Did you know there is a hidden natural paradise just a few steps away from the famous Machu Picchu? The Mandor Gardens, located in Aguas Calientes, are a little-known treasure that captivates its visitors with its lush landscapes.
This spot offers a lively environment, with trails surrounded by plenty of plants where you can admire colorful butterflies and listen to the song of many birds, some unique to the region. Its botanical garden holds a great variety of native plants, including exotic orchids and medicinal species used by local communities.
The main attraction is a waterfall about 30 meters high, located at the end of an easy trail that takes about an hour of walking from Aguas Calientes. For those who have free time during their visit to Machu Picchu, this destination is ideal to enjoy the biodiversity and peace that only Peruvian nature can offer.
In this guide we tell you everything you need to know before you go: how to get there, how safe it is to walk the route, how much the entrance fee is, how long the full visit takes, what to bring, and some nearby options if you are looking for other quiet plans in Aguas Calientes.
What are the Mandor Gardens?
The Mandor Gardens, located a few kilometers from Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes), are a true botanical paradise. Besides the orchids and medicinal species already mentioned, the place holds giant ferns, fruit trees, and various species of wild animals. Among its most famous inhabitants stands out the Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus), the national bird of Peru, known for its intense red feathers and its striking mating rituals.
The route has well-marked trails that cross landscapes covered with lush plants until reaching the waterfall, the highlight of the visit. It is an ideal place for quiet walks, bird watching, or simply to disconnect in a peaceful environment, far from the noise of the busiest routes to Machu Picchu.
Where are the Mandor Gardens located?
The Mandor Gardens are located very close to the town of Aguas Calientes, in Cusco, Peru, a short distance from the Vilcanota river and the base of the mountain where Machu Picchu is located. Thanks to its closeness to the urban center, this destination is easily accessible for travelers staying or making a stop in the area.
How to get to the Mandor Gardens?
To visit the Mandor Gardens from the city of Cusco, first it is necessary to take a train to Aguas Calientes, known as the gateway to Machu Picchu. Once in the town, the way to the gardens continues on foot, following the train tracks towards the Hydroelectric. Along the route you will find a sign that says Mandorpampa; by taking that detour you will reach the entrance of the gardens, where you buy the ticket.
The full walk from Aguas Calientes takes between 1 and 1 and a half hours, depending on your pace, covering a distance of about 2 kilometers. From there, a short and easy stretch will take you through plants and natural sounds to the Mandor waterfall, the main attraction of the place.
Is it safe to walk along the train tracks?
One of the most common doubts about this walk is the safety of walking a section of the active train tracks. This is a route commonly used by walkers and local workers, and the trains that run through this section usually move at a slow speed, so it is possible to hear them in advance.
Even so, it is good to take some basic precautions:
- Always walk paying attention to your surroundings, avoiding the use of headphones.
- Stay to the side of the tracks, leaving enough room for the train to pass.
- Check the approximate train schedules before leaving, if possible.
- Avoid doing the walk alone during the late afternoon, when the light decreases.
- If you are traveling to the area for the first time, consider going with someone or with a local guide.
Following these tips, the walk to the Mandor Gardens is considered safe by most visitors and local guides.
What to see in the Mandor Gardens?
The Mandor Gardens offer various natural attractions that make the visit an enriching experience for those who want to be in contact with the flora and fauna of the region. It is an ideal place to enjoy quiet landscapes, discover unique species and explore little-known spots near Machu Picchu. These are its main attractions:
- Mandor Waterfall: It is one of the highlights of the gardens. Surrounded by thick vegetation, the sound of the water and the fresh environment create a perfect place to stop, rest and take pictures. This waterfall gives life to the surroundings and is the final destination of the main trail.
- Botanical garden: It is a space where you can admire a great variety of native plants. Exotic orchids, bromeliads, giant ferns and other species typical of the Andean-Amazonian region grow here. It is an ideal place to learn about botany or simply enjoy the surroundings.
- Short trail: The route inside the Mandor Gardens is short and of low difficulty, which makes it easy to access for most visitors. This trail allows you to walk through green landscapes, crossing areas of thick vegetation and enjoying the peace of the place.
- Flora and fauna: The gardens hold a varied ecosystem that reflects the biodiversity of the Cusco region. Among its most iconic species is the Cock of the Rock, the national bird of Peru, famous for its feathers. It is also possible to see butterflies of different colors, small mammals and a variety of birds, which makes Mandor a special place for wildlife watching.
How much does it cost to visit the Mandor Gardens?
The entry cost to the Mandor Gardens is 20 soles (about 5 USD). This rate includes access to the gardens, the walk along the trail and the chance to enjoy the waterfall and the vegetation that characterizes the place. It is important to keep in mind that prices may vary, so it is recommended to check updated information before planning your visit.
Opening hours
The Mandor Gardens are open every day of the year, from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In addition, there is the option to camp overnight in areas set up for this purpose. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to arrive early, especially in the high season, since the weather is usually nicer in the morning. It is also a good idea to check for possible schedule changes, as there may be variations due to weather conditions or special events in the area.
How long does the visit to the Mandor Gardens take?
In total, a complete visit to the Mandor Gardens (including the round trip walk from Aguas Calientes) usually takes between 2 and 3 hours. This is divided roughly like this:
- Walk there: 1 to 1.5 hours following the train tracks from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the gardens.
- Inside tour: 30 to 45 minutes to explore the path, the botanical garden and reach the waterfall.
- Walk back: 1 to 1.5 hours back to Aguas Calientes.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace, with stops to watch birds or take pictures, it is recommended to save a full half day for this activity. On the other hand, those looking for a faster experience can complete the tour in a little more than 2 hours walking at a steady pace.
This fact is especially useful for those who have only one free day in Aguas Calientes, since it allows planning the visit without affecting other plans, like the entrance to Machu Picchu or the use of the town’s hot springs.
What should I bring to the Mandor Gardens?
To fully enjoy your visit to the Mandor Gardens, it is essential to go well prepared. Here we recommend some items:
- Light and comfortable clothes, suitable for walking on dirt and stone paths.
- Strong and non-slip shoes.
- Sun protection, like a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Enough water to stay hydrated during the tour.
- Bug spray, since it is a warm and humid area.
- Camera to capture the landscapes and the wildlife.
- Binoculars, ideal to watch birds, butterflies and other animals from a distance.
- Sleeping bag, in case you plan to spend the night camping at the place.
Mandor Gardens vs. other short plans in Aguas Calientes
If you have free time before or after your visit to Machu Picchu, the Mandor Gardens are not the only option to make the most of the day in Aguas Calientes. Here is a quick comparison with other nearby choices, according to the type of experience you look for:
- Mandor Gardens: Ideal for those looking for contact with nature, a moderate walk and bird watching like the Cock of the Rock. It requires between 2 and 3 hours in total and a little more physical effort than the following options.
- Aguas Calientes hot springs: The most relaxing and accessible option in town, perfect for after a long walk or entering Machu Picchu. It requires no physical effort and can be visited in 1 to 2 hours.
- Butterfly House (Mariposario): A short and simple choice, ideal for those who have little time or travel with children. It takes less than an hour and focuses on watching butterflies in a controlled space.
- Craft Market: The best option for those who prefer shopping and local culture instead of outdoor activities. It requires no walking outside the town and can be toured in 30 to 45 minutes.
Overall, the Mandor Gardens are the best option if you look for a more immersive experience in nature and you do not mind walking a little more; while the hot springs, the Butterfly House or the market are ideal if you prefer shorter and lower effort activities.
Tips for your visit
The best time to visit the Mandor Gardens in Aguas Calientes is during the dry season, between April and October, when rains are less frequent and the trails stay in better condition. Between November and March, in the rainy season, the paths can become slippery and harder to walk, so it is recommended to take extra care if you decide to visit on those dates.
It is also recommended to check the condition of the trails and the weather before starting the walk, especially if you plan to camp or if you carry camera gear or electronic objects sensitive to moisture.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it worth visiting the Mandor Gardens?
Yes, especially if you are looking for a quiet nature experience with few people near Machu Picchu. It is not a required stop, but it is a great option if you have free time in Aguas Calientes. - Do you need a guide to go?
It is not required. The trail is marked and has a low difficulty, so it can be visited on your own. However, if it is your first time in the area, going with someone or a local guide can give you more peace of mind. - How much does the entrance cost currently?
The entrance has a cost of 20 soles. - Is it safe to walk along the train tracks?
Yes, it is a route commonly used by walkers and considered safe, as long as basic care is taken like paying attention to your surroundings and avoiding the use of headphones during the trip. - Can you camp in the Mandor Gardens?
Yes, the place has areas set up for camping. - How long does the full visit take?
Between 2 and 3 hours in total, counting the round trip walk from Aguas Calientes and the tour inside the gardens. - Can it be visited on the same day as Machu Picchu?
It is possible, but it requires planning, since both activities together can take most of the day. Many visitors prefer to dedicate a full day to Machu Picchu and another day (or a free afternoon) to the Mandor Gardens. - Is it a suitable walk for children or older people?
The trail inside the gardens is short and of low difficulty, but the access walk (following the train tracks) is longer and can be tiring for some people. It is recommended to evaluate the physical condition of the group before going. - Is there a cell phone signal on the way?
The signal can be limited or non-existent in several parts of the route, so it is recommended to download maps or relevant information before leaving.