This Trek is an extraordinary journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley, offering not just stunning views, but a deep connection to Andean culture. This trek is often chosen as an alternative to the more crowded Inca Trail, and for good reason. It’s a route that combines challenging altit ...
Thermo Medicinal Baths Around Machu Picchu
After hiking the Inca Trail or touring Machu Picchu, many tourists choose to relax in these beautiful thermal baths after their trip to the Inca wonder.
The thermal baths of Machu Picchu town, known as Aguas Calientes ("Hot Waters"), offer a rejuvenating experience likely enjoyed since Incan times. These sulfur-rich mineral waters are renowned for their medicinal properties. Just 1km from the tiny village but 10km from the famous citadel, the baths are easily accessible on foot from anywhere of Aguas Calientes village.
This small town is the final stop for all trains from Cusco headed to Machu Picchu, making it a obligatory stopover for visitors to the archaeological marvel. As such, it provides amenities like restaurants, hotels and shops, however, its main attraction is its thermal baths. Indulging in the restorative volcanic waters is a perfect way to relax and recharge after conquering the Inca Trail and have marveled at the seventh wonder of the world Machu Picchu.
Origin, Characteristics and Benefits of the Thermal Water
The thermal waters of Aguas Calientes from an underground spring of volcanic origin, with temperatures ranging from 35 to 46°C, making it a natural and medicinal gem. The hot water emerges from underground channels and flows through the rocks at high temperatures. These are led to small pools where it is not possible to swim, just relax and enjoy the natural environment. The water in the pools is dull yellow, giving the impression of being dirty, although in reality it is the color of sulfur, in addition to containingcontain minerals such as silicon, magnesium, calcium, iron, and potassium.
Rather than a swimming destination, these thermal baths provide an opportunity to soak in the natural heat source and let the volcanic waters' therapeutic and healing properties that provide relief to tired muscles and various joint pains work their rejuvenating magic. Therefore, it is advisable for individuals suffering from joint ailments to visit these medicinal waters. As well, set amid the breathtaking Andean landscape, unwinding in the peaceful pools offers weary hikers a chance to enjoy the simple pleasures of nature's restorative hydrothermal gifts.
Its benefits offered by the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes can help the metabolism and a good digestion, can help release toxins, can level blood pressure, promote skin oxygenation and can be useful for medical treatments and physiotherapy.
On the way to Aguas Calientes from Cusco
To reach Aguas Calientes from Cusco, it is the same way to go Machu Picchu.
From Cusco, take a car to Ollantaytambo. Once in there, head to the Ollantaytambo train station that is so close (remember to purchase your train ticket beforehand). This is the only mode of transportation will take you to the Aguas Calientes station. From there you can walk to the thermal baths for two reasons, first, there is no transportation to that place, and second, the town is quite small, so you shouldn't have trouble finding your way around. The second way, you can take the train stright to Aguas Calientes station from Cusco, but the diferente is the expensive train ticket also.
Once in the town of Aguas Calientes, to get to the thermal baths, just follow the path opposite the current of the river that goes down in the middle of the city. This main avenue is called ‘Hermanos Ayar’. You will walk less than 1 kilometer away from the final train station and will locate the thermal baths. Good luck.
The best moment to visit the thermal baths
Most visitors opt to soak in the rejuvenating hot springs of Aguas Calientes after their daytime tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins, whether in the late afternoon or evening hours. To allow time, plan to spend at least one night in a hotel in the nearby town. The dry season between April and October is the most popular time, with little rainfall.
Unlike this, visiting during the rainy season from November to March offers a unique experience relaxing in the outdoor thermal pools while being bathed by intense tropical downpours. Besides, No matter when you go, the baths are open daily from 5am to 8pm, with Sundays being the most crowded. Up to you.
Are you ready to enter?
At this time, once you are inside, secure your belongings in the locked lockers provided before using the changing rooms and showers to prepare for bathing. Before, maybe the Infrastructure of the thermal baths have changed or no, the thermal bath complex consists of five small spring-fed pools with a basic yet functional infrastructure - dressing areas, showers, restrooms and a coffee bar serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Finally, you sure to come prepared with a bathing suit, towel, sandals and any other personal toiletries needed. If you forget anything, you can purchase supplies at the entrance gate. Now just relax.
Thank you to read Kenko Adventures's blog, the safest and most reliable option is to travel with a travel agency. Essentially, they organize your entire trip, leaving you to fully enjoy each place you visit.
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