Aguas Calientes is a small village near the base of Machu Picchu and offers plenty of things to do for tourists coming to visit the area. This village is the perfect place for you to relax before and after exploring Machu Picchu, offering refreshing hot springs, cooling waterfalls, and historical sites.
Here are some of the fantastic things to do Aguas Calientes.
Putucusi Mountain Near Machu Picchu
Located opposite Machu Picchu is Putucusi Mountain, an incredible mountain to climb, offering fantastic views of Machu Picchu and the ruins. Though the climb is not too difficult, it takes a considerable amount of effort because it is a bit steep, and temperatures can get very hot. Therefore, if you plan to climb Machu Picchu, you can get ready for the climb by climbing Putucusi Mountain first.
The rainforest surrounding Aguas Calientes offers beautiful trails to hike through; some will take you to breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls. The hike to the waterfalls is a bit challenging, especially for those with limited mobility. However, if you brave the trails, you will be rewarded with the opportunity to splash around in the cooling, fresh mountain water. Those wanting an outdoor adventure will definitely want to take this hike.
When you visit Museo de Sitio Manuel Chavez Ballon, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Inca culture and gain a better insight into the construction used to make the Machu Picchu citadel. This museum was named after the archeologist Manuel Chavez Ballon and is one of the most fascinating things you will do in Aguas Calientes. While at the museum, you will have access to four exhibition rooms filled with 250 original objects found due to archeological research in the area and other fascinating items portraying the region’s history.
Aguas Calientes was named after the hot springs in the area, and relaxing in these hot springs is one of the most popular things to do in the area. There are six pools at the hot springs, all with varying temperatures, allowing you to choose the best one for you. While you are relaxing, wave down a server to enjoy a beverage while soaking in the springs. This experience is one of the best things you can do when visiting Aguas Calientes.
Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant serves up refreshing cold craft beers in a welcoming atmosphere along the Urubamba River. The restaurant is very open, offering fantastic views of the river and surrounding vegetation. Even if you do not want to try craft beer, this location provides a great dining experience serving up traditional Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. This is a great place to order a meal or just a beverage and kick back to take in the view.
The Handicraft Market of Aguas Calientes Is Located Next To The Train station
Mercado de Artesanias — Artisan Market — a great place to shop at and pick up many souvenirs to take home with you. Some vendors will bargain with you, offering you some fantastic deals on goods such as artwork, clothes, travel goods, and woven fabrics. This market has just about anything your heart desires, and even if you don’t want to shop, this market is a fun place to do some window shopping.
Flora and fauna of the area near Machu Picchu
If you love surrounding yourself with majestic butterflies, you will want to take time to visit the Butterfly House. This local conservation project works to study local butterfly species and help increase the population. Your guided tour through this location will teach you about the different varieties of butterflies, their developmental stages, and more. When at the Butterfly House, see how many species of butterflies you can spot on your own as many camouflage themselves into the plants and surroundings.
Statue Of Pachacuti In Aguas Calientes
Plaza Manco Capac is a small central plaza offering a place to rest while touring Aguas Calientes. While there, you will be surrounded by municipal buildings, monuments, and a beautiful church. Many like to take pictures in front of the statue of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, which stands in the plaza.
Also make time to visit Iglesia Virgen Del Carmen when at the Plaza Manco Capac. This church may be small and simple, but it has a very colorful altar and is decorated with icons. A visit to the church offers you a peaceful spot to pause for a moment and give thanks.
There are many natural areas in Aguas Calientes, offering you charming gardens to walk through. The well-maintained trail of Mandor is the perfect place to stroll among the biodiverse gardens filled with hundreds of species of flora and fauna. At the end of the trail, you will be met with a refreshing waterfall, which is a great spot to take a break and do some birdwatching.
Take time to wind down at a local day spa where you can enjoy a relaxing massage after a long day of exploring the area. Aguas Calientes is home to several spa and wellness centers, where you can get a massage, including deep tissue or hot stone massages. Spas in Aguas Calientes include Natural Spa Healing Hands, Otto’s Salon Spa and Boutique, and Wonderful Hands Spa.
When visiting Machu Picchu, you will want to stop by and explore the village of Aguas Calientes. This small town offers something for everyone to do. If you want to relax, this town has the perfect place. If you like to learn about local history, this town has something for that too. There are many things to do in Machu Picchu town of Aguas Calientes.
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