Is it Worth Visiting Aguas Calientes?

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Is it Worth Visiting Aguas Calientes?

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located at the base of the famous ancient Inca citadel, Machu Picchu. It is the gateway for the thousands of visitors who annually visit Machu Picchu. However, is it worth visiting Aguas Calientes? In this blog post, we explore the reasons why it is worth visiting Aguas Calientes.

The Scenic Train Journey

One of the main reasons to visit Aguas Calientes is the journey itself. The train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes is considered one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. The train journey runs through the picturesque Sacred Valley, and the Andean mountains present breathtaking views of the Peruvian countryside.

The Entryway to Machu Picchu

Aguas Calientes is the entryway to Machu Picchu. Visitors are required to stay in Aguas Calientes before they visit Machu Picchu. For most tourists, the visit to Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime experience, and staying in Aguas Calientes is part of the adventure.

The Hot Springs

Another reason to visit Aguas Calientes is the hot springs. Aguas Calientes translates to “hot waters.” Aguas Calientes boasts natural hot springs where tourists can soak while enjoying the scenic view of the surrounding Andean mountains. The hot springs can be a perfect way to relax after a long day of touring around Machu Picchu.

The Local Market

The Aguas Calientes market is one of the must-visit places if you find yourself in the town. The market provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse in the local culture, purchase souvenirs, and sample authentic Peruvian cuisine. The market is a bustling hub that sells everything from handcrafted souvenirs to clothing and pottery.

The Hiking Trails

For the active traveler, Aguas Calientes provides numerous hiking trails for tourists to explore. The famous mountain, Huayna Picchu, looms above Machu Picchu and provides stunning views of the Inca citadel from afar.

The Authentic Experience

Finally, visiting Aguas Calientes provides tourists with an authentic experience of Peruvian culture. The town is small and has a relaxed atmosphere, providing visitors with a chance to experience local hospitality and meet other travelers.

Conclusion

Aguas Calientes has more to offer than just a gateway to Machu Picchu. The scenic train journey, the hot springs, and the local market are some of the reasons why it is worth visiting. The town also makes an excellent base for hiking and exploring the ancient Inca ruins. If you want to experience Peruvian culture and immerse in breathtaking scenery, we recommend that you put Aguas Calientes on your bucket list.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town situated at the base of the famous Machu Picchu ruins in Peru. It is an essential stop for tourists who want to explore one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. Also referred to as the ‘Lost City of the Incas,’ Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkable Inca architecture. Aguas Calientes is the main point of access to Machu Picchu, and while it has developed a bit to cater to the tourists, it has succeeded in preserving much of its unique charm and character.

Local Attractions

While Aguas Calientes may not have any of its attractions that can match the magnificence of Machu Picchu, it still has some worthwhile sites to explore. The primary attraction of the town is the Machu Picchu ruins themselves. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins all day, hike around and experience the beautiful views of the Andes mountain range, and take a walk on the Inca trail. Other attractions in Aguas Calientes include the Butterfly Farm, where you can witness the different species of rare butterflies, and the Putukusi Mountain, popular among seasoned hikers for the panoramic views from the top.

Dining Spots

Aguas Calientes has plenty of dining options catering to the food preferences of tourists from all over the world. There are many restaurants in the town center serving up traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, Lomo Saltado, and Aji de gallina. The town also has more modern cafes and restaurants catering to those who prefer international cuisine, including pizza, burgers, and sushi. Some of the best dining spots in Aguas Calientes include the Tree House, Tapas Bar Y Mas, and the Indio Feliz.

Cultural Experiences

Aguas Calientes is a town that transcends cultures, and to get a true taste of its Peruvian heritage, visitors can partake in several cultural experiences. The town has an Inca Museum that covers the history of the Inca civilization and has an exhibit of some Inca artifacts. For those who appreciate local art, Aguas Calientes has a beautiful cultural center called Museo de Sitio Manuel Chavez Ballon. The center’s exhibits include a significant collection of pottery, textiles, and other traditional Peruvian art forms.

Local History

The town has a rich and vibrant history that is inextricably linked with the Machu Picchu ruins. After Hiram Bingham discovered the ruins in 1911, Aguas Calientes took on a great cultural significance as the main point of access to the ruins. Before the discovery of Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes was known for its hot springs, from which it derives its name. As the town grew into the Machu Picchu tourism hub, the establishment of hostels, restaurants, and souvenir shops led to an increase in the town’s economy, ultimately becoming a crucial factor in the town’s development.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who are looking for more than the typical tourist destinations in Aguas Calientes, there are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions worth exploring. The first suggestion is to take a walk around the town and explore the local markets and shops. The markets in Aguas Calientes offer a wide array of souvenirs, artworks, and textiles. Secondly, if you are looking to meet some locals, head to one of the town’s traditional food markets to try some authentic local cuisine and mingle with the friendly locals.

Conclusion

If you are planning a trip to Peru, Aguas Calientes is a must-visit. With its fascinating history, rich culture, and fabulous dining spots, Aguas Calientes will undoubtedly steal your heart. The town may be a bit touristy, but it still retains its charm and unique beauty. While exploring Aguas Calientes, visitors must ensure that they respect the town’s customs, traditions and appreciate its natural beauty.

Is it Worth Visiting Aguas Calientes?

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