Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a picturesque town in the Cusco region of Peru. It is located in close proximity to the famous archaeological site of Machu Picchu and serves as a base for visitors wishing to explore the ruins. The city is known for its breathtaking nature, relaxed atmosphere and diverse culture. Aguas Calientes offers a wealth of accommodation, restaurants and tourism services to meet the needs of visitors.
geography
Aguas Calientes lies about 2,040 meters above sea level in a valley at the foot of the Peruvian Andes. The city is surrounded by dense rainforests and steep mountain slopes and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain peaks and the Urubamba River. The proximity to Machu Picchu makes Aguas Calientes a popular base for visitors wanting to explore the archaeological site.
Population
The population of Aguas Calientes is around 4,000 inhabitants (as of 2024). The city is a multicultural community that attracts people from different parts of Peru and the world. Most residents are involved in the tourism sector and work in hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and other tourist facilities.
Story
The history of Aguas Calientes is closely linked to the history of Machu Picchu. The city emerged in the 1920s as a starting point for the expeditions of archaeologists and researchers who explored and examined the ruins of Machu Picchu . Over time, Aguas Calientes developed into an important tourist center and a popular destination for visitors wishing to visit the archaeological site.
politics
Aguas Calientes is located in the department of Cusco and is administered by the Peruvian government. The city administration takes care of the public facilities, infrastructure and tourist services in the city. There are also local organizations and communities committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable tourism in Aguas Calientes.
Business
The economy of Aguas Calientes is based primarily on tourism. The city is an important starting point for visitors wishing to visit Machu Picchu , offering a variety of accommodation, restaurants, souvenir shops and other tourist services. The tourism sector provides jobs and income opportunities for the residents of Aguas Calientes and contributes to the city's economic development.
Infrastructure
The infrastructure of Aguas Calientes is designed to meet the needs of visitors to Machu Picchu . The city has a number of hotels and guesthouses, restaurants, souvenir shops, travel agencies and other tourist facilities. There is also a train station that provides train connections to Cusco and other cities in Peru . The roads in Aguas Calientes are well maintained and there are regular bus services to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu .
Culture
The culture of Aguas Calientes is shaped by the city's history, nature and surroundings. Many residents are proud of their connection to Machu Picchu and maintain traditional customs and festivals to celebrate the cultural significance of the archaeological site. There are also a variety of craft shops and local markets offering traditional Peruvian crafts and souvenirs.
Food and Drink
The culinary scene in Aguas Calientes is diverse and offers a wealth of options for visitors. Most restaurants serve traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado and aji de gallina, but there are also a range of international cuisines including Italian, Chinese and Mexican restaurants. Popular drinks in Aguas Calientes include Pisco Sour, Chicha Morada and Inka Kola.
Sports
Sport plays a minor role in Aguas Calientes as the city is primarily geared towards tourism. However, there are some opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking and rafting in the surrounding nature and mountains of the Andes.
tourism
Tourism is the main source of income for Aguas Calientes. The city attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world who want to visit Machu Picchu every year. Popular activities for visitors include guided tours of the ruins, hiking the Inca Trail, visiting the Sun Gate and exploring the surrounding nature and villages. Aguas Calientes offers a variety of accommodation, restaurants and tourist services to meet the needs of visitors.
Aguas Calientes is a charming and hospitable destination that delights visitors with its scenic location, rich history and relaxed atmosphere. The city is an essential stop for anyone wanting to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu and offers a wealth of options for an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.
