Machu Picchu will introduce only 3 new official circuits starting June 1, 2024.
A recent resolution issued by Peru’s Ministry of Culture reduces the number of circuits from five to just three, effective from June 1, 2024. This change aims to enhance the visitor experience at the iconic Inca citadel by improving the flow of tourists and safeguarding the site’s integrity.
According to the regulation published in El Peruano (the official government newspaper), travelers who purchased entrance tickets before this date will need to adjust their plans based on an official equivalence chart that matches old circuits to the new ones.
This adjustment seeks to optimize crowd management and ensure that your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only more rewarding but also safer.
Circuit Equivalence at Machu Picchu
| Valid until May 31, 2024 | Valid from June 1, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Circuit 1 or 2: Llacta Machu Picchu Choose based on availability among: – Circuit 2-A: Designed route – Circuit 2-B: Lower terrace route | Circuit 3: Llacta Machu Picchu & Machu Picchu Mountain Choose among: – Circuit 1-A: Route to Machu Picchu Mountain – Circuit 3-B: Designed route |
| Circuit 3: The Royal Circuit – Circuit 3-B: Designed route | Circuit 3: Llacta Machu Picchu & Wayna Picchu Choose: – Circuit 3-A: Wayna Picchu route |
| Circuit 3: Llacta Machu Picchu & Huchuy Picchu Choose: – Circuit 3-B: Designed route – Circuit 3-D: Huchuy Picchu route |
Visitors can select their circuit based on the available quota at the time of booking.
Updated Entry Time Allowances
The Ministry of Culture has also updated visitor management protocols at Machu Picchu, introducing a key change in the time tolerance for entry.
As per the new regulation published today:
- During high season, visitors will now have a 45-minute grace period from their scheduled entry time, up from the previous 30 minutes.
- In low season, the existing 30-minute tolerance remains unchanged.
This measure responds to concerns raised by tour operators about logistical challenges due to the heavy influx of travelers during peak months.
Updated Visitor Quotas
| Machu Picchu | 4100 |
| Wayna Picchu | 400 |
| Machupicchu Mountain | 300 |
| Huchuy Picchu | 200 |
| Inti Punku | 200 |
Plan Your Visit
These updates ensure a safer and more organized experience for everyone. If you’re planning to trek the Inca Trail or book a tour to Machu Picchu for 2024 or beyond, make sure to coordinate with your travel agency to understand how these new circuits may affect your itinerary.
