Aguas Calientes, officially known as Machupicchu Pueblo, is the charming gateway town to Machu Picchu. Nestled in the Sacred Valley at 2,040 meters above sea level, this unique destination offers thermal baths, excellent dining, and serves as the essential base for your Machu Picchu adventure.

Getting to Aguas Calientes

Most visitors reach Aguas Calientes by train, as it's the most convenient and popular option:

Train Options

  • PeruRail Expedition: Budget-friendly option from Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours)
  • PeruRail Vistadome: Panoramic windows, snacks included (1.5 hours)
  • PeruRail Hiram Bingham: Luxury experience with gourmet dining (3.5 hours)
  • Inca Rail: Alternative operator with various service levels

Alternative Routes

For adventurous travelers seeking budget options:

  • Hydroelectric Route: Bus to Santa Teresa, then walk 2-3 hours
  • Santa Teresa Route: Includes ziplines and adventure activities
  • Inca Trail: Multi-day trek ending in Aguas Calientes
Booking Train Tickets

Train tickets should be booked well in advance, especially during peak season (June-August). Prices vary significantly by season and service level, ranging from $65-$500 per person one-way.

The Famous Thermal Baths

Aguas Calientes is renowned for its natural hot springs, offering the perfect way to relax after exploring Machu Picchu:

Thermal Bath Complex

  • Location: 10-minute walk uphill from town center
  • Hours: 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily
  • Entrance Fee: 20 soles (~$5.50 USD)
  • Temperature: 38-46°C (100-115°F)

What to Expect

  • Multiple pools of varying temperatures
  • Basic changing rooms and lockers
  • Towel rental available (10 soles)
  • Stunning mountain views while soaking
  • Natural minerals beneficial for muscle recovery

Tips for Thermal Bath Visits

  • Best Times: Early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (6-8 PM)
  • Bring: Swimsuit, flip-flops, towel, water bottle
  • Health Note: Limit soaking to 20-30 minutes due to high altitude
  • Photography: Cameras allowed but protect from steam

Where to Stay in Aguas Calientes

Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to luxury hotels, all within walking distance of the train station:

Luxury Hotels

  • Belmond Sanctuary Lodge: Only hotel at Machu Picchu itself
  • Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel: Riverside luxury with spa
  • Casa del Sol Machu Picchu: Boutique hotel with mountain views

Mid-Range Options

  • El MaPi by Inkaterra: Modern design, excellent location
  • Tierra Viva Machu Picchu: Comfortable rooms, good service
  • Casa Andina Standard: Reliable chain hotel

Budget Accommodations

  • Hostels: Shared and private rooms from $15-40/night
  • Guesthouses: Family-run options with local charm
  • Camping: Limited options, check regulations first
Booking Accommodation

Aguas Calientes has limited accommodation options. Book well in advance, especially for peak season visits. Many travelers prefer staying one night before and after their Machu Picchu visit.

Dining in Aguas Calientes

Despite its small size, Aguas Calientes offers diverse dining options from street food to fine dining:

Fine Dining Restaurants

  • Café Inkaterra: Gourmet coffee and pastries
  • Indio Feliz: French-Peruvian fusion cuisine
  • Tree House Restaurant: International menu, unique setting
  • Chullpi Restaurant: Traditional Peruvian dishes

Local Favorites

  • Mercado Central: Local market with fresh produce and meals
  • Street Vendors: Empanadas, fresh fruit, local snacks
  • Pizzerias: Surprisingly good pizza options
  • Vegetarian Options: Most restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions

Local Specialties to Try

  • Cuy (Guinea Pig): Traditional Andean delicacy
  • Alpaca Steaks: Lean, flavorful meat
  • Quinoa Soup: Nutritious and warming
  • Coca Tea: Helps with altitude adjustment

Essential Services and Facilities

Aguas Calientes provides all necessary services for travelers:

Banking and Money

  • ATMs: Limited machines, often out of cash
  • Currency Exchange: Basic services available
  • Credit Cards: Accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants
  • Cash Recommendation: Bring sufficient soles for your stay

Communication

  • Internet: WiFi available at most hotels and cafés
  • Phone Service: Good coverage in town center
  • Post Office: Small office for postcards and mail

Healthcare

  • Medical Post: Basic healthcare facility
  • Pharmacies: Several small pharmacies in town
  • Altitude Sickness: Coca tea and rest recommended

Getting Around Aguas Calientes

The town is compact and entirely walkable:

  • Town Layout: Main street follows the river
  • Walking Times: End-to-end in 10-15 minutes
  • Bus to Machu Picchu: Buses depart from town center
  • No Cars: Vehicle access is extremely limited

Navigating the Town

  • Main Avenue: Avenida Pachacutec (main commercial street)
  • Train Station: Central hub for arrivals and departures
  • Market Area: Mercado de Artesanías for souvenirs
  • Thermal Baths: Uphill walk from center

Shopping and Souvenirs

Aguas Calientes offers numerous shopping opportunities:

What to Buy

  • Alpaca Clothing: Sweaters, scarves, hats
  • Local Textiles: Traditional weavings and patterns
  • Jewelry: Silver work and semi-precious stones
  • Coca Products: Tea, candy, cosmetics
  • Postcards: Machu Picchu themed designs

Shopping Tips

  • Bargaining: Expected at markets, less so in stores
  • Quality Check: Verify authenticity of alpaca products
  • Size Considerations: Remember luggage weight limits
  • Shipping Services: Some shops offer international shipping

Weather and What to Pack

Aguas Calientes enjoys a subtropical highland climate:

Seasonal Weather Patterns

  • Dry Season (May-September): Sunny days, cool nights (15-25°C)
  • Wet Season (October-April): Daily afternoon rains (18-28°C)
  • Humidity: High year-round due to cloud forest location
  • Temperature Variation: Significant difference between day and night

Packing Essentials

  • Layers: Temperature varies throughout the day
  • Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket essential
  • Comfortable Shoes: Walkable town with some steep areas
  • Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Swimwear: For thermal baths visit

Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay

Deciding whether to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes depends on your schedule and preferences:

Day Trip Advantages

  • More accommodation options in Cusco
  • Lower overall costs
  • Familiar base location

Overnight Stay Advantages

  • Early morning Machu Picchu entry
  • Relaxed pace, no rush
  • Experience thermal baths
  • Enjoy evening atmosphere
  • Better for emergency ticket purchases

Cultural Insights and Local Life

Understanding local culture enhances your Aguas Calientes experience:

Local Community

  • Population: Approximately 5,000 permanent residents
  • Economy: Entirely tourism-dependent
  • Languages: Spanish and Quechua primarily
  • Traditional Life: Blend of ancient and modern influences

Respectful Tourism

  • Support Local: Choose locally-owned businesses
  • Environmental Care: Respect the cloud forest ecosystem
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Ask permission before photographing locals
  • Fair Pricing: Pay reasonable prices for services

Safety and Security

Aguas Calientes is generally very safe for tourists:

Common Sense Precautions

  • Petty Theft: Watch belongings in crowded areas
  • Natural Hazards: River can rise quickly during rains
  • Altitude: Take time to acclimatize
  • Emergency Contacts: Know local police and medical facilities

Planning Your Aguas Calientes Visit

To make the most of your time in this unique town:

Recommended Itinerary

  • Arrival Day: Check-in, explore town, thermal baths
  • Machu Picchu Day: Early morning visit, return for lunch
  • Departure Preparation: Shopping, final thermal bath visit

Booking Essentials

  • Machu Picchu Tickets: Book well in advance
  • Train Tickets: Reserve return journey early
  • Accommodation: Limited options require early booking
  • Bus Tickets: Can usually be purchased on arrival
Making the Most of Aguas Calientes

While Aguas Calientes serves primarily as a gateway to Machu Picchu, don't rush through it. The thermal baths, local cuisine, and relaxed atmosphere offer the perfect complement to your archaeological adventure. Take time to appreciate this unique mountain town that has welcomed Machu Picchu visitors for generations.

Whether you're staying for a quick day trip or planning a longer visit, Aguas Calientes provides essential services and unique experiences that enhance your Machu Picchu journey. From the therapeutic thermal baths to the warm hospitality of local residents, this charming town offers much more than just a place to sleep before your big adventure.