Aguas Calientes, in Peru, is the small town at the foot of the mountain that Machu Picchu sits on, and while most visitors rush through on their way to the famous ruins, there are actually some wonderful things to do in Aguas Calientes itself. I spent two nights here – one the night before we finished our hike on the Salkantay Trek by hiking up to Machu Picchu, and one the night after.
My favourite thing here, besides Machu Picchu of course, was the hot springs (soooo amazing on your muscles after a long week of hiking!). Aguas Calientes has a really magical feeling, full of excitement from people finishing hikes or preparing to visit the famous Machu Picchu. There aren’t a tonne of things to do here, but it does have a really nice vibe and I’d recommend spending a couple of nights here if you can spare it on your itinerary – especially to wind down after you do a long hike.
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About Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, was originally established in the early 20th century as a railway construction camp. The town really came into its own after Hiram Bingham’s “rediscovery” of Machu Picchu in 1911, transforming Aguas Calientes from a remote outpost into one of Peru‘s biggest tourist gateways. Today, the small town has about 4,000 residents, but it swells daily with thousands more visitors, most of whom are making their pilgrimage to Machu Picchu above.
Nestled in a narrow valley where the Aguas Calientes River meets the Urubamba River, the town is uniquely positioned with no road access – you can only arrive by train or on foot. Okay, well, there is kind of a road, but I was told that it’s dangerous and seldom used. Most visitors spend just one night here, but I’d recommend two nights if possible. This gives you time to explore Machu Picchu without rushing, and actually enjoy what Aguas Calientes itself has to offer. While it’s definitely on the tourist trail (you can’t get to Machu Picchu without passing through it unless you do the Inca Trail), Aguas Calientes maintains a charm that makes it worth more than just a quick overnight stop.
🇵🇪 Read more: A Travel Guide to Aguas Calientes, Peru
How to Get to Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes is often an overnight stop before you visit Machu Picchu, especially if you don’t go directly from Cusco. To get there, you either have to take transport from Cusco by train, or hike one of the famous treks that lead to Machu Picchu, all of which pass through Aguas Calientes.
The most popular option is the train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. From Cusco, the journey takes about 3.5-4 hours and costs between S/240-600 (€58-144) depending on the service (PeruRail or Inca Rail). Many people take a bus or taxi to Ollantaytambo first (S/30-60/€7-14), then catch the train from there – this cuts the train journey to about 1.5 hours and can be more economical.
The tour company I used to do the Salkantay Trek recommended taking the train rather than attempting any bus routes, and they were the ones that told me the bus route is long and dangerous. I’m not entirely sure if that was a bit of an upsell, but I relented and took the train anyway, and I didn’t meet anyone else who had taken the bus. The journey along the Urubamba River was spectacular, even though it was cloudy that day, so I didn’t regret it.
🇵🇪 Read more: Where to Stay in Aguas Calientes, Peru
Things to Do in Aguas Calientes
While Machu Picchu is obviously the main draw, there are many other things to do in Aguas Calientes itself that can make it worthwhile to stick around in this unique mountain town.
➡️ Click here to book your ticket, guide and bus to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes
Visit the Local Markets
The markets are surprisingly extensive for such a small town and sell just about anything you could think of. The main market stretches along the railway tracks and offers everything from fresh produce to tourist souvenirs. You’ll find traditional textiles, alpaca wool products, and countless Machu Picchu-themed items. Prices are generally negotiable, and it’s a great place to pick up last-minute supplies or gifts.
Eat Traditional Peruvian Food
You’ll find a range of restaurants in Aguas Calientes, including both local and international food. The town caters to its international visitors, so you’ll spot pizza places, Chinese restaurants, and cafes alongside traditional Peruvian places. To be honest, what I ate after coming back from a five-day trek to Machu Picchu was the biggest pizza I’ve ever seen in my entire life! But don’t miss trying local specialties like trout from the nearby rivers or the usual Peruvian lomo saltado.
Visit the Natural Hot Springs
The mineral waters in natural hot springs are absolutely perfect to help repair your muscles if you’ve just finished a long hike. The springs, known as Baños Termales, are about a 20-minute walk from the main square (there are no taxis, so yes, you do have to walk). Entry costs S/20 (€5) for foreigners, and they’re open from 5 AM to 8 PM. The water temperature ranges from warm to quite hot, and there are several pools to choose from. You can either bring your own towel, or rent one for S/5 (€1.20).
Explore the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
Located about 30 minutes’ walk from town (or a S/10/€2.40 bus ride), this museum houses artifacts found at Machu Picchu. Entry is S/22 (€5) and is sometimes included with Machu Picchu tickets. The museum provides excellent context for your visit to the main site, with displays explaining Inca construction techniques and daily life.
Hike to Mandor Gardens
This lesser-known trail leads to beautiful gardens and a waterfall about 3-4 hours round trip from town. The trail follows the railway tracks for about an hour before turning into the forest. It’s a gentler alternative to Machu Picchu hikes (but probably the last thing you want to do if you’ve already done one!) and offers opportunities to spot local birds and butterflies. The entrance fee is S/10 (€2.40).
Climb Putucusi Mountain
For those wanting more adventure, this challenging hike offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu from across the valley. The trail includes steep sections with ladders and takes about 2-3 hours each way. Note that parts of the trail have been damaged by landslides, so check current conditions before attempting, and always take a local guide.
Practical Tips for Visiting Aguas Calientes
Getting Around Aguas Calientes
It’s really easy to walk around Aguas Calientes – the entire town can be crossed in about 15 minutes. You can sometimes get tuk-tuks around if you’re too tired, which typically charge S/5-10 (€1.20-2.40) for short trips within town.
There aren’t really buses or trains that go around the town because it’s too small. There are buses that go to Machu Picchu (for foreigners the price for this bus is $12 EACH WAY, which I think is a bit steep but it is in line with other prices in this area), and other nearby destinations tourist destinations (which vary in price, but none are $12). The bus to Machu Picchu leaves from near the main bridge, with the first departure at 5:30 AM. You can buy tickets for the bus online here or in person when you get there, but I’d recommend booking in advance as it doesn’t cost extra and there can be queues.
Your other option for getting up to Machu Picchu is to book a package that includes your ticket, a guide and the bus from Aguas Calientes all together.
To get to/from Cusco, your options are limited to the train since there’s limited road access. The train station is right in the centre of town, making it very convenient.
Best Time to Visit Aguas Calientes
The weather in Aguas Calientes is generally warmer than Cusco due to its lower elevation (2,040m), and it’s more humid as it sits between the Andes Mountains and the “jungle eyebrow,” which is the transition zone between the high Andes and the lower Amazon rainforest. The dry season (May to September) offers the best weather for visiting Machu Picchu, with clearer skies and less chance of rain. This is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and fuller hotels.
The rainy season (November to March) sees fewer tourists and lower prices, but you’ll need good rain gear and the cloud in the mornings give very low visibility of Machu Picchu. The shoulder seasons (April and October) can offer a good balance of decent weather and smaller crowds. Keep in mind that the town’s atmosphere is largely determined by the Machu Picchu visiting schedule, with most activity concentrated in the early morning and evening.
Money & Costs in Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes is notably more expensive than other Peruvian towns due to its isolated location and tourist focus. Everything needs to be brought in by train, which drives up prices. A meal at a local restaurant costs S/20-35 (€5-8), while tourist restaurants charge S/40-70 (€10-17).
There are several ATMs in town, including BCP and Interbank near the main square. They charge to withdraw and can often run out of cash, especially during peak season, so I’d recommend bringing enough cash from Cusco. Most restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, though some add a 5% fee. Budget travellers should expect to spend S/150-200 (€36-48) per day including accommodation, while mid-range comfort requires S/250-350 (€60-84).
FAQs About Things to Do in Aguas Calientes
How much time should I spend in Aguas Calientes?
Most people spend just one night, but I recommend two nights if possible. This allows you to visit Machu Picchu without rushing and actually enjoy what the town offers (especially the hot springs for your muscles after a hike!).
Are the hot springs worth visiting?
Absolutely! They’re particularly amazing after a long trek. The S/20 (€5) entry fee is well worth it for the muscle relief. Go early morning or evening to avoid crowds.
Is it better to stay in Aguas Calientes or Cusco before visiting Machu Picchu?
Staying in Aguas Calientes lets you catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu, arriving before the day-trip crowds from Cusco. It’s especially worthwhile if you want to see sunrise at the ruins.
Can I buy Machu Picchu tickets in Aguas Calientes?
While there’s a ticket office in town, Machu Picchu tickets often sell out in advance, especially during peak season. It’s much safer to buy tickets before your trip. There are tonnes of ways you can buy in advance: online, through travel agencies, as part of a tour, as an individual ticket, etc.
What should I bring to Aguas Calientes?
Bring rain gear (even during the dry season), comfortable walking shoes, and cash (the ATMs often run out). Don’t forget swimwear for the hot springs and layers for varying temperatures.
Conclusion
While Aguas Calientes might seem like just a stepping stone to Machu Picchu, it’s worth embracing what this unique town has to offer. From soothing hot springs to bustling markets, from riverside restaurants to hidden hiking trails, there are plenty of things to do in Aguas Calientes beyond the obvious main attraction.
Yes, it’s touristy and yes, it’s more expensive than other Peruvian towns, but its unique setting and magical atmosphere make it a memorable part of any Machu Picchu experience.
