Top 10 Things to Do in Aguas Calientes

There are many top attractions near Aguas Calientes that go beyond the famous ruins. While the town is small, its vertical geography packs in plenty of surprises. Visitors can find everything from historical museums to outdoor adventures. Proper planning ensures you don't miss these local gems.

• Name: Aguas Calientes Thermal Baths
  Type: Experience
  Why go: These are the namesakes of the town and offer natural volcanic heat.
  Best for: Post-hike muscle recovery and relaxation.
  Where: At the very top of Avenida Pachacutec.
  Time: 1.5–2 hours.
  Cost: Low to moderate (approx. 20 Soles).
  Tip: Visit after 6:00 PM for a cool atmosphere under the stars.
• Name: Machu Picchu Citadel
  Type: Sight
  Why go: It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
  Best for: History buffs and bucket-list travelers.
  Where: A 25-minute bus ride or a steep 90-minute hike from town.
  Time: 3–5 hours.
  Cost: High; requires pre-booked government tickets.
  Tip: Book your tickets at least three months in advance through the official site.
• Name: Aguas Calientes Artisan Market
  Type: Market
  Why go: It is the best place to find colorful alpaca wool sweaters and local crafts.
  Best for: Souvenir shopping before your train departs.
  Where: Right next to the Aguas Calientes train station entrance.
  Time: 45 minutes.
  Cost: Free entry; prices vary by item.
  Tip: Vendors expect polite bargaining, so feel free to negotiate.
• Name: Machu Picchu Site Museum (Manuel Chávez Ballón)
  Type: Museum
  Why go: It provides essential context about the excavation of the Inca ruins.
  Best for: Indoor learning on a rainy afternoon.
  Where: Located near the Puente Ruinas bridge at the base of the mountain.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Moderate.
  Tip: The museum has a beautiful botanical garden on its grounds.
• Name: Butterfly House (Mariposario of Machu Picchu)
  Type: Experience
  Why go: See dozens of local butterfly species in a lush conservation area.
  Best for: Families and nature lovers.
  Where: A 15-minute walk along the road toward the ruins.
  Time: 45 minutes.
  Cost: Budget-friendly.
  Tip: Go in the morning when the butterflies are most active.
• Name: Stone Sculptures in Town
  Type: Sight
  Why go: Large, impressive rock carvings depict Inca history and myths.
  Best for: Free sightseeing and photography within the city limits.
  Where: Scattered throughout the main streets and the town plaza.
  Time: 30 minutes.
  Cost: Free.
  Tip: Look for the massive Wiracocha carving near the municipal building.
• Name: Putucusi Mountain
  Type: Viewpoint
  Why go: It offers the only horizontal view of the Machu Picchu citadel.
  Best for: Very fit hikers looking for a free, high-adrenaline challenge.
  Where: The trailhead starts near the train tracks heading toward the station.
  Time: 3–4 hours.
  Cost: Free.
  Tip: Read a Putucusi Mountain hiking guide first as the trail is steep.
• Name: Mandor Waterfalls and Gardens
  Type: Nature
  Why go: It is a peaceful ecological reserve full of orchids and birds.
  Best for: Escaping the tourist crowds in town.
  Where: A 45-minute walk along the train tracks toward the jungle.
  Time: 2–3 hours.
  Cost: Low (approx. 10 Soles).
  Tip: Bring insect repellent as the "mosquitoes" in the cloud forest are tiny but fierce.
• Name: Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
  Type: Sight
  Why go: It is the original entrance used by the Incas on the trail.
  Best for: Capturing the iconic panoramic view of the ancient city.
  Where: Accessible via the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
  Time: 2 hours round trip from the ruins.
  Cost: Included in specific Machu Picchu tickets.
  Tip: This is a popular spot for sunrise, but mid-morning offers better light for photos.
• Name: Alcamayo Waterfalls
  Type: Nature
  Why go: A series of cascading falls hidden in the dense forest.
  Best for: A quick morning adventure before your train leaves.
  Where: The trail begins near the back of the train station area.
  Time: 1–1.5 hours.
  Cost: Very low entry fee.
  Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be slippery after rain.

Planning Your Aguas Calientes Hot Springs Visit

Visiting the Aguas Calientes hot springs requires some basic preparation. The water is naturally murky because of high sulfur and mineral content. Do not expect crystal clear luxury resort pools. Instead, enjoy the authentic, rustic feel of the mountain environment. The baths are a perfect way to celebrate finishing the Inca Trail.

You should know everything to bring to the hot springs before you leave your hotel. You will need a swimsuit, a towel, and sandals. Most lockers require you to bring your own padlock. If you forget your gear, many shops nearby rent towels and suits. However, bringing your own is often more comfortable and hygienic.

The facility features several pools with varying temperatures. Changing rooms and showers are available on-site for all visitors. It is mandatory to shower before entering any of the thermal pools. Staff members monitor the pools to ensure guest safety and cleanliness. Usually, the upper pools are warmer than the lower ones near the entrance.

Avoid the peak hours between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. This is when most day-trippers head back to the train station. If you stay overnight, go late or very early in the morning. This allows you to soak in peace while the mist rolls over the mountains. It is a truly magical experience that defines the town's charm.

Best Nearby Nature Trips and Trails

Beyond the town center, the Urubamba River valley offers amazing biodiversity. Many travelers ignore the trails surrounding the city. Taking a walk to the Mandor waterfalls and gardens reveals local flora and fauna. You might spot a Cock-of-the-Rock, the national bird of Peru. These quiet spaces offer a contrast to the bustling town main plaza.

The hiking trails here vary greatly in difficulty level. Some paths follow the flat train tracks toward the jungle. Others, like the trek to Putucusi, require climbing near-vertical wooden ladders. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on these nature trips. Heavy rain can make the cloud forest trails muddy and dangerous within minutes.

For those interested in botany, the region is a paradise. Thousands of orchid species grow naturally in the surrounding cliffs. You can see many of these at the Inkaterra gardens or the site museum. Nature lovers will find that 2026 brings new conservation efforts to these trails. These projects help preserve the delicate ecosystem for future generations of hikers.

If you prefer a structured experience, consider the butterfly house Aguas Calientes tour. It is an easy walk and very educational for children. The guides explain the life cycle of the Amazonian butterflies found here. It is one of the best short trips near the city center. This experience connects you deeply with the local cloud forest environment.