Machu Picchu Circuit 3, known as the Royalty Circuit, guides visitors through the lower sectors and main archaeological area of the Inca citadel. It includes four routes—3-A Huayna Picchu, 3-B Designed Route, 3-C Great Cavern, and 3-D Huchuy Picchu—with the last two available only in high season.
Planning your trip to Machu Picchu? Then you’ve probably discovered that you need to choose a circuit before you can step foot in the citadel. Since June 1, 2024, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture has organized visits into three official circuits, each one revealing a different side of this ancient wonder.
Circuit 3—the Royalty Circuit—is a favorite among adventurers and history lovers alike. It takes you through the lower regions and the heart of the archaeological site, with thrilling mountain hikes and peaceful hidden corners to discover along the way.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all four routes of Circuit 3, including what each one offers, how long it takes, and who it’s best suited for. By the end, you’ll know exactly which route fits your travel style.
Circuit 3, officially called “Machupicchu Realeza” (Machu Picchu Royalty), focuses on the lower terraces and the main archaeological sector of the site. It’s one of three circuits introduced through Ministerial Resolution 528-2023-MC, replacing the five circuits that existed before June 2024.
Here’s one thing worth knowing upfront: Circuit 3 does not access the upper terraces where the iconic postcard photo is taken. Instead, it rewards you with up-close views of the ruins, dramatic mountain vistas, and access to sites that many other visitors never see.
The circuit is made up of four distinct routes. Two are available year-round, while the other two open only during high season. Let’s explore each one.
Calling all adventurers! Route 3-A pairs a visit to the lower part of this New Wonder of the World with an exhilarating climb up Huayna Picchu, the towering peak you see behind the citadel in so many photos.
The hike is steep, with high cliffs and narrow paths that demand a good level of fitness. Your reward? Spectacular panoramic views of the ruins and the surrounding Andean landscape. Along the way, you can explore highlights like the mysterious Temple of the Moon.
Keep in mind that this route does not include access to the upper terrace where the classic postcard picture is captured.
If you’re after a more relaxed visit, Route 3-B is the gem you’re looking for. This easygoing tour winds through Machu Picchu’s lower sectors, with plenty of photo opportunities among the historic ruins.
Because it’s the least demanding route in Circuit 3, it’s a wonderful choice for seniors, families, or anyone who prefers to soak in the scenery at a gentle pace. You’ll still enjoy breathtaking views and the citadel’s rich history—just without the steep climbs.
Like the rest of Circuit 3, the Designed Route offers wonderful views from the lower terraces, but not the classic upper viewpoint.
Looking to escape the crowds? Route 3-C, the Great Cavern Route, leads you to the Gran Caverna—a peaceful, lesser-visited corner of Machu Picchu that feels like a true hidden treasure.
This route is available only during high season, from June 1 to October 15 and from December 30 to 31, 2024. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to go deeper into the quieter regions of the site while appreciating its archaeological richness.
Once again, this route showcases beautiful lower-terrace views rather than the famous postcard angle.
Want the thrill of a mountain hike without the intensity of Huayna Picchu? Route 3-D takes you to the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain, where sweeping views of Machu Picchu await.
Huchuy Picchu is shorter and easier than its famous neighbor, making it perfect for moderately fit travelers who want a rewarding climb with fewer crowds. Like Route 3-C, it’s available only during high season, from June 1 to October 15 and from December 30 to 31, 2024.
As with all Circuit 3 routes, you’ll enjoy the lower-terrace scenery, but not the upper postcard viewpoint.
With four routes to pick from, here’s a quick way to decide:
Remember that Routes 3-C and 3-D run only during high season, so plan your dates accordingly if either one is calling your name.
Circuit 3 offers something for every kind of traveler—from the heart-pounding ascent of Huayna Picchu to the serene paths of the Great Cavern. Whichever route you choose, you’ll experience the lower sectors and main archaeological area of one of the world’s most remarkable destinations.
Ready to make it happen? Take a closer look at each route, check ticket availability for your travel dates, and start mapping out your dream journey to the Inca citadel. Your unforgettable Machu Picchu Tours is waiting.
Circuit 3, also called the Royalty Circuit (Machupicchu Realeza), routes visitors through the lower areas and main archaeological sector of Machu Picchu. It highlights exclusive sites and scenic viewpoints while skipping the upper terraces where the classic postcard photo is taken.
Circuit 3 includes four routes: 3-A Huayna Picchu, 3-B Designed Route, 3-C Great Cavern, and 3-D Huchuy Picchu. Routes 3-C and 3-D are available only in high season, from June 1 to October 15 and from December 30 to 31.
No. Circuit 3 does not access the upper terraces where the classic postcard view is captured. You’ll still enjoy strong views from the lower terraces, but not the iconic upper viewpoint.
Route 3-A takes about 3.5 hours with a 6-hour max stay. Route 3-B takes about 3 hours with a 2.5-hour max stay. Route 3-C takes about 4 hours with a 7-hour max stay. Route 3-D takes about 3.5 hours with a 3.5-hour max stay.
Route 3-B, the Designed Route, is the most relaxed option. It suits seniors and travelers who prefer an easy walk while still seeing key areas and enjoying lower-terrace views.
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