TRAVEL GUIDE
Aguas Calientes (now known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) is a small town hidden deep in the Andes, only accessible by train, and serves as the entrance to Machu Picchu. Every day, thousands of travelers spend the night or just a few minutes before heading to the Inca Citadel. Its mesmerizing location combines with the many shops, restaurants, bars, hotels and even hot springs that provide one-time customers just what they need.
Founded in 1901 as a camp for local railroad workers, Aguas Calientes now thrives as a bustling tourism hub. The small town is only accessible by train (or by walking the train tracks) and offers exhausted travelers the perfect rest they need. Local shops, restaurants, hotels and even hot springs all serve one-time customers before (or after) their journey to the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
The thousands of travelers of different ages, backgrounds and ideas pack the town daily with joy and excitement like any other touristic city. It’s more than likely that you will see crowded restaurants and bars, making you want to join in on the fun before getting ready for Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes is an obligatory stop for everyone heading to Machu Picchu (except those on the Inca Trail).
The easiest way to reach Aguas Calientes. Most tours will have the train ride included. The scenic ride takes you through the Andes mountains until directly entering the Aguas Calientes train station.
For all treks (except the Inca Trail that enters directly to Machu Picchu), Aguas Calientes is the final stop before reaching the Machu Picchu citadel.
You’ll spend the night and get to enjoy the town and its many restaurants, bars and shops.
Located in the heart of the town, this colorful local market offers a great variety of souvenirs and handicrafts. Perfect to buy any last-minute gifts to your loved ones or yourself, which will always remind you of the small town of Aguas Calientes.
The hot springs can be found just a short walk out of town and offers all the necessary facilities to have a relaxing time. There are several pools of varying size and temperature, even one filled with ice cold water!
Dozens of restaurants, bars and coffee shops fill the town of Aguas Calientes, offering different options for all types of tastes. You’ll more than likely find the food of your liking, so make sure to have a break and have a meal in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Located in the heart of the town, this colorful local market offers a great variety of souvenirs and handicrafts. Perfect to buy any last-minute gifts to your loved ones or yourself, which will always remind you of the small town of Aguas Calientes.
The hot springs can be found just a short walk out of town and offers all the necessary facilities to have a relaxing time. There are several pools of varying size and temperature, even one filled with ice cold water!
Dozens of restaurants, bars and coffee shops fill the town of Aguas Calientes, offering different options for all types of tastes. You’ll more than likely find the food of your liking, so make sure to have a break and have a meal in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Aguas Calientes sits at roughly 6,690 ft (2,040 m).
2 Day Machu Picchu Tour By Train
Embark on a scenic train ride through Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Difficulty
Easy
Time
2 Days / 1 Night
Inca Jungle Trek – 4 Days
An exciting and adventurous trek to Machu Picchu that includes biking, zip-line, and more!
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
4 Days / 3 Nights
Salkantay Trek – 4 Days
Journey out and experience one of the most beautiful and unforgettable treks in the world.
Difficulty
Challenging
Time
4 Days / 3 Nights
