Aguas Calientes
- Michael_sgrant
- Aug 30
- 3 min read
At the foothills of Machu Picchu lies the village of Aguas Calientes....
If you’re heading to Machu Picchu, without a doubt you will arrive to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu village. Here, travellers should not expect to find a typical small town, as it is a tourist town. While it is true that this is somewhat daunting, the journey to get to the place is truly magnificent and once in the place, there is nothing else to do but marvel at the imposing mountains that surround it. It’s known for its thermal baths and as a gateway to the nearby Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. The town centre is full of restaurants and shops; but they generally offer a very poor quality/price ratio. Once in the small town, enjoy dinner at a restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Aguas Calientes looks like an island. It is separated from roads (it can only be reached by train), surrounded by mountains, cliffs, rivers, and an imposing cloud forest.
Aguas Calientes is 100% dedicated to tourism: there are no taxis because its streets are narrow and the town is small, however there are hotels, restaurants, bars, etc.
The only bus in Aguas Calientes is the one that connects the town with the entrance gate to Machu Picchu - this trip takes approximately 30mins.
Many tourists visit Aguas Calientes because it is a mandatory stop before visiting Machu Picchu; most are fascinated by the beauty of this peculiar town.
In Aguas Calientes, you can soak your sore muscles in the thermal springs in town, visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum, the Mariposario, and las Cascadas…
(Left) In Aguas Calientes there are 37 stone sculptures like this that make up 'Las Esculturas de Piedra', (Centre Left) Viewpoint overlooking Aguas Calientes, (Centre Right) The famous Peru Rail train that passes through the town, (Right) Last but by no means least, Paddington in Peru!
Hot Springs (Baños Termales):
The thermal baths of the Aguas Calientes town are a good option to relax your legs after visiting Machu Picchu. These waters from mountain springs are attributed to curative properties for rheumatic diseases. The place also has a bar. It’s located on Avenida Hermanos Ayar (the highest part of the avenue). Opening times are from 05:00-20:30, 7 days a week. The cost for adults from abroad is 20 Peruvian soles (approximately €5).
Butterfly Zoo - Mariposario of Machu Picchu:
The butterfly farm of Machu Picchu is one of the best places to visit with the family. It is located on the Hiram Bingham path (15mins walk from the town). This museum houses several species of butterflies, some of them can only be seen in Machu Picchu.mThe butterfly farm opened its doors in 2006. Today it fulfils research and alternative function for visitors who have free time in Machu Picchu. Opening hours are Monday through Sunday from 09:00-17:00. The ticket price is 20 Peruvian soles (€5).
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum:
The Manuel Chavez Ballon site is a small museum with a few artifacts from and displays about Machu Picchu, the nearby Incan citadel. Its exhibitions and contents didactically show the cultural process and historical moments that took place in the current area of the Machu Picchu National Archaeological Park and Historic Sanctuary.
Cascadas de Alcamayo y Las Cataratas de Aguas Calientes:
The waterfalls of Alcamayo and Las Cataratas are a natural tourist attraction located just a short walk from the town of Aguas Calientes. The surrounding area of Aguas Calientes is known as the 'Jardines de Mándor’ due to the abundant vegetation that surrounds the falls. You’ll be able to find a great diversity of birds and butterflies; despite tourism, the place is still inhabited by various wild animals. These places are not very frequented by tourists so it is still possible to appreciate it without much public around. The cost of admission for these short hikes is 10 Peruvian soles (€3).
Aguas Calientes isn't just a step to Machu Picchu, it's part of the journey!
Next up is the part you've all been waiting for, don't miss it!
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