Aguas Calientes Travel Guide

Your go-to guide for everything to do and see in Aguas Calientes, Peru, including attractions, hiking trails, best things to do, food, accommodations, local culture, safety tips, transportation, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) is a small, vibrant town located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in Southern Sierra, Peru. It is famously known as the gateway to the world-renowned Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, which is about 6 km away. Aguas Calientes serves as a hub for visitors to the ancient ruins, offering a bustling atmosphere with many restaurants and souvenir shops. However, Aguas Calientes is much more than just a stopover for Machu Picchu travelers – it has plenty of attractions, dining options and excellent hiking and biking trails. This ultimate travel guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Aguas Calientes, Peru.

List of Places to Visit in Aguas Calientes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

While Machu Picchu is the most famous archaeological site in the area, Aguas Calientes also has several unique museums and cultural centers to explore.

  • Machu Picchu Museum: This small, yet informative museum is dedicated to the history and discovery of Machu Picchu. It has a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and information about the site.

  • Manuel Chavez Ballon Site Museum: This museum illustrates the history and architecture of Machu Picchu and exhibits a collection of artifacts from the archaeological site.

Natural Attractions of Aguas Calientes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Aguas Calientes is situated in a breathtaking location, surrounded by towering mountain peaks and verdant forests. It’s an ideal starting point for outdoor activities and scenic hikes.

  • Huayna Picchu: This mountain is the higher part of the Machu Picchu archeological site, and it offers stunning views of the ruins and surrounding landscape.

  • Mandor Waterfalls: A beautiful, tranquil path leading to an impressive waterfall. It’s a short hike from Aguas Calientes and the perfect place to escape the crowds of tourists in town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes is an excellent base for hiking and biking. There are many trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and archaeological sites in the surrounding area.

  • Inca Trail: This iconic 4-day trek follows the path of the ancient Incas through Andean Mountains breathtaking scenery, ending in Machu Picchu.

  • Lares Trek: A less crowded alternative to Inca Trail, Lares Trek winds through the Andean villages, leading to the remote Lares hot springs.

Best Things to Do in Aguas Calientes: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting Machu Picchu, there are plenty of things to do and explore in this vibrant town.

  • Quellomayo: Take a dip in the natural hot springs located in the Quellomayo valley, about a 2 hours` walk from Aguas Calientes.

  • Cocalmayo: These hot springs are also known as Santa Teresa, located about 45 minutes from Aguas Calientes. It’s an excellent spot for unwinding and relaxation after a long day of trekking.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aguas Calientes

Here is an itinerary for a week-long stay in Aguas Calientes.

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Aguas Calientes & explore the town
2 Visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Mountain
3 Hike to Mandor Waterfalls
4 Relax at Cocalmayo Hot Springs
5 Take a day trip to Quellomayo Hot Springs
6 Visit the Inca Trail Museum
7 Depart from Aguas Calientes

Food and Drink Scene of Aguas Calientes

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuy Al Horno: Roasted Guinea Pig, a traditional and delicacy for the Peruvian Andes.

  • Pachamanca: A stew made from beef, pork, chicken, and potatoes cooked in the ground with hot stones, a traditional Andean culinary method.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A fermented corn beverage, a refreshing drink for those hot days.

  • Pisco Sour: National cocktail of Peru, made with Pisco (a grape brandy), lime juice, sugar and egg whites.

Where to Stay in Aguas Calientes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aguas Calientes caters to travelers of all budgets. Here are some of the best accommodations to consider.

  • Sumaq Machu Picchu: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, featuring a restaurant, bar, and spa.

  • Hostal Machu Picchu: A comfortable budget option, located in the central area of Aguas Calientes.

What to Buy in Aguas Calientes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Andean textiles and handicrafts: Unique and colorful handmade items, including tapestries, hats, ponchos, and bags.

  • Peruvian chocolate: Delicious chocolates made from locally grown cocoa, a perfect treat for chocolate lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Aguas Calientes

Peruvian culture is rich, diverse, and fascinating, and Aguas Calientes is no exception. Visitors should try to understand, appreciate, and respect local customs and traditions.

  • Arrive on time: Punctuality is essential, especially if someone invites you to their home.

  • Dress appropriately: Peru is a conservative country, so avoid revealing clothing unless you’re on a beach.

Best Time to Visit Aguas Calientes

The best time to visit Aguas Calientes is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is warm and dry, and the skies are clear. The wet season is from November to April, and heavy rains can cause floods and landslides in some areas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aguas Calientes

Do:

  • Respect the Sacred Sites: These are not just tourist attractions – they hold deep religious and cultural significance for the locals.

  • Check for altitude sickness: Aguas Calientes is at high altitudes, and visitors may experience some symptoms, such as headaches, vomiting, and shortness of breath.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of local people without permission.

  • Litter or disturb the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes is a safe place for tourists. However, visitors should be cautious and take standard precautions.

  • Take care of your belongings when out and about in town.

  • Avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Aguas Calientes

Travelers should take precautions and pay attention to common health issues in Peru, such as altitude sickness, insect-borne diseases, and food and water-borne diseases.

  • Drink bottled or purified water.

  • Use mosquito repellent and protective clothing to prevent insect bites.

Getting to Aguas Calientes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aguas Calientes

The nearest airport to Aguas Calientes is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, which is about 120 km away.

Bus Stations Near Aguas Calientes

Visitors can take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then take a train to Aguas Calientes.

Other Options

Visitors can also hike the Inca Trail or take a guided tour to Machu Picchu.

How to Get Around in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes is a small town, and visitors can easily walk around. Taxis and local buses are also available.

Where to Go Next from Aguas Calientes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aguas Calientes is an excellent starting point for exploring other nearby destinations and excursions.

  • Cusco: The former capital of the Incan Empire, is a cultural and historic hub of Peru.

  • Ollantaytambo: A charming Andean village with impressive Inca ruins and Spanish colonial architecture.

Conclusion

Aguas Calientes is a magical destination in Peru that beautifully blends ancient history, culture, and nature. With its proximity to Machu Picchu and many outdoor activities and scenic hikes, it has something for every kind of traveler. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your Aguas Calientes adventure and have an unforgettable experience.

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