Discovering Aguas Calientes: Your Complete Guide to the Gateway to Machu Picchu Picchu
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is the last point before reaching the famous citadel of Machu Picchu. This small but charming village is much more than just a place to pass through; it is a destination with its own character, full of surprises for those who decide to explore it. Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, just 3 kilometers from the wonder of the world, Aguas Calientes is the place where nature and history meet to offer a unique experience.
How to get to Aguas Calientes
Getting to Aguas Calientes is an adventure in itself. The most common form of access is via a train ride from Ollantaytambo, which will take you through breathtaking mountain scenery as you follow the course of the Urubamba River. This journey is not only visually stunning, but also prepares you for immersion in the history and culture of this sacred region.
“Machu Picchu or Aguas Calientes? Aguas Calientes because there are hot springs. It is a town that is only 3 kilometers from Machu Picchu and to which they will come when they visit this wonder of the world. This caught my attention. Look, they divide the garbage cans like this with, well, insolvent symbology. Organic on organic and dangerous products.”
Aguas Calientes is one of those places where time seems to stand still. Stepping off the train, you’ll find yourself immersed in a calm and welcoming environment, where the pace of life is set by the surrounding nature. There are no roads leading here, which means that the only access is on foot or by train, which adds an air of exclusivity and adventure to the trip.
Exploring Aguas Calientes: Attractions and Activities
Once in Aguas Calientes, there are a number of activities and places not to be missed. One of the main attractions are the **hot springs** that gave the town its name. These natural hot springs are famous for their relaxing and healing properties, and are a great way to recuperate after a day of exploring.
“Machu Picchu’s hot springs are very famous. It is approximately 2,090 meters above sea level, the whole landscape of the area is jungle-like and very pleasant.
In addition to the hot springs, Aguas Calientes offers a number of cultural and natural experiences. You can start your day by exploring the town’s quaint streets, filled with craft stores, markets and restaurants offering everything from traditional Peruvian cuisine to more international dishes. The Aguas Calientes handicrafts market is an excellent place to find unique souvenirs, such as handmade textiles, jewelry and local art.
“In Machu Picchu Pueblo there are a lot of gastronomic options and they have a lot of price varieties. So start walking around, open the menus and look at the prices. The streets are very steep and narrow. There are no cars or cabs here.”
Another point of interest is the **Plaza Manco Capac**, the heart of the town. Here, you can admire the statues and monuments dedicated to important figures of Inca history, as well as enjoy the tranquility offered by this open space surrounded by mountains. The plaza is also an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of the town, including its many bridges that cross the Urubamba River.
“To how beautiful this town is, that there truly are not so many words to be able to describe this landscape. We have to esteem these statues and sculptures that they have made about certain important characters in the history of the Inca Empire.”
If you are a nature lover, you can’t miss a walk through the **Jardín de Mandor**, an ecological reserve located about a 30-minute walk from the center of town. This garden is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including orchids, birds and butterflies. It is a perfect place to connect with nature in a serene and uncrowded environment.
Vilcabamba: The Strategic Retreat and the Last Refuge
The gastronomic offer in Aguas Calientes is surprisingly varied for a town of its size. From small food stalls to gourmet restaurants, there is something for every taste and budget. One of the highlights of the local gastronomy is the abundance of fresh, local ingredients, which combine to create dishes full of flavor and tradition.
“I recommend this restaurant. It’s called Cala Tratoria. We came here yesterday. The wood-fired pizzas are tremendous. They come from a good place. And something very important is that they have very cheap prices. Look, here is more or less a reference. They have pizzas, hamburgers, pastas, tacos and they also have sandwiches.”
In Aguas Calientes you will also find several places that offer Peruvian specialties such as ceviche, grilled trout, and cuy (a traditional dish made with guinea pigs). Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of these dishes in one of the many restaurants overlooking the river or the mountains.
Practical Tips for your Visit
When planning your visit to Aguas Calientes, it is important to keep in mind some practical tips that can make your experience much more enjoyable. First, if you plan to visit Machu Picchu, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as access to the citadel is limited and tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially during high season.
“Watch out for this. In the early morning hours this site collapses. It took us about 40 minutes to buy a ticket. And now there’s nobody there. And this is the place. Here are the prices. For nationals or residents they are much cheaper. And for foreigners they are much simpler.
In addition, it is advisable to spend at least one night in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu. This will not only allow you to acclimatize to the altitude, but will also give you the opportunity to explore the town at your leisure and enjoy its attractions. Aguas Calientes has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels, so you will have no trouble finding a place that fits your budget.
“You’re probably wondering how much it costs to sleep here in Machu Picchu for four hours. And then it’s a three-star hotel with private bathroom, private room and breakfast. The final price is $64 on average.”
When it’s time to climb Machu Picchu, you have two main options: take a bus from Aguas Calientes, which is comfortable and quick, or make the hike up to the entrance, which although challenging, offers spectacular views and a more immersive experience. The hike takes between 1.5 and 2 hours and is an excellent option for those looking for a little more adventure.
“If you don’t have a bus ticket or don’t want to buy one or don’t have money or whatever, but you have the entrance to Machu Picchu, you can walk up. Friends, the walk up takes between an hour and a half and two hours, so you have to be prepared. I recommend it because it is more restful. No, and it’s quite a climb.”
Finally, don’t forget to take with you the essentials for your visit: water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and adequate clothing for weather changes. The Aguas Calientes region can be unpredictable in terms of weather, so it is best to be prepared for any eventuality.
A Complete Destination Beyond Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes is much more than just an access point to Machu Picchu. It is a destination in itself, full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its relaxing hot springs to its picturesque streets and vibrant handicrafts market, Aguas Calientes offers a complete experience for travelers who take the time to explore it.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax before your climb to Machu Picchu, or simply want to immerse yourself in the culture and nature of the Peruvian Andes, Aguas Calientes has something for everyone. So the next time you plan your visit to Machu Picchu, be sure to set aside some time to discover this charming town and all it has to offer.
