Planning a Peru trip and visiting Machu Picchu? Getting your Machu Picchu tickets can be a bit confusing, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Whether you book online or buy in person, this guide will help you understand how to buy Machu Picchu tickets easily and stress-free.
Where to Buy Your Machu Picchu Entry Tickets
You have two main options for purchasing your Machu Picchu entry tickets:
- Online Reservation (Recommended)
- The easiest and most secure way to book your ticket is through the official website. This website is managed by the Ministerio de Cultura (Ministry of Culture) in Peru.
- Be careful! Many third-party websites look legitimate but may charge extra fees or even sell fake tickets. Always use the official site for booking your Machu Picchu tours or tickets.
- In-Person in Cusco
- If you prefer, you can buy your Machu Picchu entry tickets in Cusco at the Oficina de Cultura (Culture Office). This office allows you to reserve your ticket and pay for your ticket (if you booked online).
- Important: This office often has long lines, so be prepared to wait!
How to Pay for Your Machu Picchu Tickets
Once you’ve made your reservation, you need to pay for your ticket. Here are the authorized payment locations:
- Banco de la Nación (National Bank of Peru):
- You can pay at any Banco de la Nación branch in Peru.
- Hours of operation: Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM / Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Oficinas de Recaudación (Official Payment Offices in Cusco):
- Located at Calle Heraldos 165, Museo Casa Garcilaso (Garcilaso Museum).
- Hours of operation: Monday to Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Important: You must complete your payment within 5 hours of making your reservation online, and download your reservation and pay in person at one of the authorized offices.
- Online Payment:
- You can also pay online with a credit card, but an additional fee applies for card transactions. If possible, paying in cash at the bank or office can help you avoid extra fees.
Things to Keep in Mind When Booking Your Machu Picchu Entry Tickets
- Select “Llaqta Machupicchu” when choosing your ticket: “Llaqta” is a Quechua word meaning “place” or “town.” (Click here to learn more about Quechua).
- You must select a circuit when booking your ticket: There are different circuits with unique routes and views. Check out this circuit guide to choose the best one for you.
Some Tips for a Smooth Peru Trip
- Book in advance! Machu Picchu tickets sell out quickly, especially in peak season.
- Print or download your ticket before arriving—you’ll need to show it at the entrance.
- Triple check your passport information. Travelers have been turned away because the information on their passport doesn’t match what was input for the entrance ticket.
- Plan your visit time carefully based on your chosen circuit.
- If paying in person, arrive early to avoid long lines at payment offices.
- Consider booking Machu Picchu tours if you want a guided experience.
Now that you know how to buy Machu Picchu tickets, you’re ready to secure your spot for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
