Why I Recommend Visiting Machu Picchu Twice: Circuit 1B vs. 2A

We paid to visit Machu Picchu twice. Was it worth spending the extra money when we could have seen it in one day?

Honestly, yes. And it wasn't just because we wanted to see one of the most incredible places in the world twice.

We visited Machu Picchu on two consecutive days, choosing Circuit 1B for those breathtaking panoramic views and Circuit 2A to explore more of the ancient Inca citadel. What surprised me was just how different the two experiences felt — and why, if I were planning the trip again, I'd make the same decision.

Of course, visiting Machu Picchu twice isn't exactly a budget-friendly choice. Between the entrance tickets, train rides, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and transportation up the mountain, the costs add up quickly. So I understand why you might wonder whether one visit is enough.

The good news? You don't necessarily need two visits to have an incredible experience. If you choose the right circuit for your interests, you can make the most of a single day.

In this guide, I'm sharing our experience visiting Machu Picchu on Circuits 1B and 2A, what makes each route different, which one I'd recommend if you're only going once, and how to get from Aguas Calientes to the entrance.

I'll also share a few practical tips I wish I'd known beforehand — including why you should leave plenty of time for the bus ride up the mountain!

Is Visiting Machu Picchu Twice Worth It?

For us, absolutely!

Machu Picchu is a place where the experience depends on the route you choose. You can't simply buy one entrance ticket and wander around the entire site. Each ticket is assigned to a specific circuit and route.

We chose:

  • Circuit 1B – Upper Terrace Route: for the panoramic views and the classic Machu Picchu photograph.

  • Circuit 2A – Designed Route: for the panoramic viewpoint and a walk through the archaeological complex.

We visited on two separate days, which meant we could enjoy each experience without feeling rushed.

If your budget allows it, visiting Machu Picchu twice gives you the opportunity to see more than one side of this extraordinary place. If you're on a tighter budget, one carefully selected circuit can still be a wonderful experience.

The key is knowing what each route includes before purchasing your ticket.

Machu Picchu Circuit 1B: The Best Panoramic Views

Panoramic view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from Circuit 1B Upper Terrace.

Our first visit was Circuit 1B, officially called the Upper Terrace Route.

This route focuses on the upper terraces and panoramic viewpoints. It's the one you want if your dream is to see the entire Machu Picchu citadel spread out in front of you, with the dramatic green mountains in the background.

And wow. Seeing that view in person is something else.

You recognize the famous image, but when you're actually standing there, you realize how enormous the landscape is. The terraces, the surrounding mountains, and the stone buildings look almost unreal.

Circuit 1B is primarily about the panoramic experience. It doesn't take you through the main archaeological sector where you can explore the ancient temples and buildings.

We booked our entrance for 3 PM and enjoyed the afternoon views. It was a beautiful way to experience Machu Picchu without trying to squeeze everything into one visit.

What to expect from Circuit 1B

  • Panoramic views from the upper terraces

  • The famous elevated view of Machu Picchu

  • A relatively short route compared with mountain-hiking circuits

  • No full exploration of the inner archaeological city

My recommendation: Choose Circuit 1B if your priority is the iconic photograph and seeing Machu Picchu from above. It's also a lovely option if you're returning for a second visit and want to focus on the scenery.

Machu Picchu Circuit 2A: Exploring the Ancient City

Inca stone structures inside Machu Picchu on Circuit 2A.

The next day, we returned to Machu Picchu for Circuit 2A, officially called the Designed Route.

This visit gave us a different perspective. Instead of concentrating mainly on the panoramic terraces, we could walk through more of the archaeological complex and appreciate the ancient stonework, plazas, and structures.

Circuit 2A includes a panoramic viewpoint as well as a route through the archaeological sector. You can see more of the ancient city and get a better sense of how the different areas fit together.

We booked our second visit for 11 AM.

Having two separate visits meant we weren't trying to rush through everything. We could enjoy the views on the first day and focus on the archaeological site on the second.

What to expect from Circuit 2A

  • A panoramic viewpoint

  • A route through the archaeological complex

  • Views of Inca structures, terraces, and ceremonial areas

  • A more varied experience than the upper-terrace-only route

My recommendation: If you only have one Machu Picchu ticket, Circuit 2A is worth considering because it combines a panoramic viewpoint with a walk through the archaeological site.

Circuit 1B vs. Circuit 2A: Which Machu Picchu Route Should You Choose?

Here is a simple comparison based on the two routes we experienced.

Circuit 1B vs. Circuit 2A: Which Machu Picchu Route Should You Choose
The official route system has changed over time, so check the Machu Picchu government website for current descriptions, maps, ticket availability, and entry rules before booking.

If you want the classic panoramic photograph and to explore the city, Circuit 2A is a good choice for a single visit. If you have the time and budget, adding Circuit 1B gives you a different elevated perspective.

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes

Before visiting Machu Picchu, you need to reach Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.

We traveled through the Sacred Valley and took the train to Aguas Calientes, where we spent one night before visiting the archaeological site.

You can read more about this part of our trip in my Ollantaytambo travel guide and Aguas Calientes guide.

From Aguas Calientes, you have two main ways to reach Machu Picchu: the shuttle bus or a hike.

Planning your Peru trip? You can search for flights to Peru through Expedia and find hotels through my Expedia travel shop. We booked our own accommodation for this trip, and staying overnight in Aguas Calientes made visiting Machu Picchu much easier.

Taking the Machu Picchu bus from Aguas Calientes

We chose the bus, which takes approximately 25–30 minutes to travel up the mountain road to the entrance.

And let me tell you, this was one of the scariest bus rides of my life. 😂

The road winds up the mountain, with sharp turns and steep drops. I was trying to appreciate the scenery, but mostly I was wondering if we were actually going to make it.

The only thing that kept me from passing out was the picture of Jesus the bus driver had hanging above him. I'm not even kidding. I kept looking at it like, "Okay, Jesus, we're going to need you for this one." 😂

But we made it, and the views at the top were worth the anxiety.

The Road to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu bus tickets: price, location, and booking

Here are the practical details to help you plan your bus ride:

  • Journey time: Approximately 25–30 minutes each way.

  • Ticket: You need a separate bus ticket in addition to your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

  • Ticket office and boarding area: Avenida Hermanos Ayar in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Follow the signs for the Consettur bus ticket office and boarding queue.

  • Online booking: Check the official operator's current booking information at Consettur.

  • Price: Bus fares can change, so check the current round-trip price on the official operator's website before your trip.

We didn't book our bus tickets months in advance. I literally bought ours the day before, and it worked out fine.

That said, bus queues can get long, especially during busy travel periods. Buying a ticket doesn't guarantee you'll immediately board a bus.

My biggest tip: line up at least one hour before the entrance time printed on your Machu Picchu ticket.

Give yourself extra time if you're visiting during the high season or have an early entry time. You don't want to be stuck in a queue worrying about missing your entrance slot.

Also, remember that the bus takes you to the entrance. You still need to follow the route and entry time shown on your Machu Picchu ticket.

Hiking from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

If you enjoy hiking and want to avoid the bus fare, you can walk up to Machu Picchu.

The route follows a steep staircase trail that climbs the mountain. Depending on your fitness and pace, it can take around 1.5–2 hours or longer.

It's a physically demanding climb, so don't treat it as a casual walk. You'll want comfortable shoes, water, and enough time to reach the entrance before your scheduled entry.

Check the current trail access and local guidance before deciding to hike.

For us, taking the bus made more sense. We wanted to save our energy for exploring Machu Picchu itself—and after that bus ride, I was definitely ready to get off and admire the scenery from solid ground!

Machu Picchu Travel Tips: What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting

If you're planning your first visit to Machu Picchu, here are a few things that can make the experience easier.

1. Buy your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in advance

Choose your circuit and entry time carefully. Tickets are assigned to specific routes, and popular dates can sell out.

Start with the official Machu Picchu ticket and route information.

2. Don't confuse your entrance ticket with your bus ticket

Your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and the shuttle bus ticket are separate purchases. Make sure you have both if you're taking the bus.

3. Allow extra time for the bus queue

Even if you have a confirmed bus ticket, you may need to wait. Aim to arrive at the boarding area at least an hour before your Machu Picchu entry time.

4. Wear comfortable walking shoes

You'll be walking on stone paths and uneven surfaces, and some routes include steps. Comfortable shoes are a must.

5. Bring water and sun protection

Pack a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The weather can change quickly, so a light rain jacket can also be useful.

6. Take your passport and tickets

Keep your passport or the identification required for your tickets handy. Check the current entry rules before leaving your hotel.

7. Don't underestimate the physical effort

Although Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco, walking around the site can still be tiring. Take your time, especially if you've recently arrived in the region.

8. Plan your train departure carefully

If you're returning to Cusco on the same day, leave enough time to descend to Aguas Calientes, collect your belongings, and reach the train station.

Panoramic view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from Circuit 1B Upper Terrace.

What to Pack for Machu Picchu

You don't need to bring your entire suitcase to the archaeological site. A small daypack with a few essentials is enough.

My list:

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Sunscreen and sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Light rain jacket

  • Passport and tickets

  • Phone or camera

  • Portable charger

  • Small amount of cash for Aguas Calientes

For travel gear, you can browse my Amazon hiking and travel essentials. I also share travel and hotel options through my Expedia travel store.

These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Is Machu Picchu Worth the Cost?

Machu Picchu is not a cheap stop on a Peru itinerary. Entrance tickets, trains, accommodation, and transportation all add up.

But for us, it was absolutely worth it.

We had traveled all the way to Peru, and Machu Picchu was one of the experiences we were most excited about. Visiting twice gave us a chance to see the panoramic views and explore more of the ancient city.

Would I recommend two visits to everyone? Not necessarily. If you're traveling on a tight budget or have limited time, one carefully chosen circuit can be enough.

But if you have the time and can afford the extra ticket, I genuinely recommend considering two different routes.

The first visit was about taking in the incredible scenery. The second was about exploring the history and architecture. Together, they made our Machu Picchu experience feel much more complete.

And I still laugh when I think about that bus ride. I was terrified, but apparently the bus driver and his picture of Jesus had everything under control. 😂

Planning a Trip to Peru? Read My Other Guides

If you're planning your own Peru adventure, you might also enjoy these posts:

Have you visited Machu Picchu? Would you pay to visit twice, or would one circuit be enough? Tell me in the comments!

A quick note: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Traveling Mind and helping me share more travel adventures!

Happy travels!

Popular Posts

Best Places to See Fall Colors in Upstate New York: Waterfalls, Scenic Bridges & Beautiful Views

Image
There is something about fall that makes me want to get in the car, go somewhere new, and enjoy the beautiful colours of the season. And if there is one thing Upstate New York does really well in autumn, it is combining colourful forests with dramatic waterfalls, deep gorges, and scenic bridges. Last fall, we took a road trip from the Toronto area and visited two beautiful state parks: Letchworth State Park and Watkins Glen State Park. And honestly, it was such a beautiful way to experience autumn! From waterfalls surrounded by colourful trees to stone bridges tucked inside rocky gorges, these parks offer so many incredible views.  If you love nature, photography, scenic walks, and finding those places that make you stop and say, “Wow, look at this!”, you will want to add these destinations to your fall bucket list. In this guide, I’m sharing the places we visited, along with a few more New York state parks worth adding to your itinerary if you want to see more waterfalls, bridges,...
Read more

The Perfect Peru Itinerary: 15 Days in Peru from the Andes to the Amazon

Image
Cusco, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Paracas, Huacachina, and the Amazon — our complete 15-day Peru itinerary Peru had been on my travel list for years, and when we finally planned our trip, I knew I didn't want to visit Machu Picchu and call it a day. I wanted mountains, ancient ruins, colorful markets, desert landscapes, wildlife, and the Amazon — and I wanted to experience it all as a family. So we planned a 15-day adventure that took us from the high Andes to the Pacific coast and deep into the Amazon rainforest. Along the way, we discovered just how much this incredible country has to offer. If you're planning your first trip to Peru and want to experience more than the typical Lima–Cusco–Machu Picchu route, this 15-day Peru itinerary will show you how to combine the country's most iconic sights with unforgettable adventures beyond the usual tourist trail. Start Planning Your Peru Trip Looking for flights and hotels for your Peru adventure? You can search and compar...
Read more

Cusco Altitude: What It Actually Felt Like for Our Family

Image
If you're planning a trip to Cusco, there's one thing you probably can't stop thinking about: the altitude. At around 3,400 metres (11,150 feet) above sea level, Cusco is high enough that even simple activities like walking uphill can feel surprisingly difficult. But reading about altitude sickness and experiencing the effects of high altitude yourself are two very different things. We visited Cusco as a family of three — two adults and our 15-year-old — and I quickly realized that knowing what to expect is one thing, but figuring out how your body will actually react is another. Here's what the altitude felt like for us, how it affected our first few days, and what helped us adjust during our time in Cusco. Planning a trip to Peru? I put together our complete 16-day Peru itinerary, including Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Paracas, Huacachina and the Amazon. Read our full Peru itinerary → Arriving in Cusco: "Why is breathing so hard?" We arrived in Cu...
Read more

10 Best Day Trips from Toronto: Charming Towns, Beautiful Streets & Hidden Gems in Ontario

Image
Sometimes you don't need to plan a big vacation, book flights or spend hours packing suitcases to discover somewhere beautiful. Sometimes, all you need is a full tank of gas, a free weekend and a little curiosity. Ontario has so many wonderful places worth exploring, from historic small towns and picturesque downtown streets to waterfront parks, beautiful bridges, waterfalls and unexpected attractions. Over the years, I've discovered that some of the nicest places to visit aren't necessarily the ones everyone talks about. Some have adorable downtowns, others have fascinating history, and a few have attractions you probably wouldn't expect to find just a short drive from Toronto. In this guide, I'm sharing 10 places in Ontario that are worth adding to your day-trip bucket list. I've included a little bit of everything: charming villages, bigger towns, historic cities, scenic walking trails, interesting museums and even a few unusual attractions. Whether you enjoy...
Read more

Cusco, Peru: The Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide to the Inca Capital

Image
Cusco is so much more than just the gateway to Machu Picchu. With its colorful streets, fascinating Inca history, lively markets, rooftop restaurants, and breathtaking Andean surroundings, it's a city that deserves more than a quick stop on your Peru itinerary. But there's one thing you need to know before you arrive: Cusco is HIGH. At around 3,400 metres (11,150 feet) above sea level, the altitude can literally take your breath away, so it's worth planning for before your trip. We explored Cusco during our family trip to Peru, and it quickly became one of those places where I wished we'd given ourselves more time. Between the incredible Inca stonework, narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops, local food, and archaeological sites nearby, there's so much more to discover than you might expect. If you're visiting Cusco for the first time, this guide covers what you need to know before you go, from the city's fascinating history and must-see sights to altitud...
Read more

Driving in Peru: What You Need to Know Before Renting a Car

Image
Driving in Peru was one of the parts of our trip I was most nervous about — and for good reason. Before our visit, I had read plenty of stories about chaotic traffic, aggressive drivers, police stops, and challenging roads. I wondered whether renting a car would give us more freedom or simply add unnecessary stress to our trip. After driving from Lima to Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina before returning to Lima Airport, I learned that driving in Peru is absolutely doable, especially if you're an experienced driver. But it's not always easy, and you need to be prepared for a very different driving style. This road trip was just one part of our larger 16-day Peru itinerary, which also took us to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon. If you're considering renting a car in Peru, here's what I wish I had known before getting behind the wheel, from what driving is really like to the practical tips that can make your trip less stressful. Renting a Car in Peru We ...
Read more

The Best Way to Get to Ollantaytambo and See the Sacred Valley

Image
Visiting Machu Picchu? Here's how to get to Ollantaytambo without the guesswork . If you're planning a trip to Machu Picchu, there's a good chance you'll need to get to Ollantaytambo first. It's one of the main departure points for trains to Machu Picchu, but getting there from Cusco doesn't have to be just a transfer from one place to another. What if you could explore the Sacred Valley along the way, instead of spending a day sightseeing and then having to backtrack to Cusco? That's exactly what we did, and it turned out to be one of the smartest decisions we made during our Peru trip. There are several ways to get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, including private drivers, public transportation, and organized tours. The best option depends on your budget, schedule, and how much of the Sacred Valley you want to see. Here's a breakdown of your options, including the one we chose and why I'd recommend it if you want to make the most of your time in Peru....
Read more

Why Peru Is One of the Hardest Countries to Plan a Trip To

Image
When I first started planning our trip to Peru, I looked at the map and thought: “Okay… Peru. How hard can this be?” Famous last words. 😂 Peru looks surprisingly manageable on a map, but once you actually start planning a trip, you quickly realize that this country is huge, incredibly diverse, and not always easy to get around. You can go from the Pacific coast to the Andes, from the Andes to the Amazon rainforest, and from desert dunes to ancient Inca cities — all within the same country. Sounds amazing, right? It is. Planning it? That's a completely different story. Peru looks small… until you start connecting the dots One of the first things I learned while planning was that distances on the map don't tell the whole story. Peru's geography is complicated because the Andes run right through the country, creating enormous changes in elevation and terrain. You have the Pacific coast, massive mountains, canyons, high-altitude valleys, desert, and the Amazon rainforest. And ...
Read more

How to Save Money on Hotel Bookings: My Best Tips for Finding Cheaper Hotels

Image
Hotels can take a huge chunk out of your travel budget. And when you're planning a family vacation, those accommodation costs add up pretty quickly! I love travelling, but I also love finding a good deal. I'd much rather save a couple of hundred dollars on a hotel and spend that money exploring a destination, trying local food, or doing something memorable with my family. Over the years, I've developed a few habits that help me save money on hotels. I compare prices, book in advance, keep checking my reservations, and take advantage of discounts whenever I can. And while I always compare my options, I keep coming back to one booking platform: Expedia . I've personally found that Expedia often offers competitive hotel rates. I also like the convenience of comparing different accommodation options, earning rewards on eligible bookings, and getting additional benefits at selected hotels. So, if you're planning your next vacation and want to spend less on accommodation ...
Read more

How Long Should You Stay in Aguas Calientes, Peru?

Image
Planning a trip to Machu Picchu? You're probably wondering how long you should stay in Aguas Calientes. Is one night enough, or is it worth spending two nights in this little mountain town? During our family trip to Peru, we discovered that Aguas Calientes has more to offer than just a place to sleep before visiting Machu Picchu. There are little restaurants, markets, shops and plenty of interesting corners to explore. So, how much time do you really need? Let me share our experience, what you can do in town and how to plan your stay without feeling like you're missing out. Where Is Aguas Calientes, Peru? Aguas Calientes is a small town in the Peruvian Andes, nestled between steep green mountains along the Urubamba River. It's the main gateway to Machu Picchu and the place where most visitors stay before exploring the famous Inca citadel. One of the most interesting things about Aguas Calientes is that there are no regular roads connecting it to the surrounding road network...
Read more