Machu Picchu 2025 Regulations

Machu Picchu is an experience you must live at least once in your lifetime. Therefore, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the updated visitation regulations established by Peru’s Ministry of Culture. This essential guide outlines the latest changes in schedules, visitor limits, access requirements, and restrictions to help preserve this Inca marvel. Discover how to avoid inconveniences, prevent fines, and make the most of your trip with expert travel tips for exploring Peru, this beautiful country.

Visitor Capacity at Machu Picchu

In 2025, Machu Picchu set a maximum visitor capacity that varies by season: 5,600 daily visitors during peak season (May to September) and 4,500 during low season (January to April and October to December). These limits apply exclusively to the Llaqta (Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu).

Visitor Obligations at Machu Picchu

1. Purchase the Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket

• Online: Through the official website at https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/llaqta-machupicchu (the only authorized platform).
• In Person: At the Dirección Desconcentrada de Cultura de Cusco (DDC) or authorized vendors.

Important:
*Present a valid ID, such as a National ID, passport, or foreign resident card, for purchase. No date changes or refunds are permitted.

2. Follow Designated Routes and Visiting Hours

• Stay on the assigned circuits as indicated on your ticket.
• Strictly adhere to your scheduled entry and exit times.
• You may not re-enter after exiting, except in emergencies.

Machu Picchu Entrance Hours – 2025
Circuits	Route	Low Season	High Season
Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route.	Terraza Superior Route.	06:00 AM – 3:00 PM (hourly entry)
	Montaña Machupicchu Route.	06:00 AM & 08:00 AM
	Intipunku (Sun Gate) Route.	Not available	08:00 AM, 09:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM.
	Puente Inka Route.	Not available	08:00 AM, 09:00 AM; 10:00 AM; 11:00 AM.
Circuit 2 – Classic Circuit.	Clásica Diseñada Route.	06:00 AM – 3:00 PM (hourly entry).
	Terraza Inferior Route.	06:00 AM – 3:00 PM (hourly entry).
Circuit 3 – Machupicchu Royalty.	Realeza Diseñada Route.	06:00 AM – 3:00 PM (hourly entry).
	Montaña Waynapicchu Route.	07:00 AM & 09:00 AM
	Gran Caverna Route.	Not available	07:00 AM & 08:00 AM
	Huchuy Picchu Route.	Not available	09:00 AM & 11:00 AM

Low Season: Operates from January to April and October to December.
High Season: Operates from May to September.

Traveler’s Tip: Some routes are only available during High Season. They fix the schedules and limit the capacity. Be sure to book in advance.!

3. Compliance with Machu Picchu Visit Regulations.

To ensure a seamless visit, please follow all the rules and guidelines outlined in this guide strictly. Following these regulations will not only prevent fines or disruptions but will also help preserve Machu Picchu for future generations.

Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets

1. Ticket Types and Visiting Circuits of Machu Picchu:

The Ministry of Culture organizes access to Machu Picchu into three primary circuits featuring 10 distinct routes: 2 summit routes to Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu y Huchuy Picchu, two key destination routes leading to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the Inca Bridge (Puente Inka route), and the Great Cavern (Gran Caverna Route), This optimized system ensures an orderly flow while combining historical exploration, adventure, and unparalleled landscapes.

Machu Picchu Circuits	Machu Picchu Routes
Circuit 1 – Panoramic Route.	1-A Route: Montaña Machupicchu (Machu Picchu Mountain Route).
	1-B Route: Terraza Superior (Upper Terrace Route).
	1-C Route: is the Portada Intipunku (Inti Punku Gateway Route), available only during the high season.
	1-D Route: Puente Inka (Inti Punku Gateway Route – High Season only).
Circuit 2 – Classic Circuit.	2-A Route: Clásica Diseñada (Designed Classic Route).
	2-B Route: Terraza Inferior (Lower Terrace Route).
Circuit 3 – Machupicchu royalty	3-A Route: Montaña Waynapicchu (Huayna Picchu Mountain Trail).
	3-B Route: Realeza Diseñada (Designed Royal Route).
	3-C Route: is the Gran Caverna (Great Cavern Route), available only during the high season.
	3-D Route: Huchuypicchu (Huchuy Picchu Route – High Season only).

2. Machu Picchu Ticket Purchase Requirements

Mandatory Documentation

Peruvian Citizens	Original National ID (DNI)
Foreign Visitors	Valid passport or foreign resident card.
Students	Current student ID.*Undergraduate students must present a valid university ID issued by their country both at the time of purchase and entry.

*Important Notice.
We do not accept photocopies of documents, except for an official police report for lost or stolen items.

3. Machu Picchu Ticket Restrictions.

• Non-refundable: No refunds will be issued for cancellations.
• Non-transferable: The ticket is strictly personal and cannot be transferred to anyone else.
• Date-specific: Valid only for the assigned date; no date changes permitted.

Authorized Visiting Time at Machu Picchu

Maximum Duration Limits:

• 2.5 hours (from entry time) for routes: 1-B (Upper Terrace), 2-A (Classic Circuit), 2-B (Lower Terrace), 3-B (Royal Route).

Machu Picchu Operating Hours: Entre 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Machu Picchu Closing Time: All visitors must exit by 5:30 PM
Visiting Time Regulations at Machu Picchu:

Machu Picchu Routes	Entry Time	Maximum Duration	Exit Deadline
1-B Route: Ruta Terraza Superior (Upper Terrace route). 2-A Route: Clásica Diseñada (Classic Route). 2-B Route: Terraza Inferior (Lower Terrace route). 3-B Route: Realeza Diseñada (Royal Route).	06:00 hrs.	2.5 hours	2.5 hrs after entry
	07:00 hrs.
	08:00 hrs.
	09:00 hrs.
	10:00 hrs.
	11:00 hrs.
	Noon.
	13:00 hrs.
	14:00 hrs.	Visitors may stay for 2 hours and 30 minutes from entry time, but must exit by 17:30 at the latest (site closing time)	All visitors must exit by 5:30 p.m. at the latest (Machu Picchu’s official closing time).
	15:00 hrs.	All visitors must depart by 5:30 p.m. at the latest, as the site closes at this time.	All visitors must leave by 5:30 p.m. at the latest, as the site closes at this time.
1-C Route: Portada Intipunku (Inti Punku)	08:00 hrs. 09:00 hrs. 10:00 hrs. 11:00 hrs.	4 hrs.	4 hrs after entry
1-D Route: Puente Inka (Inca Bridge)		3 hrs.	3 hrs after entry
1-A Route: Montaña Machu Picchu (Machu Picchu Mountain)	06:00 hrs. – 06:30 hrs. 08:00 hrs. – 08:30 hrs.	7 hrs.	13:00 hrs. max 15:00 hrs. max
3-A Route: Montaña Waynapicchu (Huayna Picchu Mountain)	07:00 hrs. – 07:30 hrs. 09:00 hrs. – 09:30 hrs	6 hrs.	12:00 hrs. max 14:00 hrs. max
3-C Route: Gran Caverna (Great Cavern)	07:00 hrs. 08:00 hrs.	7 hrs.	13:00 hrs. max 16:00 hrs. max
3-D Route: Huchuy Picchu Route	09:00 hrs. 11:00 hrs.	3.5 hrs.	13:00 hrs. max 15:00 hrs. max

Key Regulations:

• All visitors must exit by 5:30 p.m. (Machu Picchu’s official closing time). 
• Maximum visiting durations vary by route and entry time.

Entry to Machu Picchu

Required Documentation for Admission to Machu Picchu.

Visitor Category	Required Documents.
Peruvian Adults.	Original National ID (DNI).
Peruvian Students.	Valid SUNEDU or MINEDU student ID.
Foreign Visitors.	Passport, foreign resident card, or Peruvian ID.
Foreign Students.	University ID + passport or Peruvian visa.
CAN/MERCOSUR Citizens.	Valid national ID or equivalent document.

Tour Guide Services at Machu Picchu

These are the key requirements every visitor must know about guides at the Inca Sanctuary:

1. Is a Tour Guide Mandatory at Machu Picchu? 

No! However, we strongly recommend being accompanied by either:

• A state-certified official tour guide.
• A licensed tourism professional (with a registered university degree).

Important: Since 2019, security personnel have strictly enforced this regulation at all entry points.

2. Tour Guide Requirements

• Display professional certification visibly at all times.
• Register the group at both entry and exit checkpoints.
• The maximum group size is 16 visitors per guide.

3. Where Can Guides Provide Explanations? 

Only in authorized areas:

• Main plaza areas.
• Designated viewpoints.
• Central squares.

Important: Strictly prohibited: Conducting talks on narrow trails or transit zones.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations subject to fines or license revocation:

• Exceeding maximum group capacity.
• Abandoning tour groups.
• Providing commentary in unauthorized zones.

Prohibited Items and Equipment at Machu Picchu

Strictly Forbidden Items in Machu Picchu.

1. Large backpacks or bags: You must store bags exceeding 40 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm in lockers.
2. Tripods/stands: Camera/phone supports prohibited unless authorized by Cusco’s Decentralized Culture Office (DDC).
3. Umbrellas and Parasols: Strictly prohibited. Only the following rain gear is permitted: Hats, caps, and rain ponchos.
4. Walking sticks with metal or hard tips are strictly prohibited. Only rubber-tipped walking sticks are permitted, exclusively for senior visitors or people with disabilities.
5. Dangerous Objects: Visitors are not allowed to bring weapons, knives, or other sharp objects.
6. Musical Instruments or Megaphones: The entry of musical instruments, speakers, or megaphones is prohibited.
7. Banners, Posters, and/or Signs: This also includes similar items. Only tour guides accompanying groups of more than five people are allowed to use small flags. They must use the model and size approved by the relevant authority in coordination with industry associations.

Prohibited Food and Substances at Machu Picchu

8. Food and Dining Items: Visitors may not bring in food or eating utensils.
9. Alcoholic Beverages: Entry with alcohol or while under its influence is prohibited.
10. Illegal Substances: Entering under the influence of drugs or carrying prohibited substances is strictly forbidden.
11. Aerosols: No aerosol products of any kind are permitted.

Clothing and Conduct Regulations at Machu Picchu

12. Promotional Attire: Clothing intended for advertising or promotional purposes is not permitted.
13. High Heels or Hard-Soled Shoes: Only soft-soled athletic shoes are allowed.
14. Obscene or Immoral Acts: Engaging in behavior contrary to public decency or moral standards is prohibited.
15. Nudity, Costumes, or Disruptive Actions: Visitors must not undress, wear costumes, lie down, run, or jump.
16. Excessive Noise: Shouting, clapping, whistling, singing, or producing loud noises is forbidden, as it disrupts the site’s tranquility.
17. Crowd disturbances, including jumping, pushing, or causing disorder, are prohibited at the entrance to Machu Picchu and within the site to ensure an organized visitor flow.

Prohibited Actions Regarding Heritage and Environment at Machu Picchu

18. Structural Preservation: Visitors must not climb on, lean against, or sit on any walls or structures.
19. Archaeological Integrity: Touching, moving, or removing stones or other lithic elements from the site is strictly forbidden.
20. Vandalism Prohibition: Creating graffiti or committing any act that damages or defaces the heritage is prohibited.
21. Ecological Protection: Collecting, extracting, or disturbing plants, animals, or cultural artifacts within the site is prohibited.
22. Wildlife Interaction: Do not feed domestic or wild animals within the Machu Picchu archaeological complex.
23. Fire Safety: Smoking, vaping, or igniting any type of flame is strictly prohibited.
24. Waste Management: Littering or disposing of any waste within Machu Picchu is strictly forbidden.

Prohibited Unauthorized Activities at Machu Picchu

25. Ceremonial Events and Gatherings: Fashion shows, dances, ceremonies, social engagements, or any similar activities are strictly prohibited. Portable seating is not allowed.
26. Unauthorized Commerce: The Ministry of Culture prohibits informal vending within Machu Picchu and the surrounding areas up to Puente Ruinas.
27. Drone & Aircraft Restrictions: The use of drones, paragliders, or any small aircraft is prohibited.
28. Commercial Photography/Filming: Taking photos or videos for promotional purposes without prior authorization is not permitted.
29. Restricted Access: Entering through unauthorized routes or without a valid ticket is prohibited.

Specific Regulations for Guides and Groups at Machu Picchu

30. Visitor Transfers: Guides are not allowed to exchange tourists between groups within the Machu Picchu site.
31. Group Supervision: Guides must accompany their groups throughout the entire tour.
32. Designated Interpretation Areas: Guided explanations are permitted only in authorized zones, not on narrow trails or pathways.

Special Prohibitions at Machu Picchu

33. Animal Entry Policy: Bringing animals onto the site is prohibited, except for service dogs when necessary.
34. Mobile Device Restrictions: Using virtual applications on mobile phones or devices is prohibited in narrow passageways, trails, and congested areas. These technologies may only be used in open spaces and designated explanation zones.
35. Unauthorized Access: Entering the Machu Picchu archaeological complex through prohibited entry points or unofficial routes constitutes illegal access.

Consequences of Violating Machu Picchu Regulations.

According to the Machu Picchu Tourist Visit Regulations, failure to comply with established prohibitions may result in penalties commensurate with the severity of the offense. These are the potential consequences:

1. Immediate Expulsion from Machu Picchu (Without Refund!)
   • If you touch stones, enter restricted areas, or cause disturbances, park staff will remove you immediately.
   • The worst part: You will forfeit your ticket cost;; no refunds will be issued.
2. Report it to the police (in severe cases)
   • Did you scratch a wall? Did you take a stone? Did you perform an unauthorized ritual?
   • Consequence: The Ministry of Culture can file a criminal complaint against you (yes, with fines of up to 50,000 soles or more!).
3. Guides in Trouble
   • If your guide fails to comply with the rules (leading oversized groups or providing false information), authorities may:
     • Fine them (starting at 300 soles).
     • Revoke their license, and goodbye job!
4. Ban on Returning That Day
   • Did you stay longer than permitted? You will not be allowed back in, even if you have a ticket.
5. You are responsible.
   • If you get hurt jumping a wall or get lost taking forbidden routes. The State will not pay for your rescue!

Important note: Park rangers won’t hesitate to call you out. In serious cases, the police will get involved. Better to enjoy this wonder of the world without any trouble.

Detailed Solutions for Every Violation at Machu Picchu.

1. Prohibited Items and Equipment at Machu Picchu.

Violation	Solution	Alternative / Recommendation
Violation Solution Alternative / Recommendation: Large backpacks/bags (>40x35x20 cm).	Use the storage service at the entrance.	Carry a small backpack or bag.
Tripods/supports.	Request prior authorization from the DDC Cusco (via email: ddc-cusco@cultura.gob.pe).	Use stabilization techniques on flat surfaces.
Parasol/Umbrellas.	Wear a waterproof poncho or rain-resistant jacket.	Opt for a cap or sun hat.
Walking sticks with metal tips.	Replace them with rubber-tipped poles (sold in Aguas Calientes).	For disabilities, present supporting documentation upon entry.
Sharp objects/weapons.	Leave them at your hotel or in storage.	Avoid carrying multi-tools, even small pocket knives.
Musical instruments/megaphones.	If necessary, use alternative equipment and gather groups in areas that require vocal communicatio to avoid loud sounds.	Use personal audio devices, such as headphones.
Flags/signs.	Guides must use authorized markers (max. 30×20 cm).	Refrain from promotional or political displays.

2. Prohibited Food and Substances at Machu Picchu.

Violation	Solution	Alternative / Recommendation
Food/Snacks.	Eat in Aguas Calientes or designated areas outside the site.	Carry small energy bars.
Alcoholic Beverages.	Drink water or non-alcoholic beverages.	Avoid plastic bottles.
Illegal Substances.	Do not enter under the influence of drugs, it is a criminal offense.	–
Aerosols.	Use cream or lotion repellents.	Bring non-aerosol sunscreen.

3. Clothing and Behavior Restrictions at Machu Picchu.

Violation	Solution	Alternative / Recommendation
Promotional Clothing.	Wear neutral attire without large logos.	Cover branded T-shirts with a jacket.
High heels/Hard-soled shoes.	Sports footwear required (e.g., hiking shoes).	Ensure soles are slip-resistant for steep stairs.
Obscene Acts.	Respect the site’s sacred nature.	Avoid inappropriate poses in photos.
Public nudity/Costumes.	Do not conduct photoshoots in costume.	Wear comfortable yet discreet clothing.
Excessive Noise.	Speak quietly; use headphones for music.	Guides should find suitable spaces to avoid shouting during explanations.
Causing Disturbances.	Follow staff instructions and maintain a safe distance from others.	–

4. Heritage and Environmental Protection Regulations at Machu Picchu

Violation	Solution	Alternative/Recommendation
Touching structures.	Maintain a 1-meter distance from walls and stones.	Use the camera zoom to examine architectural details.
Graffiti/damage.	Do not carve or write on stones. Violators face fines of up to 10 UIT (approximately S/53,500 in 2025, or USD 14,387.63).
Removing flora/fauna.	Do not take natural “souvenirs” (e.g., rocks, plants).	Purchase local handicrafts in Cusco or Aguas Calientes instead.
Feeding animals.	Avoid feeding vizcachas, birds, and other animals (it disrupts their diet).	Observe wildlife respectfully, do not interfere or interact.
Smoking/vaping.	Confine smoking to designated areas outside the site , which are vailable in Aguas Calientes)	Use nicotine patches if needed; otherwise, smoke only outside Machu Picchu.
Littering.	Carry trash in a sealed bag or pocket of your backpack.

5. Prohibited Unauthorized Activities at Machu Picchu

Violation	Solution	Alternative/Recommendation
Events/ceremonies	Request permission from Peru’s Ministry of Culture at least 60 days in advance.	Hold events in private venues outside the archaeological site.
Unauthorized vending.	Purchase exclusively from official shops in Aguas Calientes.
Drones/aerial flights	Strictly prohibited without prior authorization (scientific research only).	Use official aerial photographs provided by Peru’s Ministry of Culture.
Commercial filming.	Obtain a permit from Peru’s Ministry of Culture (fee: 500 USD).	Record with personal devices for non-commercial use only.
Illegal entry.	Purchase an official ticket and follow marked circuits.	Avoid unauthorized guides promoting alternative routes.

6. Regulations for Guides and Groups at Machu Picchu

Violation	Solution	Alternative/Recommendation
Group transfers.	Keep groups together (a maximum of 16 people).	Use identification wristbands.
Abandoning groups.	Always accompany tourists.	Assign an assistant for large groups.
Trailside explanations.	Conduct talks only in designated areas, such as plazas or viewpoints.	Use illustrated maps to prevent congestion.

7. Special Prohibitions in Machu Picchu.

Violation	Solution	Alternative/Recommendation
Non-service animals.	Leave pets at pet-friendly lodgings in Aguas Calientes.	Hire local pet sitters.
Phone use in narrow areas.	Use devices only in open spaces (e.g., Main Plaza).	Enable airplane mode to minimize distractions.
Unauthorized route entry.	Strictly follow Circuits 1, 2, or 3.	Arrive early to avoid entering circuits not covered by your ticket.

What IS Permitted at Machu Picchu?

While many restrictions exist to protect the site, visitors can still enjoy a safe and respectful experience through these approved activities:

1. Exploring Official Circuits and Their Designated Routes at Machu Picchu.

Discovering Machu Picchu through its official routes offers an unparalleled experience, revealing the magnificence of this archaeological wonder. Each meticulously designed trail provides unique vantage points of the majestic Inca ruins, blending rich history, thrilling adventure, and profound connection with nature.

2. Non-Commercial Photography and Videography at Machu Picchu.

Visitors may capture personal photographs and short videos using mobile devices or basic cameras (tripods and professional equipment prohibited without authorization). Those requiring professional gear must obtain prior permission from Peru’s Ministry of Culture.

3. Responsible Nature Interaction at Machu Picchu.

Visitors may observe native flora and fauna (including orchids, vizcachas, hummingbirds, and other species) in their natural habitat.

4. Reusable Water Bottle Policy at Machu Picchu

Carry water in a canteen or reusable bottle.

5. Visit on Your Own or with a Licensed Guide

• Visiting on Your Own: You can explore Machu Picchu without a guide, but it is highly recommended to do so with one.
• Visiting with a Licensed Guide: If you visit Machu Picchu independently and wish to hire a guide, you will find many licensed guides available for hire at the entrance.

Why Are There So Many Restrictions at Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is not just a tourist destination; it is a fragile treasure that blends history, nature, and spirituality. Strict regulations exist to protect it across four key aspects:

Category	What’s Prohibited?	Why?	Fun Fact
Physical Damage	Touching structures, sitting on walls.	Human sweat and friction degrade the stone.	Every hand that touches the walls erodes 0.01 mm of rock per year!
Nature	Carrying plastics, smoking, extracting plants.	The ecosystem hosts 423 unique species of orchids.	Google Earth used conservation data from the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu for its climate layer.
Safety	Running, using metal-tipped walking sticks, carrying backpacks over 20 L.	80 % of accidents are due to falls on slippery stairways.	Injuries decreased by 40% in 2023 thanks to these regulations.
Spirituality	Shouting, flying drones, hosting unauthorized events.	The Incas designed the site as a “wak’a” (sacred place).	Quechua guardians report that silence attracts condors and other species.
Tourism	Exceeding 4,500 visitors/day in low season and 5,600 in high season, or straying off designated paths.	Overcrowding causes erosion of terraces (losing 2 cm per year!).	TripAdvisor ranks Machu Picchu as #1 among “Best-Managed Sites.”

Conclusion:

Visiting Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that requires following strict regulations to protect this fragile cultural and natural heritage. Every rule is designed to preserve the site’s authenticity and ensure the safety of travelers. Although the restrictions may seem numerous, they are essential to prevent irreversible damage and costly fines. The best way to fully enjoy this Incan wonder without stress or complications is to visit with a specialized agency like ours, which handles all permits, tickets in advance, and certified guides ensuring a smooth, informative, and unforgettable journey while actively contributing to the conservation of Machu Picchu for future generations.

Are you ready to experience this adventure responsibly and worry-free?

You may be interested in: 

• Machu Picchu Tickets: Everything You Need to Know!
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Machu Picchu
• Machu Picchu Mountains: Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain: Everything You Need to Know.
• Machu Picchu Mountain: The Complete Guide.
• Huchuy Picchu Mountain,: Complete Guide.

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