Circuit 2 is the most popular way to explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, as it is designed for travelers who want to delve into the main enclosures and temples of Machu Picchu (making it an excellent option for a comprehensive understanding of the history and architecture of the site).
It is also important to note that this circuit takes about 2 hours to complete and is highly recommended by most guides; so, if it is your first time visiting Machu Picchu, then this is the circuit for you. On the other hand, there are 2 routes that are very similar: Circuit 2A Classic Route and Circuit 2B Lower Terrace, which we will explain in more detail below.
Route 2-A: Classic Full
For a complete Machu Picchu experience for first timers, this circuit is the best option. It includes visits to the main Inca enclosures such as the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Condor, providing a complete experience of the archaeological site.
Detailed Information:
- Total Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Description: Recommended circuit for first-time visitors to Machu Picchu
- Main Features: Inca Enclosures (Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Condor) and Photography (Opportunity to take the classic photo from a lower platform than the Guardian’s House)
- Recommendations: Suitable for all ages; no additional hikes
Additional Information:
- This circuit also allows you to get the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu, but from a lower platform than the Guardian’s House. Circuit 2 is the name given to this exploration path within the archaeological site.
- After taking the best photos, the route continues through the urban and religious sector of Machu Picchu. Visitors will have the opportunity to see: the Temple of the Sun, the Main Temple, the Temple of the 3 Windows, the Sacred Rock, the Water Mirrors, the Water Fountains and the agricultural sector.
- This ticket does not offer any additional hikes to the Machu Picchu Mountains.
- The circuit is open to people of all ages.
Route 2-B: Classic Short
This is a shorter version of the Full Circuit, ideal for those with limited time. Even so, it allows you to get the best photos and see the main enclosures, offering an almost complete view of Machu Picchu.
Detailed Information:
- Total Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Description: Shorter version of the Full Circuit, ideal for those with limited time
- Main Features: Inca Enclosures (Brief but complete visit to the main temples and enclosures) and Photography (Opportunity to take photos from a lower terrace)
- Recommendations: Suitable for all ages; no additional hikes
Additional Information:
- This circuit is a slight variation of the ‘Full Classic Circuit’. It is a somewhat shorter route but also offers the opportunity to get the classic photo of Machu Picchu (from a lower terrace).
- After taking the best photos, the route continues through the urban and religious sector of Machu Picchu. There, tourists can visit the main Inca temples and enclosures made of stone: the Temple of the Sun, the Main Temple, the Temple of the 3 Windows, the Sacred Rock, the Water Mirrors, the Water Fountains and the agricultural sector.
- Plan for a maximum of 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete this circuit. This circuit is considered the best and most comprehensive option for exploring Machu Picchu.
- This ticket does not offer any additional hikes to the Machu Picchu mountains.
- The circuit is open to people of all ages.
Main Attractions when traveling on this circuit
- Lower Platform (iconic Photo Postcard of Machu Picchu)
- Classic Place for Close-Up Photo.
- Front door
- Dry Pit
- Sun Temple
- Granite Chaos
- Temple Area
- Intihuatana Pyramid (Entry only from 7 to 10am)
- Sacred Rock
- Industrial Sector
- Eastern Inca Warehouses
- Water mirror
- Temple of the Condor (Entry only from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
- Pisonay Tree Square
- Archaeological Reserve
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CIRCUIT 2A AND CIRCUIT 2B
There is only one main difference between Circuit 2A Classic and Circuit 2B Lower Terrace: The Postcard Photo or The Classic Photo.
In detail, the Lower Terrace of Circuit 2B allows you to go to a higher viewpoint called “Lower Terrace”. This is the location where the iconic Postcard Photo of Machu Picchu is taken. The Lower Terrace photo spot is near the Guardhouse, which is considered one of the best places to take the most popular photos of Machu Picchu. While Circuit 2A Classic allows you to take the iconic Classic Photo of Machu Picchu. This iconic Classic photo spot gives you a much closer view of the citadel behind you when you take the photo.
In short, the Lower Terrace of Circuit 2B will only allow you the Postcard photo. Taking the iconic Classic photo isn’t possible with this route. And Circuit 2A Classic will only allow you the Classic photo, you will not be able to take the Postcard photo.