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Alternatives to Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu

Portada / About Peru /  Machu Picchu Information / Alternatives to Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu
Entry to the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu, is divided into three circuits, of which Circuit 2 is the most requested due to its comprehensive route. Therefore, tickets for this circuit should be purchased at least three months in advance. Discover here what other options you have if you are unable to purchase entry to Machu Picchu with Circuit 2.
Machu Picchu, wonder of the world
Machu Picchu, wonder of the world

Why is Circuit 2 the favorite for exploring Machu Picchu?

Circuit 2 is the most requested entrance to Machu Picchu by tourists, as it is the most comprehensive and allows you to explore the interior of the Inca citadel. This circuit is divided into two routes that are very similar and provide a complete tour of Machu Picchu, including the classic postcard photo.

Although it allows you to take the classic postcard photo, it does not include a tour of the Guardian's House sector, only a brief stop to capture the moment. However, you will be able to visit most of the temples located in the urban sector. It has an approximate duration of 3 hours.

Best alternatives to Circuit 2

Since Circuit 2 is the most comprehensive, it is the most popular among visitors. Although it has 10 entrance groups, it often sells out up to 3 months in advance. If you were unable to secure this entrance, here are some options based on your preferences.

Explore the interior of Machu Picchu (Circuit 3)

Circuit 3 is perfect for those who want to visit the interior of the Inca citadel; however, it DOES NOT allow you to take the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. This circuit is divided into four sub-circuits that allow you to visit places outside Machu Picchu.

  • Circuit 3, Route 3-A + Huayna Picchu Mountain: with this entrance, you visit the Inca city and also hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain.
  • Circuit 3, Route 3-B, Designed Royalty: this entrance allows you to visit only the interior of Machu Picchu without adding any other route.
  • Circuit 3, Route 3-C + Great Cave: this ticket allows you to visit the Temple of the Moon, located in the middle of Huayna Picchu Mountain.
  • Circuit 3, Route 3-D + Huchuy Picchu Mountain: This entrance allows you to reach the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain.

Main differences

Circuit 2 Circuit 3
Routes Route 2-A, Classic Designed
Route 2-B, Lower Terrace
Route 3-A + Huayna Picchu Mountain
Route 3-B, Designed Royalty
Route 3-C + Great Cave
Route 3-D + Huchuy Picchu Mountain
Classic postcard photo Yes No
Reservation time 3 months 1 month
All routes in Circuit 3 have the same tour within Machu Picchu

Only a photo of Machu Picchu (Circuit 1)

Circuit 1 is the route that allows you to tour the sector of the Guardian's House and obtain the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. The circuit is divided into four sub-circuits that enable you to visit other points outside the Inca citadel. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes.

  • Circuit 1, Route 1-A + Machu Picchu Mountain: with this entrance, you visit the Inca city and also hike to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain.
  • Circuit 1, Route 1-B, Upper Terrace: this entrance allows you to visit only the Guardian's House sector and take the postcard photo of Machu Picchu.
  • Circuit 1, Route 1-C + Intipunku Gate: this ticket allows you to visit the Intipunku Gate, the only entrance to Machu Picchu during the Inca era.
  • Circuit 1, Route 1-D + Inca Bridge: This entrance allows you to reach the Inca Bridge, a construction that connects Machu Picchu with the high jungle.

Main differences

Circuit 2 Circuit 1
Routes Route 2-A, Classic Designed
Route 2-B, Lower Terrace
Route 1-A + Machu Picchu Mountain
Route 1-B, Upper Terrace
Route 1-C + Intipunku Gate
Route 1-D + Inca Bridge
Classic postcard photo Yes Yes
Reservation time 3 months 1 month
Ruta 1 B - Ruta Terraza Superior
All routes in Circuit 1 have the same tour within Machu Picchu

We know that planning your trip and choosing the best circuit can be complicated, so relax. At CuscoPeru.com, we take care of everything. All our tours include tickets and train and bus tickets to reach Machu Picchu. We advise and assist you so that you can enjoy your visit to Machu Picchu without complications. Book now!

Happy passengers