If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu for the first time and are wondering, “Which Circuit Should You Choose to Visit Machu Picchu?“, we are here to help you decide the best option for your trip.
Understanding Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an iconic Inca citadel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural and historical significance. Built during the reign of Pachacutec, it remains a marvel of Inca engineering and mystery.
Each year, Peruvian and international archaeologists work together to uncover more secrets of this incredible site. Unfortunately, when the Spanish arrived in Peru, much of the history and heritage of the Andean culture was lost. Chroniclers of the time who visited or were born in Cusco documented Inca traditions, but they never mentioned Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu, leaving its rediscovery shrouded in intrigue.
How to Get to Machu Picchu
Located high in the Andes, Machu Picchu can be reached either by train or on foot via trekking routes such as the classic Inca Trail, a 42 km journey filled with history and archaeological sites.
On the Inca Trail, you arrive at the citadel through the Sun Gate, where you can admire the magical view of Machu Picchu from above. From there, you walk downhill on a short, easy path, followed by a 30–40 minute hike up to the Guardian’s House for a stunning panoramic view.
However, according to the new regulations, the Inca Trail does not include the full exploration of the Machu Picchu citadel. Visitors are recommended to purchase an additional entrance ticket based on their assigned Inca Trail group.
The second option is to travel by train. This is the most comfortable and easiest way to visit Machu Picchu, as it only requires taking a train and then a bus to the entrance of the citadel. Once there, you can choose the best Machu Picchu circuit for your visit.
The citadel also features two popular mountains—Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. Both offer unique viewpoints for stunning photos and unforgettable experiences.
Continue reading to learn which is the best circuit for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail.
What is the Best Circuit for Machu Picchu
Exploring Machu Picchu requires choosing one of the designated circuits (1, 2, or 3). Each circuit involves walking on uneven terrain with many stone steps. The Incas were masters of mountain construction, and these steps were an essential part of building and navigating this architectural masterpiece.
So, which circuit is the best?
Which Circuit Is Best for Visiting Machu Picchu?
Top 01: Circuit 2 – The best circuit to explore Machu Picchu
Circuit 2 Machu Picchu is considered the best route to explore the entire citadel. There are two routes, Route A and Route B, both of which start from the highest point of Machu Picchu, where you can take stunning panoramic photos. From there you’ll enter the citadel to visit important sites such as the Machu Picchu Gate, the Inca Quarry, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, Intiwatana (accessible for climbing for only 2 hours), the Main Square, the Sacred Rock, the Llaqta, the Temple of the Condor, the Andean Platform, and finally the exit of Machu Picchu.
The hike takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours. We recommend hiring a guide to enhance your experience and provide explanations of the sites. Please note that only a limited number of tickets are available each day.
Top 2: Circuit 3 Machu Picchu – The Best Circuit to Explore the Lower Part of Machu Picchu
Circuit 3 allows visitors to explore the lower section of Machu Picchu and is considered one of the best circuits for discovering the citadel. This route includes access to the Temple of the Sun, agricultural terraces, the Main Plaza of Machu Picchu, and the Temple of the Condor (depending on the scheduled entry time).
Top 3: Circuit Huayna Picchu
The Huayna Picchu Circuit includes part of Circuit 3 and the climb to the famous Huayna Picchu Mountain. From the summit, you can admire Machu Picchu in its full splendor, enjoy unique viewpoints, and take in the beautiful landscapes of the Vilcanota River and the surrounding mountains.
Top 4: Circuit Machu Picchu Mountain
If tickets for Huayna Picchu are sold out, Machu Picchu Mountain is the best alternative. This circuit includes the ascent to the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the Inca citadel from various angles. The hike to the summit takes around 3 hours. After the descent, you can also enjoy the iconic panoramic viewpoint at the Guardian’s House for stunning photos of Machu Picchu.