When we think of Machu Picchu, we almost always picture the Inca citadel right away. But before getting there, everyone passes through the same place: Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo. And this town is much more than just “where you catch the bus or the train”: it has its own life, nature, culture, and little corners that are perfect for making the most of your trip.
Where is Aguas Calientes and what is the town like?
Aguas Calientes is located in the district of Machu Picchu, province of Urubamba, in the Cusco region, about 100–110 km from the city of Cusco.
- Altitude: approx. 2,040 m a.s.l., lower than Cusco and the Machu Picchu citadel itself.
- Environment: it is built on the banks of the Vilcanota/Urubamba River and surrounded by lush green cloud forest mountains.
- Access: you can only get there by train or on foot (there is no direct road from Cusco).
- Atmosphere: it is a small, almost fully pedestrian town; the only vehicles you’ll see are the buses that go up to Machu Picchu.
Because of this, it’s ideal for walking without rushing, crossing its bridges, listening to the river, and discovering it as much more than just a “logistics point”.
Why is it worth staying at least one night?
Spending the night in Aguas Calientes (instead of going back and forth from Cusco on the same day) has several advantages:
- Less schedule stress: you arrive the afternoon before, rest, and go up to Machu Picchu early.
- Better acclimatization: since it’s lower than Cusco, many people feel physically better here.
- More time to explore the town: hot springs, waterfalls, butterfly house, museum…
- Plan B: if there are weather changes, train delays, or protests that affect transportation (which has happened in recent years), having an extra night gives you room to reorganize your visit.
With 1 night you can already see quite a lot. With 2 nights you can visit Machu Picchu calmly and also really enjoy Aguas Calientes.
Aguas Calientes hot springs: relaxation after Machu Picchu
The hot springs give the town its name and are the classic stop to relax after visiting the citadel or doing a trek.
- They are about 7–10 minutes on foot from the main square.
- They are open every day, roughly from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (2026 schedule).
- The entrance fee for visitors is usually around S/ 20 in 2026.
Useful tips:
- Bring sandals, a swimsuit, and a towel (you can also rent or buy them in town).
- It’s better to go in the late afternoon, when the day has already slowed down.
- Don’t expect a luxury spa, but do expect hot-water pools surrounded by mountains, perfect for recharging your energy.
Mandor, Allcamayo, and other easy nature walks
If you have half a day free, you can take easy routes to connect with the nature that surrounds the town.
Mandor gardens and waterfall
The Mandor Gardens are a mix of trail, small botanical garden, and waterfall.
- You get there by walking along the train tracks from Aguas Calientes, in about 40–60 minutes.
- The trail passes through dense vegetation, birds, and orchids.
- The entrance fee is around S/ 10 per person.
It’s an ideal plan if you want a quieter, more natural setting after the hustle and bustle of Machu Picchu.
Allcamayo waterfalls
Another lesser-known option is the Allcamayo waterfalls, very close to town:
- Access is on foot, along a short trail through the forest.
- It became more popular after the pandemic, when locals themselves promoted it to help reactivate tourism.
Both hikes are great for those who want nature without a very high level of difficulty.
Butterfly house and orchids: the other side of biodiversity
Aguas Calientes is located right in the cloud forest, and you can really see that in its flora and fauna.
Butterfly House (Mariposario)
The butterfly house of Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Wasi Pillpi, is about 20 minutes on foot from town, following the road toward Machu Picchu.
- It brings together dozens of butterfly species native to the sanctuary.
- They offer a simple explanation of their life cycle and the ecosystem.
- It’s a great plan if you’re traveling with kids or want to add something to your cultural visit.
Orchid garden
In the area there’s also an orchid garden run by a local family, next to the train tracks on the way to Mandor, with hundreds of recorded varieties.
The best time to see more flowers is during the rainy season (roughly December to March), although you can find interesting species at any time of year.
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum: context to understand Machu Picchu
If you want to go beyond the classic photo, the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum is a highly recommended stop.
- It is located at km 112, near the old Puente Ruinas (Ruins Bridge), between the town and the entrance to Machu Picchu.
- You can get there in about 20–30 minutes walking from Aguas Calientes or by asking the Machu Picchu bus to drop you off nearby on the way back.
- Official 2025 schedule: from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., every day.
- Reference entrance fee: S/ 22 for adults and S/ 11 for higher education students (2025 prices).
At the museum you’ll see:
- Original pieces found in Machu Picchu.
- Panels explaining the archaeological research.
- Information about the function of different sectors of the citadel.
The best option is to visit it either before or after going up to Machu Picchu, so you can have a more complete view.
