Quick FactsOverview
About Banos Termales de Cconoc
Banos Termales de Cconoc, Peru is a paid thermal spring complex at the foot of the Apurimac River canyon in Curahuasi district, Abancay province, in the Apurimac region, approximately 88 km from Abancay and 120 km from Cusco. The springs sit at 1,780 metres elevation on the banks of the Apurimac River, in a lush canyon environment of algarrobo trees, reeds, and cactus. Water temperatures range from 26 to 35 degrees Celsius. Entry is from 5 soles for adults and 3 soles for children. The name Cconoc likely derives from the Quechua word for warm.
The site consists of natural thermomineral pools fed by geothermal springs. The water is described as odourless with a mild saline character and is valued locally for its reported therapeutic properties, including relief from arthritis, rheumatism, and muscle pain. According to local and historical sources, the Cconoc springs were a resting place along the Inca road that connected Cusco to the Chinchaysuyo region, passing through Jaquijahuana, Tarahuasi, Marcahuasi, and the Apurimac crossing at Maucachaca.
The canyon location, warm climate, and low altitude make Cconoc noticeably different in character from the high-altitude thermal pools of Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Among the hot springs near Abancay, Cconoc is the best-known thermal complex in the Apurimac region.
Location & Access
Getting to Banos Termales de Cconoc
Banos Termales de Cconoc is reached by descending into the Apurimac canyon from the PE-3S highway, approximately 88 km from Abancay and 120 km from Cusco. From Abancay, drive southeast on the PE-3S highway in the direction of Cusco; the turn to Cconoc is near the Apurimac canyon, and the springs are approximately 30 minutes below the main highway. From Cusco, drive west on the PE-3S highway toward Abancay; Cconoc is reached before Curahuasi town, at the canyon descent toward the Apurimac.
Private vehicle or hired transport is the most practical option, as no regular public transport runs directly to the springs. From Abancay, buses toward Cusco stop at Curahuasi; from Curahuasi a local taxi can continue to the springs. Multiple tour operators in both Cusco and Abancay offer day trips to Cconoc including return transport. Visiting with a tour or hired vehicle is recommended, particularly from Cusco, as return transport from the canyon bottom can be difficult to arrange independently.
The dry season from April to October is the best time to visit, when road access is reliable and the canyon climate is clear. The rainy season from December to March brings heavier rainfall and can make the descent road more difficult. Visitors looking for hot springs near Abancay in a canyon river setting will find Cconoc the most accessible thermal option in Apurimac.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Banos Termales de Cconoc
Banos Termales de Cconoc suits families, local Peruvian visitors, and travellers on the Abancay-Cusco route who want a relaxed thermal pool experience at low altitude in a canyon river setting. The warm temperatures (26-35 degrees Celsius) and accessible price (5 soles adults, 3 soles children) make it suitable for a wide range of visitors, including families with young children and those who find high-altitude thermal pools uncomfortable.
The low elevation of 1,780 metres is one of Cconoc's most distinctive features among thermal springs in the Cusco and Apurimac corridor. Visitors acclimatising to Peru before heading to the higher-altitude Sacred Valley or Cusco may find the warmer, lower-altitude canyon setting at Cconoc particularly appealing for a day stop. The springs are open for both day and night visits, and the canyon environment provides warmth in the evenings.
Wheelchair accessibility is not documented for this site. The access road descends into the Apurimac canyon, and the facilities have not published specific accessibility information in the sources used for this listing. Visitors with mobility requirements should contact local tour operators for current access details. The site is a good stop for families seeking hot springs near Abancay who want mineral pools in a natural canyon setting without the physical demands of high-altitude access.
Safety & Etiquette
Banos Termales de Cconoc Safety Tips
Banos Termales de Cconoc is generally safe for most visitors. The thermal pools range from 26 to 35 degrees Celsius, warm but not dangerously hot. Test the temperature before entering and limit time in the warmest pools. The canyon location at 1,780 metres elevation is warmer than the high Andean plateaus, and the combination of heat and humidity can increase dehydration risk when soaking; bring adequate drinking water and drink regularly throughout your visit. Exit any pool if you feel lightheaded or overheated.
The access road into the Apurimac canyon descends steeply from the main PE-3S highway. Take extra care on this road, particularly in the rainy season from December to March when the surface can become slippery or partially blocked by debris. If visiting by private vehicle, low gear is recommended for both the descent and the return climb. Night visits are possible per visitor accounts, but the canyon road is unlit; only visit after dark if you have reliable transport and are confident in road conditions and have a driver familiar with the route.
The nearest town with medical facilities is Curahuasi, approximately 30 minutes away by road. Cell coverage in the canyon bottom can be limited or absent; inform someone of your itinerary before descending. The lower-altitude canyon environment at 1,780 metres supports insects, including mosquitoes; bring insect repellent particularly for afternoon and evening visits. Pool surrounds can be wet and slippery; wear footwear with grip when moving between the changing area and the pools. Bring cash as there are no ATMs at the springs; the nearest ATMs are in Curahuasi, Abancay, or Cusco.
