What Circuit 2 covers
The Ministry calls it the Llaqta circuit, the city circuit, and it earns the name. Both routes cross the Dry Moat into the urban sector and walk its twelve numbered landmarks in one direction: the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, the Granitic Chaos quarry, the Temples Plaza with the Three Windows, the Intiwatana, the Sacred Rock at the north end, then back down the east side through the Twelve Niches, the Eastern Qolqas, the Water Mirrors and the Temple of the Condor, out through Pisonay Square and the Archaeological Reserve. It is the only circuit that visits both the upper temples and the lower sector.
The two routes at a glance
| Circuit | Duration | Price | Difficulty | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit 2A Classic | 2 h 30 | $62 | Easy | First visit, the postcard platform first |
| Circuit 2B Lower Terrace | 2 h 30 | $62 | Easy | Same city, quieter entrance, when 2A is gone |
Route 2A Classic: the postcard first
Route 2A adds the Lower Platform viewpoint at the very start, before the city: the panoramic angle every visitor takes home. Then the full twelve landmarks. That opening viewpoint is why 2A is the most requested ticket in the sanctuary and the first one to disappear from the calendar.
Circuit 2A Classic
The iconic postcard photo of Machu Picchu
Route 2B Lower Terrace: the same city, a quieter entrance
Route 2B enters along the lower terrace instead of climbing to the platform, then walks the identical twelve landmarks. You still get the panorama from the terrace, from a slightly lower angle, and you usually get it with fewer people around, especially in afternoon slots. Same price, same maximum stay. When 2A is sold out, 2B is the honest substitute, not a downgrade; the detail is in 2A vs 2B.
Circuit 2B Lower Terrace
The famous panoramic photo, with full terrace access
Who should book Circuit 2
- First visit, one ticket: Circuit 2A. If you only ever walk Machu Picchu once, this is the route that shows you the most.
- First visit, 2A already sold out: Circuit 2B, without hesitation. Same twelve landmarks, same photo from the terrace.
- Families and mixed groups: Either route. Two and a half hours at a comfortable pace, no exposed trails, and the kids' fare applies.
- You want a summit too: Then Circuit 2 is not your ticket. Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu are reached from Circuit 3, Machu Picchu Mountain from Circuit 1.
Booking notes for Circuit 2
- How far ahead: Two to four weeks in high season (June to September); often the same week off-season. 2A specifically sells out first, weekends before weekdays.
- If your date is gone: Check 2B on the same date, then 1B for the view or 3B for the lower sector. If nothing is left, what to do when Machu Picchu is sold out walks through the real options.
- Entry time: Hourly windows. Early slots are the most requested; mid-morning is often the hardest to get. Match the ticket to your train before you buy either.
- What is included and what is not: The Ministry entrance, the QR by email and free rescheduling up to 24 hours before, subject to availability. Not included: the Aguas Calientes bus ($24 round trip, on site) and the licensed guide ($35 per person at checkout).
Frequent questions about Circuit 2
What is the difference between Circuit 2A and 2B?
Only the first minutes. 2A climbs to the Lower Platform viewpoint before entering the city; 2B enters along the lower terrace. From there both walk the same twelve landmarks with the same 2 h 30 maximum stay and the same $62 price.
How much is a Circuit 2 ticket?
$62 per adult and $39 per child aged 8 to 17 on both routes, plus a 5% service fee shown at checkout. The Ministry's face value in soles is lower; the difference covers the English checkout, USD processing and support.
Does Circuit 2 include Huayna Picchu?
No. Huayna Picchu is route 3A of Circuit 3. Circuit 2 walks the city only; no summit can be added to it at the gate.
How far in advance should I book Circuit 2?
Two to four weeks in high season, June to September, and often the same week off-season. Route 2A sells out before 2B, and weekends before weekdays.
Is Circuit 2 suitable for children and older travelers?
Yes. It is walked at a comfortable pace in about two and a half hours with stairs but no exposed trails. Travelers who want even less walking should look at route 3B on Circuit 3.
Book Circuit 2 with live availability
Routes 2A and 2B on one calendar, Ministry-issued QR, checkout in your language and WhatsApp support seven days a week.