Machu Picchu will increase its daily visitor capacity to 5,600 starting June 19, coinciding with the beginning of the high season. Previously, the daily availability of Machu Picchu tickets was 4,600 spots, but growing demand and the arrival of more travelers during this period led to the expansion.
This change is important for anyone looking for Machu Picchu tickets, as more spots will be available during the busiest travel months. Even so, it is still best to book in advance, especially if you are traveling during holidays or vacation periods.
According to the Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Cusco, a sudden increase in visitors to the Inca citadel has been noticeable since May. Many travelers arrive by train from Ollantaytambo, others walk the Santa Teresa-Hydroelectric route, and some enter through the Inca Trail, one of the most popular experiences for trekking lovers.
The in-person sale of 1,000 Machu Picchu tickets in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) is included in this ticket pool and will continue to be available for travelers who were unable to buy their tickets through the official Machu Picchu archaeological park website, either because tickets were sold out or because they ran out of time. However, authorities are working on a proposal to better organize this process and prevent the problems some travelers face when trying to buy these tickets in person.
Also, if you are planning to book a Machu Picchu tour, make sure to check what type of ticket is included, the entry time, the assigned circuit, and whether the itinerary gives you enough time for your train, bus, or hiking route, both on the way there and on the return. This will help you avoid confusion and make the most of your visit.
| Channel | Regular Season (Spots) | Peak Season (Spots) |
| Online platform (tuboleto.cultura.pe) | 3,500 | 4,600 |
| In person (Machu Picchu town) | 1,000 | 1,000 |
| Total daily capacity | 4,500 | 5,600 |
Inca Trail permits are already included
The 500 Inca Trail permits available each day are included in this total, since those permits also include entry to Machu Picchu. For that reason, this increase in visitor capacity at the Inca citadel does not mean you should leave your booking until the last minute. If you already have your travel date, the best option is to buy your ticket as soon as possible and then organize your trains, hotel, tours, and guide.
According to Ministerial Resolution No. 285-2025-MC, the daily capacity of 5,600 visitors will apply from June 19 to November 2, as well as during certain holiday periods throughout the year. So, if you plan to buy Machu Picchu tickets for those dates, it is a good idea to check availability in advance.
Regarding a possible new increase in capacity, the cultural authority clarified that this cannot be decided lightly. Any change must be based on technical studies that evaluate the sanctuary’s real carrying capacity and the protection of the archaeological heritage.
In short
This measure will benefit travelers looking for Machu Picchu tours during the high season, when demand can rise suddenly and tickets may sell out quickly. This increase in capacity creates a better chance of finding available Machu Picchu tickets.
