Machu Picchu With a Break in the Town of Aguas Calientes

Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most iconic attractions, and the nearby town of Aguas Calientes offers a chance to experience it in a unique way. Travelers can explore the charming markets, indulge in the town’s hot springs, and prepare for the awe-inspiring journey to the ancient Inca citadel. With a blend of adventure and relaxation, this experience provides an enriching cultural encounter that sets the stage for the main event – the exploration of the lost city itself.

Key Points

• Explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, featuring bustling markets, relaxing hot springs, and a picturesque town square, before embarking on the guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Enjoy a flexible 2-day excursion with a hotel pickup, round-trip train tickets, and a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel, priced at $370 per person.
• Experience the stunning views of nature and the Urubamba River during the train ride to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy a local lunch.
• Gain an in-depth understanding of Machu Picchu’s impressive architecture, mythology, and history with an expert guide during the guided tour.
• Conclude the journey with a return trip to Cusco, including a scenic view of the Andean landscapes and free time to explore the historic Inca capital.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This tour offers the opportunity to experience the wonder of Machu Picchu with a relaxing stay in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

Priced from $370 per person, it’s a flexible 2-day excursion with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Enjoy hassle-free hotel pickup, round-trip train tickets, and a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel. An evening briefing provides details for the next day’s adventure.

While the entrance ticket and accommodation are included, additional costs cover the bus ride to and from Machu Picchu and any meals not specified in the itinerary.

Itinerary

On the first day, the tour begins with hotel pickup and a 2-hour trip to Ollantaytambo station.

From there, guests take a train ride to Aguas Calientes, which offers:

• Stunning views of nature and the Urubamba River

• A lunch at a local restaurant

• An optional visit to the hot springs and town square

The evening concludes with a briefing about the next day’s excursion to Machu Picchu.

On the second day, after breakfast, travelers take a bus to the sanctuary for a guided tour, with free time to explore and capture incredible photos before returning to Cusco.

Hotel Pickup and Train Ride

The tour begins with hotel pickup, where a driver whisks guests away for the 2-hour trip to Ollantaytambo station.

The tour begins with hotel pickup, where a driver whisks guests away for the 2-hour trip to Ollantaytambo station.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy scenic views of the Andes mountains and the Urubamba River.

Upon arrival, they’ll board a train for the approximately 2-hour ride to Aguas Calientes.

Traveling by train provides a unique opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of the region, with the Urubamba River and lush vegetation on display.

After reaching Aguas Calientes, guests will enjoy a local lunch before an evening briefing about the next day’s Machu Picchu excursion.

Exploring Aguas Calientes

After reaching Aguas Calientes, guests can explore the charming town. The town offers:

• Bustling markets filled with artisanal crafts, local produce, and vibrant textiles.

• Relaxing hot springs where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters and unwind.

• A picturesque town square lined with cafes, restaurants, and lively street performers.

With its stunning Andean backdrop and laid-back atmosphere, Aguas Calientes provides a perfect respite before the main event – the iconic Machu Picchu.

Guests can enjoy the local culture and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Embarking on the guided tour of Machu Picchu, visitors ascend the bus that winds up the mountainside, offering an awe-inspiring glimpse of the ancient Inca citadel nestled amidst the Andes.

The expert guide leads the group through the site, sharing insights into the impressive architecture, mythology, and history of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The expert guide imparts insights into Machu Picchu’s impressive architecture, mythology, and history as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors enjoy the incredible views, wandering through the intricate stone structures and terraces.

With ample time for photos and exploration, the tour provides an in-depth understanding of Machu Picchu’s significance as one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological wonders.

Free Time for Photos and Exploration

What better time could there be for visitors to capture the grandeur of Machu Picchu than during the free time allotted for photos and exploration?

With the guided tour complete, travelers can freely wander the ancient citadel, discovering hidden nooks and crannies at their own pace.

The possibilities are endless:

• Scaling the steep stone steps for a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys

• Meandering through the intricate network of plazas, stairways, and residential areas

• Pausing to admire the remarkable craftsmanship and engineering feats of the Inca civilization

This unstructured time allows visitors to truly enjoy the magic of Machu Picchu.

Return to Cusco

With the free time in Machu Picchu complete, it’s time to return to Cusco.

After lunch in Aguas Calientes, you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a shuttle will take you to your hotel in Cusco. This journey allows you to take in more of the stunning Andean landscapes.

Upon arrival in Cusco, you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore this historic Inca capital at your own pace.

Explore the historic Inca capital of Cusco at your own pace upon arrival, savoring the memories of your incredible adventure.

With the main Machu Picchu experience now behind you, this is a chance to unwind and savor the memories of your incredible adventure.

Highlights of the Experience

One of the main highlights of this experience is the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Travelers can capture incredible photos in this breathtaking setting, surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains. Plus, the tour includes a live guide available in English and Spanish, providing valuable insights and historical context about this ancient Inca citadel.

Finally, the visit to the charming town of Aguas Calientes offers a chance to explore its picturesque streets and soak in the local culture, making this a well-rounded and unforgettable Peruvian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Tips for Managing Altitude Sickness?

To manage altitude sickness, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, take it slow, and consider medication. Resting and allowing time to acclimate can also help minimize symptoms like headache, fatigue, and nausea at high elevations.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes if Needed?

Guests can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes if needed. The tour provider offers flexible booking options, allowing travelers to modify their itinerary as required. This ensures a comfortable experience and allows for proper acclimatization to the high altitude.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Machu Picchu Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Machu Picchu tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though visitors should be able to handle the high altitude and hike at a moderate pace.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs at Machu Picchu?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional souvenirs at Machu Picchu. There are several shops and vendors within the archaeological site and in the town of Aguas Calientes, offering a variety of Peruvian handicrafts, textiles, and other items.

Is It Possible to Visit Other Inca Ruins Near Machu Picchu?

Yes, visitors can explore other nearby Inca ruins during their Machu Picchu visit. Popular options include Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Chinchero, which offer unique archaeological sites and cultural experiences in the Sacred Valley.

The Sum Up

Machu Picchu with a break in Aguas Calientes offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. The scenic train ride, bustling markets, hot springs, and awe-inspiring Inca citadel create an enriching cultural experience. Travelers can unwind in the charming town before the main event, making this package an ideal way to explore one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: