Circuit 3 Machu Picchu: A Comprehensive Guide

1. What is Circuit 3 of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu?

Circuit 3 is one of several defined routes within the Machu Picchu complex. With the aim of preserving the site and managing tourist flow, authorities have designed various circuits that guide visitors through specific parts of the citadel. Circuit 3B offers a unique opportunity to see different sections of Machu Picchu, some of which are less crowded and off the beaten path compared to the more popular circuits.

While it doesn’t include all the iconic landmarks of Machu Picchu, such as the Guardian's house, Circuit 3 is perfect for travelers looking to experience the site without overwhelming crowds. It’s a moderate circuit that covers essential structures, terraces, and offers impressive views of the surrounding landscape.

2. What entrance tickets allow you to enter Circuit 3 of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu?

The tickets that allow you to visit this circuit are the following:

• Historic Santuary of Machu Picchu entrance ticket - Circuit 3A - Huayna Picchu
• Historic Santuary of Machu Picchu entrance ticket - Circuit 3B - Designed Royalty
• Historic Santuary of Machu Picchu entrance ticket - Circuit 3B VIP - Designed Royalty VIP
• Historic Santuary of Machu Picchu entrance ticket - Circuit 3C - Grankd Cavern
• Historic Santuary of Machu Picchu entrance ticket - Circuit 3D - Huchuypicchu

3. The Route of Machu Picchu Circuit 3

Circuit 3 takes visitors on a well-defined path through some of the key features of Machu Picchu. While it doesn’t cover the entire site, it offers an excellent balance of historical structures, agricultural terraces, and scenic views. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect on the route:

3.1 Starting Point: Machu Picchu Entrance

The tour begins at the main entrance of Machu Picchu, where you’ll show your ticket along with your physical passport. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes from the entry time written on your entrance ticket. There is only a 30-minute grace period if you are late so plan to be on-time. From the main entrance, you’ll enter the citadel and begin the Circuit 3 route.

3.2 Terraces of the Agricultural Zone

One of the first features you’ll encounter on Circuit 3 is the extensive agricultural terraces that surround Machu Picchu. These terraces were vital to the Inca’s agricultural system, allowing them to cultivate crops on the steep mountainsides. The engineering behind the terraces, with their irrigation systems and soil retention techniques, is a testament to Incan ingenuity. As you walk along these terraces, your guide will explain how they were used to grow staple crops like maize and potatoes. The terraces also offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing great photo opportunities.

3.3 Temple of the Sun (El Templo del Sol)

Next, you’ll approach one of Machu Picchu’s most significant structures—the Temple of the Sun. This circular temple was used by the Incas for astronomical and religious purposes. Its unique design aligns with the solstices, and on specific dates, sunlight would shine through the temple’s windows to illuminate certain areas. This demonstrates the Incas’ advanced understanding of astronomy and their connection to the sun god, Inti.

Although you can’t enter the temple itself, you’ll get a close view from Circuit 3B, where your guide will share insights into its religious and ceremonial importance.

3.4 The Royal Tomb (Mausoleum)

Below the Temple of the Sun lies the Royal Tomb, a small cave-like structure thought to be a burial site for important figures. It is intricately carved with niches and includes an altar. Some historians believe that this tomb was used for the burial of high-ranking Inca nobility or priests.

The tomb is a fascinating example of Inca stonework, and your guide will explain its potential significance and role in Inca culture and religion.

3.5 The Central Plaza and Royal Sector

Circuit 3B also takes you past the Central Plaza, which served as a gathering space for the Incas. On one side of the plaza lies the Royal Sector, home to the residences of high-ranking individuals, such as the Inca emperor. The stone structures in this area are built with an impressive level of precision, with blocks so perfectly fitted that it’s nearly impossible to slip a knife between them.

The Royal Sector offers a glimpse into the elite life of the Incas, and you’ll learn about the daily lives of those who lived in this prestigious part of the city.

3.6 The Sacred Rock

One of the final highlights on Circuit 3B is the Sacred Rock, a large monolithic stone believed to have spiritual significance. Shaped like the mountain behind it, the Sacred Rock was likely used in religious ceremonies and rites. Its exact purpose is still debated, but it holds deep cultural importance in Andean spirituality.

From this point, you’ll also have a stunning view of Huayna Picchu, the towering peak behind Machu Picchu, which serves as the backdrop for many iconic photos of the site.

4. Photos of the 14 attractions of Circuit 3

Below is a complete photo gallery of the 14 main attractions of Circuit 3

Inca Store Houses

The Inca Store Houses were built to fulfill the function of granaries and warehouses, which were built in a peculiar way, located in a staggered manner on the slopes of the hills. These large warehouses were used to store excess production, such as corn, cereals, dried potatoes or chuño, quinoa, salted meat or chalona, etc.

Agricultural Sector

The Agricultural sector is characterized by the presence of cultivation terraces or Andenes, these are structures formed by stone walls of different sizes, with gravel, clay and farmland, which were built to facilitate drainage.

Waterway

Machu Picchu has excellently worked liturgical fountains, these supplied water to the entire city: it has a huge network of underground irrigation canals built to feed the agricultural terraces that could be protected by the raging waters of the Urubamba River, which the Incas knew as Willkamayu and that it was sacred to them. But they are not the only constructions dedicated to the liquid element.

Dry Moat

The division between the agrarian and urban areas was marked by the Dry Moat, which would have been a water drainage. It also prevented excessive erosion of the land and contributed to the isolation of the ceremonial sector.

Temple of the Sun

Sun Temple, The temple is one of the best examples of organic architecture in the world and one of the finest in the sites of Machupicchu. The lower level contains a stepped symbol, a lithic sculpture, and trapezoidal niches that were used for ceremonial purposes related to the cult of the dead. In the top level, trapezoidal niches can be found, along with a large carved rock altar and trapezoidal windows that were astronomical observation points.

House of the Inca

The House of the Inca in Machu Picchu , is the most elegant construction for domestic use, it has several enclosures. The central courtyard is enclosed by two large, finely finished rooms with beautiful lintels, and two other small three-walled rooms, with evidence of having had a steeply pitched roof. Two small outcrops of granite rock stand out on the floor of the patio, which apparently were used as mortars or grinders. Although others affirm that they were mirrors for astronomical observation. The Apunchiq or Apu Inka of Machu Picchu (representative of the Qhápaq Inka) would have inhabited this house, surrounded by relatives and servants. His room was the south-east enclosure, inside which there is an unusual division, which corresponded to the bathroom (for bathing), since at the base there is a drainage hole. On another of its sides, a low wall rises as a bed, which is why it is called the House of the Inca.

Water Fountains

The great citadel of Machu Picchu was a retreat for the Inca himself and he had the site plumbed and drained with great care. A stone canal about a half-mile long brought fresh water from a spring. The Inca emperor had the first use of it, then the water made its way down a series of sixteen other fountains for the rest of the city. His bath water drained off separately to maintain fresh water for all, and the entire city sent its used water off through building walls and other structures into more than 130 drains that nourished their farming terraces.

Sacred Rock

The Sacred Rock is a monolith of amazing dimensions carved by the Incas inside Machu Picchu. It reaches a height of 3 meters sitting on a base 7 meters wide. This base is carved as an altar. It is made with granite stone located in the same sector. The fine carving of its base indicates that the Incas left various offerings there such as coca leaves, animal fetuses or llama sacrifices. It is currently one of the most famous buildings in Machu Picchu. Tourists believe that by bringing their hands close to its granite, they are filled with the energy of the mountains.

Industrial Sector

The "Industrial District" is the largest complex in the city, it is said that it could be the house of chosen women, women dedicated to the service of fine crafts, hence the name of the complex or industrial district

Inca Oriental Stores Houses

The colcas were part of the Inca system to store food and goods of each suyu that were later redistributed among all the inhabitants of the empire. This system guaranteed the survival of the Empire and its people in years of bad harvests.

Water Mirrors

They are two round-shaped containers, carved in a natural outcrop of granite, similar to mortars, which is why this place is known as: "The Mortar Room", they are located on the floor of one of the enclosures of the Temple of the Virgins of the Sun.

Temple of the Condor (Entrance only from 10am to 1pm)

The Temple of the Condor is an impressive example of Inca masonry integrated into its natural environment. Created from a granite outcrop in the shape of an Andean condor, which is surrounded by two large stones representing its wings.

Pisonay Square

Pisonay or cinchona or cascarilla tree, which is located in the Plaza, which is a symbol that represents the riches of the vegetable kingdom in the national coat of arms of Peru, will be part of the 24 native species that will be planted in the next five years in the Historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Archaeological Reserve

The archaelogical reserve is series of inca structures that are roofless. There is a variety of rooms and hallways. Some structures have many windows, other structures have long halls and walkways.

5. Tips for Visiting Circuit 3 Machu Picchu

To ensure you have the best experience on Circuit 3, here are some essential tips for planning your visit:

5.1 Book Tickets in Advance

Machu Picchu has a limited number of daily visitors allowed, and tickets often sell out weeks or months in advance, especially for specific circuits. Be sure to book your Circuit 3 tickets as early as possible to secure your spot.

5.2 Hire a Guide

While you can explore Circuit 3 on your own, hiring a guide is highly recommended. A knowledgeable guide will provide historical context, share stories about the Inca civilization, and help you navigate the route efficiently. They’ll also offer insights into the spiritual and architectural significance of the site.

5.3 Prepare for the Altitude

Machu Picchu sits at a high altitude (about 2,430 meters or 7,970 feet above sea level), so it’s important to acclimate to the elevation before your visit. Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to get used to the altitude, and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness. Many travelers find that taking coca tea, a traditional Andean remedy, helps alleviate symptoms.

5.4 Wear Comfortable Clothing

Machu Picchu’s weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating throughout the day. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and layers, as mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense at high altitudes.

5.5 Bring Snacks and Water

Although food is not allowed inside the archaeological site, you can bring snacks and water in a non-disposable container to enjoy before or after your tour. There is a small café and rest area outside the entrance where you can relax before heading in.

5.6 Be Mindful of Time

Visitors to Machu Picchu are allowed to spend a limited amount of time on each circuit. Make sure to keep an eye on the time so you can fully explore Circuit 3 without rushing. Your guide will help ensure you stay on schedule.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Circuit 3B

6.1 How Long Does Circuit 3B Take?

Circuit 3B typically takes between 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each stop. With a guide, expect to spend a little over 2 hours learning about the site’s history and significance.

6.2 Is Circuit 3B Difficult?

Circuit 3B is considered a moderate route. It doesn’t involve steep climbs like some of the other circuits, but you’ll still be walking at high altitudes on uneven terrain. It’s suitable for most visitors, but those with mobility issues should take extra care.

6.3 Can I Combine Circuit 3B with Another Circuit?

Due to the current regulations at Machu Picchu, visitors are generally allowed to explore one circuit per ticket. If you want to experience more than one route, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly.