Circuit 2 is the most requested route inside the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
It combines panoramic viewpoints with the largest concentration of Inca structures, making it the ideal circuit for travelers who want the iconic Machu Picchu experience.
Most Popular CircuitClassic Photo Viewpoints2A & 2B Same Route in Practice
Although regulations mention differences between Circuit 2A Classic and Circuit 2B Lower Terrace,
in practice both routes currently follow the same paths and viewpoints.
If standard digital tickets are sold out, travelers can still visit using our
Circuit 2 Last-Minute Tickets Tour
.
Circuit 2 includes the iconic Classic Machu Picchu photo viewpoint most travelers are searching for.
2. Circuit 2A Classic vs Circuit 2B Lower Terrace — What Is the Real Difference?
Machu Picchu Circuit 2 appears in official ticket names as 2A Classic and 2B Lower Terrace.
While written regulations describe small viewpoint differences, in practice today the guards do not differentiate —
most visitors follow the same paths, enter the same main sectors, and reach the same key viewpoints.
The best choice is usually the option that has availability at your preferred time.
Circuit 2B Lower Terrace
Traditionally associated with the wider panoramic Classic Postal Photo (wide view) from the Lower Terrace platform.
This option is extremely popular and often sells out first.
Known for the closer Classic Machu Picchu Photo viewpoints.
In reality, visitors today typically move through the same archaeological sectors and photo areas as 2B.
If standard digital tickets show unavailable, many travelers still visit Circuit 2 using our
Last-Minute Tickets Tour, designed specifically for late bookings.
Circuit 2 Photo Viewpoints Map — Where to Take the Classic Photos
Use the reference images below to locate the three most requested Circuit 2 photo types:
Classic Postal Photo (wide view) from the Lower Terrace platform,
Classic Photo, and the Classic Close-up Photo.
For the full gallery with enlarging photos, scroll to
Section 7 Photo Gallery.
3. Circuit 2 Route Overview — 2A vs 2B in Practice
Circuit 2 is officially sold under two ticket names:
2A Classic and 2B Lower Terrace.
On paper, the regulation describes small differences in viewpoint access.
In practice today, guards typically do not differentiate between 2A and 2B —
most visitors follow the same main paths, pass the same core attractions,
and reach the same primary viewpoints.
Next: Circuit 2B (Lower Terrace)
We show the 2B Lower Terrace route next with its map, the “postal-style” wide viewpoint references,
and the same core attractions you’ll visit on Circuit 2.
We show the 2A Classic route next with its map, the “classic photo” and “classic close-up photo” references,
and the same core attractions you’ll visit on Circuit 2.
If standard digital tickets are sold out for your dates, you can still aim to visit Circuit 2 using our
Last-Minute Tickets Tour — built specifically for late bookings.
Circuit 2B Lower Terrace is historically known for the wider “postal-style” panoramic viewpoint.
It remains one of the most in-demand Machu Picchu tickets and often sells out early.
If your dates are close and standard tickets show unavailable, the best solution is the
Circuit 2 Last-Minute Tickets Tour.
Circuit 2A Classic is traditionally associated with the iconic “classic Machu Picchu photo”
where the citadel appears closer behind you.
Although written regulations describe differences between 2A and 2B,
in practice visitors today typically follow the same archaeological pathways and viewpoints.
Many travelers simply choose whichever ticket has availability for their date and time.
Travelers choosing based on time slot availability
Key highlights
Classic Photo Spot viewpoint
Main Gate + Temple Area
Temple of the Sun + Dry Moat
Sacred Rock + Water Mirrors
Circuit 2A map + main photo viewpoint locations
Use the map below to visualize the flow of Circuit 2A Classic.
The most requested photo viewpoints are highlighted further in the gallery,
including the
Classic Photo Spot,
the
Classic Close-Up Photo,
and the
Lower Terrace.
Before visiting Machu Picchu Circuit 2, it’s important to understand timing, ticket availability,
and how to maximize your experience. Because Circuit 2 is the most requested route,
standard digital tickets can sell out quickly — but travelers still have options,
including the
Last-Minute Tickets Tour
.
Plan ahead
Circuit 2 is the first to sell out during high season.
Choose either 2A or 2B based on available time slots.
Book early whenever possible.
Arrival tips
Arrive at least 15 minutes before entry time.
There is typically only a 30-minute grace period.
Bring your original passport matching the ticket.
Inside Machu Picchu
The circuit takes about 2 to 3 hours.
Follow the official direction of the route.
Re-entry is generally not permitted once you exit.
Is Circuit 2 the best route for first-time visitors?
Yes. Circuit 2 combines iconic viewpoints with many of Machu Picchu’s main archaeological structures,
making it the most balanced and recommended route for first-time travelers.
What is the real difference between Circuit 2A and Circuit 2B?
Although regulations mention different photo platforms, in practice visitors currently follow the same paths and viewpoints.
Travelers typically select whichever option has availability for their desired time.
What if Circuit 2 tickets are sold out online?
If official digital tickets are unavailable, many travelers still visit using the
Circuit 2 Last-Minute Tickets Tour
,
a specialized service designed for last-minute travel plans.
How long does Circuit 2 take?
Most visitors complete Circuit 2 in about two hours, although guided visits may extend slightly longer depending on pacing and photo stops.
Ready to check your dates? Use the official availability links below.
Click any photo to enlarge it. Circuit 2 is famous for three classic photo types:
Classic Postal Photo (wide view),
Classic Photo,
and the Classic Close-up Photo.
Tap to enlarge. Clickable attraction links are listed below.
Tap to enlarge. Use the numbered list below to jump directly to each attraction photo.
