If you are planning your trip to Machu Picchu, you have probably heard about Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo. This charming village is the gateway to one of the wonders of the world and has much more to offer than you might imagine.
In this article we will tell you all about Aguas Calientes: what it is, where it is, what to do there and why it is a must on your trip to Cusco.
Aguas Calientes is located in the district of Machu Picchu, in the province of Urubamba, Cusco region, southeastern Peru. It is located on the banks of the Vilcanota River, about 400 meters below Machu Picchu, in the middle of a beautiful mountain jungle environment.
The only way to get there is by train or walking (by the Inca Trail or the alternative route through Hidroeléctrica). There is no direct road, which makes it a car-free town full of nature.
What kind of town is Aguas Calientes?
Aguas Calientes is a tourist town that developed thanks to its proximity to Machu Picchu. Although it is small, it offers all the necessary services for travelers: hotels, restaurants, cafes, handicraft stores, spas, train station, medical center, and more.
Most visitors spend one or two nights here before or after visiting the Inca citadel, but there are also those who stay longer to explore the area at leisure.
How to get to Aguas Calientes?
There are three main ways:
By train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo
This is the most comfortable and popular option. You can take a train from Poroy station (Cusco) or from Ollantaytambo, which is closer. The trip offers spectacular scenery of mountains, rivers and forests.
Walking the Inca Trail
One of the most famous routes in the world. It lasts between 2 to 4 days depending on the tour, and ends directly in Machu Picchu.
By Hidroelectrica (economic route)
You can arrive by bus from Cusco to the hydroelectric plant and walk 2 to 3 hours following the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. It is an economical and adventurous option.
What to do in Aguas Calientes?
Although Machu Picchu is the main star, Aguas Calientes has its own charm. Here are the best activities to enjoy in town:
1. Visit the thermal baths
The name of the town comes from its natural hot springs. They are located 10 minutes walk from the square. They are ideal for relaxing after a hike or before visiting Machu Picchu.
2. Visiting the Butterfly Farm
A butterfly conservation center that teaches you about local species and their ecological importance. A nice experience for the whole family.
3. Climbing Putucusi Mountain
It is a demanding but rewarding hike, from where you can see Machu Picchu from a different angle (only for people in good physical condition).
4. Visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Botanical Garden and Site Museum.
Located near the Ruinas Bridge. Here you will learn more about the history of Machu Picchu and the native flora of the region.
5. Visit the handicraft market
In front of the train station there is a colorful market where you can buy souvenirs such as weavings, handicrafts, ponchos, mugs, key chains, and more.
6. Enjoy the local gastronomy
Aguas Calientes has a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from typical Peruvian food (such as trout, guinea pig and lomo saltado) to international options.
Where to stay?
There is accommodation for all tastes and budgets: from budget backpacker hostels to luxury boutique hotels. The ideal is to sleep at least one night in Aguas Calientes to leave early for Machu Picchu the next day.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Aguas Calientes (and Machu Picchu) is during the dry season, between April and October. However, it is also possible to go during the rainy season, between November and March, although the weather can be more unpredictable.
Practical advice
- Buy your tickets to Machu Picchu in advance, especially in high season.
- If you go by train, arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before.
- Bring insect repellent, sunscreen and comfortable clothing for warm and humid weather.
- There are no cars in Aguas Calientes. Be prepared to walk everything.
- Bring cash, as not all places accept credit cards.
Why visit Aguas Calientes?
Because it is the key point to get to Machu Picchu, but it is also a special place by itself:
- It is surrounded by nature and mountains.
- It has thermal baths, history and culture.
- It is safe, quiet and cozy.
- It is ideal to rest before or after the visit to Machu Picchu.
Conclusion
Aguas Calientes is not just the pass to Machu Picchu. It is a magical town, full of Andean energy, local hospitality and natural beauty. It is worth exploring it calmly, enjoying its food, meeting its people and letting yourself be carried away by the peace it transmits.
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