The Machu Picchu tickets for 2026 will be available in December, according to the latest communication from the Ministry of Culture.
The Ministry of Culture in Lima announced that the official Machu Picchu ticket website will open the booking system in December 2025 for 2026 entry dates. Therefore, it is very important to stay informed through the Ministry of Culture’s official channels.
Why is it important to stay informed?
During the high tourist season (June, July, and August), tickets sell out quickly. This is why it is crucial to book your tickets well in advance. According to the Ministry of Culture, December is the key month for preparing and purchasing your tickets. Visit the official website at www.machupicchu.gob.pe or follow us for updates on when the 2026 booking system will open.
Once you have your ticket, you can start planning your trip to Machu Picchu. Alternatively, you can book a tour through any tour operator of your choice. If you need help choosing an operator, check the official list of licensed travel agencies on the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism (MINCETUR) website.
Can I book Machu Picchu tickets for 2026 before December?
No, as the official Machu Picchu ticket website only lists tickets up to December 31 of the current year.
However, you can reserve your 2026 Machu Picchu ticket in advance through a licensed travel agency or tour operator. These companies often have authorization to secure tickets as soon as the booking system opens. They usually add a bank commission and operational costs because they have staff dedicated to securing tickets on your behalf.
When the booking system opens in December, travel agencies and tour operators are among the first to secure tickets because they can purchase them in bulk. In contrast, individual users can only purchase up to five tickets per person.
Is it more expensive to buy tickets through a travel agency?
When purchasing tickets through the official Machu Picchu website, a bank commission fee is added, depending on your credit card. This fee is not included in the ticket price. You can avoid this commission by buying tickets in person in Cusco or Aguas Calientes and paying in cash.
When booking through an authorized travel agency, remember that their prices may be higher because they cover:
- Bank commissions
- Peruvian taxes (18% IGV).
- Staff salaries for booking and customer service
- Operational expenses (internet, electricity, office costs).
- Agency prices are usually higher, sometimes based on a percentage of the ticket price or the number of tickets purchased.
Is it safe to get Machu Picchu tickets through a travel agency?
Yes, it is safe. Before contacting a travel agency, it is very important to check if the agency is authorized. You can verify this through the official MINCETUR website. Once you have confirmed this information, follow the next steps to book your Machu Picchu tickets.
After booking, make sure to ask the agency when they will send your tickets and arrange to receive them via email. This way, you can print them in advance and plan your trip with peace of mind. Other services, such as tours or transportation, can usually be booked up to three months in advance.
Is it difficult to book Machu Picchu tickets on your own?
Sometimes. When the Ministry of Culture’s booking system opens, there may be technical problems that make it difficult to process your reservation. While you try to resolve these issues, a travel agency can work on your behalf to secure the tickets, as they are committed to fulfilling their customers’ needs.
Is a tour through a travel agency expensive?
Usually, the price is similar — and sometimes even lower — compared to arranging everything on your own. While you might spend time trying to secure tickets and other services yourself, travel agencies can often obtain the same prices or better deals because they buy in bulk and have established agreements with local operators.
In addition, the agency’s price usually includes services you might have to arrange separately, such as transportation, guided tours, and assistance if any problems occur. When you factor in the time saved and the convenience, booking through a reputable travel agency can be a good value.