Aquas Calientes
Aguas Calientes is a town in the Urubamba River Valley in southeast Peru. It’s known for its thermal baths and as a gateway to the nearby Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Aguas Calientes is only accessible by a 3-hour train ride from Cusco or by the Inca Trail hike.
What to do in Aguas Calientes
Thermal
Springs
The thermal springs of Aguas Calientes are due to underground hot sulfur springs that provide a range of benefits to one's body. Going to the springs after a long hike or trek is a must, and the view from these springs is amazing.
Machu
Picchu
Machu Picchu, built in the 1450s, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. I recommend hiking Huayna Picchu (the mountain in the back) for some amazing views at its 2,693m summit. However, this hike is not for the faint at heart and was the hardest hike (mentally) I have ever done.
Aguas
Calientes
Aguas Calientes serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu and is full of eateries and shops. Even though there is a market selling many alpaca clothing and items, I recommend buying them somewhere else due to the rather high prices in this town.