When do Machu Picchu tickets open (and how far ahead to book)
There’s no single “opening day” for Machu Picchu — tickets are released on a rolling calendar by Peru’s Ministry of Culture. What matters is how far ahead you buy, because the scarce parts book out long before general entry does.
How the rolling release works
Timed-entry tickets are available months in advance and stay on sale until each hourly slot fills. Because there’s no lottery, the game is simply buying before your preferred slot is gone.
The mountain add-ons — Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain — sit on the same calendar but have far smaller caps, so they’re the first to disappear.
How far ahead to book
For June through August, buy 4–6 weeks ahead for morning slots and mountain add-ons. For the shoulder months, 1–2 weeks is usually comfortable. Off-season, you can often buy a few days out.
If your ideal date shows sold out, watch for same-day resale as no-shows are released, and consider a later entry hour, which clears as morning demand passes.
Buy from the official source
Always start at the Ministry of Culture ticket site or a licensed agency for groups. Resellers add a markup for the same slot, and only the official record is checked against your passport at the gate.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a Machu Picchu lottery?
No. Machu Picchu uses timed-entry tickets sold on a rolling basis, not a lottery. The Inca Trail trek, by contrast, uses a fixed quota.
What time slot should I pick?
The 7:00–8:00 AM slots have the best light and thinnest crowds, which is exactly why they sell out first.
