What to do in Aguas Calientes before Machu Picchu: slow mornings, river walks and andean flavors.

Ultima actualización en 23 October, 2025 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 23 October, 2025 by Waman Adventures

If you’re wondering what to do in Aguas Calientes, don’t worry: this small town has a unique charm that goes beyond being just the gateway to Machu Picchu. Here you can enjoy hikes, relax in its hot springs, visit museums, taste delicious local food, and connect with nature. Want to discover it all? Stay with us, because we’ll tell you everything here.

How to Get to Aguas Calientes

Getting to Aguas Calientes is the first step to exploring the famous Inca citadel. There are several routes to reach this destination, each adapted to different travel styles and budgets. Among them, the following stand out:

Train: the most comfortable and fastest way to get to Aguas Calientes

The main companies offering this service are PeruRail and Inca Rail. There are two main points from where you can board the trains:

• From Cusco: both companies offer bimodal services, which combine ground transportation to Ollantaytambo and, from there, the train journey to Aguas Calientes.
• From Ollantaytambo: you can take the train directly at the Ollantaytambo station. The journey takes approximately an hour and a half.

The traveler arrives in Aguas Calientes by train before visiting Machu Picchu.

Hikes:

For trekking enthusiasts, there are routes that lead through impressive landscapes to the magical Machu Picchu. Some of the most popular options are:

• Inca Trail: it’s the most famous route, lasting 4 days. It requires advance booking, as it’s very popular and many travelers wish to walk this iconic trail.
• Salkantay Trek: it’s a 5 days alternative that crosses varied landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to jungle areas, ending in Aguas Calientes.
• Inca Jungle Trek: this 4 day options combines cycling, hiking, and other adventure activities, eventually reaching Machu Picchu.
• Hydroelectric Route: it’s the most budget-friendly option. It consists of a bus ride from Cusco to the Hydroelectric station, followed by a 2 to 3 hours hike following the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. This route is very popular among backpackers and budget travelers.

Many travelers hike the famous Inca Trail toward Machu Picchu.

The Best Things to Do in Aguas Calientes

1. Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

After exploring Machu Picchu or completing a challenging hike, there’s nothing better than immersing yourself in the Aguas Calientes hot springs to relax your body and mind. These natural pools, fed by volcanic springs, are the perfect place to recharge your energy.

• Location: they’re located about 10 minutes walk from the main square, toward Hermanos Ayar Avenue.
• Hours: they’re open every day, from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Price: the fee ranges between 3 dollars (10 pen) and 5 dollars (20 pen) per person, depending on the visitor’s nationality.
• What to bring: don’t forget your swimsuit, towel, sandals, insect repellent, and some cash if you want to buy drinks or snacks at the small café on site.
• Best time of day: ideally, visit them early in the morning or at sunset, when there are fewer people and you can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.

Recharge your body and spirit in these soothing waters after your trek.

2. Mandor Gardens and Waterfall

If you’re looking for a peaceful experience connected with nature, the Mandor Gardens are an excellent choice. This ecological sanctuary, managed by a local family, offers trails surrounded by lush vegetation and an impressive 100-foot waterfall.

• Access route: from downtown Aguas Calientes, follow the path toward Hydroelectric. The route is entirely on foot and treats you to incredible landscapes during the journey.
• Entrance fee: access to the trail is free, but entry to the gardens costs 10 pen per person.
• Estimated duration: the round trip takes between 2 and 3 hours, depending on your pace and weather conditions.
• Notable flora: along the way you’ll observe orchids, ferns, tropical vegetation, and a wide variety of birds and butterflies native to the area.
• What to bring: to fully enjoy the experience, bring comfortable shoes, insect repellent, water, sunscreen, and whatever you need for a light hike.

The Mandor Gardens invite travelers to relax among waterfalls and orchids.

3. Local Market

The handicraft market in Aguas Calientes is the perfect place to acquire unique and authentic souvenirs from your visit. Here you’ll find handmade products by local artisans, ideal for taking a piece of Andean culture with you.

Location: it’s located very close to the train station, making access easy whether you’ve just arrived or are about to leave town.

Hours: it’s generally open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Type of products: artisans offer a wide variety of items. Among the most popular are:

• Alpaca clothing: sweaters, scarves, hats, and blankets made with alpaca wool, perfect for cold weather.
• Jewelry: handmade pieces in silver and decorated with precious stones.
• Ceramics: decorative objects inspired by symbols and scenes from Andean worldview.
• Souvenirs: you’ll find keychains, magnets, bags, and many other keepsakes.

Bargaining opportunity: negotiating the price is a common and accepted practice. Do it with kindness and respect to get a good discount.

Practical tips: although some vendors accept dollars or euros, we recommend carrying Peruvian soles to facilitate your purchases.

The handicraft market in Machu Picchu offers colorful souvenirs and local crafts.

4. Hidden Waterfalls and Viewpoints

Machu Picchu Pueblo offers you the opportunity to discover lesser-known natural spots, but equally impressive, found in the town’s surroundings.

The traveler gazes at Machu Picchu from the summit of Putucusi Mountain.

Alcamayo Waterfall: it’s located just 1 km from downtown Aguas Calientes. The trail leading to the waterfall has low difficulty, making it suitable for most visitors. During the journey, you’ll observe stone sculptures with symbolic representations of earth and sun.

• Hike duration: approximately 45 minutes.
• Entrance fee: 3 dollars (10 pen).
• Altitude: 6,692 feet above sea level.

Putucusi Mountain: Putucusi Mountain is located right in front of Machu Picchu and offers you a spectacular panoramic view of the entire archaeological zone and its surroundings. The ascent is demanding, so it’s recommended only for experienced hikers in good physical condition.

• Duration: the journey takes between 3 and 4 hours, depending on your pace.
• Altitude: 8,202 feet above sea level.
• Entrance fee: access is free.

Important note:

Before undertaking the hike, make sure to check weather conditions and avoid doing it during the rainy season, as the trail can become dangerous.

5. Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum

If you want to delve deeper into the history and culture of Machu Picchu, the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum is an essential stop. This space offers you a detailed view of the Inca civilization and the discovery of the citadel.

Discover the deeper story behind the Inca citadel before stepping into its mysteries.

Location: it’s located about 20 minutes on foot from Aguas Calientes, near Puente Ruinas.

Hours: open Monday through Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Price: the fee varies according to age:

• Adults: 6 dollars (22 pen)
• University students: 3 dollars (11 pen)
• School students (8 to 17 years): 2 dollars ( 8pen)

Type of exhibitions: the museum houses a collection of approximately 250 Inca pieces, including ceramics, stone tools, metal objects, and bone remains. All these artifacts were recovered from Machu Picchu and its surroundings.
The exhibitions are organized in seven thematic sequences that guide you from the planning and construction of the city to its rediscovery in the 20th century.

6. Butterfly Sanctuary

Also known as “Wasi Pillpi,” this butterfly sanctuary is an interpretation and conservation center dedicated to the butterfly biodiversity of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary.

The traveler explores the Butterfly Sanctuary of Machu Picchu surrounded by life and greenery.

Location: it’s located about 15 minutes on foot from downtown Aguas Calientes.

Hours: open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Visit time: the tour lasts approximately 1 hour.

What you’ll see: you’ll observe butterflies in different stages of their life cycle, plus native plants that are part of their habitat.

• Interpretation room: here you’ll find informative exhibits about local biodiversity and the ecological importance of butterflies.
• Breeding laboratory: you’ll have the opportunity to closely observe the metamorphosis process and the defense mechanisms of these fascinating creatures.
• Flight area: it’s a semi-open space where butterflies fly freely around you, allowing an immersive and educational experience.

The butterflies of Machu Picchu showcase vibrant colors and delicate wings.

7. Eating and Drinking in Aguas Calientes

During your stay in Aguas Calientes, discover what to do in Aguas Calientes Peru and don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy its varied gastronomic offerings. The town combines traditional flavors with international proposals, ideal for all types of palates.

Types of food: you’ll find a wide range of options, from typical Peruvian cuisine to international fusions and vegetarian alternatives.

Recommended local dishes: although there are many delicacies to try, these are some of the most popular dishes we suggest:

• Grilled trout: prepared with Andean herbs and accompanied by native potatoes.
• Lomo saltado: beef stir-fry with onion, tomato, and french fries.
• Ceviche: fish marinated in lime with chili and onion, served with sweet potato and corn.
• Ají de gallina: shredded chicken stew in yellow chili and walnut sauce.

Suggested places: there are many restaurants where you can enjoy excellent food. Some recommended ones are:

• Indio Feliz,
• Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant
• Chullos Craft Beer & Homemade Food.

Enjoy local Andean flavors at the charming restaurants of Machu Picchu Town.

Restaurants in Aguas Calientes offer a delicious variety of dishes, from authentic Andean food to exquisite fusions that surprise the palate.

8. Post-Machu Picchu Spas and Massages

After exploring the citadel of Machu Picchu, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation. In Aguas Calientes you’ll find several places that offer treatments ideal for relieving physical and mental fatigue.

What services they offer: you can enjoy a wide variety of therapies such as:

• Relaxing and muscle-relief massages
• Hot stone therapies
• Aromatherapy
• Traditional herbal baths

Average price: prices vary depending on the treatment you choose, but typically range between 80 and 150 soles (21 dollars and up) for a 45-minute to 1-hour session.

When to go: ideally, do it after visiting Machu Picchu or at the end of your hike, to relax body and mind.

Recommended places:

• Samay Spa: recognized for its welcoming atmosphere, it offers a variety of massages, including Thai techniques, shiatsu, and reflexology.
• Aqlla Spa: combines ancestral Inca techniques with modern therapies. Its packages include massages, aromatherapy, and relaxation rituals.

After an intense day at Machu Picchu, the traveler enjoys a well-deserved rest in Aguas Calientes.

9. Stone Sculpture Circuit

Enjoy an outdoor artistic tour that exhibits 37 stone-carved sculptures, created by local and Cusco artists.

Location: the sculptures are distributed throughout the main streets, plazas, and trails of Aguas Calientes. Access is free and you can take the tour at any time of day, although it’s most recommended in the morning or at sunset.

Main details: along the way you’ll observe sculptures of condors, pumas, human figures, and Andean deities like Pachamama.

What to see: you’ll observe a fusion of traditional and modern art, harmoniously integrated with the natural environment and local architecture.

Estimated duration: the complete walking tour takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

Visit tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Water.
• Use sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• Best time to visit Aguas Calientes
• Visit each of the sculptures and let yourself be enveloped by the Andean essence.

The stone sculptures of Aguas Calientes stand out for their impressive shapes and realism.

Visit each of the sculptures and let yourself be enveloped by the Andean essence.

Choosing the ideal time to visit and knowing what to see in Aguas Calientes Peru and Machu Picchu will depend on the weather and your personal preferences.

• Dry season (April to October): it’s considered the best time to visit, as the weather is more stable and the skies are usually clear. This will allow you to enjoy spectacular panoramic views and go hiking without complications.
• Rainy season (November to March): during these months, rains are more frequent, especially in January and February. However, it’s an excellent time if you want to see the vegetation at its peak, with a greener environment.

Discover the best time to visit Machu Picchu and enjoy Aguas Calientes at its most peaceful

During the rainy season, Aguas Calientes transforms into an even more charming corner.

Besides visiting Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes offers you rest, culture, and adventure. Explore it calmly: every corner adds something special to your trip. Book with Waman Adventures and enjoy a safe, organized experience without complications.

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