The most common way to Discover Machu Picchu Pueblo is by train; The companies that provide this service are Perú Rail and Inca Rail. You can also arrive through the Inca Trail and from Machu Picchu go down to Machu Picchu town where the mentioned services are located.
Machu Picchu Pueblo, formerly known as Aguas Calientes, is the main access point to the famous Inca citadel. Its original name comes from the hot springs that emerge in the gorge and still attract hundreds of travelers every afternoon. Among them are those who have just finished the Inca Trail and are looking for a well-deserved rest after long days of hiking.
Originally, Machu Picchu Pueblo was just a small street along the railway (today’s Avenida Imperio de los Incas). Over the years, and due to the growth of tourism, the town expanded in a rather disorganized way, spreading further into the gorge.
Today, Machu Picchu Pueblo has a main square where the church and the town hall are located, as well as a bustling Avenida Pachacutec, the busiest street leading directly to the hot springs in the upper part of the valley. Despite its small size, the town offers a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, craft markets, and cafés, making it the ideal meeting point before or after visiting the Wonder of the World.
If you have some extra time before or after visiting the citadel, don’t miss these highlights:
Located just 800 meters from the town center, these sulfurous pools range in temperature from 38 °C (100.4 °F) to 46 °C (114.8 °F). The hot springs feature basic facilities such as changing rooms, restrooms, and a small snack bar. It’s the perfect spot to relax your muscles and recharge after a day of hiking or visiting Machu Picchu.
Situated on the outskirts of town, the Mandor Waterfalls are a natural refuge surrounded by lush flora and fauna. Here you can spot the famous Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird, which puts on a unique show of colors and sounds during mating season. The hike to the waterfalls is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
Machu Picchu Pueblo is not just a stopover on the way to the Inca citadel; it is also a destination with its own charm. Strolling through its streets, enjoying local cuisine, relaxing in the hot springs, or exploring the surrounding nature are experiences that perfectly complement your visit to Machu Picchu.
In our travel guide, we share useful tips, routes, recommendations, and experiences from travelers like you. We want you to discover every corner of Peru authentically, with all the information you need to create unforgettable memories.
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