Tucked away at the bottom of the Urubamba River Valley near Machu Picchu, with steep, lush hillsides rising high above it, is the tiny town of Aguas Calientes. The town was virtually inaccessible until the railway from Cusco to Aguas Calientes was opened in 1931, which was built as a way of transporting copper and other minerals into Cusco. Today, tourists can start and end their spectacular journey to Machu Picchu in this sleepy town. Once here, you can walk up a steep path (or take a bus) to reach the famous Incan citadel. If you’ve trekked to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail, Aguas Calientes will
be a welcome sight at the end – the perfect spot for a well-deserved rest. The town can be explored in just a few hours, so you can spend your time relaxing in a hammock or exploring on foot or bike through the narrow streets. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops (including an alpaca store) to keep you busy. Then rest your tired feet and board the train, winding your way through tunnels, across bridges and over valleys, enjoying fabulous views on both sides as you make your way back to Cusco.

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Aguas Calientes Guide

Practical advice, client testimonials and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday
Lesser-Known Peru Treks

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Lesser-Known Peru Treks

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

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Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Where To Stay Around Machu Picchu

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Where To Stay Around Machu Picchu

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Ollantaytambo / Salar de Uyuni / Cotopaxi / Urubamba / Isla del Sol / Otavalo / Aguas Calientes / Argentinian Andes / Puno / Lake Titicaca / Cusco / Andes Mountains / Pisac Market