Circuits and Routes of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu has opened new circuits to better guide visitors on their journey. These routes will take you through different aspects of the site, from iconic panoramic views to hidden, lesser-known spots. Below are all the details regarding these three circuits and their associated routes.

CIRCUIT 1: PANORAMIC

Circuit 1 is designed to provide the finest panoramic views of Machu Picchu and its dramatic mountain surroundings. It is perfect for travelers who want to capture the classic visual essence of the site.

• Associated Routes: Machu Picchu Mountain Route, Upper Terrace Route, Intipunku Route, Inca Bridge Route.

Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route

This path takes you directly to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain. From the top, you get an unobstructed, 360-degree view of the entire archaeological site and the deep valley floor surrounding it. It is a demanding climb, but the reward is unmatched.

The sweeping vista from the peak of Machu Picchu Mountain. Fuente: TreXperience

• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Tip: Make sure to book well in advance because daily access is strictly limited.

Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route

This circuit explores the upper agricultural terraces of Machu Picchu, offering an excellent vantage point to admire the grand scale of the terraces and the layout of the city center.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Tip: Ideal for anyone deeply interested in classic Inca architecture and terrace engineering.

Route 1-C: Intipunku Route

This route traverses the upper terraces and guides you up to the historic Sun Gate (Intipunku), which is now open to visitors booking this specific path. It grants an authentic look at the entry point used by travelers arriving via the classic Inca Trail.

Intipunku, the iconic Sun Gate entry point. Fuente: Peru Rail

• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Tip: Excellent for appreciating the broader urban design, but keep in mind that this route is only available during the dry season months from May to September.

Route 1-D: Inca Bridge Route

The Inca Bridge Route gives you access to a narrow, cliffside stone path leading to the historic wooden drawbridge located south of the citadel, providing a thrilling look at how the Incas secured their borders.

The historic cliffside Inca Bridge. Fuente: Free Walking Tours Peru

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Tip: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen as this path can get very hot and offers very little shade. Like the Sun Gate, this route is only accessible during the dry season from May to September.

CIRCUIT 2: CLASSIC MACHU PICCHU

Circuit 2 is designed to walk you right through the most iconic, postcard-perfect zones within the heart of Machu Picchu, covering the main temples and primary residential sectors.

• Associated Routes: Designed Route, Lower Terrace Route.

Route 2-A: Designed Route

This classic path covers all the primary landmarks of Machu Picchu, including the Main Plaza, the Sacred Plaza, and the principal temples, giving you the most comprehensive walkthrough of the interior of the city.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours

Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route

This track lets you stroll along the lower agricultural terraces and the residential sectors directly framing the Main Plaza, highlighting the agricultural ingenuity and giving a glimpse into the daily life of its ancient inhabitants.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours

CIRCUIT 3: ROYALTY MACHU PICCHU

This circuit is uniquely tailored for travelers who want to explore the lower sectors associated with Inca royalty, elite residences, and less-frequented back trails.

• Associated Routes: Huayna Picchu Mountain Route, Designed Route, Great Cavern Route, Huchuy Picchu Route.

Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain Route

The steep, exhilarating climb up the iconic peak of Huayna Picchu features spectacular cliffside views and remains one of the absolute most sought-after adventures in the park.

The iconic peak of Huayna Picchu rising above the citadel. Fuente: Peru For Less

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Tip: This route requires early booking months in advance and a solid physical condition to navigate the steep, narrow stone steps comfortably.

Route 3-B: Royalty Designed Route

This interior path covers the lower palaces, royal quarters, and adjacent ceremonial areas, filling your tour with deep historical context and administrative symbolism.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Tip: A wonderful, lower-impact choice for those who want to skip the steep mountain climbs but focus heavily on Inca history and culture.

Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route

This rigorous loop takes you around the back of Huayna Picchu down to the mysterious Great Cavern (often called the Temple of the Moon), an exquisite subterranean stone structure built into the cave walls.

• Duration: 4–5 hours
• Tip: This route demands strong endurance and advanced booking. It is highly recommended for archaeology enthusiasts, but note that it is only open during the high dry season from May to September.

Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route

Huchuy Picchu is the smaller peak standing right next to the Huayna Picchu checkpoint. It offers a short, gentle uphill trek that rewards you with a unique, close-up perspective of the northern end of the ruins.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Tip: A great option if you want a taste of mountain hiking without the extreme heights, but remember it is only open during the dry season months from May to September.