The 12 Best Things To Do In Aguas Calientes, Peru

Last Updated: January 13 2024

Aguas Calientes is one of the best places to visit in Peru, mainly because it’s the closest town to Machu Picchu. Although incredibly remote, Aguas Calientes is a popular tourist attraction and it’s got a lot to offer.

Boasting breathtaking scenery, plenty of charming restaurants, and lots of quirky markets, there’s no shortage of things to do here. Although many people choose just to visit for the day, this isn’t a destination that you want to rush.

We’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Aguas Calientes, so you can make the most of your visit. It’s going to include the town’s most popular attractions, where you should stay, and some other top tips!

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The Best Things to Do in Aguas Calientes, Peru

1. Visit Machu Picchu

Visiting Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Aguas Calientes! Nestled in the Andes mountain range is an Incan ruin that dates back to the 14th Century. These ruins are a true wonder to behold, and no Peru itinerary is complete without coming here.

Machu Picchu is one of the World Wonders and it’s not hard to see why! There’s nothing quite like turning the corner and seeing these incredible ruins for yourself.

Standing at 2,430 metres (7,972 feet) above sea level, this famous Peruvian landmark will take your breath away. Surrounded by tropical rainforest and towering mountain slopes, the scenery is incredible, and you’ve also got a chance to spot wildlife.

When it comes to visiting Machu Picchu, you can either hike the Inca Trail or head there from Aguas Calientes. There’s a bus that will drop you off at the entrance or you can walk up which will take around 2 hours.

2. Get a Machu Picchu stamp for your passport

After you’ve been to Machu Picchu, you’ll want to head back into the centre of town. Once you’ve got off the bus, head to Manco Capac Square, which is just a short walk away.

This is where you’ll find Centro Cultural Machu Picchu, and you’ll be able to spot it by the red Peru information sign just outside. Once you go into the building, there’s a table on the right-hand side with a stamp.

Here, you can stamp your own passport with a Machu Picchu stamp! This acts as an awesome reminder of the adventure you’ve just been on (as well as the photographs of course).

To our surprise, this doesn’t seem to be very popular, as there was only one other person there during our visit. To be honest, it’s not advertised anywhere, we just managed to find an image of the stamp on a website, and then set out to find it ourselves!

3. Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum (Machu Picchu Museum)

If you don’t mind heading out of town, then make sure you visit Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum. It’s located 2.6 km (1.6 miles) from Aguas Calientes, so it’s around a 32-minute walk to get there.

In this museum, five permanent exhibits depict the culture and history of Machu Picchu. Within are eight sequences that will take you through Machu Picchu’s most important events, right from when it was discovered up until it was designated a cultural site.

Here, you’ll find a variety of Incan artefacts including ceramics, metals, bones, and stone. Not only that, but you’ll learn about the site’s history through different elements including infographics, and videos.

As it’s not located in the town centre, this museum is more of a hidden gem. However, if you’re sole purpose for visiting Aguas Calientes is to see Machu Picchu (which we presume it is), then you don’t want to miss out on this place.

4. Shop for souvenirs at the local markets

One of the best things to do in Aguas Calientes has to be hitting up the local markets. You’ll find them all around the town, and they’re the perfect place for picking up souvenirs.

These market stalls have a bit of everything, including clothing, bags, jewellery, food, and other quirky souvenirs. Whether you’re looking to purchase a gift for a family member or an item for yourself, there’s something for everyone. Just make sure you do a bit of haggling!

Aside from the markets, there are plenty of unique stores in Aguas Calientes too. We stopped off at one that’s located near the start of town and got chatting with a friendly fellow.

We were actually looking for a Machu Picchu painting to take home with us, and found a beautiful one in his store! Turns out he was painting in the corner, and it was his work which was super cool.

5. Relax in the hot springs

After spending a day exploring Machu Picchu and the town of Aguas Calientes, you may need to recharge. Heading to the town’s thermal hot springs is the perfect way to do so!

We stayed at Mistico Machupicchu Eco B&B and it was just a 1-minute walk from there. Located along Avenida Hermanos Ayar, these thermal springs offer natural spring waters that are thought to provide healing properties.

The water is believed to originate from a spring of volcanic origin, which is why it’s got a yellowish tinge. Temperatures typically range from 38ºC-46ºC (100ºF-114ºF), so you’re best visiting in the evening when the sun’s gone down as it will be cooler.

Not only can the spring waters help to relax your muscles, but it’s thought that they can help to release toxins and level out your blood pressure. If you’ve not packed appropriately, then towels and swimsuits can be rented in town.

6. Take a picture with the Machu Picchu sign

There are two Machu Picchu signs to be found in this area. One is in Aguas Calientes itself, while the other is located around a 10-15 minute walk from town.

Of course, the one in Aguas Calientes is much more convenient when it comes to photographs. It’s located right next to Centro de Información Turística, and the river views behind are magnificent.

However, this sign can get pretty busy with people wanting to take photographs with it. The other sign is just a short walk from Mariposario of Machu Picchu, so you can always tie in a visit to both if you want to.

For those who are hiking to Aguas Calientes from Hidroelectrica, you’ll come right to the sign before you head into town. Although you’re guaranteed to be hot and sweaty from your hike, this Machu Picchu sign is far less crowded, so it’s worth taking a photograph here!

7. Walk to the Mándor Waterfall

You’re bound to have done quite a bit of walking already if you’ve been exploring Peru or South America in general. However, if you don’t mind moving your feet a bit further, then why not head to Mándor Waterfall?

This is one of the best hikes from Aguas Calientes, and it takes around an hour to get there. This waterfall is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the area, and there’s only a small entrance fee to get in.

From the entrance, you’ll have to hike up a shaded trail which can be slippery at times. For this reason, just mind your footing. However, it can still get rather warm so we’d recommend doing this walk in the morning.

Mándor Waterfall is one of the lesser-frequented attractions in the area, so it’s a place that you can enjoy without the crowds. Not only that, but you’ve got a chance of spotting a variety of birds and butterflies here.

8. Have dinner overlooking the river

Simply having dinner while overlooking the river is one of the top things to do in Aguas Calientes, Peru. There’s nothing quite like chowing down on some Peruvian cuisine while listening to the water flow, and the birds chirp all around you.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Aguas Calientes, then don’t worry – there are tons of options! Many of them offer a variety of local dishes, while others offer international cuisine. That means there’s something for everyone.

Considering their location, restaurants here are very affordable, even for those on a backpacker’s budget.

Here are some great restaurants located along the river:

• Full House Machu Picchu Restaurant – This is one of the best places in town for Peruvian dishes.
• Sami Restaurant – This place is known for its great food, friendly service, and epic river views.
• Toto’s House – Another fantastic restaurant that offers tasty food and views of the river.

9. Visit Manco Capac Plaza

If you’re looking for things to do in Aguas Calientes, then make sure you head to Manco Capac Plaza. It’s the town’s main square and is named after the famous Manco Capac. He was believed to be the founder of the Incan empire, and you’ll find a rather impressive statue dedicated to him here.

Also known as Manco Capac Square, this plaza is one of the town’s liveliest areas. There’s a fantastic atmosphere here, and you’ll also find Parroquia Virgen del Carmen Church lining the square.

Not only that but there are plenty of eateries and market stores along Manco Capac Plaza. If you’re looking to relax or appreciate the local area, this is definitely a place you should visit.

As we mentioned before, this is where you’ll need to come if you’re looking to get a Machu Picchu stamp for your passport.

10. Explore Mariposario of Machu Picchu

Mariposario of Machu Picchu is a charming butterfly farm located on the outskirts of town. It’s just a 15-minute walk from Aguas Calientes and offers you the chance to see several butterfly species that can only be found in this area.

First of all, the site is located in a beautiful area and the hike to it is lovely in itself. Once you get here, you’ll get to appreciate hundreds of butterflies flying around freely which is quite a sight.

There’s just a small entrance fee to get in and you’ll get to go on a short guided tour. On this tour, you’ll learn about the different butterfly species, and you can take a look at the study laboratory too.

You won’t need much time at Mariposario of Machu Picchu, but it’s certainly one of the best things to do in Aguas Calientes, Peru.

11. Hike up to Huayna Picchu

You’ll find plenty of interesting things to do in Peru, but this is certainly one of the most unnerving! Huayna Picchu is the huge mountain that appears as the backdrop of Machu Picchu, so you already know that it’s going to be a real challenge.

Also known as Waynapicchu, Huayna Picchu is the mountain that sits behind the Incan citadel. Located at 2,720 metres (8,923 feet) above sea level, it’s no easy feat to get up here – especially if you’re scared of heights.

To reach the summit, you’ll need to tackle dizzying paths, sheer cliff edges, and the ‘Huayna Picchu death stairs’. However, if you make it to the top you’ll get breathtaking views of Machu Picchu!

Only 400 people are allowed to climb Huyana Picchu every day so you’ll need to reserve your ticket in advance. You’ll also need to make sure you book the right ticket, as only a specific one allows you to do this hike!

12. Hike up Putucusi Mountain

If you’re looking for things to do near Machu Picchu then check out Putucusi Mountain. This incredible mountain sits at a height of 2,560 metres (8,500 feet) and it surrounds the famous Incan citadel.

Translating to ‘Happy Mountain’, Putucusi offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu from its summit. From the top, you’ll also get to appreciate the vistas of the Andean mountain range and lush rainforest.

Putucusi Mountain is free to hike, although it’s extremely challenging. The hike takes around 4 hours and includes vertical wooden stairs which you’ll have to traverse.

Hiking up Putucusi Mountain is one of the top things to do in Aguas Calientes! However, it’s only suitable for the more experienced hikers in our opinion, as it requires high skill, stamina, and strength.

You also don’t want to attempt this trail in the rain, or after wet weather. The ladders can become extremely slippery, and this can make for a really dangerous hike.

Helpful Information for Visiting Aguas Calientes

How to get to Aguas Calientes

There are only two ways to reach Aguas Calientes due to its remote location; either by train or by bus, which is then followed by a hike. The first option is by far the easiest, while the second is certainly cheaper.

On the way to Aguas Calientes, we caught a bus from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and then walked the rest of the way. The bus journey takes around 6-7 hours, and then you’ll have a 10 km (6-mile) hike to reach the town.

Your other option is to catch a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. Two companies offer this service; Peru Rail and Inca Rail so you’ll have a choice of departure times. There’s either a direct service or a bimodal service, which consists of a bus and train.

To reach Aguas Calientes, we took a bus to Hidroelectrica and then hiked to Aguas Calientes. For our return journey, we caught the train, so we could experience both.

How to get around Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes is a very small town so you won’t have any problems getting around. Here, you’ll find a variety of artisan markets, shops, and restaurants, and these are located within walking distance of each other.

Machu Picchu is the area’s most popular attraction, and it’s located outside of the town. You can either hike to the entrance, or catch a bus, and we certainly recommend the latter so you can make the most of your time.

You’ll also find some popular things to do outside of Aguas Calientes, and the main way to get there is by foot. There are hardly any cars in this area, and no public bus services, so you’ll need to get around yourself.

Luckily, the majority of attractions are located within the town centre or they’re just a short hike away. If anything, the fact that there’s no transport is just an excuse to relax!

The best time to visit Aguas Calientes

Typically, the best time to visit Aguas Calientes is between April and June. During these months, you’ll encounter plenty of sunshine and relatively low precipitation levels.

The month of July tends to experience high temperatures but plenty of rainfall. Then there’s August-November, which is another popular time to visit. In fact, it’s one of the busiest, so you may experience big crowds if you visit during these months.

If you’re heading to Aguas Calientes it’s most likely because you want to visit Machu Picchu. For the best experience at this world wonder, try to avoid the months of December, January, and February. During this time, you’re likely to encounter plenty of rainfall.

We headed to Aguas Calientes in June and didn’t have any issues weather-wise. Temperatures were hot, but then cooled off at night which is always a bonus!

Where to Stay in Aguas Calientes

There are tons of fantastic places to stay in Aguas Calientes so you won’t be short of options. Whether you’re looking for a cheap hostel or a luxurious getaway, there’s something for everyone.

Below are a few of our recommendations!

Budget: Inkas Land

Inkas Land is one of the cheapest properties you’ll find in Aguas Calientes. It’s situated right in the centre of town and is just a short walk from the Machu Picchu bus stop, so you’ll be in a great location.

The rooms here are cosy and spacious, and they feature a private bathroom. Your breakfast is also included in your stay, and you’ll benefit from free WiFi.

Mid-range: Mistico Machupicchu Eco B&B

This is where we stayed during our visit, and we couldn’t recommend it enough! First of all, it’s located right near the town’s hot springs and you’ll find a variety of restaurants nearby.

The rooms are also beautiful and many of them feature a private balcony with mountain views. Each morning, you’ll have a free breakfast, and the staff are extremely helpful too.

Luxury: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

This luxurious 5* hotel is one of the most beautiful properties in the area. It’s just a short walk from the town centre and boasts a variety of facilities including a restaurant, an on-site spa, and a lounge library.

The suites at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel are gorgeous, and some of them offer a private outdoor area. Your breakfast and dinner are also included in the rates!

Booking.com

Frequently Asked Questions about Aguas Calientes

How many days do I need in Aguas Calientes?

There are some awesome things to do in Aguas Calientes, Peru so you’ll want to spend more than one day here. Many people visit simply just to explore Machu Picchu but this town has so much more to offer.

For the best experience, allow two full days here. That gives you a morning to explore Machu Picchu, and then 1.5 days to explore the town and its attractions.

What is a good budget for Aguas Calientes?

Like everywhere in Peru, Aguas Calientes is very affordable. You can make your visit as cheap or as luxurious as you’d like, and you’ll get a lot for your money here!

We’d recommend allowing a budget of around £35 to £40 per person, so you can really enjoy your time in this town. Aside from Machu Picchu, there aren’t many costly activities to do, but there are some fantastic markets.

Is it better to stay in Cusco or Aguas Calientes?

For the best experience in Peru, we’d recommend visiting both. There are plenty of great things to do in Aguas Calientes, so this isn’t a place that you want to rush.

Likewise, there are tons of fantastic places to visit in Cusco, so you don’t want to miss out on that city either. You can certainly visit Machu Picchu from both, but Aguas Calientes offers the most convenience.

What is Aguas Calientes known for?

Although Cusco is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to Machu Picchu’, Aguas Calientes offers the closest access. For this reason, it’s a popular tourist destination and attracts thousands of people a day during the peak season.

Aside from Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes is also known for its laid-back atmosphere, spectacular scenery, and variety of restaurants. This makes it a must-visit for any Peru itinerary!

Where to go after Aguas Calientes

As Aguas Calientes is one of the more remote destinations in Peru, it won’t be your first stop. As such, where you visit next will depend on where you’ve already been during your trip!

Naturally, you will have travelled here from Cusco. If you didn’t have time to explore the city before your departure, then you should try and make time on your return visit as you’ll find a variety of things to do here, as well as ample day trip opportunities.

Once you’ve reached Cusco, you’ll have endless options when it comes to onward travel. The Peruvian Amazon is a popular option, as the city of Puerto Maldonado is just a short flight (or long bus journey) away.

If you’re looking to explore more of the Sacred Valley, then you could always head to Ollantaytambo. Other popular options include Arequipa, Puno, and Colca Canyon. For those that haven’t had the chance to explore Lima, make sure you spend some time in the capital too.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Aguas Calientes, Peru

There are so many fantastic things to do in this charming town, so don’t rush your time here. Although small, Aguas Calientes has a lot to offer, and there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to relax in thermal baths, explore the local markets, or visit a local waterfall, you won’t be short of options. Of course, you’ll want to allow some time to visit the famous Machu Picchu too!

Just make sure you factor in travel time when visiting Aguas Calientes, especially if you’re on a budget, and you’re looking to hike from Hidroelectrica.

If you have any questions about things to do in Aguas Calientes then be sure to get in touch with us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!

Here are some other Peru guides you may find helpful:

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