Aguas Calientes, officially known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is much more than the town where travelers arrive by train before visiting the famous Inca citadel. Surrounded by lush green mountains, crossed by the Vilcanota River, and connected to the cloud forest of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, this small town also offers cultural and natural experiences worth discovering.
If you have a few free hours before visiting Machu Picchu or decide to stay an extra night, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. You can relax in the hot springs, visit an archaeological museum, explore a butterfly garden, walk along nature trails, or discover stone sculptures throughout the town.
In this guide, you will discover 10 of the best things to do in Aguas Calientes in 2027, including approximate visiting times, reference prices, practical tips, and recommendations to help you plan your visit according to your schedule.
Before You Start: What Is Aguas Calientes Like?
Aguas Calientes is located in the Machupicchu District, Urubamba Province, in the Cusco region of Peru. It is the main railway gateway to the Machu Picchu citadel and sits in a beautiful landscape of mountains, rivers, and lush cloud forest vegetation.
Unlike many other tourist destinations in Cusco, the town center is mainly pedestrian-friendly. Most visitors explore the streets on foot, while shuttle buses connect the town with the entrance to Machu Picchu.
You will find hotels, restaurants, cafés, artisan markets, souvenir shops, and various services for travelers.
One important detail: You do not need a Machu Picchu entrance ticket to explore the town and its public spaces. However, some attractions, including the museum, hot springs, and Mandor Gardens, have their own admission requirements.
1. Relax at the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs
The hot springs are one of the attractions most closely associated with this town. In fact, the name Aguas Calientes refers to the natural hot water springs found in this area.
The thermal bath complex is located in the upper part of town, at the end of Hermanos Ayar Avenue. It features several pools with different water temperatures, as well as changing rooms and visitor facilities.
It is a great place to unwind after exploring Machu Picchu, especially if you have completed a demanding hike or have several hours before your train departure.
- Location: Upper part of Aguas Calientes.
- Recommended time: 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Admission: Paid; check the current price at the ticket office.
- What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sandals, and a change of clothes.
Do not expect a luxury spa experience. This is a municipal thermal bath complex, and the overall experience can vary depending on visitor numbers and maintenance conditions.
If you are looking for a different experience with larger facilities, you can also visit Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa. Keep in mind that getting there requires additional transportation.
2. Explore Manco Cápac Square and the Town Center
Manco Cápac Square is one of the main gathering places in Aguas Calientes. It is a great starting point for exploring the town, watching everyday life, and getting a feel for the local atmosphere.
One of its main landmarks is the monument to Pachacutec, one of the most important rulers of the Inca Empire, whose legacy is closely connected to the history of Cusco and Machu Picchu.
From the square, you can continue walking through the commercial streets, discover restaurants, and explore different corners of the town center.
- Recommended time: 30–45 minutes.
- Cost: Free.
- Ideal for: Photography, short walks, and exploring the town.
It is a particularly good option if you arrive by train in the afternoon and still have some time before checking into your hotel.
3. Visit the Aguas Calientes Artisan Market
Located near the railway station, the Aguas Calientes Artisan Market is a shopping area where you can find souvenirs from your trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Popular products include textiles, wool garments, traditional hats, scarves, ceramics, keychains, jewelry, and various handmade items inspired by Andean culture.
It is an interesting stop if you want to take home a souvenir or buy gifts before returning to Cusco.
- Recommended time: 30–60 minutes.
- Cost: Free entry; products have different prices.
- Tip: Compare prices at several stalls and carry some Peruvian soles in cash.
You do not need to spend too much time here, but it is an easy activity to combine with a walk around the town center.
4. Visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum and Botanical Garden
If you want to learn more about the history of Machu Picchu, the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum is one of the most interesting cultural attractions outside the citadel.
It is located in the Puente Ruinas area, alongside the road leading to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The museum features information about archaeological research and the historical development of the sanctuary.
Inside, you can see archaeological objects, including pottery, stone artifacts, and metal objects, as well as explanatory displays and audiovisual resources.
You can also explore the botanical garden, where different native plant species and orchids from the region are preserved and displayed.
Visitor information:
- Location: Puente Ruinas area, approximately 20–30 minutes on foot from the town center.
- Published opening hours: Daily, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- General admission: S/ 22.
- Higher education students: S/ 11.
- Recommended time: 1–2 hours.
These prices correspond to the published rates from Peru’s Ministry of Culture. Certain groups may qualify for exemptions under specific regulations. Check the conditions before purchasing your ticket.
Tip: Do not confuse the museum with the Machu Picchu citadel. They are separate attractions with independent admission requirements.
5. Discover the Machu Picchu Butterfly Garden
Did you know that you can learn about different butterfly species in the surroundings of Aguas Calientes?
The Machu Picchu Butterfly Garden is a space dedicated to research, conservation, and education about these insects. During your visit, you can learn about their life cycle, observe different species, and understand the importance of butterflies in cloud forest ecosystems.
The site also features gardens and natural spaces where you can appreciate the vegetation of the area.
It is an especially interesting activity for families and travelers who enjoy nature and photography.
- Location: Puente Ruinas area.
- Published opening hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Published admission: S/ 30 for foreign adults and S/ 20 for Peruvian adults.
- Recommended time: 30–60 minutes.
Children’s admission prices may also vary according to visitors’ nationality. Check the latest rates and opening hours before visiting.
6. Walk to Mandor Gardens and Waterfall
If you enjoy walking and want to get away from the busy atmosphere of town, Mandor Gardens is one of the best nature experiences near Machu Picchu.
This natural attraction is located in the Mandor area, approximately 4 kilometers from Aguas Calientes. To get there, follow the route toward Hidroeléctrica through the railway corridor and continue to the entrance of the gardens.
Along the way, you will encounter tropical vegetation, ferns, trees, flowers, and different bird species. Once inside the natural area, you can continue along the trails until you reach a waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation.
Unlike the archaeological experience at Machu Picchu, the main attraction here is the natural scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Visitor information:
- Distance: Approximately 4 km from town to the entrance area.
- Recommended time: Allow 3–4 hours for the full experience, depending on your walking pace and how long you stay.
- Published opening hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Published admission: S/ 20 for foreign visitors and S/ 15 for Peruvian visitors.
MINCETUR records the reopening of this attraction in late July 2025, following damage caused by heavy rains and landslides in 2024. It also lists a general admission price of S/ 20. Since prices and access conditions may change, confirm the current information directly before visiting.
Important tips:
- Start early to make the most of daylight.
- Bring drinking water, insect repellent, and shoes with good grip.
- Check trail conditions before setting out.
- Be especially careful when walking near railway infrastructure. Use only designated pedestrian areas and follow safety signs.
- Do not schedule your return too close to your train departure.
7. Visit the Allcamayo Waterfalls
Another option for travelers who enjoy hiking is exploring the Allcamayo Waterfalls, also spelled Alcamayo.
This natural attraction is located near Aguas Calientes and offers a walk through vegetation, flowing water, and small waterfalls.
Unlike Mandor, you do not need to undertake such a long walk to explore the surrounding area. However, the time required and difficulty depend on current trail conditions.
- Recommended time: Varies according to access and trail conditions.
- Difficulty: Check the current trail conditions before visiting.
- Admission: Confirm whether an entrance fee applies and check the current price.
Important: An official updated admission price and opening schedule could not be confirmed for this attraction. Therefore, it is better not to publish exact hiking times or guarantee that all sections of the trail are accessible. Check with local tourist information services before including it in your itinerary.
8. Discover the Crónicas en Piedra Stone Sculptures
As you explore the streets of Aguas Calientes, you may come across several stone sculptures that form part of a cultural route known as Crónicas en Piedra, or Chronicles in Stone.
These works represent characters, symbols, and elements related to Andean history, worldview, and cultural traditions.
One of the interesting aspects of this attraction is that you do not need to enter a closed exhibition space to see the sculptures. They are distributed throughout different areas of the town, allowing you to discover them as you walk through the streets and avenues.
- Recommended time: 30–45 minutes.
- Cost: No general admission fee for sculptures in public spaces.
- Ideal for: Photography, cultural walks, and relaxed sightseeing.
It is an easy activity to combine with Manco Cápac Square, the artisan market, and the restaurants in the town center.
9. Admire Putucusi Mountain from Aguas Calientes
Across from Machu Picchu rises Putucusi Mountain, a natural formation known for its steep slopes and abundant vegetation.
For many years, it was known among travelers for an old climbing route that included wooden ladders and steep sections. Certain viewpoints on the mountain offered perspectives of the Machu Picchu surroundings.
However, there is something important to keep in mind when planning your 2027 trip: you should not consider Putucusi an officially accessible hiking route.
Access has been restricted, and there is no regular tourist route that can be assumed to be open. The 2026–2031 Master Plan for the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary provides the framework for conservation and management of the area. Any future reopening must be evaluated and authorized by the relevant authorities.
You can admire the mountain from town and enjoy its scenery, but avoid attempting to climb through unauthorized trails, especially during the rainy season.
10. Enjoy Local Food in Aguas Calientes
After exploring the attractions around town, take some time to enjoy the local food scene.
Aguas Calientes has a wide variety of restaurants, ranging from small Peruvian food establishments to cafés and international cuisine.
Some of the options you may find include:
- Trout: One of the most common choices at local restaurants.
- Cuy and regional dishes: Available at selected establishments.
- Soups and Peruvian food: Great options for a warm and satisfying meal.
- Pizza and pasta: Popular choices among international visitors.
- Coffee shops and desserts: Perfect for a break after walking.
Tip: Compare menus and prices before choosing a restaurant. If you have an early entrance time for Machu Picchu, try to have dinner at a reasonable hour and get enough rest for the following day.
What to Do in Aguas Calientes Depending on How Much Time You Have
You do not need to visit every attraction to enjoy the town. The best approach is to choose activities according to your available time and, most importantly, your Machu Picchu entrance or train schedule.
| Available time | Recommended activities |
|---|---|
| 2–3 hours | Manco Cápac Square, artisan market, and Crónicas en Piedra |
| Half a day | Site Museum and Botanical Garden + Butterfly Garden |
| One free afternoon | Town center + hot springs |
| One full day | Mandor Gardens + hot springs |
| Two nights | Museum, butterfly garden, Mandor, and relaxed walks |
Our recommendation: If you only have one night in Aguas Calientes, avoid planning long hikes before visiting Machu Picchu. Save your energy for the citadel and use your free time to explore the town center or relax in the hot springs.
How Many Days Should You Stay in Aguas Calientes?
The number of nights you should spend in Aguas Calientes depends on the type of experience you want.
One night: To visit Machu Picchu
This is the most common option. You arrive by train from Ollantaytambo, spend the night in Aguas Calientes, and visit the citadel the following day. You can use the afternoon to explore the main square, artisan market, and local restaurants.
Two nights: To explore the surroundings
This is a more comfortable option if you want to visit additional attractions. You will have time to explore the museum, butterfly garden, hot springs, and Mandor Gardens without rushing through everything.
Three or more nights: To travel at a slower pace
If you have additional days, you can combine your Machu Picchu visit with natural and cultural experiences in the area, while enjoying the local food and atmosphere of the town.
Practical Tips for Visiting Aguas Calientes in 2027
Before your trip, keep these recommendations in mind:
- Bring cash: Although some establishments accept cards, it is useful to carry Peruvian soles for small purchases and services.
- Buy your Machu Picchu ticket in advance: Availability depends on the circuit, date, and entrance time. Use the official Tu Boleto platform.
- Book your train and accommodation: Especially if you are traveling during the high season.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Although the town is small, some attractions require walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring insect repellent and sunscreen: Both are useful when exploring natural areas.
- Carry rain protection: Rain can occur during different times of the year.
- Respect railway safety zones: Never walk on the tracks or enter restricted areas. Use designated pedestrian routes and follow safety signs.
- Check opening hours and admission prices: Especially for Mandor, the museum, butterfly garden, and hot springs.
- Avoid strenuous hikes before visiting Machu Picchu: Get enough rest if you have an early entrance time.
- Plan your return: Allow enough time to reach the railway station and board your train.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Aguas Calientes
Some travelers make mistakes that can waste time or prevent them from fully enjoying their visit.
- Thinking Aguas Calientes is only a place to sleep: The town has cultural and natural attractions worth exploring.
- Trying to visit everything in a few hours: It is better to choose two or three activities.
- Walking to Mandor without checking access conditions: Confirm opening hours and trail conditions beforehand.
- Attempting to climb Putucusi without authorization: Do not assume its old wooden ladder route is open.
- Forgetting your train departure time: Plan your activities and leave enough time to return to the station.
- Going on demanding hikes before visiting Machu Picchu: You may arrive tired for one of the most important parts of your trip.
- Relying on outdated prices: Admission fees published online may have changed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Aguas Calientes
What can I do in Aguas Calientes if I only have a few hours?
If you have two or three hours, you can explore Manco Cápac Square, visit the artisan market, and discover the Crónicas en Piedra sculptures. If you have more time, you can add a visit to the hot springs, provided they are open.
Is it worth spending one night in Aguas Calientes?
Yes. Spending one night allows you to rest before visiting Machu Picchu and explore some of the town’s attractions. It also saves you from having to travel all the way from Cusco and back on the same day.
How much money do I need to explore Aguas Calientes?
It depends on which activities you choose. You can visit the main square, artisan market, and public sculptures for free. However, the hot springs, museum, butterfly garden, and Mandor Gardens require an additional budget.
As a reference, the museum lists general admission at S/ 22, the butterfly garden advertises adult admission at S/ 20 for Peruvian visitors and S/ 30 for foreign visitors, and MINCETUR lists a general admission price of S/ 20 for Mandor. These amounts should not be considered guaranteed prices for all of 2027.
Can I explore Aguas Calientes without buying a Machu Picchu entrance ticket?
Yes. You can freely explore the town center, visit the main square, browse the artisan market, and discover the public stone sculptures. Attractions with ticket offices have their own admission fees and conditions.
Is it safe to walk from Aguas Calientes to Mandor?
The walk requires caution because the access route is associated with the railway corridor. Use designated pedestrian areas, follow safety signs, and pay attention to passing trains. Avoid walking on the tracks and never attempt the route after dark.
Can you hike Putucusi Mountain?
You should not consider Putucusi an officially accessible tourist hiking route. Access has been restricted, and any future reopening must be authorized by the relevant authorities. You can admire the mountain from town without attempting to climb through unauthorized trails.
What can families with children do in Aguas Calientes?
Some good options include the butterfly garden, the Site Museum, the botanical garden, the artisan market, and relaxed walks around the town center. These activities allow families to explore the area without undertaking demanding hikes.
Is it better to stay in Aguas Calientes or Santa Teresa?
It depends on your itinerary. Aguas Calientes is the most convenient option if you plan to visit Machu Picchu using the conventional railway access route, since shuttle buses to the citadel depart from here.
Santa Teresa may be a good alternative for travelers who want to combine their trip with a visit to Cocalmayo Hot Springs and plan to use the Hidroeléctrica access route. However, it involves different transportation arrangements.
Conclusion: Aguas Calientes Deserves More Than Just a Quick Stop
Aguas Calientes does not have to be just the place where you spend the night before visiting Machu Picchu. Its hot springs, archaeological museum, butterfly garden, Mandor Gardens, and cultural attractions offer plenty of ways to make your trip even more memorable.
If you only have a few hours, you can enjoy a relaxed walk around the town center. If you have one or two additional days, you will have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and enjoy its natural beauty without rushing.
At Machupicchu Luna Tours, we can help you organize your visit to Machu Picchu, including train transportation, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, entrance tickets, and professional tour guide services.
Contact us with your travel dates, and we will help you plan an experience that fits your schedule and budget.
