Can you visit Machu Picchu without a prior reservation? The answer is YES, but it can be a bit harder.
If you are in Cusco and want to discover the great Inca citadel at the last minute, you will need to act quickly. It is possible to get tickets in person in Aguas Calientes, the town located at the foot of Machu Picchu, but they are limited and sell out quickly.
Don’t worry! In this blog, we explain in detail the steps you need to follow to get your ticket.
- Visiting Machu Picchu at the Last Minute: Challenging, but Possible
- How to Get Last-Minute Machu Picchu Tickets?
- Tickets for the Machu Picchu Mountains
- The fastest way to get to Machu Picchu
- Additional Last-Minute Services to Consider:
- Key Tips for Attempting a Last Minute Trip to Machu Picchu:
- Peak Season: An Even Greater Challenge
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Conclusion: Planning Is the Optimal Strategy
- You might be interested in
Visiting Machu Picchu at the Last Minute: Challenging, but Possible
If you’ve never heard of Machu Picchu, you probably don’t live on planet Earth. This magical place is famous all around the world and is considered one of the most beautiful out there. But why is it so tricky to visit it without planning ahead? We’ll explain it to you.
Why is Machu Picchu so popular?
Machu Picchu is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Peru. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World due to its great cultural, historical, and environmental significance. It was the greatest achievement of the Incas, built high on a mountain that is difficult to access and surrounded by an unparalleled natural setting. Every traveler who arrives in Cusco dreams of visiting Machu Picchu, which creates massive demand. To preserve this monument, the number of daily visitors has been restricted.
Machu Picchu has a limited number of daily tickets, divided into different time slots and circuits
The citadel is divided into two areas: the upper part and the lower part. There are different routes that allow you to visit specific areas of the citadel, such as certain temples or panoramic viewpoints, where you can enjoy the incredible scenery. Some circuits are more popular than others because of the sites they include, so their tickets sell out more quickly. Especially if you are traveling during the high season (April–October), it is recommended to book your tickets 3 to 4 months in advance.
Risks You Should Consider:
Getting last-minute tickets to Machu Picchu is a possible challenge, but with some risks:
- Limited availability: Only 1,000 tickets are sold daily in Aguas Calientes.
- Circuit restrictions: Fewer routes will be available to choose from.
- Sold-out tickets: There’s a 78% chance of not getting a ticket during the high season (April–October).
- Time wasted: Since it’s an in-person purchase, you’ll have to wait in a long line.
- Cash payment: They don’t accept cards or transfers (only Peruvian soles).
- Urgent accommodation: Higher prices for last-minute reservations.
How to Get Last-Minute Machu Picchu Tickets?
If you arrived in Cusco without Machu Picchu tickets, follow this proven emergency protocol to purchase tickets in Aguas Calientes:
1. Rush to Aguas Calientes (the town of Machu Picchu)
You should head to this town, located 110 km (68 miles) northeast of Cusco. You can get there by train or car, but the train will be much easier and faster.
Buy your one-way train ticket as early as possible. You have two options:
- Travel very early the same day to queue up from the first hour of the morning.
- Travel the night before and queue early the next day (this option involves spending an extra night in Aguas Calientes).
To get to Machu Picchu by train, you can choose between two companies that operate the route: Peru Rail and Inca Rail.
RECOMMENDATION: Do not purchase your return train ticket until you secure your entry to Machu Picchu, as you won’t know what time you’ll be able to enter the citadel.
2. You must book accommodation for at least 1 or 2 nights
Due to the purchase method and the line you need to stand in to get a ticket to Machu Picchu, you should dedicate 2 days to the entire process.
- Day 1: Ticket purchase.
- Day 2: Visit to Machu Picchu.
3. Express Purchase at the Ministry of Culture in Aguas Calientes
You must go in person to the office, as appointments cannot be booked online. Key location: Av. Pachacutec s/n (Cultural Center).
4. Ticket Purchase Process for the entry to Machu Picchu
Keep in mind that the purchase is not made directly.
- First: Arrive early to stand in line and be very patient. You will receive a service number (treat it like a treasure!) with the time when you will be assisted in making your purchase.
- Service Ticket Hours:
Schedule: From 6:00 AM (Monday through Sunday) Pro Tip: Arrive before 5:00 AM with your original ID to stand in line.
- Service Ticket Hours:
- Second: You will need to return to the office at the specified time and proceed with purchasing your ticket. Keep your eyes wide open: note the exact time of your assigned appointment carefully, as even the slightest delay could cost you your entry.
- Final Ticket Purchase Hours:
Ticket Sales Schedule: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM (on the same day) - Attention Shifts and Numbering
Group Time Slot Ticket Range 1 3:00 PM 001 – 150 2 4:00 PM 151 – 300 3 5:00 PM 301 – 450 4 6:00 PM 451 – 600 5 7:00 PM 601 – 750 6 8:00 PM 751 – 900 7 9:00 PM 901 – 1000 Crucial Information:
-. Verify your ticket number and arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
-. You will not be assisted if your ticket’s scheduled time is not the same as your appointment.You can track real-time ticket availability here:
https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/disponibilidad/llaqta_machupicchu
Real-time purchasing process for Machu Picchu tickets When it’s your turn to buy, you’ll have access to the circuits available for the following day (options will be limited and subject to immediate availability). Have 2–3 preferred circuits in mind for your visit to Machu Picchu, as you’ll need to make a quick decision on the spot under time pressure.
ATTENTION: Payment MUST be made in cash (Peruvian soles). Not accepted: Mobile app payments, cards, or U.S. dollars. Withdraw money from an ATM the day before.
- Final Ticket Purchase Hours:
Tickets for the Machu Picchu Mountains
The Machu Picchu Mountains surrounding the citadel are also major points of interest for tourists. These massive peaks, covered in lush vegetation, hide significant historical sites and offer a fantastic view of the entire complex.
It is important to note that access to the mountains requires a separate ticket from the general Machu Picchu entry. Additionally, the tickets are limited and in high demand, so there may not be availability if you purchase last minute. However, you can still try your luck at the ticket office in Aguas Calientes when you buy your ticket to Machu Picchu.
There are 3 mountains: Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, and Machu Picchu. Each has its own charm, but all of them will fascinate you.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: The ticket corresponds to Circuit 1 – Panoramic / Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route. Only 300 tickets are available per day, divided into 150 tickets per time slot.
- Huchuy Picchu Mountain: The ticket corresponds to Circuit 3 on Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route. Only 50 tickets are issued per day, divided into just two ascent time slots.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: The ticket corresponds to Circuit 3 – Machu Picchu Royalty on Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain Route. Only 400 visitors are allowed per day, divided into two time slots.
The fastest way to get to Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes is the closest town to Machu Picchu. The distance between them is 9 km (5.6 miles), and you can choose to cover it either on foot or by bus.
If you decide to walk, you’ll hike for about 1.5 to 2 hours along a section of the ancient Inca Trail until you reach the citadel. Alternatively, you can take a bus for a comfortable ride of approximately 25 minutes.
This bus ride also requires a separate ticket, which you should purchase as soon as you have your Machu Picchu entry ticket.
Machu Picchu Bus Ticket Purchase Process
Proceed immediately to Consettur (the only authorized bus operator) to purchase your ascent and/or descent ticket.
- Location in Aguas Calientes: Av. Hermanos Ayar S/N ((in front of Puente Ruinas).
- Travel time: 25 minutes
- Operating hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Flexible Visit Options:
- Bus ascent + walking descent (purchase one-way ticket only).
- Walking ascent + bus descent (buy a return ticket at the upper ticket office).
- Round-trip by bus (most popular option).
- Frequency: Departures every 10 minutes (5:30 AM – 3:30 PM).
Machu Picchu bus ticket price:
| Rates | National | Resident | Foreigner | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| One way (up or down) | Round Trip | One way (up or down) | Round Trip | One way (up or down) | Round Trip | |
| Adults | USD 8.00 | USD.15.00 | USD 12.00 | USD 24.00 | ||
| Students | USD 6.00 | USD. 10.00 | ||||
| Children | USD 5.00 | USD. 8.00 | USD 7.00 | USD 12.00 | ||
| Cusco Resident | S//. 9.50 | S/. 19.00 | ||||
If you’re short on time, you may purchase directly through our official website: https://comprar.consettur.com/
Important Notice:
- Safeguard your ticket and avoid exposure to moisture or damage.
- Present a valid ID when purchasing your ticket.
- International students are not eligible for student discounts.
- Child fares apply to ages 5-11. Children under five travel free when accompanied by parents.
Preparation for Your Visit to Machu Picchu
With both tickets in hand (entrance + bus), make the most of your time by:
- Hydrate and eat light: Aguas Calientes offers diverse dining options for all tastes and budgets.
- Gear Essentials:
- Compact backpack (max 20L)
- Waterproof layer (weather changes abruptly)
- Traction footwear (wet stone surfaces)
- Strategic Timing
- First bus: 5:30 AM (optimal for sunrise)
- Final ascent: 2:30 PM (site access until 5:30 PM)
- Rest well: The next day you’ll discover the enigmatic Inca citadel: Machu Picchu.
- Take the bus strategically: Depending on your Machu Picchu entry ticket, you should arrive early at the bus station to avoid crowds.
Access to Machu Picchu
Before entering Machu Picchu, you must go through a strict checkpoint. Present your physical ticket and your original ID at the main entrance. If you want to hire a tour guide (not mandatory), you can do so at the entrance. To hire their services, make sure they have their valid credentials clearly visible on their chest (Gercetur and Colitur credentials).
Prices vary depending on the services they offer:
| Service Type | Duration | Group Price (1 – 8 people) | Language |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introductory Tour (Tickets do not include access to any mountain). | 2. 5 hrs | 50 – 90 USD | Spanish / English / Portuguese |
| Premium Tour (Tickets including access to the mountains) | 4 hrs | 100 – 150 USD | Spanish / English / Portuguese |
* The listed costs are approximate. Always confirm the final price with the authorized guide before hiring, requesting details on what is included and excluded, and compare available options.
Additional Last-Minute Services to Consider:
- Train Tickets: Purchasing last-minute train tickets to Machu Picchu is not advisable due to the risk of limited availability. However, travelers can buy tickets online or in Cusco up to three days in advance.
- Bus Tickets (Aguas Calientes—Machu Picchu): These tickets can be purchased last minute in Cusco or, if traveling independently, directly at the Aguas Calientes ticket office on the day of your visit or the day before.
- Tour Guide: Tour guides are available for hire at Machu Picchu’s entrance on the day of your visit.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes: Booking a hotel in Aguas Calientes at the last minute is not recommended, as your preferred options may be unavailable. If booking last-minute, it’s best to check online for any remaining availability.
- Inca Trail: Unfortunately, the Inca Trail cannot be done at the last minute. Demand is extremely high, and access is limited to 500 people per day (including agency staff). Additionally, only authorized agencies are allowed to sell these packages due to the logistics involved. Entry tickets must be purchased up to 4 months in advance.
- Salkantay Trek: There is no access limit, but there is a limit on accommodation. Like the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek has very high demand, and the tour with its exclusive campsites sells out quickly. It should be booked 3 to 4 months in advance.
Key Tips for Attempting a Last Minute Trip to Machu Picchu:
- Act Fast: Last-minute availability is limited and can sell out quickly.
- Be Flexible: You may not get your preferred time slot or ticket type, so stay open to different options.
- Check Online Availability Frequently: Spots may open up due to cancellations.
- Ensure Your Passport Is Valid: A valid passport is mandatory for purchasing tickets and must remain so until you depart from Peru.
- Prepare for Potential Setbacks: Last-minute travel carries a higher risk of unexpected issues.
Peak Season: An Even Greater Challenge
During the high season (April-October), last-minute tickets for Machu Picchu are extremely scarce due to high demand and the daily limit of 1,000 visitors. Requests spike even more during holidays, festivals, and weekends, forcing many travelers to wait for days to secure tickets.
Pro Tip: For additional information, contact:
- IPERU Machu Picchu: +51 (084) 980 328 761
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What should I do if I can’t get last-minute tickets to Machu Picchu?
If you fail to secure tickets, return before 4:00 a.m. the next morning to queue again, repeating this process over subsequent days if necessary; alternatively, book the nearest available date online (considering all open circuits) while verifying Aguas Calientes accommodation options to determine whether to extend your stay or return to Cusco – always accounting for these additional days in your travel budget. - Can I purchase Machu Picchu tickets for later dates?
No. Tickets are strictly valid only for the assigned date. Purchasing for future dates or exchanging them for another day is not permitted. - Can you enter Machu Picchu without a prior reservation?
Yes, but under strict conditions:- Only 1,000 daily tickets are available for purchase in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
- High risk of unavailability (85% sell-out rate during peak season)
- Cash-only transactions (exclusively in Peruvian soles)
- Limited circuit access (not all routes may be available)
- Where to Purchase Last-Minute Machu Picchu Tickets?
- Location: Ministry of Culture Office in Aguas Calientes (Av. Pachacútec s/n – No numbered address)
- What Are the Odds of Securing Last-Minute Machu Picchu Tickets?
- Low Season (November-March): 50 % success rate.
- Peak Season (April-October): Merely 12-15% success rate.
- Can you enter Huayna Picchu without a reservation?
Absolutely not. Securing last-minute entry is virtually impossible, as Huayna Picchu tickets must be purchased 3-4 months in advance due to its strict 400-visitor daily quota. - Can you purchase the Machu Picchu bus ticket on the same day?
- Yes, at the Consettur ticket office in Aguas Calientes.
- Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
- Can you purchase last-minute train tickets to Machu Picchu?
It’s risky. You might not find available time slots that fit your schedule. Recommendation: Book at least 2 days in advance. - Is a guide mandatory to enter Machu Picchu?
No, it’s not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. If you want to delve deeper into the history and significance of Machu Picchu, you can hire their services. Additionally, they’ll help you better navigate the assigned circuit, as the route within the archaeological site can be confusing. - What should I bring to purchase last-minute tickets?
- Original passport (mandatory).
- Cash in Peruvian soles (cards and US dollars are not accepted).
- Rain gear and patience (lines are long, and it often rains).
- How much additional time do I need to arrange last-minute tickets?
Allow a minimum of 48 extra hours:- Day 1: Travel to Aguas Calientes + ticket purchase.
- Day 2: Machu Picchu visit.
- Is it worth risking going without a pre-booked ticket?
That depends on your flexibility and, most importantly, your budget. If you can afford to wait 1-2 days, cover additional accommodation and meal costs, and are willing to accept limited circuit availability, then it is possible.
Conclusion: Planning Is the Optimal Strategy
Although it is possible to visit Machu Picchu at the last minute by purchasing one of the 1,000 daily tickets released in Aguas Calientes, it comes with risks such as long lines, limited circuit availability, and the need to stay at least two days to secure tickets. Additionally, payment can only be made in cash, and there’s a chance of not getting a ticket during the high season.
Therefore, while more adventurous travelers may attempt it with some flexibility, those seeking a hassle-free experience can consider specialized operators like Salkantay Trekking. Agencies guarantee safe access to Machu Picchu with a well-planned trip in advance. The best strategy remains booking months ahead, but if you choose to take an impromptu trip, follow our tips and prepare properly!
In the end, any effort will be worth it when contemplating this Inca marvel, whether with meticulous planning or a last-minute adventurous spirit!
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