Aguas Calientes is the closest city to Machu Picchu (9 km, 20 min by bus). What to do: hot springs, market, waterfalls, butterfly farm.
Aguas Calientes (officially Machu Picchu Pueblo) is the closest town to Machu Picchu, located at the base of the mountain just 9 km away (20 min by bus).
Key facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official name | Machu Picchu Pueblo |
| Distance to citadel | 9 km (20 min bus) |
| Altitude | 2,040 masl |
| Population | ~8,000 |
| Access | Train only (no road access) |
What to do in Aguas Calientes
- Hot Springs — S/ 20, 10 min walk
- Handicraft Market — At the train station
- Manco Capac Plaza — Main square
- Virgen del Carmen Parish — Stone church
- Butterfly Farm — 400+ species, $3
- Mandor Waterfall — 1 hour walk
- Alcamayo Waterfall — 30 min walk
Book our Machu Picchu Tour with free time in Aguas Calientes.
Aguas Calientes is the gateway to Machu Picchu — a small town with big character nestled between jungle-covered mountains.
