Here, we present our tips and advice to take into account if planning to explore Aguas Calientes, considering some of you will spend time there before or after visiting Machu Picchu.
Traditionally known as Aguas Calientes, but currently named Machu Picchu Pueblo (town), this place represents the last stop and last settlement before entering the Machu Picchu sanctuary. Maybe for that reason, most of its attractions are normally overshadowed, but pay attention because there are great things to do!
Places to visit in Aguas Calientes
Los jardines de Mandor
Mandor is a beautiful private piece of land, family-owned and defined by its simplicity, but also its great charm. Looking to preserve the natural richness of the cloud forest, the Alangón family opened its gates to visitors as well, offering an organic restaurant and even the possibility to stay the night.
Swim at the base of a waterfall after hiking, birdwatching, or simply after enjoying the surrounding nature. An immense variety of flowers, butterflies, and many other creatures hidden among the lush vegetation are waiting ot be explored.
You can pay a short visit to Mandor when walking from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes. However, it’s well worth spending a whole day here or even spending the night, because the place is truly special. In our Route of Goodies, an overnight stay in Mandor is part of the experience.
Explore Mandor’s website.
See Mandor on the map.
The Alcamayo Waterfalls
Tucked just outside Aguas Calientes, the walk to Alcamayo Waterfall is one of those quiet trails that often stays off most visitors’ itineraries. The waterfall is beautiful, but the real highlight is the peaceful path leading there. Surrounded by lush cloud forest, the trail offers a chance to slow down, listen to birdsong, and enjoy the calm atmosphere away from the crowds.
If you have a little extra time in Aguas Calientes, this gentle hike is a rewarding way to experience a quieter side of the valley.
See the Alcamayo Waterfalls on the map.
The Aguas Calientes Waterfalls
If you hear about the popular hot springs, we really recommend avoiding them, as the pools are often unclean and crowded.
However, just beyond the hot springs, a short trail continues into the forest toward the Cataratas de Aguas Calientes. Far fewer travelers make their way here, making the small waterfalls a quieter, off-the-beaten-path addition to your time in town. Visit early, especially in low season, for the best chance to enjoy the surroundings with few other people.
Of course, when you go to the falls and pass by the hot springs, you can always check what they look like and decide to go for a swim if they are clean and not overcrowded.
See the Aguas Calientes Waterfalls on the map.
Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum
Named after a dedicated local archaeologist, this museum comprises ceramic, lithic, textile, and anthropological samples obtained by researchers at the site. A small botanical garden is also part of the museum where you can take it easy and contemplate. You can expect to spend between 1 and 1.5 hours at the museum.
Get your museum tickets here.
See the museum on the map.
Butterfly house
The butterfly house is a very well-organized initiative, locally managed and scientifically run by a committed team that will guide you to discover the world of these beautiful and important insects. Participate in the on-site activities and spend 1 or 2 hours there, keeping in mind that there’s also a convenient cafe.
Explore the butterfly house’s website.
See the butterfly house on the map.
Handicraft market
Like most markets of its type, the handicraft market in Aguas Calientes holds a great variety of knick-knackery. Spending time at this place is only recommended if you are looking to have an opportunistic but very colorful distraction, and just maybe, you will find something worth paying for. Consider bargaining because articles can be overpriced.
Putucusi Mountain
You might come across the Putucusi mountain when looking into things to do in Aguas Calientes. This is a natural lookout at about 2500 m (8200 feet), which can be reached after a 500 m climb (1640 feet). The view from the top will give you an eye-level perspective of Machu Picchu from a distance (across the river) and a bird’s-eye view of the town.
However, climbing Putucusi is not only difficult but also a real adventure, with a set of reinforcing bars and ladders in what looks like an almost 90-degree arrangement over the rock wall. You can find the trail on popular route-planning apps, but conditions change regularly and depend heavily on the weather.
We recommend not climbing the ladders (or what is left of them), hiring a guide, and checking the most recent update before going to Putucusi.
Our favorite restaurants in Aguas Calientes
After exploring Machu Picchu or even the surroundings of Machu Picchu Pueblo, you’ll long for a good meal to regain some strength. These are our favorite restaurants in town.
The Tree House
Serving Peruvian, international, contemporary, and, of course, fusion cuisine, the Tree House is a place worth looking for because the surprise will be great.
Explore the Tree House’s website.
See the Tree House on the map.
El Indio Feliz
The Indio Feliz is a French-Peruvian fusion restaurant with a bit of everything else, as well.
If you’re only going to one restaurant in Aguas Calientes, this is the place to go. They offer a prix-fixe option that includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert, but you can also eat à la carte. There are lots of choices, and they are all delicious with ample portions.
Explore the Indio Feliz website.
See the Indio Feliz on the map.
The Green House
The Green House is a good choice if you’re looking for organic food in Aguas Calientes. This restaurant uses produce grown in its own organic garden in the Sacred Valley, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options alongside Peruvian favorites.
Explore the Green House’s website.
See the Green House on the map.
Qunuc
Qunuq Restaurant, the signature restaurant of the 5-star Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, offers one of the most refined dining experiences in Aguas Calientes.
Reservations are a good idea, especially if you want to opt for the six-course tasting menu, a true gastronomic delight.
Explore Qunuq’s website.
See the Qunuq on the map.
La Boulangerie De Paris
As the owner is actually from Paris, the pastries here are a real treat. Sandwiches and other light fare make it a good stop for a quick snack. It’s a great place to get a box lunch to take up to Machu Picchu (order the day before), and located just above where the buses leave for the archaeological site.
Explore the Boulangerie’s Instagram.
See the Boulangerie on the map.
Ponchos Peruvian Kitchen
Chullpi specializes in modern takes on traditional fare, with excellent local ingredients. Dishes also offer creative takes on local history, with great thought and care put into presentation.
Explore Ponchos Peruvian Kitchen’s website.
See the Ponchos Peruvian Kitchen on the map.
Frequently asked questions about Aguas Calientes
What is the town next to Machu Picchu?
The town next to Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes. It sits in the valley below the archaeological site and is where most visitors stay before or after visiting Machu Picchu. Buses to the entrance of the world wonder leave from the town, and the train station connects Aguas Calientes with Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Where is Aguas Calientes, Peru?
Aguas Calientes, officially called Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town in Peru’s Cusco region, at the foot of Machu Picchu. It is the main base for visiting the archaeological site. Aguas Calientes is located a 4-hour train ride from Cusco and a 1.5-hour train ride from the Sacred Valley. You can also reach it via different treks.
Is Aguas Calientes in Peru worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely! While most travelers come here solely to visit Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes itself has beautiful nature sites to explore in the high jungle. Staying overnight also gives you time to experience the town and its cloud-forest surroundings without rushing between the train and Machu Picchu.
Is there anything to do in Aguas Calientes besides Machu Picchu?
There is more to Aguas Calientes than simply catching the bus to Machu Picchu. You can learn more about the citadel in the museum, explore waterfalls and viewpoints in the cloud forest, visit the butterfly house, and discover the charming small town.
How many days do you need in Aguas Calientes?
If you want to explore Aguas Calientes next to Machu Picchu, we recommend you spend two nights in town, instead of just one. This way, you have time to explore the town and some of its surroundings before or after visiting Machu Picchu, without having to catch your return train straight away. If you want to experience Mandor or simply spend more time exploring the nature surrounding the town, you might even stay three nights.
Where to eat in Aguas Calientes, Peru?
Aguas Calientes has a surprisingly varied food scene, from casual cafés and bakeries to Peruvian restaurants and more refined dining experiences. You can find traditional Andean ingredients, fresh trout, Peruvian classics, vegetarian and organic options, pizza, and international cuisine.
Are there good vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Aguas Calientes?
Yes. Aguas Calientes has a good selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. The Green House, for example, specifically offers vegetarian and vegan dishes made with organic ingredients.
