If you are heading to Machu Picchu, chances are you will pass through Aqua Calientes. We stayed in this tourist town for a couple days, as we checked out the Machu Picchu Area. Its a vibrant city with lots of restaurants, stores and touristy things to do, plus the train station is right there so you can get to Sacred Valley, Cusco and Machu Picchu all from the same area.
The hotel we stayed at Taypikala was beautiful. Located on the top of the hill, you get a great view of the mountains and Aqua Calientes. The service was excellent, location great and the staff friendly. We weren't as happy with our room, and they upgraded us for free for no extra charge! They were even nice enough to give us food to take on our day trip to Machu Picchu. Very friendly and thoughtful staff.
You will find a lot to do in this city, especially when it comes to restaurants, tours and grabbing drinks. The area near the train station is really nice, a great view of the river and the mountains. Absolutely stunning.
Tip:
- When grabbing food in Aqua Calientes, be mindful of all the deals they offer you. Everywhere you will find 3 course meals for 15/20 soles. However sometimes the portions aren't what you expect and they will throw in a servico charge which is basically a high tip. You pretty much have to negotiate your meals. You will find that a lot on the main hill (which we nicknamed harassment hill based in being constantly harassed to come in to basically every restaurant).
- prices fluctuate here so sometimes it's worth taking a bit of a walk around to find the best price on items
- don't buy from the market here. It's way more expensive then the Pisac and cusco ones, which have the same things for one third the price.
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