Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Travel Guide
Discover Aguas Calientes, the enchanting gateway to Machu Picchu, rich with culture, natural beauty, and traditional Peruvian charm.
Nestled in the lush mountains of the Peruvian Andes, Aguas Calientes is a charming small town that serves as the main gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu. The town, often referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the Urubamba River and verdant forests, which provide a stunning backdrop for your journey to the ancient Incan citadel. Aguas Calientes is a bustling hub of activity, especially during peak tourist seasons. The town's streets are lined with cozy cafes, vibrant markets, and a variety of restaurants offering traditional Peruvian cuisine. The local market is an excellent place to pick up unique souvenirs, such as handcrafted textiles and alpaca wool products. One of the highlights of Aguas Calientes is its natural hot springs, which are perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The town also offers several hiking trails, including the popular climb to Putucusi Mountain, which provides an alternative view of Machu Picchu. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, Aguas Calientes is more than just a stopover; it is an essential part of the Machu Picchu experience.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aguas Calientes.
- Visit the local market early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best picks.
- Pack a swimsuit and towel for a relaxing dip in the town's hot springs.
- If you're planning to hike, start early to avoid the midday heat and bring plenty of water.
- Book train tickets to and from Aguas Calientes in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Explore the lesser-known hiking trails for unique views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area.
Explore Aguas Calientes: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Best attractions in Aguas Calientes
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel set high in the Andes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Manco Capac Square
Experience the vibrant charm of Manco Capac Square in Aguas Calientes, a beautiful park filled with local culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning mountain views.
Mandor
Explore Mandor, a breathtaking ecological park in Aguas Calientes, featuring stunning botanical gardens and picturesque hiking trails surrounded by nature's beauty.
Mariposario of Machu Picchu
Experience the vibrant beauty of butterflies at the Mariposario of Machu Picchu, a unique attraction celebrating nature's wonders in the heart of the Andes.
Best landmarks in Aguas Calientes
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Best Landmarks
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Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Experience the wonder of Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel showcasing breathtaking views and extraordinary ancient architecture in the heart of the Andes.
Manco Capac Square
Discover the charm of Manco Capac Square, a vibrant park in Aguas Calientes with rich history and stunning views, the perfect stop before Machu Picchu.
Baños Termales (Machu Picchu)
Experience the healing power of nature at Baños Termales de Machu Picchu, where thermal springs meet stunning Andean views.
Mariposario of Machu Picchu
Experience the vibrant world of butterflies at Mariposario of Machu Picchu, a serene sanctuary near the iconic Incan ruins.
Best restaurants in Aguas Calientes
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Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer
Experience the essence of Peru at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer in Aguas Calientes - where tradition meets flavor.
Full House Peruvian cuisine &craft beer
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine paired with local craft beers in Aguas Calientes' vibrant eatery.
Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz
Discover exquisite Peruvian flavors at Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz in Aguas Calientes—an unforgettable dining experience amidst stunning scenery.
Incontri del Pueblo Viejo
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Incontri del Pueblo Viejo in Aguas Calientes – where every meal tells a story.
Best bars in Aguas Calientes
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer
Experience the rich and diverse flavors of Peru at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer, where traditional meets contemporary in a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Magguis Grill Craft Beer
Experience authentic Peruvian flavors and local craft beers at Magguis Grill in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Inka Happiness Cultural Bar
Experience the vibrant flavors and cultural spirit of Peru at Inka Happiness Cultural Bar in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
19.18Club.
Discover the heart of Aguas Calientes nightlife at 19.18Club, where cocktails meet dance in a vibrant atmosphere.
Best nightclubs in Aguas Calientes
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Inka Happiness Cultural Bar
Experience the vibrant essence of Peruvian nightlife at Inka Happiness Cultural Bar in Aguas Calientes, where good food meets rich culture.
North Village Bohemian
Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru at North Village Bohemian, where innovative cocktails meet local culture in Aguas Calientes.
19.18Club.
Discover the vibrant nightlife at 19.18 Club in Aguas Calientes, a top destination for cocktails, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Big Brother's Bar
Discover a lively bar in Aguas Calientes, perfect for unwinding after a day at Machu Picchu with local cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Best shops in Aguas Calientes
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Best Shops
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Mercado Aguas Calientes
Discover the vibrant Mercado Aguas Calientes, a cultural marketplace offering local crafts, traditional cuisine, and an authentic Peruvian experience.
La Boulangerie de Paris - Machupicchu
Experience the flavors of France at La Boulangerie de Paris, a charming café in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, offering exquisite pastries and coffee.
Tao Dulce Salado
Discover culinary delights at Tao Dulce Salado, Aguas Calientes' favorite café for hamburgers and ice cream, perfect for every traveler.
Quechua´s House - Coffee Bookshop
Discover the rich flavors of Peruvian coffee at Quechua's House, a cozy coffee bookshop in Aguas Calientes, perfect for travelers and locals alike.
Explore Aguas Calientes on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Aguas Calientes, mapped for you.
Aguas Calientes Essentials
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Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, is accessible primarily by train. The two main train services are PeruRail and Inca Rail, which operate from Cusco and Ollantaytambo. The journey from Cusco to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, followed by a 1.5-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes. Alternatively, you can hike the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu, which typically requires a multi-day trek.
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Aguas Calientes is a small town, making it easy to navigate on foot. For those needing to travel further, taxis and motorcycle taxis (mototaxis) are available. Local buses run to the Machu Picchu entrance, departing frequently throughout the day. Bicycles can be rented, but be cautious on the hilly terrain.
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Aguas Calientes is generally safe for tourists, but standard safety precautions are advised. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in the markets after dark. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. It’s best to stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid certain secluded spots along the river.
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In case of emergency, dial 105 for the local police or 116 for medical assistance. There are a few medical clinics in Aguas Calientes, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the town.
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Fashion: Do dress comfortably and in layers due to variable weather. Don’t wear overly formal attire; casual is preferred. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting Machu Picchu. Don’t engage in loud behavior. Public Transport: Do give way to others when boarding buses. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'buenos días' or 'hola.' Don’t assume all locals speak English. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, especially ceviche and cuy. Don’t drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead.
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To experience Aguas Calientes like a local, visit the artisan market for handmade crafts and souvenirs. Try the local hot springs, which are a popular way to relax after a day of hiking. Engage with local vendors and ask for recommendations on food. Consider dining at family-run restaurants to enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine.
Useful Local Phrases for Aguas Calientes
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Aguas Calientes. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHola
[oh-la] - GoodbyeAdiós
[ah-dee-ohs] - YesSí
[see] - NoNo
[no] - Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
[por fah-vor/deh nah-dah] - Thank youGracias
[grah-see-ahs] - Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
[pair-dohn/low see-en-toh] - How are you?¿Cómo estás?
[koh-moh ehs-tahs] - Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
[bee-en. ee too] - Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
[ah-blahs een-glays] - I don't understandNo entiendo
[noh en-tee-en-doh]
- HelloHola
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
[may goo-stah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vor] - I don't eat meatNo como carne
[noh koh-moh kahr-neh] - Cheers!¡Salud!
[sah-lood] - I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
[may goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gar, poor fah-vor]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
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- Help!¡Ayuda!
[ah-yoo-dah] - Go away!¡Vete!
[veh-teh] - Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
[yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah] - Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
[yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr] - I'm lostEstoy perdido
[ehs-toy pair-dee-doh] - I'm illEstoy enfermo
[ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
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- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
[may goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prar] - I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
[soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh] - How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
[kwan-toh kwehs-tah] - That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
[eh-soh ehs moo-ee kah-roh] - Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
[pweh-deh bah-har ehl preh-see-oh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
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- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
[keh oh-rah ehs] - It's one o'clockEs la una
[ehs lah oo-nah] - Half past (10)Es la diez y media
[ehs lah dyehs ee meh-dee-ah] - MorningMañana
[mah-nyah-nah] - AfternoonTarde
[tahr-deh] - EveningNoche
[noh-cheh] - YesterdayAyer
[ah-yehr] - TodayHoy
[oy] - TomorrowMañana
[mah-nyah-nah] - 1Uno
[oo-noh] - 2Dos
[dohs] - 3Tres
[trehs] - 4Cuatro
[kwa-troh] - 5Cinco
[seen-koh] - 6Seis
[says] - 7Siete
[see-eh-teh] - 8Ocho
[oh-choh] - 9Nueve
[nweh-veh] - 10Diez
[dyehs]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
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- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
[dohn-deh ehs-tah] - What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
[kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon] - Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
[pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (en ehl mah-pah)] - When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
[kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)] - A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ....)
[oon boh-leh-toh (pah-rah)]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
History of Aguas Calientes
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Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, has its roots deeply embedded in the Inca civilization. The area served as a strategic gateway for Inca travelers and was likely utilized as a base for those visiting the nearby Machu Picchu, which was built in the 15th century. The Inca built extensive agricultural terraces and irrigation systems in and around Aguas Calientes, taking advantage of the region's rich biodiversity and favorable climate.
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In 1911, American historian Hiram Bingham brought international attention to Machu Picchu, which significantly impacted Aguas Calientes. As visitors flocked to see the ancient site, Aguas Calientes evolved from a small settlement into a hub for tourists. This transformation laid the groundwork for the development of infrastructure, including hotels and restaurants, catering to the increasing number of visitors eager to explore the Inca citadel.
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The 20th century marked a significant shift in Aguas Calientes' identity as it transitioned into a major tourist destination. The establishment of the train service from Cusco in the 1930s made access to Machu Picchu more feasible, further cementing Aguas Calientes' role as the primary gateway to the site. This boom transformed the local economy, with tourism becoming the backbone of Aguas Calientes, leading to a vibrant culture centered around hospitality and tourism-related services.
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In recent years, Aguas Calientes has focused on preserving its cultural heritage while accommodating the influx of tourists. Local initiatives have aimed to promote traditional crafts, Andean cuisine, and the preservation of the natural environment surrounding Machu Picchu. Community-led efforts have also emerged to educate visitors about the significance of the area, fostering a deeper appreciation for both the historical and cultural aspects of Aguas Calientes.
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As tourism in Aguas Calientes has grown, so have concerns about environmental sustainability. The town faces challenges such as waste management and the preservation of its natural landscape, particularly given its proximity to the cloud forests surrounding Machu Picchu. Efforts by local authorities and organizations aim to promote sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that Aguas Calientes can continue to thrive as a gateway to one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites while respecting its environment and cultural heritage.
Neighbourhoods near Aguas Calientes
The closest neighbourhoods to Aguas Calientes, if you have time for more than one stop.
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Explore More of Machu Picchu
Looking beyond Aguas Calientes? Discover Machu Picchu for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore Machu PicchuAguas Calientes in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
Aguas Calientes: The Gateway to Machu Picchu
Nestled in the lush mountains of the Peruvian Andes, Aguas Calientes is a charming small town that serves as the main gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu. The town, often referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the Urubamba River and verdant forests, which provide a stunning backdrop for your journey to the ancient Incan citadel. Aguas Calientes is a bustling hub of activity, especially during peak tourist seasons. The town's streets are lined with cozy cafes, vibrant markets, and a variety of restaurants offering traditional Peruvian cuisine. The local market is an excellent place to pick up unique souvenirs, such as handcrafted textiles and alpaca wool products. One of the highlights of Aguas Calientes is its natural hot springs, which are perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The town also offers several hiking trails, including the popular climb to Putucusi Mountain, which provides an alternative view of Machu Picchu. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, Aguas Calientes is more than just a stopover; it is an essential part of the Machu Picchu experience.