How to Use the Cusco Tourist Ticket Without Wasting Money

Many travelers purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) without fully understanding what it includes or how to organize their itinerary. As a result, they only visit a few attractions and end up wasting both time and money.

The good news is that, with proper planning, the Cusco Tourist Ticket can become one of the best investments of your trip.

What Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket?

The Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) is a sightseeing pass managed by the Cusco Tourist Cultural Integrated Services Committee (COSITUC). It grants access to several archaeological sites, museums, and cultural attractions in Cusco City and the Sacred Valley.

It is important to know that the ticket does not include:

Machu Picchu
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Cusco Cathedral
Rainbow Mountain

These attractions require separate admission tickets.

Before Buying, Ask Yourself How Many Days You’ll Stay in Cusco

This is one of the most common mistakes travelers make.

Many visitors purchase the Full Tourist Ticket even though they will only stay in Cusco for two days. In most cases, there simply isn’t enough time to visit every attraction included.

If your trip is short, a Partial Tourist Ticket may be the better option.

Types of Cusco Tourist Tickets

Currently, there are two main options.

Full Tourist Ticket

The Full Tourist Ticket includes all attractions managed by COSITUC.

It is valid for 10 consecutive calendar days starting from its first use.

It is recommended for travelers spending several days in Cusco who plan to visit museums, archaeological sites, and the Sacred Valley.

Partial Tourist Tickets

Partial Tourist Tickets are divided into three different circuits, each covering specific attractions.

Depending on the circuit, they are valid for one or two days.

They are ideal for travelers with limited time.

Organize Your Visits by Area

One of the best ways to save money is to avoid traveling back and forth between different parts of the city.

For example:

One Day for the City Tour

Sacsayhuamán
Qenqo
Puka Pukara
Tambomachay

These attractions are included in the traditional Cusco City Tour.

Another Day for the Sacred Valley

Pisac
Ollantaytambo
Chinchero

Planning your itinerary this way helps reduce transportation costs and saves valuable time.

Don’t Buy the Tourist Ticket If You’re Only Visiting Machu Picchu

Another common misconception is believing that the Cusco Tourist Ticket includes Machu Picchu.

It does not.

Admission to Machu Picchu must be purchased separately through Peru’s Ministry of Culture.

Buy the Ticket Only When You Need It

The validity period begins the first time you use the ticket, not on the day you purchase it.

For this reason, there is no advantage in buying it several days before you actually plan to start sightseeing.

Check Whether Your Tour Already Includes the Ticket

Some travel agencies sell tour packages that already include the Cusco Tourist Ticket, while others do not.

Before purchasing the ticket separately, confirm exactly what is included in your tour package.

Always Carry Your ID

At some attractions, staff may ask to see the identification document used when purchasing the ticket to verify ownership.

Can You Share the Cusco Tourist Ticket?

No.

The Cusco Tourist Ticket is personal and non-transferable.

Only the person whose name appears on the ticket may use it.

Attempting to share it with someone else may result in denied entry.

Common Mistakes That Cost Travelers Money

Many visitors lose part of their investment by making simple mistakes, such as:

Buying the Full Tourist Ticket for a one- or two-day trip.
Not checking which attractions they actually want to visit.
Assuming it includes Machu Picchu.
Failing to organize attractions by location.
Letting the ticket expire before using all included admissions.

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Cusco Tourist Ticket

Plan your itinerary before buying the ticket.
Choose the ticket that matches the length of your stay.
Group attractions by location.
Confirm whether your travel agency already includes the ticket.
Always carry your passport or identification.
Check the opening hours of each attraction before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Cusco Tourist Ticket include Machu Picchu?

No. Machu Picchu requires a separate entrance ticket.

Does it include Qorikancha?

No. Admission to Qorikancha must be purchased separately.

Does it include Cusco Cathedral?

No. Cusco Cathedral has its own entrance ticket.

Can I use the ticket over several days?

Yes. It depends on the type of ticket you purchase. The Full Tourist Ticket is valid for 10 consecutive calendar days, while Partial Tourist Tickets are valid for one or two days, depending on the selected circuit.

Final Thoughts

The Cusco Tourist Ticket can help you save money if you choose the right option and plan your itinerary carefully. Before buying, consider how many days you’ll spend in Cusco, which attractions you want to visit, and whether your travel agency already includes the ticket in your tour package.

Table of Contents