Machu Picchu tickets are divided into three main circuits, and each offering a unique experience through ten distinct routes that explore the Inca citadel. These circuits will remain valid in both 2025 and 2026, and the general rules for visiting Machu Picchu will not change.
The only change to Machu Picchu regulations for 2026 affects the Inca Trail. Starting in 2026, the Inca Trail permit will no longer include access to Machu Picchu. In 2025, the Inca Trail permit allowed entry to Circuit 1 and Circuit 3, which included a guided tour of the citadel. However, this access will not be included in 2026. If you wish to explore Machu Picchu after completing the Inca Trail, you must purchase an additional entrance ticket.
Inca Trail Tour operators are concerned about this change because Inca Trail permits are usually booked months in advance, while Machu Picchu tickets are limited. This means that travelers who book at the last minute may not find availability, or may be forced to visit a different circuit and hire a separate guide. This change could negatively impact the group experience and has also led to an increase in Inca Trail tour prices.
In-Person Ticket Sales Schedule for Machu Picchu:
Currently, you can purchase tickets at the Ministry of Culture office in Cusco, but the office only accepts payment if you have already made a reservation. If you do not have a reservation, the staff will require you to purchase your ticket online before paying in person.
Machu Picchu Ticket office hours:
Monday to Saturday:
7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
2:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
When will the Lima office of the Ministry of Culture start selling Machu Picchu tickets?
The Ministry of Culture in Lima will begin selling Machu Picchu tickets for 2026 in mid-October 2025. A calendar will be published a week in advance with the official dates to reserve and pay for your tickets, allowing tour operators and travel agencies to prepare accordingly.
Machu Picchu tickets will be sold online via the tuboleto.cultura.pe platform, offering availability for the entire 2026 season. Each user can purchase a maximum of five tickets.
Inca Trail Permits
Only authorized tour operators can obtain Inca Trail permits; individual travelers cannot purchase them directly. Each operator has access to a real-time reservation system managed by the Ministry of Culture that shows available spaces for each route.
Important Note:
The Joinnus platform will not sell Machu Picchu tickets in 2026. Their contract with the Peruvian government ended in 2024.
What is the best way to safely obtain a Machu Picchu ticket?
You can try booking your ticket directly at tuboleto.cultura.pe. However, the Ministry of Culture’s website frequently crashes, so during periods of high demand, your booking may not go through, even if you select your ticket.
Since travel agencies and tour operators use a more stable system, we recommend buying your ticket through an authorized travel agency. This offers a more reliable booking process, especially during peak seasons.
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