Discover the Enchanting Cascadas Alcamayo
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascadas Alcamayo, a serene park with stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes near Machu Picchu.
Cascadas Alcamayo, located just outside the bustling town of Aguas Calientes, is a hidden gem that beckons travelers with its stunning natural beauty. This picturesque park features a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds of Machu Picchu. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails that wind through the park, providing ample opportunities to witness the diverse flora and fauna native to the region. The sound of rushing water creates a calming ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation, photography, and enjoying the wonders of nature. For those seeking adventure, Cascadas Alcamayo also presents options for hiking and trekking, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The waterfalls are particularly mesmerizing after a rainfall, as they swell with water and create stunning displays of nature’s power. Additionally, the park is a fantastic spot for picnics, where families and friends can gather to enjoy meals amidst the serene backdrop. Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, Cascadas Alcamayo is accessible for visitors of all ages. The entrance fee is modest, making it an affordable destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Peru. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking to unwind, a visit to Cascadas Alcamayo promises to be a memorable highlight of your journey in Aguas Calientes.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring a camera; the waterfalls and surrounding scenery are incredibly photogenic.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as some trails can be steep and uneven.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the waterfalls, making for a relaxing afternoon.
- Check the weather beforehand, as the best views are after a light rain.
A brief summary to Cascadas Alcamayo
- RFVM+Q92, Aguas Calientes, PE
- +51958709620
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the city of Cusco. Take the highway towards the Sacred Valley (Route 28B) and follow the signs to Ollantaytambo. In Ollantaytambo, you will need to park your car and take the train to Aguas Calientes, which is the closest town to Machu Picchu. The train ride takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you can either walk or take a local taxi to the Cascadas Alcamayo, which is approximately 15-20 minutes away by taxi.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. This journey typically lasts around 2 hours and costs about 10-15 soles. Once you arrive in Ollantaytambo, purchase a train ticket to Aguas Calientes. The train ride will take approximately 1.5 hours and you can expect to pay around 60-80 soles for a round trip. Upon reaching Aguas Calientes, you can walk to the Cascadas Alcamayo or hire a local taxi for a quick ride.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route and are in Aguas Calientes, you can hire a local taxi to take you directly to Cascadas Alcamayo. The fare will typically be around 10-20 soles, depending on your negotiation skills. The ride will take about 15 minutes. Make sure to confirm the return fare with your taxi driver.
Attractions Nearby to Cascadas Alcamayo
- Graffiti Machu Picchu
- Hot Springs Pools and Bar
- Plazoleta Wiñaywayna
- Inca Trail
- Aqua Calientes River Bank Sculpture
- Cataratas de Aguas Calientes
- Ministry of Culture (Machu Picchu Park Passes)
- MACHUPICCHU
- Pachacutec
- Manco Capac Square
- Plaza Pueblo Machu Picchu
- Machu
- Machu Picchu pueblo (Inca sculpture)
- Mirador Río Vilcanota Park
- Camping Municipal Machupicchu
Landmarks nearby to Cascadas Alcamayo
- Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
- Baños Termales (Machu Picchu)
- INTIWATANA EL TAMBO HOTEL
- Tambo Inn Machupicchu Hostal
- Govinda Restaurant VEGANO
- SATTVA by Govinda - Restaurant VEGANO
- Hotel Qoya Palace - Machupicchu
- Trilha Inca Salkantay
- Supertramp Hostel Machupicchu
- Salvia
- Inti Punku Machupicchu Hotel & Suites
- Inca Yupanqui
- Inka Tower Machupicchu Hotel
- Full House Peruvian cuisine &craft beer
- Cusco Tours