Aguas Calientes Hot Springs Tours and Activities

Cusco which includes café scenes and street scenes
Cusco featuring outdoor art and a statue or sculpture
Cusco featuring a fountain and a statue or sculpture
Aguas Calientes Hot Springs
Cusco showing a small town or village as well as a small group of people


Known for its thermal baths, trekking routes and beautiful scenery, this deep valley village is an attractive stopover for those waiting to climb up to Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes sits below Machu Picchu and is the last train stop before the sacred Inca city. The small town lies in a deep valley enclosed by mountains and forests. With restaurants, thermal baths, hiking trails and a market, Aguas Calientes is more than just a gateway to the ancient ruins. It is worth spending a day or two here before going onto Machu Picchu.

The town has two main streets and is easily explored on foot, though you may need to get used to the thin air at this altitude first. Go to the main square to see the life-size statue of the Inca Emperor Pachacuti, a powerful leader credited with expanding the empire. Buy locally made bags, rugs, jewelry and other handicrafts at the market near the train station. Learn about the rediscovery of Machu Picchu at the Museo de Sitio Manuel Chávez Ballón. There are also more than 200 stone, ceramic, bone and metal Inca artifacts on display. See dozens of butterfly species at the Butterfly House.

If you are feeling fit, take the trail up to Putucusi, the jagged rock formation opposite Machu Picchu. The route starts just outside Aguas Calientes and ancient stone steps and ladders lead partway up to the summit. A much shorter and less strenuous hike is to the Mandor Gardens, an orchid-filled natural reserve that also has a waterfall.

On your return, soak your sore muscles in the thermal baths, a 15-minute walk out of town. Aguas Calientes is named after these hot sulfurous springs that emerge from the rocky ground. For lunch or dinner, try some baked guinea pig, called “cuy,” stuffed hot peppers and other traditional foods at one of the restaurants. The town also has many pizzerias.

Aguas Calientes has plenty of accommodation types including budget hostels, midrange hotels and upscale options. Cut off from roads, the town is a car-free zone. Most travelers arrive by train from Cusco, a journey that can take up to 4 hours.

Plan a trip to see Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

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Jaya Machupicchu Boutique Hotel
Vertical Sky Luxury Suites
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

Taypikala Boutique Machupicchu

Taypikala Boutique Machupicchu

4 out of 5
Av. Pachacutec #808, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Taypikala Boutique Machupicchu
Gringo Bill's Boutique Hotel

Gringo Bill's Boutique Hotel

3 out of 5
Jiron Colla Raymi 104, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Gringo Bill's Boutique Hotel
Tierra Viva Machu Picchu

Tierra Viva Machu Picchu

3.5 out of 5
Av. Hermanos Ayar 401, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Tierra Viva Machu Picchu
Inti Punku MachuPicchu Hotel & Suites

Inti Punku MachuPicchu Hotel & Suites

3.5 out of 5
Calle Kori Wakanki 209, Urbanización Las Orquídeas, Machu Picchu
Inti Punku MachuPicchu Hotel & Suites
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

4.5 out of 5
Pueblo de Machu Picchu, 084, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Vilas Insight Hotel Machupicchu

Vilas Insight Hotel Machupicchu

3 out of 5
Wiracocha, 100, Machu Picchu, Cuzco
Vilas Insight Hotel Machupicchu
Casa Del Sol Machupicchu

Casa Del Sol Machupicchu

4 out of 5
608 Imperio De Los Incas Avenue, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Casa Del Sol Machupicchu
Hotel Retama Machupicchu

Hotel Retama Machupicchu

3 out of 5
Avenida Hermanos Ayar 1303, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Hotel Retama Machupicchu
HOTEL LUZ GARDEN

HOTEL LUZ GARDEN

2.5 out of 5
109 Aymuraypa Tikan, Machu Picchu, Cuzco
HOTEL LUZ GARDEN
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

Aguas Calientes Hot Springs offers a variety of activities for visitors, including a relaxing soak in the hot springs at Machupicchu Pueblo. You can enjoy a scenic hike to the hot spring facility, taking in the beautiful landscapes along the way. The area is perfect for those looking to unwind while immersed in nature, making it a must-visit destination for a rejuvenating experience in the Cusco Region of Peru.

Recreation

Explore the Estadio de Urubamba, a vibrant sports facility located 48.3km from Aguas Calientes Hot Springs. Engage in various sports activities while soaking in the energetic atmosphere, perfect for those seeking both wellness and recreation amidst the stunning Peruvian scenery.

Adventure

The Inca Trail, a breathtaking hiking trail 3.2km from Aguas Calientes, offers stunning scenery and outdoor adventure. Nearby, the Butterfly House, located 1.6km away, invites you to explore vibrant butterfly species. For a unique experience, visit the Butterfly Park, situated 38.6km from the hot springs.

Find the best attractions near Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

Aguas Calientes Hot Springs offers a mix of cultural and adventurous experiences, perfect for travellers seeking to explore the stunning surroundings. Key attractions include the picturesque mountains, intriguing archaeological sites, and sacred temples. Don't miss the relaxing hot springs, as well as the vibrant Aguas Calientes Avenue. This destination provides a unique blend of scenic beauty and cultural richness, making it an ideal stop on your journey in the Cusco region of Peru.

  • Huayna Picchu: This stunning mountain, located 3.2km from Aguas Calientes, offers thrilling hiking experiences and breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. The ascent is challenging but rewards adventurers with panoramic scenery and a sense of achievement.
  • Phuyupatamarka: Just 3.2km away, this archaeological site immerses visitors in the rich culture of the Inca civilization. Wander through ancient structures and take in the captivating history while enjoying the serene setting amidst lush landscapes.
  • Putucusi: A mere 644m from Aguas Calientes, this mountain invites outdoor enthusiasts for an exhilarating climb. The trail offers beautiful vistas and a sense of adventure, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Best time to go to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

Visitor numbers around Aguas Calientes Hot Springs is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Aguas Calientes Hot Springs is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February48.6°F (9.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March48.6°F (9.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
April48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June45.5°F (7.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
July45.3°F (7.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December49.5°F (9.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

When planning your trip to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, February, or October for lower accommodation prices. Booking a hotel about a month in advance can save you money, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Fridays are typically the least expensive days to stay. Explore free activities like the Inca Trail and Huayna Picchu. Use public transport to save on travel costs, and consider package deals on Expedia to combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Aguas Calientes Hot Springs are January to February and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Aguas Calientes Hot Springs is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Aguas Calientes Hot Springs is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Aguas Calientes Hot Springs is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and promotions, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel reservation for Aguas Calientes Hot Springs with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.