If you’re planning a trip to Cusco and want to visit its most important archaeological sites, you’ll probably need the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco). This ticket grants access to 16 archaeological sites, museums, and cultural attractions located throughout Cusco City, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the South Valley.
However, not every traveler needs the same ticket. There are full and partial options, each with different prices, included attractions, and validity periods.
In this guide, you’ll find the official ticket prices, all three tourist circuits, the attractions included, where to buy your ticket, and how to choose the best option for your itinerary.
Last information check: November 2026. Prices and conditions should be confirmed with COSITUC before purchasing, especially if you’re traveling in a later year.
What Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket?
The Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco or BTC) is an official admission pass managed by COSITUC (Comité de Servicios Integrados Turístico Culturales del Cusco).
It allows visitors to enter selected archaeological sites, museums, and cultural attractions in Cusco and its surrounding areas using a single ticket instead of purchasing separate admission for every included location.
The full tourist ticket covers 16 attractions divided into three circuits:
- Circuit I: Saqsayhuamán Archaeological Park.
- Circuit II: Cusco City and the South Valley.
- Circuit III: The Sacred Valley of the Incas.
You can purchase the full ticket to visit all three circuits or choose a partial ticket if you only plan to visit one of them.
Keep in mind that the ticket is personal and must be kept throughout your visits, as it will be checked at the corresponding attractions.
How Much Does the Cusco Tourist Ticket Cost?
The price depends on whether you’re a Peruvian national or a foreign visitor and which ticket option you choose.
Below are the published COSITUC rates.
Cusco Tourist Ticket Prices for Foreign Visitors
| Ticket type | Price | Attractions | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Tourist Ticket | S/ 130 | 16 | 10 days |
| Partial Ticket – Circuit I | S/ 70 | 4 | 1 day |
| Partial Ticket – Circuit II | S/ 70 | 8 | 2 days |
| Partial Ticket – Circuit III | S/ 70 | 4 | 2 days |
Cusco Tourist Ticket Prices for Peruvian Nationals
| Ticket type | Price | Attractions | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Tourist Ticket | S/ 70 | 16 | 10 days |
| Partial Ticket – Circuit I | S/ 40 | 4 | 1 day |
| Partial Ticket – Circuit II | S/ 40 | 8 | 2 days |
| Partial Ticket – Circuit III | S/ 40 | 4 | 2 days |
Important: These are the rates published by COSITUC as checked in November 2026. Do not assume that prices will remain the same throughout 2027 or in future years.
Are There Discounts for Students and Children?
Yes. COSITUC offers special rates for students who meet its eligibility requirements.
- Children up to 9 years old: Generally receive free admission. However, the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo has a special condition: children from 6 years old are charged for a seat.
- Students aged 10–17: May qualify for the student rate by presenting an appropriate identity document.
- Students aged 18–25: The published tariff provides a student rate subject to presentation of a valid student ID or ISIC card and the applicable requirements.
Published student rates are S/ 70 for foreign visitors and S/ 40 for Peruvian nationals for the full ticket. Contact COSITUC to confirm the exact requirements for your situation before purchasing.
What Are the Three Cusco Tourist Ticket Circuits?
The full tourist ticket provides access to 16 attractions divided into three circuits. Each circuit covers a different area, so it’s worth understanding what is included before planning your excursions.
Circuit I: Saqsayhuamán and Nearby Inca Archaeological Sites
This circuit includes four important archaeological sites located north of Cusco City.
Included attractions:
- Saqsayhuamán: An impressive archaeological complex famous for its enormous stone walls and remarkable Inca construction techniques.
- Q’enqo: An archaeological site featuring rock formations, passages, and ceremonial spaces.
- Puka Pukara: An Inca complex known for its terraces, enclosures, and strategic location.
- Tambomachay: An archaeological site associated with water worship, featuring impressive stone channels and fountains.
Partial ticket validity: 1 day.
This circuit is ideal for travelers interested in Cusco’s traditional archaeological city tour or those with limited time to explore the surrounding area.
Circuit II: Cusco Museums and the South Valley
The second circuit combines museums, cultural attractions, and two important archaeological sites in Cusco’s South Valley.
Included attractions:
- Qorikancha Site Museum: Displays archaeological objects related to the historical and cultural development of Cusco.
- Regional Historical Museum: Houses collections connected to the history of the region.
- Museum of Contemporary Art: Features works by artists and contemporary art exhibitions.
- Popular Art Museum: Showcases traditional and popular artistic expressions from Cusco.
- Pachacutec Monument: A monument dedicated to the Inca ruler Pachacutec, located along one of Cusco’s main avenues.
- Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo: A cultural venue featuring traditional music and dance performances.
- Tipón: An archaeological complex famous for its agricultural terraces and impressive Inca hydraulic engineering.
- Pikillaqta: An ancient pre-Inca city associated with the Wari culture.
Partial ticket validity: 2 days.
This is a great option for visitors who want to explore Cusco’s museums and discover archaeological sites in the South Valley, such as Tipón and Pikillaqta.
Important: The ticket includes the Qorikancha Site Museum, but it does not necessarily include admission to the Temple and Convent of Santo Domingo, commonly known as Qorikancha. The temple has a separate admission fee.
Circuit III: The Sacred Valley of the Incas
The third circuit includes four important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It is particularly interesting for travelers who want to discover Inca architecture, agriculture, and landscape planning.
Included attractions:
- Pisac: An archaeological complex featuring agricultural terraces, ceremonial areas, and impressive stone structures.
- Ollantaytambo: An ancient Inca town and ceremonial center famous for its monumental terraces and stone architecture.
- Chinchero: An archaeological site preserving Inca structures and an important cultural heritage.
- Moray: A remarkable group of circular agricultural terraces known for their design and different environmental conditions.
Partial ticket validity: 2 days.
This circuit is an excellent option if you’re planning a Sacred Valley tour or want to explore these destinations independently.
Important: The Maras Salt Mines are not included, even though they are located close to Moray. A separate admission fee applies.
What Is NOT Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket?
One of the most common mistakes visitors make is assuming that the Cusco Tourist Ticket covers every attraction in the region. In reality, it only provides admission to the locations officially included by COSITUC.
The following destinations and services require separate payment:
| Attraction or service | Included? |
|---|---|
| Machu Picchu | No |
| Maras Salt Mines | No |
| Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) | No |
| Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain | No |
| Humantay Lake | No |
| Choquequirao | No |
| Cusco Cathedral | No |
| Qorikancha Temple | No |
| Tourist transportation | No |
| Tour guide services | No |
| Train to Machu Picchu | No |
| Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu | No |
Remember that the Qorikancha Site Museum is included, but admission to the Qorikancha Temple is separate.
If you’re planning to visit the Inca citadel, check our guide on [how to buy Machu Picchu tickets] to learn about the available circuits, schedules, and admission options.
Where Can You Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket?
Official tickets are purchased in person through authorized COSITUC sales points.
1. COSITUC Main Office
You can purchase your ticket at the main sales office located at:
Address: Avenida El Sol 103, Office 101, Galerías Turísticas, Cusco, Peru.
According to COSITUC’s published information, its opening hours are Monday to Sunday, from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Check for possible schedule changes before visiting.
2. At the Included Tourist Attractions
You can also purchase tickets at the entrance control points of certain included attractions.
However, not every attraction operates as a ticket sales point. For example, COSITUC identifies exceptions for the Regional Historical Museum, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, Popular Art Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art.
Therefore, if you need to purchase your ticket before starting an excursion, visiting the main sales office is the most practical option.
Can You Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket Online?
According to the frequently asked questions published by COSITUC, official ticket purchases are made in person, and online purchasing is not offered through its official sales system.
Be careful with websites promising reservations or digital tickets that cannot demonstrate they are authorized sales channels.
What Documents Do You Need to Buy the Ticket?
It’s recommended to bring your passport or identity document.
If you want to qualify for a student discount, bring the documentation required to prove your student status according to your age and nationality.
Which Cusco Tourist Ticket Should You Choose: Full or Partial?
Your choice depends on how many attractions you want to visit and how long you’re staying in Cusco.
Choose the Full Tourist Ticket If:
- You’re staying in Cusco for several days.
- You want to visit Saqsayhuamán, the museums, and the Sacred Valley.
- You plan to explore more than one circuit.
- You want to spread your visits across different days without purchasing multiple partial tickets.
Choose a Partial Tourist Ticket If:
- You have limited time in Cusco.
- You only want to visit the Saqsayhuamán archaeological sites.
- Your itinerary focuses on the Sacred Valley.
- You only plan to explore the museums and attractions in the second circuit.
Price Comparison Example
For a foreign visitor:
- One partial ticket costs S/ 70.
- Two partial tickets cost S/ 140.
- The full tourist ticket costs S/ 130.
Therefore, if you plan to visit two circuits, the full ticket may be cheaper than purchasing two partial tickets, provided its validity period fits your itinerary.
For Peruvian nationals, the comparison is different: two partial tickets cost S/ 80, while the full ticket costs S/ 70.
Tip: Don’t choose based on price alone. Check which attractions you actually want to visit and how much time you have available.
How to Plan Your Itinerary With the Cusco Tourist Ticket
Good planning helps you make the most of your ticket’s validity and avoid unnecessary travel.
Example Itinerary With the Sacred Valley Partial Ticket
Day 1:
- Chinchero.
- Moray.
- Independent visit to the Maras Salt Mines, with separate admission.
Day 2:
- Pisac.
- Ollantaytambo.
You can organize this trip using tourist transportation or an organized tour. If you continue your journey to Aguas Calientes from Ollantaytambo, you’ll need to purchase your train ticket separately.
Example Itinerary With the Full Tourist Ticket
Day 1: Circuit I
- Saqsayhuamán.
- Q’enqo.
- Puka Pukara.
- Tambomachay.
Day 2: Circuit II
- Museums in Cusco.
- Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo.
- Pachacutec Monument.
Day 3: Circuit II
- Tipón.
- Pikillaqta.
Day 4: Circuit III
- Chinchero.
- Moray.
- Pisac, depending on travel times.
Day 5: Circuit III
- Ollantaytambo.
This is only a suggested itinerary. You can rearrange your visits according to your schedule, transportation, and other booked activities.
Remember that the full tourist ticket is valid for 10 days, so you don’t need to visit all 16 attractions in a single day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying the Cusco Tourist Ticket
Before purchasing your ticket, keep these common mistakes in mind:
- Thinking it includes Machu Picchu: Admission to the citadel must be purchased separately.
- Confusing Moray with the Maras Salt Mines: Only Moray is included.
- Buying the full ticket without needing it: If you’re visiting just one circuit, a partial ticket may be sufficient.
- Ignoring the validity period: Each partial circuit has a different validity period.
- Forgetting your identity document: The ticket is personal.
- Assuming transportation and a guide are included: The ticket only covers admission to the included attractions.
- Confusing the Qorikancha Site Museum with the temple: They have separate admission arrangements.
- Purchasing from unauthorized websites: Always use official COSITUC sales channels.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cusco Tourist Ticket
How much does the Cusco Tourist Ticket cost?
The full ticket costs S/ 130 for foreign visitors, while partial tickets cost S/ 70. For Peruvian nationals, the full ticket costs S/ 70 and partial tickets cost S/ 40, according to COSITUC’s published rates as of November 2026.
How many attractions are included in the full Cusco Tourist Ticket?
The full ticket includes 16 attractions divided into three circuits: Saqsayhuamán, Cusco City and the South Valley, and the Sacred Valley.
How long is the Cusco Tourist Ticket valid?
The full ticket is valid for 10 days. Partial tickets are valid for 1 day for Circuit I and 2 days for Circuits II and III, according to the published conditions.
Does the Cusco Tourist Ticket include Machu Picchu?
No. Machu Picchu admission must be purchased separately through the corresponding official channels.
Does the Cusco Tourist Ticket include the Maras Salt Mines?
No. The Maras Salt Mines require a separate admission ticket. Moray, however, is included in Circuit III.
Can I buy a ticket just for Saqsayhuamán?
The usual option is to purchase the Circuit I partial ticket, which includes Saqsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. You don’t need the full ticket if you only plan to visit these four attractions.
Can I buy the ticket on the same day as my visit?
Yes. Tickets can be purchased in person at authorized sales points, subject to opening hours and current conditions.
Can I purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket online?
COSITUC states in its frequently asked questions that official purchases are made in person.
Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket valid for multiple people?
No. It is personal and belongs to the individual identified on the ticket.
Can I change or get a refund for my Cusco Tourist Ticket?
You should not assume that changes or refunds are possible after the ticket has been issued. Check COSITUC’s conditions before completing your purchase.
Do I need to buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket if I book a Sacred Valley tour?
It depends on the tour package. Some travel agencies include admission tickets, while others only provide transportation and a guide. Always ask whether the Cusco Tourist Ticket is included or whether you need to purchase it separately.
Conclusion: Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket Worth It?
The Cusco Tourist Ticket is a convenient way to explore the region’s main archaeological sites, museums, and cultural attractions. The best option depends on how much time you have and which places you want to visit.
If you’re planning to explore several circuits, the full tourist ticket is usually the most convenient choice. However, if you only want to visit Saqsayhuamán, the Sacred Valley, or the attractions in the second circuit, you can save money by choosing the corresponding partial ticket.
At Machupicchu Luna Tours, we can help you organize your visit to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and its main attractions, guiding you through the admission tickets you need according to your itinerary.
Planning your trip to Cusco? Contact us and let us help you organize your journey so you can make the most of your time and budget.
