NEW RULES FOR MACHU PICCHU

New Regulations for Machu Picchu in 2024

Machu Picchu is the most visited site in Peru and a must see on any trip to South America. In the past many thousands of visitors flocked to the site everyday causing overcrowding and damage that is unrepairable. To that end the Government of Peru has enforced strict rules and regulations for the preservation of this wonderful and fascinating site.

Today there is a limit to how many people can pass through the gates of Machu Picchu, here we will explain the regulations.

Tickets

In total, 4500 visitors are allowed to purchase Machu Picchu tickets for 2024 every day. 

This is broken up in to different sections with the majority being for the day tours.

Machu Picchu Citadel               2950 tickets

Huayna Picchu Mountain           200 tickets

Machu Picchu Mountain            200 tickets

Huchuy Picchu Mountain           200 tickets

Inca Trail                                     500 tickets

Short Inca Trail                           250 tickets

Machu Picchu New Circuits

New circuits have been established through the Regulation of Sustainable Use and Tourist Visits for the Conservation of Llaqta of Machu Picchu. According to the regulation, circuits must be followed and respected by every visitor to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.

There are 3 Circuits to enter Machu Picchu they are as follows

 Circuit 1A Machu Picchu Mountain, includes viewing platforms 1,2

Circuit 1B Viewing Platforms 1,2

Circuit 1C Sun Gate, includes viewing platforms 1,2

Circuit 1D Inca Bridge, incluces viewing platform 1,2

Circuit 2A All Machu Picchu, includes viewing platform 1

Circuit 2B All Machu Picchu, includes no viewing platforms

Circuit 3A Lower half of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu

Circuit 3B Lower half of Machu Picchu

Circuit 3C Lower half of Machu Picchu, The Big Cave

Circuit 3D Lower half of Machu Picchu, Huchuy Picchu

How Long Can I Stay at Machu Picchu?

The new Machu Picchu rules determine that tourists are strictly limited to four-hour stays. Most visitors do not take more than four hours on average to explore the site. Officials exercise control over the amount of traffic at any given time to maintain control of the Inca sanctuary. It Is regulation that all tourists must be led by a tour guide in order to preserve the world heritage site. Tourist groups are made up of a maximum of 10 people per guide. Reentry to the site is prohibited. The guided tour duration was set in 2 hours in order to free room for more groups, avoid crowds and especially protect the Inca town of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu Entry Conditions

To enter Machu Picchu, you must hold an entry ticket, an official ID, be accompanied by a Tour Guide. Machu Picchu staff may request your ticket and/or ID at any time during your time there.

 If you are a foreigner, a valid identity card is your passport, immigration card, or diplomatic identity card. If you are a foreign student, you must present a valid ISIC card.

Important Rules to Follow When Visiting Machu Picchu

1.Stay on designated paths, refrain from touching the structures, avoid leaning against walls to prevent unnecessary damage.

2.To manage the flow of visitors and minimize impact, Machu Picchu now offers five distinct circuits. Choose your route wisely and respect the pathways.

3. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings, but remember to leave no trace. Carry out all waste, including wrappers and containers, and dispose of them responsibly. Help safeguard the delicate balance between history and nature.

 We recommend opting for a reusable water bottle or canteen. This small change contributes to reducing plastic waste and supports sustainability efforts.  Please note that carrying hiking poles is prohibited. However, if you have a specific need due to a leg issue, we advise you to contact the Ministry of Culture to request a special permission.

During the rainy season, skip the plastic poncho. An eco-friendlier choice is a raincoat it will keep you dry while exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu.

4. Take as many photos of Machu Picchu as you like, but do so thoughtfully. Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited as they can obstruct pathways. And while it’s great to take selfies, ensure your safety and do not compromise on rules or your fellow visitors’ experience.

5. Machu Picchu is a place of reverence and contemplation. Keep conversations at a considerate volume and embrace the serenity of Machu Picchu.

 6. Respect the boundaries that separate visitors from certain areas. Avoid venturing into off-limit zones.

7. Preservation begins with each visitor. Refrain from leaving any marks, such as graffiti or etchings, on the stones. Let your memory of Machu Picchu remain intact without altering its physicality.

Some Prohibited Behavior at Machu Picchu

Carry Sharp Knives and Weapons

Smoking

Taking Illegal Routes

Cause Disorder

Using Drones

Feeding the animals

Prohibited Objects at Machu Picchu

Tripods and Selfie Sticks

Heels

Alcoholic Beverages

Baby Carriages

Backpacks larger than 40 x 35 x 20

Plastics

Inca Trail + Machu Picchu New Rules 2024 

• All visitors must be accompanied by a Tour Guide. 
• A group must not exceed 16 visitors. 
• A maximum of 500 people per day (including supporting staff) is allowed to start an Inca Trail.
• Porters are not authorized to carry more than 14 kg.
• The route remains closed during the month of every February for its maintenance. 
• An Inca Trail Booking 2024 can be through an authorized travel agency/tour operator that is responsible for an entry ticket purchase. 
• An Inca Trail permit can only be purchased at the Ministry of Culture’s box office. No payment and for any reason will be accepted at the entrance and checkpoints of the Inca Trail
• Staying in the trail network must not exceed the deadline set for each route. 
• Lavatories (bathrooms) are intended for public use and are properly marked. They cannot be used for washing dishes or sleeping.

Rules for entering Huayna Picchu

• There are only 200 tickets per day which sell out quickly so book months in advance to avoid disappointment.
• The first entrance group is at 7am and the last is at 9am, the site closes at 1pm so all visitors are to leave at this hour.
• Children under 12 years old are not allowed to do the Huayna Picchu trek.
• You need to be of good psychical condition to do this hike and the climb in places can be steep.

Rules for trekking to Machu Picchu Mountain

• There are only 200 per day which sell out quickly so book months in advance to avoid disappointment.
• The first entrance group is at 6am and the last is at 9am, there are no restrictions on the amount of time you can spend at the site.
• The trek is open to people of all ages
• You need to be in reasonable psychical condition to this trek.

All these rules and regulations are put in place to make your Machu Picchu experience memorable. Book with a licensed local travel agent to ensure a smooth trip to the ancient Inca City of Machu Picchu.