The Ministry of Culture and the Peruvian government released a limited number of tickets to visit Machu Picchu in 2024, divided into two seasons: high and low. During the high season (April to August), 5,650 tickets are available each day. In the low season (September to December and January to March), only 4,550 tickets are released daily, resulting in 1,000 fewer tickets.
These Machu Picchu tickets are divided into three circuits, each offering a unique way to explore the site. The most important and popular is Circuit 2, which allows visitors to thoroughly explore the Inca citadel. This ticket is considered the best option for visiting Machu Picchu, but availability is limited and it usually needs to be booked five months in advance as it sells out quickly.
The second most popular ticket is Circuit 3, which provides access to the lower part of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern, and Huchuy Picchu. Finally, Circuit 1 offers a view of Machu Picchu from the Guardian's House and allows you to add the Inca Bridge, Sun Gate, or Mount Machu Picchu to your itinerary.
The new Machu Picchu rules prohibit increasing ticket availability, even when tickets are sold out or there is a rise in tourism to Peru.
Book Machu Picchu Last Minute Tickets
As Cusco's top attraction, Machu Picchu attracts thousands of visitors each year. The growing popularity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site often means that tickets sell out quickly, leaving some travelers without access and disappointed. Booking a Machu Picchu ticket at the last minute is a matter of luck. There are seasons when there aren't many people waiting for a ticket, so it's easy to find one for the same day or the next day. However, during peak seasons you may have to wait in line for a long time just to get a ticket. Ticket purchases are personal and cannot be made through intermediaries.
Get your Machu Picchu ticket 2025
Can You Get Machu Picchu Last Minute Tickets?
Many travelers hope to buy tickets at the last minute, but this is usually not an option. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, making it impossible to cancel or transfer them to other people.
If you don’t have a ticket in advance, your best chance is to travel to Aguas Calientes. The Ministry of Culture there occasionally releases 1,000 next-day tickets, but these are in high demand. Many people travel to Aguas Calientes hoping to secure a last-minute ticket, which leads to quick sellouts. If you miss out, you may need to extend your stay and try again the following day, resulting in unexpected expenses and potentially missing your opportunity to visit.
Plan ahead to avoid disappointment
We strongly recommend that you book your tickets well in advance and check availability. Don't risk missing out on Machu Picchu - plan ahead to save time, avoid extra costs and secure your place at one of the world's most awe-inspiring destinations.
