Aguas Calientes is the colloquial name for Machu Picchu Pueblo, a town in Peru on the Urubamba (Vilcanota) River. It is best known as the closest access point to the tourist attraction Machu Picchu, which is 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) away, about 1.5 hours walk. It has many hotels and restaurants for tourists, as well as natural hot baths, which give the town its name ("hot waters" in Spanish). The baths were destroyed by floods several years ago, but have been rebuilt.

Statue of Pachacutec and town cathedral from the main square of Machu Picchu pueblo. Aguas Calientes serves as a terminal for a train line from Cusco. Trains serve locals and tourists arriving from Cusco and Ollantaytambo to visit Machu Picchu. A sheltered souvenir market is adjacent to the train station. Avenue Pachacutec is the town's main and only thoroughfare, connecting the baths to the town's main square.

The Central Machupicchu Hydroelectric Plant is nearby on the Vilcanota. It generates about 90 MW for the regions of Cusco, Puno and Apurimac. It was first constructed between 1958 and 1965 and expanded between 1981 and 1985. The plant was damaged by a landslide on February 28, 1998 and ceased operations until July 13, 2001

Machu Picchu Highlights:
Accomodation in Machu Picchu
From 5-star hotels to backpacker hostals, the finest spots in the former Inca Capital to lay your bones after a day-long hike.

Be Safe: Travel Insurance
Learn why taking out travel insurance before travelling to Peru is a good idea.

Train or Hike?
If you are not the Inca Trail type, consider Rail Transport to Machu Picchu. Trains are the best transport mean to get to the Lost City of the Incas (besides your own legs, that is). Check the different rail ruotes, departures, prices, and carriage qualities.

Restaurants & Pubs
Search for a Peruvian restaurant near you.

Tours in Machu Picchu
Find good option to take a tours in Machu Picchu

Facts about Machu Picchu
Everything tips before to arrive to Machu Picchu.