Hundreds of tourists without an entry ticket are making long lines at Aguas Calientes, causing them frustration to access the World Wonder of Machu Picchu.
Source: https://rotafono.pe/casos/cusco-aguas-calientes-cusco-largas-filas-de-turistas-a-la-espera-de-conseguir-un-boleto-para-ingresar-a-machu-picchu-6658/
Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu, is experiencing a surge in tourist numbers. As a result, many visitors without pre-booked tickets are facing long queues and extended waiting times to purchase tickets for the iconic Inca citadel. Some are left with little choice but to join the lines and hope for a chance to enter.
Recent videos posted online and on social media show the long lines of people waiting to buy their tickets at the town’s Ministry of Culture Office on Wednesday. Unfortunately, some felt deceived to know that tickets were completely sold out until Friday. This has caused frustration to those who had already booked their flights and train tickets and had to change their original travel plans.
Ticket Shortage and Increased Demand
The popularity of Machu Picchu has soared in recent months, attracting travelers from all corners of the globe. The site's breathtaking beauty, rich history, and cultural significance have made it a must-visit destination for adventurers and history enthusiasts.
This increased demand, coupled with limited ticket availability, has led the Peruvian Ministry of Culture to open 1000 spaces each day for those who can’t book a ticket through the Official Site. However, these tickets are only accessible on-site and issued on the same date of visit.
Visitors must arrive in Aguas Calientes, show their passport or ID, and receive a numbered paper indicating their purchase and visit date. This has forced them to stay in the town longer than expected, usually 1 or 2 nights. Even with this plan, they’re not guaranteed to access the long-awaited tickets.
To prevent this, the local authorities are demanding a solution to minimize the visitors' discomfort and requesting the Ministry of Culture to be more clear about the ticket booking process.
Machu Picchu Ticket Availability
The limited capacity for entry into Machu Picchu per day means that only 5,000 visitors can explore the ancient city at a given time through the different circuits. Tickets are currently sold out until early November, according to the official website for the sale of virtual entrance tickets to Machu Picchu.
The Importance of Planning and Early Booking
To fully enjoy their visit to Machu Picchu and avoid any disappointment, travelers are strongly advised to plan their trip well in advance. By securing tickets ahead of time and planning their itinerary accordingly, visitors can minimize waiting times and make the most of their time exploring the ancient ruins.
Booking tickets online through the official government website or through reputable tour operators is recommended to ensure a hassle-free experience.
To get information on Machu Picchu Tickets and Circuits, visit our Machu Picchu Tickets Travel Guide.
You can also take a look at our Machu Picchu Overnight Tour if you are planning your visit ahead.