Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu , is the gateway to one of the world’s most iconic destinations: Machu Picchu . Whether you arrive by train or on foot, this small town nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes is a must-see for all travelers visiting the Inca citadel . Although many consider Aguas Calientes simply a resting place before climbing Machu Picchu, the truth is that the town and its surroundings offer a series of activities and attractions that are worth exploring.
In this article, we’ll tell you what to do in Aguas Calientes so you can make the most of your visit to this picturesque town and its natural wonders.
Aguas Calientes is not a traditional Peruvian town, but rather a tourist town that thrives on the thousands of tourists who pass through here each year on their way to Machu Picchu. Despite its small size, Aguas Calientes has a wide variety of services, from restaurants to hotels, allowing travelers to rest comfortably before and after their visit to the Inca citadel. However, many visitors are disappointed by the price/quality ratio of these services, as, being such a tourist destination, prices are often high for the quality offered.
Despite this, the landscape surrounding Aguas Calientes is breathtaking. The natural surroundings, with its majestic mountains and fast-flowing rivers, offer spectacular views that make the town a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature after a day exploring Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes ‘ name comes from its famous hot springs , which are one of the town’s main attractions. If you’re looking to relax after your visit to Machu Picchu, there’s nothing better than enjoying a soak in the area’s thermal pools .
The thermal bath complex features five sulfurous water pools, whose yellowish color is natural due to the high sulfur content. The waters come from volcanic sources and have therapeutic properties, making them ideal for relieving muscle fatigue and relaxing after a day of hiking. Water temperatures range between 38°C and 46°C , allowing you to enjoy a unique wellness experience.
Important data :
Remember to bring sandals , a towel , and a robe , as these are not available on-site. You’ll also find lockers and showers so you can clean up before entering the water.
If you’re a nature lover and enjoy hiking, a must-see in Aguas Calientes is the Mandor Gardens . This green oasis, located about a 50-minute walk from Aguas Calientes, is a haven of biodiversity where you can enjoy a hike through the rainforest, surrounded by an impressive variety of flora and fauna.
During your tour, you’ll be able to admire orchids , hummingbirds , and, with a bit of luck, even the famous cock-of-the-rock , Peru’s national bird. You’ll also find a beautiful waterfall, making this a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
This natural spot is also ideal for birdwatching , especially during the dry season (April to October), when visibility is at its best. The Mandor Gardens are less well-known than Machu Picchu, which means that if you’re looking for a quieter experience away from the crowds, this is the perfect place for you.
Despite being one of the region’s main tourist attractions, the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum is surprisingly little-known to tourists visiting Aguas Calientes. Located about a 30-minute walk from the train station, this museum houses an important collection of artifacts and archaeological objects related to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu .
The museum has two main exhibits: one dedicated to the Inca remains found in and around Machu Picchu , which includes pottery, bronze and copper tools, and bones. The second exhibit focuses on Inca artifacts used in the construction of Machu Picchu, providing a better understanding of how this majestic citadel was built.
The museum also has a botanical garden where you can admire more than 200 types of orchids , many of which are endemic to the region. It’s a fascinating visit for history and culture lovers, especially if you haven’t had the opportunity to hire a guide for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Just a 25-minute walk from Aguas Calientes, heading towards Machu Picchu , is the Machu Picchu Butterfly Farm , a breeding ground dedicated to protecting the 300 species of butterflies that live in the area. This volunteer-led project aims to study and conserve local biodiversity, while offering visitors the opportunity to observe the butterflies’ different stages of development.
The butterfly farm is an ideal place for nature and photography lovers. Here you can see butterflies in their larval, pupal, and adult stages, in a carefully preserved environment. The site also has a small shop where you can learn more about local biodiversity.
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One of Aguas Calientes’ hidden gems is the Allcamayo Waterfalls , a group of three impressive natural waterfalls located in a secluded area of the town. The route to reach them is relatively easy, and along the way, you’ll enjoy a lush jungle environment, complete with trees, orchids, and butterflies.
The third waterfall in Allcamayo, which is 30 meters high , is the tallest and most spectacular. This is a perfect place for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature in its purest state. If you dare to take a dip in its waters, remember to bring a towel and swimsuit .
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Although Aguas Calientes is a small town, one of the places you can’t miss is its artisan market . Located near the train station, the market offers a wide variety of Peruvian handicrafts, such as alpaca clothing , paintings , wood and stone sculptures , traditional masks , and silver and gold jewelry . If you’re looking for souvenirs from your trip, this is the perfect place.
Tip : Market prices tend to be higher due to the touristy nature of the place, but you can always haggle to get a better price.
If you’re an adventurer and enjoy challenging hikes, Putucusi Mountain is a challenge you can’t miss. This mountain, which rises 2,560 meters above sea level , offers one of the most impressive views of Machu Picchu from a little-known angle.
The climb is demanding , with poorly marked trails and vertical stairs that require a good level of fitness. If you’re up for the adventure, reaching the summit will be rewarding.
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