Being from western Colorado, which abounds with natural hot springs, I had to add this to the website…let’s soak!
Agua Caliente’s economy is based around tourism providing all the necessary services such as hotels and restaurants, as well as its fair share of souvenir shops and stalls. Of course it’s Machu Picchu that people have came to visit and Aguas Calientes itself has little to offer the tourist apart from its thermal springs believed to possess curative powers.
The outdoor thermal pools can be found 15 minutes walk out of town (follow the main street to the right of the Plaza up hill), and costs US$3 to enter. There are changing facilities, showers, luggage storage and a small cafe selling snacks, cold drinks and beer.
There are several pools of varying size and temperature including one filled with ice cold mountain water so check first before jumping in!. The springs have been recently refurbished and are good place to relax, especially after completing the Inca Trail. Open 0500-2100. Take soap and shampoo.