Aguas Calientes Holidays

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.

Aguas Calientes holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

  • One Country Peru – Lima – the Amazon – the Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Cusco

    From the Amazon to the Andes - A Peruvian Adventure with your Teens

    Treat your teens to the adventure of a lifetime on this 13-day trip to Peru, pairing ancient culture with outdoor adventure

    13 days, from £3100 to £4250

  • One Country Peru – Lima – Ollantaytambo – Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Cuzco

    Peru’s Big Hitters - Lima, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

    Travel from Lima to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cuzco, pairing iconic Inca sites with markets, train journeys and culinary experiences.

    12 days, from £3650 to £4750

  • One Country Peru – Lima –  Arequipa – Colca Canyon – Cusco – Machu Picchu – Sacred Valley

    The Best of Peru - Ancient Wonders, Local Traditions & High-Altitude Adventures

    Dial up the adventure in Peru on this 12-day getaway, discovering sacred ruins, colourful culture and jaw-dropping landscapes

    12 days, from £3900 to £5100

  • One Country Peru – Lima – Amazonas – Titicaca – Cuzco – Machu Picchu

    Journey Across Peru - From Cloud Forests to the Sacred Valley

    Travel from northern Peru to Lake Titicaca and the Sacred Valley, crossing cloud forests, colonial cities and high Andean landscapes

    21 days, from £5700 to £8500

  • One Country Peru – Bolivia – Chile

    The Ultimate Andean Adventure - Peru, Bolivia and Chile

    Embark on the ultimate Andean adventure as you spend three weeks journeying across Peru, Bolivia and Chile

    20 days, from £6500 to £9650

  • One Country Peru - Ecuador

    From Peru to Ecuador - The Andes, the Amazon & the Galapagos Archipelago

    Spend three weeks journeying from Peru to Ecuador, pairing Inca citadels, Amazon wildlife and the volcanic landscapes of the Galapagos

    20 days, from £6500 to £7800

Aguas Calientes Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday