If you’re planning a trip to Machu Picchu, you should make sure to stop by the town of Aguas Calientes. This village is close to the ruins and offers many things to see and do.
Some of the most popular activities include hiking the Putucusi mountain, visiting the Mandor waterfall and relaxing in the thermal baths. There are also several restaurants and hotels for tourists to stay.
1. Visit Machu Picchu
One of the mystical wonders of the world, Machu Picchu is an incredible collection of Incan ruins. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Located in the cloud forest of Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu is located at 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level and is the perfect place to capture spectacular photos. The ruins are situated on a mountain saddle overlooking the Urubamba River.
To photograph the magical Machu Picchu, you should take your time and acclimatize to the altitude. You can also try to visit the ruins during different weather conditions or at different times of the day.
For example, you can take a photo of the sacred Intihuatana stone, which accurately indicates the two equinoxes. Twice a year, the sun sits directly over it, creating no shadow. This stone is said to be full of energy and can be a great source of positive energy.
2. Go to the Artisan Market
If you want to buy souvenirs or other local items, the Artisan Market in Aguas Calientes is a great place to do so. You’ll find a variety of products on sale, including shirts, ceramics, alpaca clothing, musical instruments and more.
There’s also an impressive selection of paintings and sculptures to admire, as well. In addition, there’s a museum that focuses on the history of Aguas Calientes and the surrounding region.
Aguas Calientes is located at the base of Machu Picchu and is a popular destination for tourists who wish to visit this ancient citadel. It is a small town that is completely dedicated to tourism, with hotels, restaurants and bars.
Despite this, you can still enjoy a little relaxation during your stay in Aguas Calientes. You can visit the Plaza Manco Capac, a central plaza that offers a great spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. It’s also a good spot to visit Iglesia Virgen del Carmen, a beautiful church.
3. Visit Plaza Manco Capac
The small central plaza in Aguas Calientes, named after Manco Capac, a Sapa Inca, is surrounded by municipal buildings, monuments and a church. It is a great place to take pictures or just soak in the beautiful scenery of this area.
The Plaza Manco Capac has many restaurants and cafes that are ideal for tourists who want to eat a nice meal before heading up to Machu Picchu. It is also a great place to look for last minute souvenirs and gifts.
During the dry season, this area is home to a great artisan market. You can find everything from jewelry, wall hangings, purses and rain jackets.
For nature lovers, Aguas Calientes has several natural areas and waterfalls where you can go for a stroll. You can walk through biodiverse gardens and admire the beautiful flora and fauna. You can even hike to the Allcamayo Falls.
4. Visit the Mariposario de Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a world-famous site and a must-see on every traveler’s bucket list. But most people go straight to the citadel without considering a few other attractions nearby, which are also more than worthy of your time.
One of the best things to do in Aguas Calientes is to visit the Mariposario de Machu Picchu, a butterfly sanctuary near the lower entrance gate. It’s a fun way to get out of the crowds and learn more about these beautiful insects, plus it helps support an environmental initiative.
You can get there by walking or taking a bus from the town’s main train station. It’s a short walk through the jungle and offers views of flora and fauna that is typical of the area.
In Aguas Calientes, there are a number of restaurants serving creative Peruvian cuisine. Some of them are low-key, while others are more high-end. For example, Indio Feliz is known for its eclectic fusion of French and Peruvian cuisine. There’s also a contemporary restaurant at the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, MAP Cafe, which serves modern dishes with a fusion of Peruvian and international flavors.
