Tourist Ticket: The Key to Exploring the Imperial City

If you’re planning to visit Cusco in 2025, it’s essential to know about the different tickets available in this iconic city. One of the most popular options is the Tourist Ticket. This pass grants access to major archaeological sites, museums, and cultural centers, helping you save money and simplify your travel experience. Learn everything about updated prices, where to buy it, how difficult it is to explore archaeological sites, what to bring, and other key tips to make your trip an unforgettable adventure.

1. What is the Cusco Tourist Ticket?

The Cusco Tourist Ticket is a pass that grants access to several tourist attractions in the city and the Sacred Valley. This ticket is ideal for visiting major archaeological and cultural sites without having to pay separate entrance fees.
There are different types of tickets depending on the time available and the places you want to visit.

2. Types of Tourist Tickets and 2025 Prices

General Tourist Ticket (BTG)

• Duration: 10 days
• Includes: 16 attractions in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the South Valley
• Price:
  • Foreign adults: S/ 130 – $35
  • Foreign students: S/ 70 – $19
  • Peruvian adults: S/ 70 – $19
  • Peruvian students: S/ 40 – $11

This ticket is ideal if you want to fully explore Cusco’s archaeological and cultural sites without rushing.

Partial Tourist Ticket

If your itinerary is tight or you’re only interested in a specific region, you can choose one of the three partial tickets:

Circuit I – Archaeological Sites of Cusco

Includes: Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay

Price: S/ 70 – $19 (adults) | S/ 40 – $11 (students)

Circuit II – Museums and Cultural Sites of Cusco

Includes: Museum of Contemporary Art, Regional Historical Museum, Qorikancha Site Museum, Qosqo Center of Native Art, Pachacútec Monument

Price: S/ 70 – $19 (adults) | S/ 40 – $11 (students)

Circuit III – Sacred Valley of the Incas

Includes: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray

Price: S/ 70 – $19 (adults) | S/ 40 – $11 (students)

Important: These tickets do not include Machu Picchu or the Rainbow Mountain, as these require special entrance tickets (covered in another blog).

3. Where to Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket?

You can purchase the ticket at the following official points of sale:

• COSITUC Office (Integrated Tourist Services Committee of Cusco), located at Avenida El Sol 103, Cusco.
• At the entrance of tourist sites (cash only, no discounts).
• Authorized travel agencies.
• Online purchase through the official COSITUC website.

4. Is the Ticket Purchase Personal?

Yes, the Tourist Ticket is personal and non-transferable. When purchasing, you must present a valid identification document.

• Foreigners: Passport or identity card.
• Peruvians: National ID (DNI).
• Students: Valid university ID with an expiration date.

In some cases, they may request a copy of the document at the time of purchase.

5. How Difficult is it to Visit the Archaeological Sites?

The difficulty level varies by site:

• Easy: Museums, Qorikancha, Qosqo Center of Native Art.
• Moderate: Chinchero, Moray, Pisac.
• Difficult: Ollantaytambo, Sacsayhuamán.

Archaeological complexes like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Sacsayhuamán involve climbing steep stairs and walking on uneven terrain, so good physical condition is recommended. If you have mobility issues, avoid visiting multiple sites in a single day and use trekking poles.

6. What to Bring for Visiting the Attractions

To avoid any inconveniences, be well-prepared. Here are some essential recommendations:

• Small backpack to carry essentials.
• Comfortable sneakers or trekking boots.
• Layered clothing as Cusco’s weather changes drastically.
• Hat and sunglasses.
• Sunscreen.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Light snacks such as dried fruits and energy bars.
• Camera or phone with a charged battery.
• Tourist Ticket and ID or passport.

7. Must-Visit Places with the Tourist Ticket

If you get the General Ticket, here are some must-see attractions:

• Sacsayhuamán: Impressive Inca walls with panoramic views.
• Pisac: Archaeological remains atop a mountain and a handicraft market.
• Ollantaytambo: The «Living Inca Town,» with its agricultural terraces and Inca temples.
• Chinchero: A colonial town with Inca ruins.
• Moray: Circular terraces used for agricultural experiments.

8. Tips to Make the Most of the Tourist Ticket

• Plan your itinerary well to maximize your available days.
• Arrive early to avoid the midday sun and crowds.
• Bring cash, as some sites don’t accept cards for purchases or tips.
• Don’t forget your ID – it’s mandatory to validate your ticket.
• Take breaks between visits; some sites have steep paths, so don’t overexert yourself.

Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket Worth It?

Absolutely. The General Ticket allows you to save money. If you only have a couple of days in Cusco, a Partial Ticket may be a better option. But if you want to fully experience the region’s historical wealth, the General Ticket is your best bet.

Take advantage of this pass and immerse yourself in the history and culture of Cusco.