Aguas Calientes is more than just a stopover on the way to Machu Picchu, though it’s often touted as the gateway to it. This charming town, often overlooked by travelers in a rush to reach the famed Incan citadel, holds its own allure with its natural beauty, local culture, and unique atmosphere.
Surrounded by misty mountains and the roaring Urubamba River, Aguas Calientes invites you to slow down and experience the hidden gems it has to offer. Either way, this charming town provides a refreshing pause before the grand and final ascent to Machu Picchu.
History of Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, has a relatively modern history compared to the ancient ruins it sits below. The town’s origins date back to the early 20th century, when it was established as a small settlement for workers constructing the railway between Cusco and the base of Machu Picchu. The completion of this railway in 1928 marked the beginning of the town’s growth as a hub for explorers heading toward the newly rediscovered Incan site.
Before its rise as a key destination, the area surrounding Aguas Calientes was sparsely populated, home mostly to farmers and the indigenous Quechua people. The discovery of Machu Picchu by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911 brought worldwide attention to the region, and with it came the development of infrastructure to accommodate the influx of visitors. Aguas Calientes gradually transformed from a remote village into a bustling gateway for travelers.
The town takes its name from the natural hot springs located nearby. While it was originally a functional stop for workers and archaeologists, Aguas Calientes has evolved over the decades into a lively town filled with restaurants, markets, and hotels catering to the many tourists who pass through each year.
Top Things to Do in Aguas Calientes
1. Drop by Manco Capac Square
Manco Capac Square is the heart of Aguas Calientes, offering a perfect spot to start your exploration of the town. Named after the legendary founder of the Incan Empire, this vibrant plaza is more than just a central meeting place—it’s a cultural hub that reflects both the town’s modern character and its ancient roots.
Around the square, you’ll find colorful murals, traditional architecture, and a variety of shops and cafes that make it an inviting place to relax or people-watch.
2. Marvel at Cascadas Alcamayo
Cascadas Alcamayo is a beautiful waterfall located about 30 minutes on foot from the center of Aguas Calientes. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy, following a well-maintained trail that leads through the lush vegetation of the cloud forest. Along the way, you’ll pass small streams and enjoy the serene ambiance of the surrounding nature.
The waterfall itself is roughly 30 meters tall, with water cascading down moss-covered rocks. There’s a small viewing area where you can admire the falls, and while swimming isn’t permitted, the cool spray from the falls provides a refreshing respite from the warm jungle air.
3. Bathe in the Hot Springs
One of the best ways to unwind in Aguas Calientes is by visiting the Hot Springs after a long day of exploring. Known locally as Termas de Aguas Calientes, these natural thermal baths are just a short walk from the town center and offer the perfect place to relax and recharge while surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding mountains.
The facilities include changing rooms, lockers, and a small cafe. While the hot springs are a simple and rustic experience, they offer a chance to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. It’s best to visit in the late afternoon or evening when the pools are less crowded, and the temperatures are cooler.
4. Check out the Mariposario of Machu Picchu
The Mariposario of Machu Picchu, or Machu Picchu Butterfly House, is a butterfly sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and study of the diverse butterfly species found in the region.
Home to over a dozen native butterfly species, the Mariposario offers the chance to learn about the life cycle of butterflies, their habitats, and the vital role they play in the local ecosystem. The facility includes guided tours that walk you through the different stages of a butterfly’s life, from egg to caterpillar to adult butterfly. You’ll also have the opportunity to observe butterflies in various stages of their development and watch them in flight inside a large enclosure designed to mimic their natural environment!
5. Visit the Manuel Chavez Ballon Site Museum
Named after the respected Peruvian archaeologist, Manuel Chavez Ballon, the museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts uncovered from the Machu Picchu area. On display are a variety of objects, including ancient pottery, tools, jewelry, and explanations of the sophisticated stonework techniques the Incas used to build their city. The exhibits are carefully curated to highlight aspects of daily life, agricultural practices, religious ceremonies, and the architectural genius behind Machu Picchu’s construction.
What makes the museum particularly appealing is its calm atmosphere and the attention to detail in its explanations, which are available in both Spanish and English. In addition to the indoor exhibits, there’s also a small botanical garden on the grounds, showcasing native plants that the Incas used for food, medicine, and construction.
6. Make Your Way to Mandor Waterfall
The trail to Mandor Waterfall is well-marked and mostly flat, making it accessible for most visitors. Along the way, you’ll pass through private gardens, known as Jardines de Mandor, where you can observe a variety of tropical plants, birds, and butterflies in their natural habitat. Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sound of water cascading down from a height of about 10 meters.
7. Shop at Mercado Aguas Calientes
8. See the Pachacutec Statue
A prominent cultural landmark in Aguas Calientes is the Pachacutec Statue, located in Plaza Manco Capac. This towering statue is a tribute to Pachacutec, the ninth Sapa Inca, widely regarded as the Incan Empire’s greatest ruler. His reign is credited with the expansion and consolidation of the empire, as well as the creation of Machu Picchu itself.
The statue depicts Pachacutec standing tall and proud, wearing traditional Incan attire, with his arms raised as if overseeing the land he once ruled. You’ll also see the Three Sacred Animals of Peru with him: the condor, the puma, and the snake.
9. Try Peruvian Cuisine
No visit to Aguas Calientes is complete without indulging in Peruvian cuisine! The town is home to numerous eateries where you can try a wide range of traditional dishes, making it a perfect stop to savor authentic Andean fare.
Start with ceviche, one of Peru’s most famous dishes, made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, and served with corn, sweet potatoes, and a spicy kick of ají pepper. For those seeking heartier meals, try lomo saltado, a savory stir-fry of beef, tomatoes, onions, and spices, served with rice and crispy fries.
For something lighter, enjoy a bowl of quinoa soup or a plate of rocoto relleno, a stuffed pepper dish filled with beef, vegetables, and cheese. Vegetarian travelers will also find plenty of options, as many Peruvian dishes feature corn, potatoes, and fresh vegetables, often cooked with aromatic spices and herbs.
10. Enjoy the Train Ride
11. Witness Machu Picchu
Where to Stay in Aguas Calientes
When choosing where to stay in Aguas Calientes, you’ll find a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Most options are centrally located, making it easy to access the town’s main attractions, restaurants, and transportation to Machu Picchu. Whether you’re seeking comfort after a long day of hiking or a scenic spot by the river, there’s something for every type of traveler. Here are some of the best places to stay:
Best Hotels in Aguas Calientes:
- Amakonkay Machupicchu – offers a shared lounge, restaurant, bar, and free WiFi. The hotel features rooms with private bathrooms, some offering city views, and all equipped with flat-screen TVs and hairdryers.You can enjoy an American breakfast each morning, along with 24-hour front desk service, room service, and currency exchange.
- Rupa Rupa High Jungle Eco B&B – surrounded by a garden, the rooms feature mountain views from private terraces, along with desks, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. You can also enjoy free WiFi, 24-hour front desk service, airport transportation, and a daily American breakfast.
- Mapiland Hotel Boutique – offers allergy-free rooms, free WiFi, a shared lounge, and a bar with a snack menu. The air-conditioned rooms feature balconies, private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and city views in select rooms. You can access 24-hour concierge services with staff fluent in both English and Spanish.
Best Hostels in Aguas Calientes:
- Super Tramp Hostel Machu Picchu – features a bar, restaurant, free WiFi, and a shared lounge. The hostel offers evening entertainment and has a terrace for you to enjoy. Accommodations include bed linens, and breakfast options include a la carte or American style. The front desk operates from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with room service available.
- Nativus Hotstel Machu Picchu – offers free WiFi and an on-site restaurant. The hostel provides dorm rooms with safety lockers, as well as private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. The hostel also features a TV common area, a book exchange, a tour desk for local information, and 24-hour front desk assistance.
- Casa Machu Picchu Hostel – comes with free WiFi and a daily continental breakfast. The dormitory rooms feature shared bathrooms with hot showers and river views, with bed linens provided and towels available for rent. You can access a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge, and a terrace. Additional amenities include a tour desk, laundry service, and ironing facilities.
How to Get Around Aguas Calientes
Getting around Aguas Calientes is fairly straightforward due to its small size and pedestrian-friendly layout. The town is compact, with most of its key attractions, hotels, restaurants, and shops all within walking distance from each other. There are actually no cars in Aguas Calientes, which helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere and makes walking the primary mode of transportation.
Here are the key ways to get around Aguas Calientes:
- Walking: The primary way to get around the compact, pedestrian-friendly town; everything is within walking distance.
- Shuttle Buses to Machu Picchu: Regular buses run from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu (25-30 minute ride); tickets available in town or online.
- Hiking: Adventurous travelers can hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu via the Hiram Bingham Trail (1.5 to 2 hours); a challenging but rewarding trek.
- Taxis or Mototaxis: Not available within town, but local agencies can arrange transport to nearby areas like the hydroelectric station or hiking routes.
Best Time to Visit Aguas Calientes
The best time to visit Aguas Calientes is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, you’ll enjoy clear skies, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for exploring Machu Picchu and the surrounding area. Average temperatures range from 11°C to 20°C (approximately 52°F to 68°F). However, June to August tends to be the busiest due to the peak tourist season, attracting visitors from all over the world.
If you prefer to avoid crowds, the shoulder months of April and October are perfect.
The wet season, from November to March, brings frequent rainfall and misty conditions. Temperatures during this time range from 13°C to 22°C (around 55°F to 72°F). While Machu Picchu remains open year-round, be prepared for muddy trails and occasional disruptions. However, this season also brings fewer tourists, offering a quieter, more peaceful experience in the region.
How to Get to Aguas Calientes
There are two main ways to get to Aguas Calientes depending on your starting point and preferences:
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By Train: The most popular and convenient way to reach Aguas Calientes is by train. There are two main train services, PeruRail and Inca Rail, offering several classes of travel from Cusco (Poroy Station) or Ollantaytambo. The train ride provides stunning views of the Sacred Valley, Urubamba River, and Andean landscapes. The journey from Ollantaytambo takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, while the trip from Cusco is about 3.5 hours.
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By Trekking: For adventurous travelers, hiking the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek is a memorable way to reach Aguas Calientes. The Inca Trail takes about 3 – 4 days, ending at the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu, while the Salkantay Trek, a more remote route, usually takes 4 – 5 days.
Alternatively, you can combine bus and train by traveling by road to the Hydroelectric Station and then taking a short train or walking 2-3 hours to Aguas Calientes.
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