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 by train or on foot via trekking routes such as the Inca Trail. Once at the site, entering Machu Picchu involves a short, easy walk, followed by a 30-40 minute hike up to the Guardian’s House, where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view.
The citadel itself has two popular mountains, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, both of which offer unique vantage points for stunning photographs.
Choosing the best Circuit to 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 steps. The Incas were masters of mountain construction, and these steps were an integral part of building and navigating this architectural masterpiece.
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.
