Spanish
Portuguese
1. Machu Picchu Permits
◦ Why do you need a permit for Machu Picchu?
The government of Peru only releases a certain number of permits to enter Machu Picchu per day. If you have no permit, you will not be allowed to enter. The government introduced the permit system to help preserve the site for future generations.
◦ Types of available permits
Depending on how you plan to visit Machu Picchu, this will determine the type of permit that you will need. The permits are as follows, Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu only permit, Huayna Picchu permit and Machu Picchu Mountain permit.
2. Types of Permits for Machu Picchu
◦ Inca Trail Permit
The Inca Trail requires a special permit to hike and enter Machu Picchu. These permits sell out quickly so you will need to book months in advance. You will need a permit for any of the Inca Trails which include the 1, 2, 4 & 5 day treks.
◦ Machu Picchu Only Permit
The Machu Picchu only permit is for those who plan to visit Machu Picchu only. This is an entrance ticket to visit the ruin on a guided tour only. This permit allows you the do a circuit of Machu Picchu with your guide, one way.
◦ Huayna Picchu Permit
Huayna Picchu is one of the extra hikes that you can do at Machu Picchu. You need a permit to hike to Huayna Picchu. This challenging hike has 2 entrance times and has great views of the whole of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. Book in advance as these permits sell out quickly.
◦ Machu Picchu Mountain Permit
If you wish to hike to Machu Picchu Mountain you will need a permit. There are 2 entrance times and like Huayna Picchu the views are spectacular. Considered an easy hike this one is great for families wishing to do a short hike. Book in advance as permits sell out quickly.
See link for information about the Circuits at Machu Picchu
3. How and Where to Purchase Machu Picchu Permits
◦ Online booking process
To book tickets on line you will need to go to https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/llaqta_machupicchu this is the official website to buy tickets independently to go to Machu Picchu. You will need to pay with credit card in advance, there are no changes to dates or name allowed.
◦ Authorized agencies vs. direct purchase
For those who don’t want the hassle look for an authorized agency. The agency can supply the complete package, from treks to train journeys and all the tickets and guides needed. With a direct purchase you can buy your tickets online. To go to Machu Picchu from Cusco you will also need a return train, transfer to the train station, return bus tickets to Machu Picchu, a guide as you are not able to enter Machu Picchu without a guide.
◦ Importance of booking in advance
Booking in advance will ensure that you avoid disappointment. Many people arrive in Cusco and with no permits and are unable to visit Machu Picchu. For the Inca it is essential to book at least 6 months in advance.
4. Requirements to Obtain a Machu Picchu Permit
◦ Necessary documents
You may book with your passport or identity document from your home country. It is important that you bring the same document to Peru that you booked your permit. This is essential to be able to enter Machu Picchu.
◦ Required personal information
You will need your full name, date of birth, your passport information. This is essential for purchasing your permits.
◦ Age and health restrictions
There are no age restrictions to enter Machu Picchu. To hike to Huayna Picchu there is a limit of 12 years as this is a challenging hike.
5. Availability of Machu Picchu Permits
◦ High season vs. low season
The High season brings with it the best weather and also the most people. If you plan to travel in the high season, you must book 6 months in advance, tickets sell out quickly. If you plan to go to Machu Picchu in the low season, you will experience rain, but the crowds will be less. You will also need to book in advance but only around 2 to 3 months in advance.
◦ Daily permit limits for each type of entry
- For entering Machu Picchu Only there 3500 Tickets available per day
- For the Classic Inca Trail 500 Permits per day (this includes tourists, guides, porters, chefs etc.)
- For the Short Inca Trail 250 Permits per day ( this includes tourists, guides)
- For the Huayna Picchu 200 Permits per day
- For the Machu Picchu Mountain 200 per day
6. Tips for Securing a Machu Picchu Permit
◦ Best time to book
There is no best time to book, but you need to book in advance to avoid disappointment, especially if you wish to do the Inca Trail. In the past there was no limit to the people who could enter Machu Picchu. But these days with the daily limit permits sell out quickly so book in advance.
◦ What to do if permits are sold out
These days there are many people who find that the permits are sold out. What to do? Many times, the only option is to hike to Machu Picchu, if there are tickets available. The 2 day Inca Trail is a great option.
◦ Alternatives to the Inca Trail
There are many alternatives to the Inca Trail. The Salkantay Trek, The Trek to Choquequirao, The Lares Trek all treks in the Andes, some cultural, some with Inca ruins, some with naturally beautiful. Research will indicate which trek will be suitable for your needs.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
◦ Can permits be transferred?
Unfortunately, the answer is no, once you purchase the permit it is nonrefundable or changeable to another name.
◦ Can I change my permit date?
No, you can’t change the dates the permits apply to this date only.
◦ What if I lose my permit?
Your tour company maybe able to get the permit reprinted. If you have bought your ticket online, simply open the ticket on you phone. If you cannot open your email address where the Ticket Machu Picchu is in digital format, you can contact us at: +51 992126224, or, if you are already in Cusco, visit the offices of SAM TRAVEL during his trip to Peru.
Successfully Planning Your Visit to Machu Picchu
Planning ahead of time is essential for a successful trip to Machu Picchu. If you plan to do your Machu Picchu experience with out a tour company, be sure to have all arranged before you arrive into Peru. If you decide to go with a tour company, research and find the company that suits your needs and has a great reputation.
