MACHU PICCHU & AGUAS CALIENTES
Machu Picchu is the breathtaking “Lost City of the Incas,” an architectural marvel nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is a spiritual and historical pilgrimage, a testament to an ancient, powerful civilization.
This sacred citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is surrounded by lush peaks and cloud forests, offering an unforgettable experience. Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) is the essential gateway town at its base.
Most Popular Attractions
The Inca Citadel (Machu Picchu)
Main Entrance and Control Point: The mandatory starting point for all visitors, where tickets and permits are verified.
The Main Gate/Urban Sector: The entry point into the city proper, dividing the agricultural and urban areas.
Agricultural Terraces: Extensive, perfectly crafted stone steps and fields that stabilize the mountain and were used for cultivation.
The Guardhouse/Watchman’s Hut: Located on a high terrace, offering the most iconic panoramic view of the citadel.
The Temple of the Sun: A remarkable semicircular structure built over a natural rock, thought to be used for solar rituals.
The Royal Tomb: A chamber beneath the Temple of the Sun with carved niches and ceremonial purposes.
The Principal Temple: A central structure in the Sacred Plaza, featuring massive, finely cut stones.
The Temple of the Three Windows: A large ceremonial wall with three trapezoidal windows, symbolizing the three levels of the Inca world.
The Intihuatana Stone: A ceremonial stone structure, possibly an astronomical clock or calendar, located on a pyramid-like platform.
The Sacred Plaza: The main ceremonial area of the city, surrounded by the Principal Temple and the Temple of the Three Windows.
The Condor Temple: A fascinating natural rock formation carved to resemble the wings and head of a condor in flight.
The Industrial Sector (Storage Houses/Qolqas): Areas where tools and supplies were stored.
The Residential Sector: A maze of structures where the Inca elite and their servants lived.
The Inca Bridge: A precarious stone trail with a gap spanned by logs that could be removed for defense.
The Funerary Rock: A carved stone structure near the Guardhouse, believed to be an area for mummification rituals.
Surrounding Peaks and Hikes
Huayna Picchu Mountain: The prominent, iconic peak behind the citadel, offering challenging climbs and spectacular views (requires a separate ticket).
Machu Picchu Mountain: A high peak opposite Huayna Picchu, offering longer, less steep, and equally stunning views over the site.
Inca Trail Final Stretch (Inti Punku/Sun Gate): The original entrance to the citadel; a popular hiking destination from the site, offering an incredible first view.
Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) & Access
Puente Ruinas (Ruins Bridge): The bridge crossing the Urubamba River, marking the start of the final ascent to the citadel.
Aguas Calientes Hot Springs: Natural thermal baths that gave the town its name, offering a relaxing soak after a day of hiking.
Mercado Artesanal (Artisan Market): A bustling market near the train station, filled with local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum: A small museum dedicated to the history and discoveries of Machu Picchu, located near the base of the mountain.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Inca Trail (Classic or Short): Book a multi-day (4 or 2-day) trek along the ancient Incan stone path, passing through spectacular mountain scenery and ruins to reach the Sun Gate entrance of Machu Picchu.
Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Secure a separate ticket to climb one of the peaks overlooking the main citadel for breathtaking, iconic views. Huayna Picchu is steeper but offers more dramatic angles.
Take a Guided Tour of the Citadel: Hire an official guide at the entrance to fully understand the historical significance, architecture, and religious importance of the temples and sectors within Machu Picchu.
Visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum: Located near the base of the mountain in Aguas Calientes, this museum offers in-depth exhibits on the history, discovery, and restoration of the site.
Explore the Town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo): Wander through the small, bustling town, exploring the artisan market and relaxing by the Vilcanota River.
Relax at the Hot Springs: Visit the natural thermal baths in Aguas Calientes (from which the town gets its name) to soothe your muscles after a long day of trekking and sightseeing.
Hike to the Putucusi Mountain (The “Happy Mountain”): For the adventurous, hike this nearby peak for an alternative, challenging view of the citadel (check current conditions as ladders can be precarious).
Visit the Mandor Gardens and Waterfall: Take a peaceful, easy walk outside of Aguas Calientes along the river to this private ecological reserve, perfect for birdwatching.
Watch the Sunrise or Sunset at the Citadel: Book a morning or late-afternoon entry slot for the chance to see the citadel bathed in golden light, avoiding the midday crowds.
Stroll the Mercado de Artesanías: Haggle for local Peruvian crafts, alpaca textiles, and souvenirs at the large market adjacent to the train station in Aguas Calientes.
Hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Even if you don’t do the full Inca Trail, you can hike to the Sun Gate from the citadel entrance for a beautiful view of Machu Picchu as the Inca Trekkers first saw it.
Local Tips & Transport
Train is the Primary Gateway: The most common way to reach Aguas Calientes is by train from Ollantaytambo or Cusco (Poroy). Book your tickets with PeruRail or Inca Rail well in advance, as they are often fully booked.
Bus to the Citadel: From Aguas Calientes, you must take a 25-minute bus ride up the winding road to the Machu Picchu entrance. Buses start running very early (around 5:30 AM). Tip: Buy your bus tickets the day before at the ticket office in Aguas Calientes to save time in the morning queue.
The Walking Option: You can choose to walk from Aguas Calientes to the citadel entrance. It’s a strenuous, mostly uphill hike of about 1.5 to 2 hours, following the bus route. This is only recommended for fit trekkers.
Getting Around Aguas Calientes: The town of Aguas Calientes is entirely pedestrian. No cars are allowed (apart from the Machu Picchu buses), making walking the only way to get around.
Book Everything in Advance: Entrance tickets to the citadel, Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain, and train tickets must be booked months ahead, especially during the high season (May-September). Tickets are dated and timed.
Mind the Altitude: While Cusco and the Sacred Valley are higher, Aguas Calientes is at a lower elevation (2,040 meters / 6,692 feet). Still, the strenuous climbing involved means you should be well-hydrated and acclimatized before your visit.
Use the Loo Outside: There are no restrooms inside the Machu Picchu citadel itself. You must use the facilities located just outside the main entrance before going in (or after exiting).
Dress in Layers: The weather at Machu Picchu can change rapidly, often switching between foggy/cool mornings, intense midday sun, and sudden rain showers. Layers and good rain gear are essential.
Strict Rules & Regulations: Visitors are required to follow set routes within the citadel. Tripods, drones, walking poles (unless medically required), and large backpacks are prohibited. Only small bags are allowed inside.
Carry Your Passport: You must present your original passport and your printed entrance ticket to gain access to the site. Don’t forget it! You can also get a free, commemorative Machu Picchu stamp in your passport at the entrance.
Hidden Gems (Around the Base):
- The Path to the Inca Bridge: This is a lesser-visited, short, and relatively flat walk from the main circuit, offering dramatic views and an appreciation for Inca engineering.
- The Artisan Market at the Train Station: While touristy, this is a great place to pick up last-minute souvenirs and is one of the most vibrant markets in the area.
- The Hot Springs Hike: The path up to the thermal baths is a pleasant, easy walk from the town center, a perfect way to spend an evening.
Top Restaurants
Julian Restaurant [$15-$25] – A small, highly-regarded spot on Avenida Pachacutec known for preparing delicious, authentic Peruvian dishes at a fair price, including excellent lomo saltado and fried trout.
Chef House Peruvian Food [$15-$25] – Located on Imperio de los Incas street, this popular restaurant features an open-kitchen concept where you can watch the culinary artistry. They highlight local ingredients in creative, yet traditional, Peruvian preparations.
Full House Peruvian Cuisine & Craft Beer [$15-$25] – Found on Imperio de los Incas street by the river, this spot offers a cozy atmosphere and generous portions of traditional Peruvian flavors like ceviche and lomo saltado. Try to get a table on the terrace for river views.
Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer [$15-$25] – A favorite on the riverfront street for high-quality, authentic Peruvian cuisine, including delicious alpaca dishes, homemade pasta, and a selection of local craft beers.
Ylla Fusion [$15-$25] – Located near Plaza Manco Cápac, this restaurant offers Peruvian fusion and traditional dishes, with good service and nice views from its terrace overlooking the town.
Los Ponchos Peruvian Kitchen [$15-$25] – Embracing an authentic Peruvian atmosphere on Imperio de los Incas street, this kitchen is known for iconic traditional dishes like ají de gallina and causa rellena in an elegant setting.
Cabaña de Gabriel Restaurant [$15-$25] – Located on Avenida Pachacútec, this spot is recommended for its traditional Peruvian and South American food, offering a taste of local favorites like humita.
Inti House [$15-$25] – A popular spot known for its Peruvian and South American dishes, including solid lomo saltado, often recommended for its reliable quality and good prices.
Bijao Café Bar Restaurant [$15-$25] – A good local choice for straightforward Peruvian cuisine and a relaxing atmosphere in the center of town.
El Manu [$15-$25] – This restaurant offers a mix of Peruvian, South American, and even pizza options, providing a reliable and varied menu in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Coca Qantas [$15-$25] – Found on Avenida Pachacutec, this is a local option for a casual Peruvian and South American lunch with simple, satisfying plates.
Dulce Gourmet Grill [$15-$25] – A great choice for those wanting to try traditional Andean specialties, including dishes based on cuy (guinea pig), located in the town.
Anita [$10-$20] – A hidden local gem near the bridges, frequently visited by tour guides, known for its amazing pork dishes, good portions, and decent prices.
The Tree House Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located slightly off the main road on Jr. Huanacaure, this spot offers organic fusion cuisine, blending traditional Peruvian flavors with a modern, healthy twist in a unique, elevated setting.
El Indio Feliz Restaurant Bistro [$25-$45] – Easily considered one of the best dining experiences in Aguas Calientes, this bistro on Calle Lloque Yupanqui serves a mix of French-Peruvian fusion in a quirky, colorful, and eccentric setting. Try their trout dishes.
Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant [$20-$40] – A favorite on the riverside for craft beer lovers, offering Peruvian and international dishes with a creative touch, plus a rooftop terrace with stunning mountain and river views.
Kaymanka [$20-$40] – Located on Imperio de los Incas street, this restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and beautifully incorporates elements of nature into its decor, serving contemporary Peruvian cuisine.
Magguis Grill Craft Beer [$15-$30] – Located on Ave Pachacutec, this casual spot blends Peruvian grilled specialties with a selection of local craft beers, offering a lively and delicious experience.
El Mapi Restaurant [$25-$45] – Part of the Inkaterra hotel, located on Avenida Pachacutec, this popular spot offers a buffet lunch and an à la carte menu of Peruvian and South American cuisine, with a modern, friendly bar area.
Incontri del Pueblo Viejo [$20-$40] – A charming spot on Avenida Pachacutec that combines Italian techniques with Peruvian ingredients, specializing in authentic wood-fired oven pizzas and handmade pasta. The alpaca carpaccio is a standout.
Cala Tratoria [$15-$30] – Situated on Inca Roca Street, this restaurant is a popular choice for good pizzas, grills, and a mix of Peruvian and international bar food.
La Roca Sagrada pizza restaurant [$15-$30] – A reliable option for satisfying pizza and Peruvian fare, great for a casual lunch or dinner in the town.
Palate Pizza & Burger Bar Machupicchu [$15-$25] – Known for offering a variety of pizzas and burgers, including alpaca and quinoa options, catering to a craving for comfort food.
La Boulangerie de Paris [$5-$15] – A French-owned patisserie offering excellent, high-quality croissants, pastries, and coffee, perfect for an early, quick breakfast or a takeaway box lunch.
Café de Paris [$5-$15] – Located on Plazoleta Wiñaywayna, this famous bakery is a budget-friendly spot for delicious cakes, empanadas, and cheap coffees.
La Chuta Bakery [$5-$15] – A comfortable bakery on Calle Yawar Huaca where you can taste traditional Peruvian empanadas, sweets, and coffees—ideal for a quick breakfast or light dinner.
The Coffee Club [$5-$15] – A clean, spacious coffee shop near the main square, ideal for coffee, cappuccinos, and pastries, also known for its good WiFi.
Infinite Coffee [$5-$15] – A small but modern coffee shop in the town, known for its great coffee and unique flavors of ice cream, like one made with quinoa, along with quick bites like empanadas.
Tao Dulce Salado [$5-$15] – A café that offers a good mix of both sweet and savory options for a light meal or snack in the town.
Tampu Restaurant (Belmond Sanctuary Lodge) [$40-$70] – Located right next to the Machu Picchu ruins, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with gourmet interpretations of classic Peruvian dishes, using high-quality local ingredients and offering stunning views. Reservations are essential.
Qunuq Restaurant (Sumaq Hotel) [$40-$60] – Situated in the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, this restaurant rivals Lima’s finest establishments with its innovative, contemporary Peruvian fusion cuisine and high-quality service. They offer a great six-course degustation menu.
Café Inkaterra (Inkaterra Hotel) [$35-$55] – Located by the Vilcanota River as part of the Inkaterra Hotel, this peaceful spot emphasizes sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, offering exquisite Peruvian and international fusion dishes.
Apu Inti Restaurante [$30-$50] – A pricier option for the area but offering a lovely, upscale fine dining atmosphere with beautiful wood detailing and Peruvian-Latin cuisine, perfect for a relaxing post-hike meal.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Terraza Cósmica by Supertramp: This bar is a top choice for breathtaking views, located on a rooftop terrace, belonging to the Supertramp Hostel in Aguas Calientes. It offers creative cocktails, including variations of the classic Pisco Sour, and has a lively, “cosmic” atmosphere.
El Mapi Bar (Inkaterra): Situated within the El MaPi by Inkaterra hotel in the heart of the town, this is a cozy bar with a modern feel. It features a great selection of cocktails and local craft beers, specializing in Pisco-based drinks, and often has a generous happy hour.
Machu Pisco Bar & Restaurant: Found conveniently in Aguas Calientes, this establishment is a must-visit for travelers seeking the quintessential Peruvian cocktail. It boasts an extensive menu of Pisco Sours and other Peruvian culinary delights in a warm setting.
Mapacho Craft Beer & Peruvian Cuisine: Located facing the Vilcanota River in Aguas Calientes, this spot is ideal for beer enthusiasts, offering a variety of artisanal craft beers made with local ingredients like Peruvian corn (chicha) and passion fruit (maracuyá), alongside a small, cozy bar area.
Inka Happiness Cultural Bar: Experience the cultural spirit of Peru at this bar in Aguas Calientes. It offers a selection of craft brews and authentic local flavors, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Wayquis: A cozy bar in Aguas Calientes known for its vibrant atmosphere and offering local drinks, giving visitors a taste of Peruvian culture in the small town.
Modo Restobar: Located centrally in Aguas Calientes, this gastropub blends local ingredients with international flair, providing a vibrant setting for enjoying creative drinks and food.
Blues RestoBarCaffe: A unique gastropub in Aguas Calientes blending local and international culinary delights, making it a great spot for a varied menu of food and drinks.
Machagchas Resto Bar: This spot in Aguas Calientes is known for its lively spirit, offering both delicious local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
Green PUB machupicchu: Savor authentic Peruvian flavors and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere at this gastropub in Aguas Calientes.
Mapi bar: A lively ambiance and great drinks await at this bar in Aguas Calientes, making it a perfect spot to relax after a day exploring Machu Picchu.
El duende feliz: A cozy bar offering local drinks and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere for travelers winding down in Aguas Calientes.