Every day, thousands of travelers from all over the world arrive at Machu Picchu seeking wonder, history, and spectacular landscapes. The Inca citadel not only dazzles with its millenary stone architecture but also with the natural environment that surrounds it. But the charm doesn’t end after touring the archaeological site: the surroundings of Machu Picchu offer additional activities to extend and complement your adventure.
From ecological trails to thermal baths and tropical gardens, here we present 6 ideal activities to do after visiting the sacred city.
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1. Explore the Machu Picchu Site Museum
Located about a 30-minute walk from Aguas Calientes, the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum safeguards important archaeological findings extracted from the area. This space, named in honor of a pioneer of Cusco archaeology, offers an educational experience with interactive exhibits, maps, models, and historical objects returned by Yale University.
In addition to its historical focus, the museum covers topics such as the biodiversity of the Historical Sanctuary and the connections between the Andes and the Amazon.
- Price: S/22 adults, S/11 university students, S/8 schoolchildren. Free entry from 12:00 p.m. by presenting your Machu Picchu ticket.
- Location: Kilometer 112 of the Hiram Bingham road, a few meters from Puente Ruinas (Ruins Bridge).
2. Stroll Among Andean Sculptures in Machu Picchu Town
The “Circuito Crónicas de Piedra” (Stone Chronicles Circuit) invites you to walk through Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) while discovering more than 30 stone sculptures, inspired by the Andean worldview. These artistic pieces pay homage to figures like the Pachamama, the Condor, the Puma, the Ukuku, and many other Inca deities or symbols.
The sculptures, created by local and foreign artists during a contest in 2017, are distributed throughout the town’s streets, providing a free, cultural, and accessible experience for everyone.
- Price: Mostly free. Some sculptures are inside the thermal baths (see next section).
- Tip: Walk along Pachacútec Avenue and its surroundings to discover the most impressive works.
3. Hike to the Mandor Gardens
Just 5 kilometers (about 3 miles) from Aguas Calientes, following the railway line that connects with the Hidroeléctrica station, are the charming Mandor Gardens, a natural space where tranquility reigns. This hidden paradise stands out for its varied vegetation, ecological trails, and a 30-meter (about 98 feet) waterfall perfect for cooling off.
During the walk, visitors can observe hummingbirds, butterflies, wild orchids, and, with luck, exotic birds such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock or even the shy spectacled bear.
- Price: S/10 foreigners, S/5 Peruvians.
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, photography, and ecotourism.
4. Relax in the Hot Springs of Aguas Calientes
After exploring Machu Picchu and possibly one of its mountains, there’s nothing better than a good dose of rest. The thermal baths of Aguas Calientes, just a 10-minute uphill walk from the central plaza, offer eight pools of different temperatures (between 12°C and 42°C / 54°F and 108°F), fed by natural volcanic springs.
In addition to relieving muscle fatigue, these waters have therapeutic properties that help relax the body and mind. The complex has services such as changing rooms, showers, bathrooms, and a small cafeteria.
- Price: S/20 foreigners, S/10 Peruvians, S/5 Cusco residents.
- Hours: From 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
5. Visit the Machu Picchu Butterfly House
Did you know that Machu Picchu is one of the places with the greatest diversity of butterflies in Peru? The local butterfly house is home to over 350 registered species and allows visitors to learn about their life cycle, from egg to complete metamorphosis.
This project, founded in 2006, is located on the road connecting Aguas Calientes to the archaeological site. Here you can see colorful and rare species, such as the “Battus madyes monteban”, and also participate in controlled release experiences.
- Price: S/10 per person.
- Extra: You can also see butterflies in the Mandor Gardens or during hikes in the area.
6. Walk to the Hidroeléctrica Station
The pedestrian route connecting Aguas Calientes with the Hidroeléctrica station is one of the most adventurous alternatives for travelers. With an approximate distance of 10 kilometers (one way), the trail follows the train tracks along the Vilcanota River, surrounded by lush vegetation, tropical birds, and Andean-Amazonian landscapes.
This route is common among backpackers or those doing the Salkantay Trek, and offers an economical, peaceful, and scenic way to explore the surroundings of Machu Picchu.
- Price: Free.
- Important tip: In the last section towards Aguas Calientes, there is a detour that avoids two tunnels. Follow the signs for greater safety.
Which Activity Suits You Best?
Whether you are looking to relax in thermal waters, immerse yourself in the history of the Inca Empire, or enjoy the surrounding biodiversity, these complementary activities will allow you to have a more complete experience in Machu Picchu.
Final tip: Reserve an extra day in your itinerary to calmly enjoy these alternatives. Machu Picchu is not just a citadel; it is an entire universe to discover.