Machu Picchu: reserve with ISIC card or university card?

May 20, 2026 0 views

Undergraduate students can access a significant discount on the entrance to Machu Picchu. However, there is common confusion about which document is valid to obtain this benefit, as the rules changed recently.

¿Is the ISIC card valid?

Currently, the ISIC card is no longer accepted to buy the Machu Picchu ticket with a student discount. Although it is a globally recognized document, Peruvian authorities now require a specific university document that meets certain technical characteristics.

Requirements for a valid university card

For the discount to be applied, the student must present their original university card issued by their university, which must mandatory contain the following information:

  • Name of the university.

  • Student's full name.

  • Legible photo of the holder.

  • Expiration date: The card must be valid at the time of the visit to the citadel. Expired cards or enrollment receipts are not accepted.

Age limit and type of studies

The student discount benefit only applies to undergraduate students (it does not apply to master's, doctorates, or diplomas) and who are at most 25 years old at the time of the visit. If the student exceeds this age, they must pay the general adult fare.

¿How to make a reservation with a discount?

Unlike adult tickets, student reservations usually require sending a digital copy (scanned or clear photo) of the university card by email to the agency or entity in charge. This is necessary to validate that the document meets all requirements before issuing the ticket.

Very important fact: It is mandatory to present the physical and original university card at the Machu Picchu entrance control along with your passport. If you forget the card or it does not match the ticket data, you will be prevented from entering and must pay the cost difference as an adult if there is availability.