Aguas Calientes, also known as MachuPicchu Pueblo, is a small town nestled in the Urubamba River Valley in the Cusco region of Peru. It lies just 4 miles (6 km) from the famous Machu Picchu citadel, making it the main gateway for tourists visiting this incredible archaeological site.
Aguas Calientes is known for its natural hot springs, rich flora and fauna, and its tourist development that offers a wide range of amenities and services for visitors. In addition, the local cuisine and hiking options in the surrounding area make this town a fascinating tourist destination in the Peruvian Andes.
About Aguas Calientes
This town is characterized by its rich flora and fauna, which includes a great variety of endemic and exotic species. In its surroundings, you can appreciate beautiful flowers such as orchids and bromeliads, as well as a diversity of birds and mammals. On the other hand, to get to Aguas Calientes, you can choose the train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, or the Inca Trail for adventure and hiking lovers.
Flora and fauna of the area
The flora and fauna of Aguas Calientes and its surroundings are extraordinary. In the area, there is a great variety of plant species, including orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. Likewise, different types of birds can be seen, such as the iconic Andean cock of the rock, as well as mammals like the spectacled bear. This diversity of flora and fauna creates a unique and attractive natural environment for nature and photography lovers.
Tourist development
Tourism development in Aguas Calientes has experienced significant growth in recent years. A large number of hotels, restaurants, and shops have been built to meet the needs of visitors. In addition, measures have been implemented to preserve the beauty and natural environment of the area, such as the prohibition of motor vehicles in the town center. This development has generated economic opportunities for local residents, who have found employment in the tourism sector and the sale of handicrafts.
How to get to Aguas Calientes
To get to Aguas Calientes, there are different transportation options. The most common way is to take the train from the city of Cusco or Ollantaytambo to the Aguas Calientes station. These trains offer a picturesque journey through the beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Another option is to hike along the famous Inca Trail, which offers a unique and challenging experience for adventurers. Additionally, Aguas Calientes can also be accessed by helicopter, although this option is less common due to its high cost.
Tourist attractions in Aguas Calientes
Discover the charms of Aguas Calientes, a vibrant tourist destination that will captivate you with its natural and cultural wonders. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its landscapes, let yourself be enveloped by its rich history and enjoy unforgettable experiences in this picturesque place, get to know these fantastic places like:
Hot springs
One of the main tourist attractions in Aguas Calientes are the hot springs. These medicinal waters spring from the rocks at high temperatures and have healing properties. Visitors can immerse themselves and enjoy a relaxing bath in the thermal pools, which offer different temperatures to suit everyone’s taste. In addition to being a rejuvenating experience, the hot springs of Aguas Calientes provide a moment of tranquility and rest after exploring Machu Picchu.
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
The Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum is a must-see for history and culture lovers. This museum exhibits an impressive collection of artifacts found in the Machu Picchu region, including ceramics, textiles, and ancient tools. Through the exhibits, visitors can learn about the Inca civilization and its relationship to Machu Picchu Peru. The Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and complements the experience of visiting the famous Inca citadel.
Handicraft Market
The Aguas Calientes Handicraft Market is the ideal place to purchase unique and authentic souvenirs from the Machu Picchu region. This vibrant and colorful market features a wide variety of handicrafts, such as textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and more. Visitors can explore the different shops and stalls, appreciate the craftsmanship of local artisans, and find that special gift to take home. The Handicraft Market offers a unique shopping experience and contributes to the livelihood of the local community.
Local cuisine
The local cuisine of Aguas Calientes is another must-try tourist attraction. The city’s restaurants and food stalls offer a variety of delicious dishes that fuse traditional Peruvian ingredients with international influences. Visitors can enjoy dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, causa rellena, and the traditional roasted guinea pig. In addition, it is possible to try unique flavors based on local products such as quinoa and potatoes.
Hiking in the surroundings
The surroundings of Aguas Calientes offer a variety of hiking trails for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the region. One of the most popular routes is the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain, which offers spectacular views of the Inca citadel and the surrounding landscapes.
Another option is the Camino de la Puerta del Sol (Sun Gate Trail), which was one of the main entrances to Machu Picchu in Inca times. This hike provides the opportunity to observe ancient architecture up close and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Hiking enthusiasts will find a paradise for exploring on foot in the surroundings of Aguas Calientes. Here are some of the most popular hiking trails in the area:
- Machu Picchu Mountain: This is a challenging hike that takes about 3-4 hours to complete. The trail gains over 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) in elevation and offers stunning views of the Machu Picchu citadel and the surrounding mountains.
- Sun Gate Trail: This is a moderate hike that takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The trail follows the original Inca path to Machu Picchu and passes through a variety of landscapes, including cloud forests and high meadows. The Sun Gate is the point where the Incas first saw Machu Picchu, and it offers breathtaking views of the citadel.
- Huayna Picchu: This is a very challenging hike that takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The trail gains over 600 meters (2,000 feet) in elevation and leads to the top of Huayna Picchu, a mountain that overlooks Machu Picchu. The views from the top are simply incredible, but the hike is not for the faint of heart.