Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes, is a small town in Urubamba Province, Peru, set at the foot of the Machu Picchu mountain. Its main role for most visitors is as the gateway to the famous Inca citadel above it, and much of the town's life is shaped by that connection.
Getting there
The town has no road access. Visitors arrive either by train or on foot, which gives the place a quiet, somewhat separate character compared with many destinations in the region. Arriving by rail or by the trail is part of the experience of reaching the area.
What the town offers
- Hot springs, which give the town its alternative name, Aguas Calientes, meaning "hot waters"
- A good number of hotels, from simple lodgings to more comfortable stays
- Restaurants serving visitors arriving at all hours of the day
Because the town is compact, most of what you need is within walking distance, and the centre is easy to explore on foot between trips up the mountain.
Is it worth a visit?
If you are travelling to Machu Picchu, staying in the town means you can be close to the access point and plan your day around the citadel without a long journey each morning. Those interested in soaking in the hot springs or simply resting after a long walk or train ride will find the town a practical and pleasant base. Travellers who prefer remote, unhurried surroundings should keep in mind that the town is busy with visitors, and its atmosphere is shaped by the steady flow of people heading to the ruins.
