Machu Picchu Circuits 2026: Complete Guide to the 3 Circuits and their 10 Official Routes
Since June 1, 2024, the Ministry of Culture has implemented three new circuits and 10 official routes for visiting the Inca city of Machu Picchu. This adjustment seeks to protect the heritage site, control the flow of visitors, and ensure a more organized, safe, and satisfying experience for all travelers.
Starting in 2026, these circuits will remain in effect and will be the official way to tour Machu Picchu.
Choosing the right circuit is key to enjoying your 1-day tour to Machu Picchu or your full day Machu Picchu.
Circuit 1 – Panoramic (Upper Part)
Circuit 1 offers the most expansive and panoramic views of the Inca City. It runs through the upper part of the sanctuary, passing through upper terraces, narrow trails, and viewpoints that are ideal for photography.
Each route has a different level of physical challenge
Route 1-A – Machu Picchu Mountain
A demanding route that climbs to the top of the mountain, recommended for those seeking adventure and unique views.
Route 1-B – Upper Terrace
Offers the classic panoramic view without intense climbs. It is one of the most popular routes due to its balance between effort and scenery.
Route 1-C – Intipunku Gate (high season only)
Leads to the historic Sun Gate, used in Inca times. Ideal for those who enjoy walks with historical and scenic value.
Route 1-D – Inca Bridge (high season only)
Narrow trail to the famous Inca bridge strategically built on a rock wall.
Route 1-A – Machu Picchu Mountain
Route 1-B – Upper Terrace
Route 1-C – Intipunku Cover
Route 1-D – Inca Bridge
Circuit 2 – Classic Machu Picchu (Middle Zone + Urban Zone)
Circuit 2 is the most complete and balanced tour. It match a visit to the terraces in the middle section with the urban area, where you will find temples, squares, ceremonial enclosures, urban areas, and astronomical spaces.
It requires moderate physical effort and is ideal for those who want to see most of the citadel.
Route 2-A – Designed Route
A classic tour Machu Picchu that includes terraces, the urban area, main temples, and ceremonial enclosures.
Route 2-B – Lower Terrace
A shorther alternative to the circuit, starting from lower levels. Recommended for families and travelers looking for easier walks.
Route 2-A – Designed Route
Route 2-B – Lower Terrace
Circuit 3 – Machu Picchu Royalty (Sacred Temples + Mountains)
Circuit 3 brings together four routes focused on the most sacred spaces of the Inca elite. Here you will find the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inca, the Temple of the Condor, and other exclusive ceremonial sites. The main route requires little physical effort, but the mountain routes do demand greater preparation and time.
Route 3-A – Waynapicchu Mountain
A challenging trail famous for its steep slopes. From the top, you get a unique view of the entire citadel.
Route 3-B – Designed Royal Route
Includes the most important temples and ceremonial sites of the royalty. It is the ideal route for those seeking a deep cultural experience without mountain hiking.
Route 3-C – Great Cave (high season only)
A long and demanding route to a ceremonial enclosure. Requires very good physical condition.
Route 3-D – Huchuypicchu (high season only)
A small mountain with a medium hike and beautiful views of the natural surroundings.
Route 3-A – Waynapicchu Mountain
Route 3-B – Royal Route Designed
Route 3-C – Great Cavern
Route 3-D – Huchuypicchu
Which circuit should you choose to visit Machu Picchu?
- For the best pano photo: Circuit 1
- For a complete visit: Circuit 2
- For temples and sacred sites: Circuit 3
- For adventure and mountains: Routes 1-A, 3-A, 3-C
- For families: 1-B, 2-B, 3-B
Why choose TrekAdventureMachuPicchu?
We are a local agency with years of experience organizing personalized trips in Cusco.
Our full-day Machu Picchu tour offers safety, accuracy, and certified local guides, guaranteeing an authentic experience.
📩 Contact us:
📧 info@trekadventuremachupicchu.com
📱 WhatsApp: +51 968 389 547
