If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu in 2026, we highly recommend staying informed about the latest updates published by the Ministry of Culture. The availability of tickets and new capacity regulations can vary throughout the year. In 2025, for instance, Machu Picchu tickets were sold out in July and August, emphasizing the importance of planning in advance.
To ensure a seamless experience, it is crucial to be aware of any changes in fees and regulations for Machu Picchu and Inca Trail tours in 2026. Stay updated with the latest information provided by the Ministry of Culture and reputable travel agencies.
Additionally, please note that there are approximately 1000 tickets available in Aguas Calientes village (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), but these tickets are often in high demand and tend to sell out in advance. Hence, it is advisable to secure your tickets as early as possible to secure your desired visit date.
By staying informed and planning ahead, you can make the most of your visit to Machu Picchu in 2026 and create unforgettable memories in this extraordinary ancient citadel.
These new rates for the entrance fee to Machu Picchu 2026 are as follows:
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu 2026 | |
| Only Machu Picchu Circuit 1: Panoramic Route | S/ 152 |
| Machu Picchu Student tickets | S/ 77 |
| Machu Picchu Children tickets (between the ages of 3 and 17) | S/ 70 |
Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu 2026 | |
Circuit 3: Huayna Picchu Mountain (Route A) | S/ 200 |
| Huayna Picchu Student tickets | S/ 125 |
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu Mountain 2026 | |
| Circuit 1: Machu Picchu Mountain (Route A) | S/ 200 |
| Machu Picchu Mountain Student tickets | S/ 125 |
If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail in 2026, it is crucial to contact Salkantay Trek Machu, a trusted tour operator. The Inca Trail permits are typically available only through authorized tour operators. The cost of the Inca Trail can be relatively high due to several factors:
These are just some of the factors that contribute to the cost of the Inca Trail. Salkantay Trek Machu fulfills all the mentioned requirements and has been a trusted sustainable operator since 2017.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2026 | |
| Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days | $ 535.00 |
| 2 Day Inca Trail with Camping | $ 618.00 |
| 3 Day Inca Trail Intrepid Tour | $ 910.00 |
| Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days | $ 850.00 |
| 5 Day Inca Trail Hike | $ 900.00 |
If you haven't booked your Inca Trail permits in advance and they are sold out, it is not possible to secure additional tickets. Once the Inca Trail permits are sold out, they cannot be transferred to other customers.
However, there are alternative treks available for those who are unable to hike the Inca Trail. One popular option is the Salkantay Trek, a 5 or 4-day hike to Machu Picchu that offers breathtaking mountain views and visits to Humantay and Soroycocha lakes. It also includes a visit to the Llactapata ruins. In the subtropical zone, you can explore the diverse flora. It is recommended to choose a sustainable tour operator as some sections of the Salkantay Trail have been affected by the construction of igloos, hotels, and local government-built roads for cars between Santa Teresa and Chaullay. However, Chaullay is still used as the second campsite by most tour operators. The earlier sections of the trail remain beautiful and authentic. Another scenic route is the Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu, which takes you through pristine landscapes, mountain glaciers, and significant Inca sites like Vitcos, Maranpata, and Llactapata.
The second option is the Lares Trek, which is a 3-day hike. After completing the trek, you will need to catch a train to Aguas Calientes and then take a bus up to Machu Picchu. Finally, you will return to Cusco. Similar options include the Inca Quarry Trail and Huchuyqosqo.
For a more adventurous experience, you can consider the Inca Jungle Trek. This tour is perfect for adrenaline-seeking travelers as it involves biking, rafting, zip-lining, and trekking to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is consolidated as the most important archaeological destination in Peru and the main axis of the country's tourism sector. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Modern Wonder of the World generates a high international demand constant throughout the year.
The visit experience in 2026 is defined by a strict system of regulations implemented to manage the flow of visitors and guarantee preservation. The free visit model has been abandoned. Current access is controlled by entrance tickets with specific entry times (for example, 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.) and the mandatory assignment of a visiting circuit. These circuits are one-way, which means the visitor must follow a preset route with no possibility of going back or exploring areas outside of their ticket.
While the iconic image of the citadel is world-renowned, its value also lies in its remote location, set on a mountain ridge and surrounded by the geography of the Urubamba River canyon. A planned visit to Machu Picchu continues to be an essential component in an itinerary through Peru. However, it is crucial that 2026 travelers understand and adapt to these current regulations. Planning no longer just consists of "going to Machu Picchu", but in selecting and reserving months in advance the specific circuit and time slot that fit their expectations.
The best time to visit Machu Picchu in 2026 is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to September. This period offers more stable weather conditions and clearer skies, providing optimal visibility of the stunning ancient citadel. The months of June, July, and August are considered the peak season, with a higher number of visitors. If you prefer to avoid large crowds, you may consider visiting during the shoulder months of May or September when the weather is still favorable, and the site is relatively quieter. Keep in mind that Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas can still experience occasional showers, so it's essential to pack appropriate rain gear.
For those looking for adventure and nature, arriving at Machu Picchu on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this wonder. There are several trekking routes that cross Andean landscapes, cloud forests and ancient Inca trails. These are some of the most outstanding hikes:
Other equally fascinating tours:
+51 84 226 547
+51 912 891 560
Av Tupac Amaru PP-10B, Santiago, Cusco, Peru 
info@salkantaytrekmachu.com
www.salkantaytrekmachu.com
