Every traveller, when entering the citadel of Machu Picchu during the Opening times, must present their ticket, which is the official document issued by the Peruvian government to enter Machu Picchu.
Find here in this section the ultimate travel guide to Peru & Machu Picchu!
What time does Machu Picchu is open?
Is Machu Picchu open all week? Does Machu Picchu close for holidays? Do I have a time slot for my entrance? All these questions are answered here.
Machu Picchu is open every day of the week, including most public holidays, with only rare closures due to maintenance or safety regulations. Visitors can plan their trip any day of the year, making it a flexible destination for travelers from around the world.
Each entrance ticket includes a specific time slot, which is strictly assigned to manage visitor flow and protect the archaeological site. Arriving on time is essential, as entry is only permitted within the designated schedule. Late arrivals may not be guaranteed access depending on availability and site regulations.
Here you will also find updated information about opening hours, entry rules, and travel recommendations to help you better organize your visit and make the most of your experience at one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Opening Hours
Machu Picchu is open every single day of the year, including holidays such as Christmas and New Year. Opening hours are Monday–Sunday from 6:00am to 5:30pm. However, no new entrances are allowed after 2:00pm, so visitors are recommended to arrive early to make the most of their visit and avoid crowds.
Entry is regulated through timed tickets and visitor circuits to help preserve the site and ensure a better experience for everyone. It is also advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during high season (June to August), when demand is significantly higher.
Its corresponding museum is open Monday–Sunday from 9:00am to 4:30pm, offering additional historical context, archaeological exhibits, and information about the Inca civilization and the discovery of Machu Picchu.
Time slots
Machu Picchu entrance tickets allow you to enter the ruins within a specific time slot, which must be respected in order to access the site. Visitors are required to arrive shortly before their assigned time to ensure a smooth entry process, as late arrivals may risk losing their entry depending on availability and regulations.
These time slots are carefully managed by the authorities to control visitor flow, protect the archaeological site, and reduce overcrowding. Currently, there are 9 different entry schedules, with visitors allowed in every hour from 6:00am until 2:00pm.
Each time slot helps maintain a balanced number of tourists inside the citadel at any given time, preserving the site’s integrity and improving the overall visitor experience. It is strongly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as availability for preferred time slots can be limited.
Machu Picchu Extra Tickets
There are also time slots attributed to climbing either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, where visitors must pass through a designated checkpoint in order to continue the ascent. These controls help regulate the number of hikers and ensure safety along the trails, as both routes can be steep and require careful navigation.
There are 3 groups per day for each mountain, and each group has a specific entry window that must be respected. Once inside, hikers are expected to complete the circuit within the allowed timeframe. The schedules are strictly enforced to preserve the natural environment and avoid overcrowding on the trails.
It is highly recommended to book these permits in advance, as access is limited and often sells out weeks or even months ahead, especially during the high tourist season. Proper hiking shoes, water, and a good level of physical fitness are also advised for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Group 1 :Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am. Entrance to Hyanaya /Machu Picchu Mountain is from 7 am to 8 am
- Group 2 : Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am. Entrance to Hyanaya /Machu Picchu Mountain is from 7 am to 8 am.
- Group 3 : Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am. Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain is from 9 am to 10 am and Hyanaya Picchu is 10.30am-11.30am
