Machu Picchu is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, attracting thousands of travelers every day. But what happens when you try to book and discover the dreaded message: machu picchu tickets sold out? If this has happened to you—or if you want to avoid it entirely—this guide is exactly what you need.
We’ll cover why tickets sell out, what to do if there’s no availability, and how to plan your visit so you never miss your chance to see the Inca citadel.
Why Are Machu Picchu Tickets Sold Out So Often?
Machu Picchu has strict visitor regulations to protect the site. The Peruvian Ministry of Culture has set a daily cap on how many people can enter, and that number is divided across circuits, entry times, and ticket types.
Each day, thousands of tourists compete for:
- General entry tickets (Circuit 1, 2, or 3)
- Special access tickets (Huayna Picchu, Montaña Machu Picchu, Huchuy Picchu)
- Time slots from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
During high season, especially from May to August, it’s common to see machu picchu tickets sold out weeks or even months in advance. Demand skyrockets during national holidays, long weekends, and dry-season months when weather conditions are ideal.
How the Ticket System Works (And Why It Sells Out)
Machu Picchu tickets are not generic. Each one corresponds to:
- A specific circuit
- A fixed entry hour
- A limited ticket type (with or without mountain hike)
This means that even if some tickets are available, the ones you need might be gone. For example, you might want to hike Huayna Picchu at 7:00 a.m., but only Circuit 3 at 2:00 p.m. is available.
Many travelers searching for a particular experience are shocked to find machu picchu tickets sold out for their desired circuit or time, even if other options remain.
What to Do If Machu Picchu Tickets Are Sold Out
If you’ve already seen machu picchu tickets sold out on your preferred date, don’t panic. Here are your best options:
1. Check Nearby Dates
Sometimes just moving your visit one or two days earlier or later can make all the difference.
2. Try a Different Time Slot
Afternoon entries (after 12:00 p.m.) tend to sell out slower than morning slots.
3. Look for Alternative Circuits
If Circuit 2 is gone, Circuit 1 or 3 may still be open—and they still offer beautiful views and iconic areas.
4. Use a Trusted Travel Agency
Agencies often hold blocks of tickets or get real-time updates and cancellations. They may find tickets that aren’t available on the public site.
5. Monitor for Cancellations
Tickets occasionally become available again due to cancellations or payment failures. Keep refreshing the official website or ask an agency to track it for you.
Facing machu picchu tickets sold out is frustrating, but flexibility and quick action can often turn the situation around.
When Do Machu Picchu Tickets Sell Out the Fastest?
The answer depends on the season, but the following periods are the most critical:
- June to August: Peak of high season, with school vacations in North America and Europe
- Late July: Peruvian Independence Day (28–29 July)
- Holy Week (Semana Santa): High demand from both locals and foreign tourists
- New Year’s and Christmas: Popular among international visitors
- April and May: Dry season starts, but crowds are already growing
If you’re traveling during any of these times and you don’t plan ahead, you’re very likely to face the message: machu picchu tickets sold out.
How to Avoid Seeing “Machu Picchu Tickets Sold Out”
If you want to guarantee your visit, the best strategy is to avoid last-minute decisions. Many people find machu picchu tickets sold out simply because they underestimated how quickly availability disappears.
Here are key tips to protect your trip:
1. Book 2–3 Months in Advance (or More)
Especially during high season, you should book as early as possible. For example, if you plan to visit in July, try to secure your ticket by April or even March.
2. Know Your Circuit Before Buying
Don’t waste time browsing during the purchase process. Know which circuit you want—Circuit 2 sells out the fastest—and proceed immediately.
3. Be Flexible With Time Slots
Morning entries (6:00 to 10:00 a.m.) are the most popular. Afternoon slots tend to last longer. If you want to avoid machu picchu tickets sold out, consider less competitive entry hours.
4. Use Agencies to Secure Packages
Travel agencies can often reserve entrance tickets, train tickets, and bus transfers in a package. This ensures you won’t forget any critical step.
How Far in Advance Should You Buy Tickets?
Here’s a general guide to when you should book your tickets to avoid machu picchu tickets sold out scenarios:
| Month | Recommended Advance Booking |
|---|---|
| January | 2–3 weeks before |
| February | 2–3 weeks before |
| March | 4–6 weeks before |
| April | 1–2 months before |
| May | 2–3 months before |
| June | 3+ months before |
| July | 3+ months before |
| August | 3+ months before |
| September | 1–2 months before |
| October | 1–2 months before |
| November | 4–6 weeks before |
| December | 4–6 weeks before |
Keep in mind: If you’re booking Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu, always add 1 extra month to these estimates. These sell out first and are more restricted.
Why Circuit 2 Always Sells Out First
If you see machu picchu tickets sold out for Circuit 2, you’re not alone. It’s the most requested because it includes:
- Classic panoramic views
- Main temples and plazas
- The Guardhouse and the Sacred Rock
- Best angles for photos and guided tours
Many people think this is the “real” Machu Picchu experience, and in many ways, it is. That’s why Circuit 2 tickets are often gone weeks before any others. If you’re aiming for this circuit, act early and consider morning or late afternoon slots to improve your chances.
Machu Picchu Tickets Sold Out on the Official Website… But Not in Agencies?
One of the most confusing things for travelers is checking the official government site and seeing machu picchu tickets sold out, while travel agencies still offer availability.
Why?
Because many agencies reserve tickets in advance or have access to realtime updates and cancellations. They might be able to get:
- Returned tickets that didn’t get paid
- Resale allocations from group bookings
- Reserved tickets under agency quotas
This is why using a reliable, authorized travel agency can be a great advantage, especially for travelers who are late to book or need specific dates.
What If Machu Picchu Is Completely Sold Out?
In rare cases, especially during major holidays, machu picchu tickets sold out could apply to all circuits and all slots. If this happens, here are your best alternatives:
1. Choose Another Day
If your travel schedule is flexible, shifting by one or two days may open up availability.
2. Explore Alternative Inca Sites
Sites like Choquequirao, Ollantaytambo, and Waqrapukara offer incredible Inca history without the crowds.
3. Visit the Sacred Valley While You Wait
Spending a few days in Urubamba, Pisac, or Chinchero gives you time to monitor cancellations and enjoy authentic Andean culture.
4. Try a Last-Minute Tour Package
Some agencies offer last-minute deals when groups cancel. They may include entrance, transport, and guide.
Even when facing machu picchu tickets sold out, staying calm, flexible, and proactive can often lead to surprising solutions.
Why You Should Never Wait Until the Last Minute
Many people believe they can just buy their tickets a few days before visiting. But this is one of the main reasons why machu picchu tickets sold out is such a common issue.
Risks of Waiting Too Long:
- No tickets for your desired date or time
- Only afternoon slots or less scenic circuits left
- Higher prices from last-minute agencies
- Trains and buses also get fully booked
To avoid this, make your Machu Picchu booking part of your initial travel planning, not a last-minute task. Especially if you’re visiting Peru during peak months, ticket planning should come even before booking hotels.
Where to Buy Tickets Without Stress
There are two main places to buy your ticket: the official government website and authorized travel agencies.
Official Website:
This is the official site run by the Peruvian government:
https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe
Pros:
- Cheapest option
- Real-time availability
Cons:
- Often shows machu picchu tickets sold out for top circuits
- Payment system frequently fails for foreign cards
- No customer support
Authorized Agencies (Recommended if Tickets Appear Sold Out):
- VisitMachuPicchu.net
- MachuPicchuTickets.com
- Traveleez Peru
- FindLocalTrips.com
Pros:
- Customer service
- Can include transport and guides
- Access to extra or reserved inventory
Even if you see machu picchu tickets sold out online, agencies might still help you find a spot.
Combine Entry, Train, and Bus for a Smooth Experience
A big mistake travelers make is booking entrance tickets first, then trying to add trains and buses. The result? Schedules that don’t match.
To avoid this problem, many travelers book a combined package, which includes:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket (usually PeruRail or Inca Rail)
- Bus ticket (Aguas Calientes to the gate)
- Optional guide
- Additional destinations (like the Sacred Valley or Rainbow Mountain)
This ensures all components are synchronized and you won’t face gaps, overbooked trains, or missed time slots.
When you see machu picchu tickets sold out, it’s even more important to have everything managed in one place.
Common Questions When Tickets Are Sold Out
What if I only see Circuit 3 available?
Circuit 3 is a valid option but offers a shorter route with fewer major landmarks. If it’s all that’s left, it’s still worth visiting—but expect a more limited experience.
Can I wait at the entrance and try to buy a canceled ticket?
No. Entry is strictly digital and pre-booked. You cannot buy tickets on-site.
Do guides or tour operators have special access?
Some licensed operators have reserved group tickets or agency allocations. That’s why they can still offer tours when machu picchu tickets sold out appears on official channels.
Can someone else sell me their ticket?
No. Tickets are personalized with name and passport number, and IDs are checked at the entrance.
Don’t Risk It — Let Us Help You Visit Machu Picchu
If you’re seeing machu picchu tickets sold out, don’t give up. Our team specializes in:
- Securing last-minute tickets (when available)
- Building full travel packages that align with train and bus schedules
- Offering flexible, guided experiences that adapt to your plans
Write to us today through our website or message us on Instagram. We’ll respond quickly and help you plan your Machu Picchu trip without stress, lines, or surprises.
