
Changes to Circuit 1 Routes at Machu Picchu in 2025
It wouldn't be a new year at Machu Picchu unless there were unannounced changes to circuits, rules and other significant info which could affect your visit. Without any advance notice, the authorities of Machu Picchu have unvelied several new features that affect all tickets holders for all circuit 1 routes effective in January 2025.
The only reason we know about these changes to circuit 1 is because our tour guides have been to Machu Picchu and are reporting them.
What is Circuit 1 at Machu Picchu?
Circuit 1 is the panoramic route in the upper terraces at Machu Picchu. Visitors climb up to the highest platforms overlooking the ancient Inca city. There are 4 choices for tickets. Two of those are hikes that are only open during the high season. The dates for the high season in 2025 are June 19 through Nov 2. Do not assume that the dates for the high season in 2026 will be the same. The dates for high season in 2024 were June 1 - October 15. So.
What's New on Circuit 1 at Machu Picchu in 2025?
1. The main entrance at Machu Picchu now has a separate entry line just for circuit 1 ticket holders.
2. After you enter Machu Picchu main gate, circuit 1 ticket holders now have a new dedicated wooden staircase to get up to the upper terraces. It should take about 10-15 minutes or longer, depending on your fitness.
3. Circuit 1 ticket holders are now permitted to hike up the path towards the Sungate. But don't get your hopes up! You can go about half way to a small stone structure and a rock carving on the ground. Then you turn around and go back. If skies are clear, there is a higher view of Machu Picchu ancient city
4. Circuit 1B has literally one attraction. That's one spot for one view of Machu Picchu. Except for the hike up to the halfway point to Sungate. It find it interesting that they mention how this spot includes the view of the river, which literally flows around all of Machu Picchu and right by the village of Aguas Calientes
5. Inka Bridge and Sungate hikes are only open during the high season. That leaves Circuit 1B and Machu Picchu mountain open year round. But. these tickets are not ideal IMO because 1B is just a single spot for a view and Machu Picchu Mountain hike has 2 entris only in the morning. I don't recommend Circuit 1 as your one and only entry to Machu Picchu. Sadly, none of the circuit 1 routes includes access to the ancient city. At all.
Where can you find more information about the changes to circuits at Machu Picchu in 2025?
You would think you could find full details on the official Machu Picchu website! Sorry. No. That would be too helpful. Maybe as the year progresses, the webmasters will get the word and update the official website! Otherwise you can check back on our blog. We try to provide accurate up to date information.
Starting in 2025, the ticket to Circuit 1B is literally a walk up to a single spot for a view from the upper terrace, then you exit. I'm not kidding. I guess they felt bad about charging full price for a circuit that has "ONE" attraction. I'm happy to see that they are allowing people to hike up towards the Sungate (Inti-punku) but I still think that ticket is a waste of money.
English translation of the current description of Circuit 1B from the official Machu Picchu website.
The main attraction on this route is the viewpoint and the panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You can also see the geological formation called the “Vilcabamba Batholith” and the meandering bed of the Vilcanota River. Ideal if you want to get panoramic photos and take the classic photo of the city. The round trip is approximately 1.6 km. It requires medium physical effort.
I would edit that description to say "the only attraction on this route." If you only get one entry to Machu Picchu, this should probably not be it. It's a "wam, bam, gracias ma'am" kind of experience. Take your photo, "now get outta here!" The cost of the ticket is the same as Circuit 2 or 3. It's not like it's a bargain basement supersaver ticket.
Our manager in Cusco and I are in agreement on the limited value of entry tickets for Circuit 1B. This is our opinion and other folks may feel differently. That's fine with me. We won't be buying this ticket for our groups if we can avoid it. Besides that, we think the new wooden staircase is a blight on the sacred ruins. The Inca mummies must be reeling in their tombs.
Are there changes to other circuits at Machu Picchu in 2025?
No changes to other Machu Picchu circuits have been announced yet. Our ears are glued to the ground listening for the rumble of footsteps or the pounding of hammers amid the foggy conditions that cloak the ancient terrain.
If you need help with setting up your 1 day visit to Machu Picchu or your multi-day trip to Peru, don't hesitate to ask. Contact: [email protected]