circuit 1 – Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route has a shorter duration (2 hours) compared to the first route, making it ideal if you are short on time or want to explore other local attractions. The tour begins at Kallancas, heads towards the Upper Platform, and ends at the Guardian's House.
While this route does not reach Machu Picchu Mountain, it includes other points of interest, such as views of the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana, although you cannot explore these structures.
Circuit 1 (Panoramic) – Route 1-C: Inti Punku Gate Route
Another of the updated Machu Picchu circuits you can take is Circuit 1 – Route 1-C: Inti Punku Gate Route. However, note that this route is available only during the high season. Similar to the other routes, this option also allows you to take the classic photo at the Guardian's House viewpoint.
The tour lasts 3 hours, starting from Kallancas, passing through the Upper Platform and the Guardian's House, and ending at the Inti Punku Gate. It is a good option for visitors of all ages.
Circuit 1 (Panoramic) – Route 1-D: Inca Bridge Route
Circuit 1 – Route 1-D: Inca Bridge Route is available to the public only during the high season and has an approximate duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes. The adventure begins at Kallancas, heads towards the Upper Platform and the Guardian's House viewpoint for a photo, and concludes at the Inca Bridge.
It is worth mentioning that, unlike other Machu Picchu circuits, this route is only allowed for individuals over 18 years old. If you are traveling with children, we recommend exploring other available routes.
Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu)
The Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu) experience is one of the most comprehensive you can undertake, offering interesting routes that provide the best memories of the citadel. The 1-day Machu Picchu Tour by Train with Gurú Explorers allows you to choose this circuit, which includes a tour of the Temple of the Sun.
Within this guided tour, there are two available options or sub-circuits, as follows:
Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu) – Route 2-A: Designed Route
Circuit 2 – Route 2-A: Designed Route is an excellent choice for capturing the coveted photograph of Machu Picchu Mountain from the lower platform of the Guardian's House. Once you have the iconic image as a keepsake, you can continue your journey through the urban sector of Machu Picchu, entering the Quarries and the Temple of the Sun viewpoint.
Further along, you'll advance to the botanical garden and the Main Temple, as well as the Temple of the Three Windows. The adventure doesn't end there, as this Machu Picchu circuit continues to the Sacred Rock, the Eastern Qolcas, and finishes at the Hall of Mirrors. The estimated duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes. Permitted for all ages.
Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu) – Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route
Circuit 2 – Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route is quite similar to the previous one but is slightly shorter in terms of the path, although the duration remains approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. This route also allows you to take the photograph of Machu Picchu Mountain and continue through the urban sector.
This route includes a tour of the most important Incan temples (Main Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, and Temple of the Condor). Additionally, you can appreciate other attractions such as the Sacred Rock and the Water Fountains.
Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu)
Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu) is another great option that allows you to visit key attractions of the ancient Incan civilization and its entire legacy. An alternative offered by Gurú Explorers that takes you through Circuit 3 Machu Picchu is the Machu Picchu Tour with Huchuy Picchu Mountain. This tour tests your endurance while you explore the most interesting sites of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Previously, there was only one fairly short route; however, since June 1, 2024, and with the updated Machu Picchu circuits, there are now a total of four sub-circuits, which are as follows:
Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu) – Route 3-A: Wayna Picchu Mountain Route
If you want to learn all the details of the Incan structures in the lower part of the citadel, Circuit 3 – Route 3-A: Wayna Picchu Mountain Route is your best option. Over approximately 3 hours, you will visit the Agricultural Platforms, a great spot for photography.
Additionally, this route allows you to pass by the Sacred Rock, the Qolqas Sector, the Water Mirrors Complex, the Temple of the Sun, and, of course, the House of the Inca Complex. As expected, you can also reach Wayna Picchu Mountain, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Enclosure of the Twelve Niches.
Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu) – Route 3-B: Designed Route
Circuit 3 – Route 3-B: Designed Route primarily focuses on the royal constructions located in the lower part of the Inca city. The most significant stop is the view obtained of Machu Picchu from the Agricultural Sector.
Next, the route continues through the Religious Sector, offering the opportunity to explore the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, the Sacred Rock, and the Hall of Mirrors. This route can be completed within an estimated period of two hours.
Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu) – Route 3-C: Great Cave Route
Circuit 3 – Route 3-C: Great Cave Route provides you with the opportunity to explore the most significant Incan constructions, starting from the Agricultural Sector. However, its main attraction is the visit to the Great Cave, located on Huayna Picchu Mountain.
While the tour of the lower area of Machu Picchu lasts only one hour, you will need at least 3 hours to complete the entire route through the Great Cave. This circuit is offered only during the high season and is for individuals over 18 years old.
Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu) – Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route
The last available sub-circuit is Circuit 3 – Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route. It is one of the shorter ones, with an approximate duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes. It's worth mentioning that it is only offered during the high season and is for individuals over 18 years old. The main attraction of this tour is the hike to the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain.
In addition to this key point of the circuit, the experience allows you to visit other areas such as the Agricultural Sectors, Sacred Rock, Qolqas Sector, and Water Mirrors Complex. Furthermore, you can appreciate the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inca Complex, and the Temple of the Condor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Machu Picchu Circuits
What is the maximum capacity for visiting the Machu Picchu circuits?
In addition to the updates to the Machu Picchu circuits, there have also been changes regarding the maximum capacity allowed. Currently, the maximum capacity during high season is 5,600 visitors per day, and during low season, it's 4,500 visitors daily.
What are the entry hours for the Machu Picchu circuits?
The entry hours for each circuit are specified on the ticket. Regarding tolerance, during the low season, a maximum of 30 minutes will be considered for entry, and during the high season, it's 45 minutes. Once this time is exceeded, entry will not be allowed for anyone, except under exceptional circumstances.
Where are the best spots for photography in the Machu Picchu circuits?
Depending on the circuit you choose, you can have a unique photographic experience. For example, you can capture some photos of Machu Picchu Mountain with Circuit 2 on any of its routes. On the other hand, if you want a photo from the viewpoint of the Guardian's House, Circuit 1 is ideal for you.
What is the best Machu Picchu circuit?
This question is quite subjective as it depends on your personal experience. If you're visiting Machu Picchu for the first time, Circuit 2 offers one of the most comprehensive experiences. However, Circuit 3 allows you to discover the most important aspects of the Incan royal constructions and have a unique experience at the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain.
Can you switch circuits along the way?
All circuits are designed with a one-way format, so you cannot switch circuits en route. This ensures the proper functioning of each designated route and protects the natural spaces.
Can minors participate in the circuits?
There are specific circuits that minors cannot attend, such as Circuit 1 - Route 1-D: Inca Bridge Route, Circuit 3 – Route 3-C: Great Cave Route, and Circuit 3 – Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route. These routes are only available for individuals over 18 years old.
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