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Get InspiredSouth AmericaPeruCuzco DepartmentAguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes

Cuzco Department, Peru
City·Tourist Heavy, Scenic, Cultural
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Giancarlo Revolledo from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Kingdom Compass from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by James Cummings from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Felipe Labate from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by DAVIS VARGAS from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Giancarlo Revolledo from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Kingdom Compass from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by James Cummings from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Felipe Labate from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by DAVIS VARGAS from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Merc from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Nathalie Marquis from Unsplash
Aguas Calientes
Photo by Erin Lepley from Unsplash

Aguas Calientes, often referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a vibrant town in Peru serving as the primary access point to the world-renowned Machu Picchu. Situated in the lush Urubamba Province, this town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a picturesque destination for travelers. The town itself is bustling with tourists, offering a variety of dining and shopping options that showcase Peruvian culture. Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy traditional cuisine, and soak in the unique atmosphere that blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Aguas Calientes is not just a stopover; it's an integral part of the Machu Picchu experience.

Aguas Calientes, often referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a vibrant town in Peru serving as the primary access point to the world-renowned Machu Picchu. Situated in the lush Urubamba Province, this town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a picturesque destination for travelers. The town itself is bustling with tourists, offering a variety of dining and shopping options that showcase Peruvian culture. Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy traditional cuisine, and soak in the unique atmosphere that blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Aguas Calientes is not just a stopover; it's an integral part of the Machu Picchu experience.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Gateway to Machu Picchu.

  • Rich Peruvian cultural experiences.

  • Scenic natural beauty.

  • Bustling tourist atmosphere.

Before you go: Aguas Calientes essentials

  • Close access to Machu Picchu, ideal for exploring the ancient ruins.

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with lush landscapes and river views.

  • Rich cultural heritage with local markets and traditional Peruvian cuisine.

Getting Around

Aguas Calientes is a small town best explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance.

Local Cuisine

Try local specialties such as alpaca meat and fresh trout from the Urubamba River.

Best For

Accessing Machu Picchu and exploring Peruvian culture.

Currency

PEN S/

Average Cost

$60-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Spanish, Quechua, English

Transport to Machu Picchu

Book your train and bus tickets to Machu Picchu in advance, as they can sell out quickly.

Weather

Be prepared for varying weather conditions; layers and rain gear are recommended.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, Cultural Exploration, Nature Lovers

Best time to visit Aguas Calientes

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit with mild temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring Machu Picchu.

Best Season

Summer

Expect larger crowds during the summer, but the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers pleasant weather and less crowded attractions, making it an excellent time for a visit.

Winter

While winter is the off-season, it provides a quieter experience with cooler temperatures.

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Location

Aguas Calientes, Cuzco Department, Peru

Where to stay in Aguas Calientes

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Mantu hotel

4.3(178)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Basic, Convenient, Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Flower's House - MachuPicchu

4.0(289)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Busy, Convenient, Noisy
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Catari's House

4.3(206)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Quiet, Comfortable, Convenient

Food & drink in Aguas Calientes

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Restaurant Ayahuasca Grill

4.9(1,1 K)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Authentic, Warm, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Terraza Resto Bar Coffee, restaurant, breakfast & craft beer

4.8(1,1 K)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Bright, Welcoming, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

mistura

4.7(358)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Modern, Lively, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Full House Machupicchu Restaurant

4.7(4,9 K)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Casual, Tourist Friendly, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Chullos Restaurant

4.8(6 K)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Scenic, Relaxed, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Pueblo Viejo Machupicchu Restaurant

4.8(1,3 K)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Warm, Welcoming, Authentic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Green House

4.8(1,3 K)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Calm, Relaxed, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

La Rivera Coffee Center

4.8(274)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Trendy, Inviting, Cozy

Things to do in Aguas Calientes

2-Day Tour from Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train
From $429

2-Day Tour from Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train

4.9(339)
Duration: 48h
Cusco
Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco with Panoramic Train
From $389

Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco with Panoramic Train

4.9(167)
Duration: 12h
Cusco
Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco
From $336

Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco

4.5(1,7 K)
Duration: 14h
Cusco
2-Day Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley Classic Tour by Train
From $449

2-Day Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley Classic Tour by Train

4.8(1,3 K)
Duration: 48h
Cusco
Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco by Panoramic Train
From $395

Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco by Panoramic Train

4.8(1 K)
Duration: 14h
Cusco
Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco: Full-Day Guided Tour
From $429

Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco: Full-Day Guided Tour

4.6(743)
Duration: 12h
Cusco
Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco by Train
From $365

Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco by Train

4.8(126)
Duration: 16h
Cusco
Rainbow Mountain Beat-the-Crowd, Small Group - 8:00 AM Departure
From $89

Rainbow Mountain Beat-the-Crowd, Small Group - 8:00 AM Departure

4.9(883)
Duration: 11h
Cusco
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Aguas Calientes

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Machu Picchu Mountain Summit

4.8(168)
Aguas Calientes, Cusco
Breathtaking, Challenging, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Inca Trail

4.5(172)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Historic, Adventurous, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Temple of the Moon at Machu Picchu

4.7(119)
Aguas Calientes, Cusco
Mystical, Historical, Awe Inspiring
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Plaza Pueblo Machu Picchu

4.7(782)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Vibrant, Cultural, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Huchuy Picchu

4.9(109)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Scenic, Historical, Adventurous
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Intipata

4.8(129)
Aguas Calientes, Cusco
Historic, Scenic, Tranquil
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Machu Picchu Center

4.4(162)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Informative, Busy, Tourist Focused
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Manco Capac Square

4.6(4,7 K)
Aguas Calientes, Cuzco
Lively, Cultural, Welcoming