relax in aguas calientes

the gateway to Machu Picchu

Pretty much everyone comes to Aguas Calientes for one reason only: to visit the incredible Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. And while this ancient world wonder certainly does take centre stage, there are a number of other nearby attractions that are more than worthy of consideration.

Aguas Calientes is a small cosmopolitan city located at 2,040 meters. You are so close to Machu Picchu that you can feel a special energy. This town is located at the foot of the mountain where the Incas built the Inca City.

  • hike the Putucusi Mountain

    If you like outdoor walks, Putucusi mountain is the favourite activity for adventurous people in Aguas Calientes. This mountain is 2,560 meters high and this route is one of the most difficult short walks in Aguas Calientes. It crosses a poorly marked path as well as extreme vertical stairs. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. The top of this mountain will allow you to take amazing views of the Inca City of Machu Picchu from a little-known angle. It takes good physical condition to ascend this mountain. Wear hiking shoes and carry lots of water with you.

  • Visit the Gardens of Mándor

    Mándor gardens are ideal if you are a nature lover like me. The gardens are located an hour by walk from Aguas Calientes.

    The trail from Aguas Calientes to the gardens of Mándor is full of lush vegetation with orchids, ferns, begonias, fungi and more. During the walk, you can also see different species of birds and butterflies. At the end of the road, you can also admire the beautiful ‘Waterfalls of Mándor’.

  • Relax in the Thermal baths

    The town of Aguas Calientes is also known for its hot springs in the jungle. The thermal baths will allow you to relax after your excursion through Machu Picchu. The temperature of its waters varies from 38º to 46 °C.

    These natural springs are attributed to have healing properties in the treatment of rheumatic diseases of all kinds. The thermal baths are located in the highest part of town. It can be reached following the end of Hermanos Ayar de Aguas Calientes Avenue.

    The entrance fees vary according to the nationality of the people: Peruvian visitors pay 5 soles (2 USD) and foreigners pay 10 soles (3 USD).

  • Shopping in the handmade market of Aguas Calientes

    A must is to visit the artisan market of Aguas Calientes. This market is located next to the train station. Tourists can find a great diversity of handicrafts and utensils such as alpaca clothes, paintings, wood sculptures, stone, musical instruments, masks, gold jewellery, ponchos and much more.

  • Visit Machu Picchu

    Since you are so close to the Inca citadel it is a must to visit Machu Picchu. If you are looking for the best Machu Picchu Travel Guide click here.

how to reach aguas calientes?

The best way to get to Aguas Calientes is with the panoramic train that goes through the Sacred Valley, from where you can enjoy snow-capped mountains and lush jungle views. 

You can book the train ticket online, it’s recommended to book it at least a few days in advance, or you can buy it at the Inca Rail office in Cusco main square.

The train and bus ticket price is 90 USD/pax two ways. First, you will take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (2 hours) and then the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (2 hours).