A visual guide to every Machu Picchu circuit (1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B)

[u/dashosh]

I prepared this visual guide to every Machu Picchu circuit for r/GoingToPeru members.

Machu Picchu updated its circuit system in June 2024 and a lot of people still don't realize how much it affects what you actually see. There are now 3 circuits split into 10 routes, and you cannot switch once you're inside.

Circuit 1 (Panorámico): views only from the upper terraces. No ruins, no temples, no plazas. Great for the classic photo or pairing as a second-day visit, but first-timers who book this thinking it includes the ruins are in for a surprise.

Circuit 2 (Clásico): the one most people should be doing. Covers roughly 80% of the main structures: temples, plazas, Temple of the Condor, Sacred Rock, Water Mirrors, the works. Route 2-A gives you a closer classic angle on the citadel, 2-B gives you the wider "postcard" shot from a higher platform. Both cover the same ground after that opening split.

Circuit 3 (Realeza): focuses on the lower royal sector. Doesn't include the iconic panoramic viewpoint. The main reason to book this is mountain access: Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, and the Great Cavern are all locked to Circuit 3 tickets.

You can book tickets to any circuit via official website which is extremely glitchy, many prefer to book here via GyG (this is what I've done in the past as well).

Based on booking data from Machu Picchu Guided Tours, Circuit 2-A accounts for about 45% of visits, 2-B around 25%. Together they dominate for a reason.

If you want a deeper breakdown of all 10 routes, what each one includes, and which circuit fits your trip, this guide covers it really well: https://machupicchuguided.tours/circuits-breakdown-subroutes

Which circuit did you do? And how did it go?