The colloquial name for Machu Picchu Pueblo, the closest city to Machu Picchu, Aguas Caliente sits about 6 kilometers from the Lost City of the Incas and boasts many of the tourist amenities desired by those visiting the area, including accommodations and restaurants. The name of the city – which means “hot waters” – stems from the natural hot baths that are found there.
Trains arrive here daily from Cuzco, full of travelers heading to Machu Picchu. It would take about an hour-and-a-half to walk to Machu Picchu from Aguas Caliente but most visitors hop the tourist train. Visitors should also check out the local Machu Picchu Museum and take advantage of a number of other interesting hiking trails that originate in Aguas Caliente.