Aguas Calientes, Peru
Tourism

... More >

much lower altitude than Cusco and the Sacred Valley, this area is very lush and tropical with green mountains surrounding the town.

The architecture in Aguas Calientes is relatively modern and consists of drab, brick buildings rather than colonial architecture. The train track runs through the middle of one of the main streets but considering there are only a few trains a day, it's not a problem. There are numerous places to stay and eat in Aguas Calientes and the town is used to catering to tourists. Although most people come to Machu Picchu on a day trip, it is well worth taking the time to spend the night in Aguas Calientes. Besides getting up to Machu Pichu early in the day before the crowds come, an overnight in Aguas Calientes also allows time to see the newly opened Site Museum (Museo de Sitio Manuel Chávez Ballón), and enjoy the hot springs that gave the town its name.