Peru · Region
Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes, officially known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small Andean town wedged into a river gorge directly below the Machu Picchu citadel, with no road connecting it to the outside world. Its narrow, pedestrian-only streets, hot springs and market stalls exist almost entirely to serve travellers passing through on their way up to the ruins.
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Frequently asked questions about Aguas Calientes
How do I get to Aguas Calientes?
Most travellers fly into Cusco (CUZ), then transfer overland to a train station at Poroy or Ollantaytambo for the ~1.5 to 4 hour rail journey to Aguas Calientes on PeruRail or Inca Rail, since no roads reach the town. A slower, cheaper alternative involves buses from the regional hub to Hidroelectrica, followed by a walk or short local train into town; from Aguas Calientes itself, a shuttle bus covers the final ~25 minutes up to the Machu Picchu entrance.
How many days should I spend in Aguas Calientes?
Most visitors spend just one night in Aguas Calientes, enough time to catch an early bus up to Machu Picchu, tour the citadel for a couple of hours and soak in the hot springs before heading back by train.
What is Aguas Calientes known for?
Aguas Calientes, officially known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small Andean town wedged into a river gorge directly below the Machu Picchu citadel, with no road connecting it to the outside world. Its narrow, pedestrian-only streets, hot springs and market stalls exist almost entirely to serve travellers passing through on their way up to the ruins.