Machu Picchu couple photo session: what you need to know
Leer en español: Sesión de fotos de novios en Machu Picchu
A marriage proposal at Machu Picchu, photographed by Albaside Studio.
Short answer: yes, you can do a couple session at Machu Picchu, but it takes planning. Book a circuit ticket with a fixed time slot early (for the classic view, route 2-A), carry only a small bag, forget the drone and, for a professional session, confirm current permits with Peru's Ministry of Culture.
We have photographed sessions at Machu Picchu and it is, without a doubt, one of the most breathtaking places to photograph a couple. It is also one of the most regulated, so here is what to know before booking.
Tickets and circuits
Machu Picchu is visited through circuits and routes, each with its own ticket and entry time. According to the rates published for 2026:
| Circuit | Routes | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 · Panoramic | 1-A Machupicchu Mountain, 1-B Upper terrace, 1-C Sun Gate and 1-D Inca Bridge (the last two in high season only) | High, wide views |
| 2 · Classic | 2-A Designed route, 2-B Lower terrace | 2-A passes the Guardhouse: the classic view |
| 3 · Royalty | 3-A Huayna Picchu, 3-B Designed route, 3-C Great Cavern and 3-D Huchuy Picchu (the last two in high season only) | Temples and mountain |
For reference, the general rate published for 2026 Circuit 2 routes is S/ 64 per person, and mountain routes are S/ 112. In high season daily capacity is capped (up to 5,600 visitors per day), so tickets sell out weeks ahead.
Hours and time inside
- The sanctuary is open roughly 6:00 am to 5:30 pm; the last entry slot is at 3:00 pm.
- You enter at your ticket's time, with about a 30-minute tolerance.
- A citadel visit lasts about 2.5 hours, and you cannot leave and re-enter on the same ticket.
- You must stay within the circuit you bought.
Rules that affect a photo session
- One small bag only. Large bags are not allowed, so gear must be light.
- Drones prohibited and large tripods restricted.
- Professional or commercial photography requires authorization from Peru's Ministry of Culture. Rules change, so confirm them before each session.
- Stay on marked paths: no climbing walls or leaving the route for a shot.
Getting there
From Cusco you take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus up to the sanctuary entrance. For an early slot, it is easiest to spend the night before in Aguas Calientes.
What to wear
- A light, easy-to-carry dress: you will be walking stone stairs.
- Comfortable shoes for walking, and another pair for photos if you like.
- Layers: mornings can be cold and damp; by mid-morning the sun is strong.
- A rain poncho in your small bag, especially November to March.
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