Inca Trail trekkers, weary travellers, wonderers of the great outdoors, take heed. You have climbed and descended great mountains, wondered through cloud forests, jungles and spectacular ancient ruins. You’re limbs are weary, your bones and muscles sore. Now is the time for rejuvenation.
In the valley beneath the climactic end to your journey, the jungle ridge ruins of Machu Picchu, is the little town of Agua Caliente (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Here you will stay for a night, maybe more. Rest, you deserve it, but you must do more.
The thermal baths of Agua Caliente have long been believed to have curative powers. Heated by sulphur beneath the earth, their waters emerge from the subsoil at temperatures of 38C to 46C, and they’re a wonder for aching muscles and bones.
They’re situated 15-25 minutes amble out of town. Follow the main road to the right of the Plaza that climbs the hill. Cross the bridge over the roaring Urabamba, walk down the pretty forest path and you’re there. Entrance cost US$4.
Now, if you’re expecting idyllic rock pools in curvaceous natural surrounds, you will be disappointed. Shaped like square swimming pools, the baths are laid in descending narrow cement platforms. That said, having been recently refurbished, they’re really not that bad. Surrounded by lush green vegetation, with a sheer cliff on one side, they are approached by a raised walkway that clings to the cliff side above the baths – its stone foundation, timber railings and bridge quite a pretty site as you bathe. Equally benefiting the aesthetic are little palm trees in circular and square grass plots between the baths.
There are a number of baths: some hot, some cold, some big, some small, and one with waterspouts. There are also showers, a place to store your luggage and small stone café that sells snacks, cold drinks and beer.
But, while it might be tempting to come here at the immediate end of your journey, the baths get crowded and grimy in the afternoon and night, so get yourself a nice meal, relax in a bar and have an early night before rising for thermal soothing morning.
Ben Connor 