Overview
What this place is
These are the municipal hot springs of Machupicchu Pueblo (also called Aguas Calientes), built as a simple bathing complex above town. It is not a quiet wilderness soak. Think tiled pools, concrete edges, changing areas, and a steady flow of visitors, especially in the late afternoon when people come back from the ruins.
The complex is run with ticketed entry and clear time limits. It is a practical add-on to a Machu Picchu trip when you want an easy soak without arranging transport or a long detour.
Water, altitude, and feel
The springs are classed as thermo-mineral waters, and the reported soaking range is about 36°C to 44°C (97°F to 111°F). The site elevation is listed at 2,164 m, so the air can feel cooler at night even though you are in a warmer valley climate.
If you want a calm experience, go early. Midday and early evening are usually busier, and you should expect more noise than at smaller local baths.
Location & Access
Where it is
The baths sit within Machupicchu Pueblo, up the valley from the main streets. From the train station, it is a short walk (about 750 m) and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes on paved paths. Most people arrive by train from Ollantaytambo (listed as roughly 46.8 km and about 1 hour 30 minutes by rail), then walk straight to town and the baths.
Tickets, hours, and time limits
Entry is ticketed. Listed prices are S/20 for foreign visitors, S/10 for Peruvian nationals, and S/5 with local DNI. The published opening hours are 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., every day. A maximum soak time of 1 hour 30 minutes is also stated, so do not plan to linger all evening.
What to bring
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals for wet floors. Pack a small dry bag for phone and cash. If you are coming after a hike, add a warm layer for the walk back through town once you are wet and cooling down.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who it suits best
This is best for people who want an easy soak with no extra transport. It works well the day you arrive in town, or after a long stair-heavy visit to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, or the Sun Gate. You do not need a guide, and you can fit it into a tight schedule.
Families and first-timers
Families can make this work because it is close to town and the pools are controlled, but water temperatures vary and the hottest pool can feel intense for kids. Plan on staying near the edge and rotating in and out. Bring snacks and water for the wait if there is a line.
Mobility and accessibility realities
The complex is reached on paved routes from town, but inside you should expect steps, wet surfaces, and narrow transitions between pools. I would not count on wheelchair-friendly circulation unless you have confirmed current details locally. If you have limited balance, sandals with grip matter more here than at many resorts.
If you want a quieter, more spacious soak, this is not it. The upside is convenience, predictable hours, and basic facilities like changing areas and showers.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat, hydration, and slips
At 2,164 m, some people feel altitude effects, especially after hiking or a long travel day. Keep your first soak short and sip water between pools. The water is hot (up to about 44°C), so avoid long soaks that leave you lightheaded. If you have any medical concerns, treat this as a comfort stop, not a treatment.
Wet tile plus crowds is the main real hazard. Walk slowly, wear sandals, and keep phones out of hand when moving between pools.
Hygiene and pool etiquette
Rinse off before getting in if showers are available, and keep lotions, sunscreen, and insect repellent out of the pools. Do not dunk your head in communal water, and avoid shaving or washing clothes at the pool edges. Keep your voice down, people come here tired.
Respect the place and the staff
Follow posted time limits and any lane or pool separation. Leave glass and alcohol out of the complex. If the site is full, do not argue with staff, come back earlier the next day. In peak season, the best etiquette is moving efficiently so others get a turn.
FAQs
What are the opening hours?
The listed hours are daily from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How hot is the water?
The reported soaking range is roughly 36°C to 44°C (97°F to 111°F), with multiple pools at different temperatures.
How far is it from the train station?
From the Aguas Calientes train station, the walking distance is listed at about 750 m, usually 10 to 15 minutes on paved paths.
How much does it cost?
Listed entry is S/20 (foreign), S/10 (national), and S/5 with local DNI. Bring cash in soles.
Is there a time limit?
Yes. A maximum stay of 1 hour 30 minutes per visitor is stated.
