Machu Picchu Pueblo, known as Aguas Calientes, is more than just a stopover on the way to the Inca citadel. Located at 2,040 meters above sea level (6,693 feet), this town offers therapeutic hot springs, lush nature, and wellness experiences that invite visitors to extend their stay.
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Why it is called Aguas Calientes
The name comes from the natural hot springs that emerge near the town. These waters flow at temperatures between 38 and 46 degrees Celsius (100 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit), the result of Andean geothermal activity. Indigenous peoples were already using these waters for therapeutic purposes long before the founding of the modern settlement in the early 20th century.
Although it was officially renamed Machu Picchu Pueblo, the name Aguas Calientes is still the one most commonly used by locals and tourists.
The hot springs of Aguas Calientes
How to get there and opening hours
The hot springs are 800 meters from the main square, about a 10- to 15-minute walk along Hermanos Ayar Avenue. They are open from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Admission is affordable, with discounts for Peruvians and children. Bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals, although towels can also be rented on site.
Best time to visit: early in the morning or around midday. Avoid going between 4:00 and 7:00 PM, when it gets more crowded.
Benefits of the thermal water
The water contains sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals help with skin problems such as psoriasis and acne, reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and improve circulation. It is ideal for recovery after long hikes such as the Inca Trail or the climb to Huayna Picchu.
The pools
There are five pools of different sizes and temperatures. The ones closest to the springs range from 42 to 44°C (108 to 111°F), perfect for short soaks. The ones farther away range from 38 to 40°C (100 to 104°F), ideal for relaxing longer. The complex has changing rooms, lockers, showers, restrooms, and a café.
Important tips
Soak for only 15 to 20 minutes per session to avoid dizziness. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after. If you have heart problems, high blood pressure, or are pregnant, consult a doctor beforehand. Do not drink alcohol or enter right after eating; wait at least one hour.
Nature around the town
Flora and fauna
The valley has more than 400 species of orchids, giant ferns up to 5 meters tall, and epiphytic plants covering the trees. As for wildlife, you can see coatis in groups, more than 200 bird species including the Andean cock-of-the-rock and several types of hummingbirds, giant blue morpho butterflies, and glass frogs.
Rivers and waterfalls
Two main rivers run through the area: the Urubamba, with gray waters and a strong current, and the smaller, crystal-clear Aguas Calientes River. Several waterfalls cascade down the mountains, especially during the rainy season. Mandor Waterfall is about an hour away on foot and has a pool where you can swim.
Walking trails
Mandor Gardens: the most popular trail, with easy to moderate difficulty. You follow the train tracks for 30 minutes and then enter the forest. It is ideal for seeing birds, orchids, and butterflies. You reach the waterfall in about one hour.
Putucusi: much more demanding. It has nearly vertical ladders with steel cables and sections with exposed drops. The climb takes 3 to 4 hours, but the views of Machu Picchu from above are spectacular. Not suitable if you are afraid of heights.
Short walks: walk along the trails that follow the Urubamba River, easy for everyone.
Natural attractions
Butterfly house and orchid garden
The butterfly house has dozens of species flying freely. You can see the entire cycle: eggs, caterpillars, chrysalises, and adult butterflies. Highlights include the blue morpho butterflies with a 15 cm wingspan and owl butterflies with false eye spots.
The orchid garden displays more than 200 native species with informative signs. You can see the Masdevallia veitchiana (Waqanki), Machu Picchu’s emblematic orchid, with its bright orange flowers.
Cocalmayo hot springs
They are located in Santa Teresa, about two hours away by combining train and car. They have more pools than Aguas Calientes, in a more open and rural setting. The water reaches 44°C (111°F). The place is more rustic, but very authentic.
Wellness experiences
Spas and massages
Several hotels have spas with massage rooms, steam rooms, and jacuzzis. They offer everything from therapeutic massages for muscle pain to full treatments with exfoliation and body wraps. Many use local ingredients: mineral clays, muña, eucalyptus, and coca. There are also smaller wellness centers with local therapists at lower prices.
Yoga and meditation
Hotels offer yoga classes with mountain views. There are morning sessions (6:00 to 8:00 AM) to start the day and evening sessions to relax. They offer hatha yoga, vinyasa, and restorative yoga for all levels. There is also guided meditation with breathing techniques and Andean elements.
Traditional Andean therapies
Local healers perform energy-cleansing ceremonies with coca leaves, flowers, and herbs. Flower baths use plant infusions prepared according to ancestral tradition. Coca leaf readings provide personal guidance. It is important to participate respectfully; this is not entertainment, but a serious spiritual practice.
Healthy food
There are restaurants with vegetarian and vegan menus using quinoa, kiwicha, and organic vegetables. They serve smoothies with lucuma, goldenberry, and camu camu. Muña infusions help with digestion and altitude, while coca provides energy. There are also gluten-free options and balanced meals for hikers.
Practical information
How to get there
By train: the most common option. Trains depart from Cusco-Poroy (3.5 to 4 hours) or Ollantaytambo (1.5 to 2 hours). Companies: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Options range from budget services to luxury trains. Book in advance during high season (May to September).
Budget route: take a minibus from Cusco to the hydroelectric station (6 to 7 hours), then walk 2 to 3 hours along the train tracks.
When to go
May to September (dry season): sunny days, little rain, clear skies. It is the high season, with more people and higher prices. June and September are best: good weather with fewer tourists.
November to March (rainy season): frequent rain, especially in January and February. Everything is green, waterfalls are full, and orchids are blooming. Fewer tourists and lower prices. The Inca Trail closes in February.
April and October-November (shoulder season): occasional rain, green landscapes, pleasant temperatures, and moderate tourism. A very good balance.
Where to stay
There is something for every budget: from affordable hostels with shared dorms to luxury hotels such as Inkaterra and Sumaq with spas and gourmet restaurants. The mid-range category offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Book ahead during high season because places fill up quickly.
What to eat
Good restaurants serve trout ceviche, alpaca lomo saltado, and quinoa risotto. Daily set menus at simpler places include soup, a main course, dessert, and a drink at a good price. There are also pizzerias, cafés with specialty coffee, and market stalls with inexpensive local food: anticuchos, tamales, and fresh juices.
