Aguas Calientes, Peru: a trip full of landscapes, culture and adventures
If you have ever dreamed of visiting Machu Picchu, you surely know that getting to Aguas Calientes, the small but fascinating town at the Machu Picchu mountain base, is an essential part of the experience. In this blog I tell you how my visit was, an adventure that began with some discomforts due to the height, but that became a tour full of wonders, good food, relaxing moments and a unique cultural immersion.
The trip to Aguas Calientes: between mountains and trains
The journey to Aguas Calientes began in Cusco, where, as is common in the heights, the symptoms of high evil made me feel a bit uncomfortable. The lack of air, tiredness and slight discomfort accompanied me before boarding the train. However, once inside, the landscape completely changed my approach. The train I took slid gently through the Sacred Valley, crossing mountains and rivers. It was like a tourist tour of itself: the views of Peruvian nature, lush vegetation and the majestic mountain peaks made any initial discomfort quickly.
The train journey, which lasted about two hours, was comfortable and relaxing. It was a good time to start enjoying the beauty of the Andes and let the emotion of arriving in Aguas Calientes seized me.
Arrival in hot waters and lunch in the happy Indian
At noon, I arrived in Aguas Calientes , a picturesque small town. My first destination was the Pucara Machu Picchu hotel , a cozy place with spectacular views of the town. I left my luggage, rest a little and went out in search of a good meal.
I went to El Indio Happy , a local restaurant that is very popular among travelers. I opted for a delicious chicken breast with mushroom sauce, accompanied by a refreshing papaya juice. This juice, in addition to delicious, is known for helping to relieve the symptoms of high high evil, which was just what I needed after the trip. The food was comforting and energizing, perfect to continue with my day.
Handmade fairs: a place to haggle and find unique souvenirs
After lunch, I went to the artisanal fairs that fill the streets of Aguas Calientes. Here, local artisans sell a variety of products, from backpacks to alpaca fabrics and jewels. It is important to remember that you must negotiate the price before buying . Do not be afraid to ask for a discount, since in most cases the vendors are willing to reduce the price a bit if you are friendly and willing to haggle. In addition, be sure to wear cash , since many stores do not accept cards and, sometimes, have not enough change. It is an excellent opportunity to take a unique memory of your visit, but be sure to quote well before making your purchase.
Reconfortant dinner at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer
After an afternoon exploring the town, I opted for a comforting dinner in Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer , a place known for its excellent local cuisine and cozy atmosphere. From the outset, we enjoy a tuna tartar , fresh and perfectly seasoned, which opened the appetite for what would come. As a main course, I delighted with an acevicked cause , a Peruvian classic with a modern touch, which left me completely satisfied. The combination of flavors and the relaxed atmosphere made dinner a memorable experience. In addition, I could accompany my food with a local craft beer, which added a perfect touch to the evening.
Energy tomorrow at the hot springs
The next day, I got up early to start the day with a visit to Las Termas de Aguas Calientes . I arrived at 5:30 am , which is the recommended time to make the experience better. During the early morning there are fewer people, which allows you to enjoy the hot springs in a quiet and relaxed way. The hot springs, surrounded by mountains, offer an incredible environment to disconnect and recharge energy before the great adventure of the day: Machu Picchu.
It is important to carry effective , since access to the hot springs does not allow card payments, and also carry low denomination tickets , since they have no change for large tickets. The hot springs are an ideal place to relax the muscles and enjoy the natural environment, so do not miss this experience. In addition to not forgetting to visit the waterfall.
Machu Picchu: preparing you for a magical visit (but with some patience)
After a good breakfast at the Pucara Machu Picchu hotel , which offers an incredible view of the town, I prepared for one of the most anticipated moments of the trip: the visit to Machu Picchu . It is important to keep in mind that you must arrive in advance , since the access is made by means of an assigned bus at the time of entry that appears in your ticket. You must be prepared to make a long line, especially if your entrance is early in the morning.
The visit to Machu Picchu is a unique experience, but it is necessary to be prepared for any eventuality. In my case, the rain surprised us , since I was in the area at the end of September, so I always recommend a repellent jacket for rain . It is also essential to have water, a hat, mosquito repellent and fast drying clothes . The weather can be unpredictable and it is important to be comfortable and protected throughout the tour.
Return to Cusco: the perfect closure of the adventure
After exploring Machu Picchu, I returned to Aguas Calientes, where I picked up my things at the hotel before going to the train station again for the return trip to Cusco. Although the return meant to say goodbye to this wonderful destiny, I felt fortunate for having lived such a complete and enriching experience.
The best time to visit Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes, being located in a tropical jungle region, has a warm and humid climate throughout the year. However, if you are looking for the best conditions to enjoy your visit, I recommend planning your trip during the dry season, which goes from April to October . During these months, the rains are less frequent, which will allow you to enjoy the walks and explore Machu Picchu without worrying about bad weather.
The month of July and August is considered the high season due to school holidays in many countries, so it is advisable to make your reservations in advance if you travel in these months. On the other hand, the months of November to March correspond to the rainy season, so you must be prepared for possible showers and take additional precautions if you decide to travel in this period.
In summary, the best time to visit Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu is during the dry months , from April to October, to make the most of the experience. But remember, each era has its charm and the adventure will always be unique!
Share your experience and help other travelers
Your adventure in hot water, like mine, will surely be full of unforgettable moments. But, as in every trip, there are always details that are learned on the march. I would love to know, what did you enjoy your visit most? Was there something that would have liked to know before going?
I invite you to share your experiences and advice in the comments. What tips would you give to those who are planning their own trip to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu? By sharing your experience, you will not only help other travelers to have a more enriching experience, but you will also continue to be part of this community that rests each other to explore the world.
We would love to meet your stories and advice! And, if you have any questions or question, do not hesitate to leave it here. Until the next adventure!
