In Cusco, besides archaeological sites, trekking routes, and the world wonder of Machu Picchu, you can also find spectacular hot springs where you can relax after an epic adventure. If you are looking for the best hot springs in Cusco, we will tell you everything you need to know and which ones combine nature, wellness, and culture.
At Peru Jungle Trips, we have accompanied thousands of travelers on their adventures through the Cusco Andes and the Peruvian Amazon. Contact us, and we will take care of planning all the logistics while you relax in the best hot springs in Cusco.
History of Hot Springs
Throughout history, hot springs have been present in different civilizations. In ancient Greece, people valued hot springs for their medicinal benefits and believed they offered many benefits to the gods, as they helped improve physical condition, maintain health, and treat certain illnesses.
In ancient China, the “Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic” states that people used hot springs to treat illnesses and unblock the meridians, harmonizing the blood with qi. During the Han Dynasty, hot springs were recognized for treating conditions such as rheumatism and skin disorders.
As we continue through history, we arrive at the time of the Incas. In the Inca Empire, people also used hot springs for relaxation, physical healing, and certain rituals. In fact, in the department of Cajamarca, there are the famous “Inca Hot Springs”. Consequently, throughout history, hot springs have been recognized for their healing properties, which makes them especially valuable in Cusco.
Why Visit the Hot Springs in Cusco?
Without a doubt, the hot springs of Cusco are one of the region’s lesser-known attractions, even though you can easily include them in your itinerary! We recommend visiting them because, in addition to offering a place to relax, many are surrounded by mountains, rivers, and landscapes characteristic of the Andes and the Cusco jungle’s cloud forest region.
Hot springs are natural springs that, due to the high temperatures generated by geothermal activity, emerge from the ground at high temperatures. Immersing yourself in these hot springs after a long hike, which is characteristic of trekking routes to Machu Picchu, can help you:
- Relieve muscle pain: after a full-day trek, there is nothing better than relaxing in hot springs. Your muscles and joints will thank you.
- Improve blood circulation: hot springs have a high mineral content, which is very beneficial for your blood circulation!
- Reduce stress: if you have elevated cortisol levels, the minerals in the water can help reduce cortisol levels and increase endorphin production.
- Contribute to the treatment of skin conditions.
- Complement natural treatments.
Spectacular Hot Springs in Cusco
Cocalmayo Hot Springs (Santa Teresa)
Located in the district of Santa Teresa, they are perfect if you are doing the Inca Jungle Trek or taking the Hydroelectric route to Machu Picchu.
- They are located approximately 20 km from Machu Picchu, so you can visit these hot springs if you are going to Machu Picchu via the Hydroelectric route.
- They have 3 pools.
- Location: a few minutes from the town of Santa Teresa (La Convención). You can get there on foot or by taxi or private bus.
- Opening hours: 6:00 am–10:00 pm.
Approximate Cost
- Foreigners: S/ 10.00
- Nationals (Peruvians): S/ 5.00
- Residents of Cusco: S/ 2.50
- Children (up to 5 years old): S/ 1.00
You can reach these hot springs by taking a bus or colectivo to Santa María / Santa Teresa. When asking for information, simply ask which buses take you to the Hydroelectric route to Machu Picchu, followed by a 15–20-minute mototaxi ride to the hot springs.
Lares Hot Springs (Calca)
These hot springs are the starting point of the lesser-known Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. Lares Hot Springs are characterized by their surroundings of high mountains and their high concentration of minerals such as zinc, copper, magnesium, iron, among others. In addition to giving the water a yellowish color, these minerals benefit the human body by relieving rheumatic and muscle pain.
- Location: Lares district s/n. A few minutes from the town of Lares.
- Opening hours: 5:00 am–11:00 pm.
Approximate Cost:
- Foreigners: S/ 10.00
- Nationals (Peruvians): S/ 4.00
Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (Machu Picchu Town)
Aguas Calientes is one of the most famous hot springs in Cusco. However, due to its strategic location, hundreds of tourists visit every day, so the pools may be more crowded compared to other hot springs such as Cocalmayo.
Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) gets its name from the existence of its hot springs.
- Location: in the province of Urubamba, 10 km from Machu Picchu (World Wonder).
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 5:00 am–8:00 pm.
Approximate Cost:
- Foreign adult: S/ 20.00
- National adult: S/ 10.00
- Local adult: S/ 5.00
Pacchanta Hot Springs (Ausangate)
There is nothing better than relaxing in hot springs after a challenging hiking route such as the 7 Lakes of Ausangate. These hot springs are located in the community of Pacchanta, Ocongate. The views are privileged, as you can see Mount Ausangate.
- Location: Pacchanta, a rural community in Ausangate.
- Opening hours:
Monday–Friday: 4:30 am–8:00 pm
Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 4:30 am–8:30 pm
Approximate Cost:
- General adult rate (national and foreign): S/ 5.00
- Local or Cusco resident: S/ 3.00
Occobamba Hot Springs (Canchis)
Also known as the “La Raya” hot springs, these hot springs stand out for their variety of public and private pools, as well as their medicinal mud baths.
- Location: in the district of Occobamba, near the border crossing between the regions of Cusco and Puno.
- Opening hours: 6:00 am–6:00 pm
Approximate Cost
- Private pools (adults): S/ 8.00
- Outdoor pools (adults): S/ 5.00
- Outdoor pools (children): S/ 2.00
Chimur Hot Springs (Paucartambo)
Known for its crystal-clear waters, high temperatures, and green areas where you can camp!
- Location: in the district of Challabamba, province of Paucartambo. Approximately 4 hours from Cusco.
- Opening hours:
Approximate Cost:
- Adults: S/ 4.00
- Children: S/ 2.00
Marcapata Hot Springs (Quispicanchi)
These hot springs are located near the enigmatic Pachatusan Mountain, in the district of Marcapata.
- Location: in the district of Marcapata.
- Opening hours: 8:00 am–5:00 pm
Approximate Cost:
- General rate: S/ 3.00
Minas Moqo Hot Springs (Calca)
Just over 500 meters from Calca, you can find these hot springs, which feature a single natural pool measuring 5 meters in length and width. Like other hot springs, Minas Moqo has healing properties and can help relieve pain caused by polyarthritis and metabolic diseases.
- Location: in the city of Calca.
- Opening hours: all day.
Approximate Cost:
- Adult: S/ 2.00
- Child: S/ 1.00
Are you ready to visit these hot springs? If so, we recommend bringing cash because internet connectivity is generally poor at the hot springs.
What to Bring to the Hot Springs?
- Swimwear and a towel.
- Sandals for walking around the pools.
- A change of clothes and a bag for your wet clothes.
- Sunscreen and a hat (at high-altitude hot springs, the Andean sun can be intense).
- Cash in Peruvian soles, as most of these places do not accept cards and some do not have internet service.
- Mosquito repellent if you are visiting hot springs in the high or low jungle, such as Cocalmayo or Chimur.
Experience the Complete Cusco Adventure
Do you want to combine hot springs with different tours in Cusco? We have some special expeditions for you!
- Inka Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu (4 Days) is the only route that includes time to relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs.
- Ausangate Trek (5 Days) ends the day at the Pacchanta hot springs.
- Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain (3 Days)
- Machu Picchu in 2 Days by Road is ideal for combining with Cocalmayo.
- 7 Lakes of Ausangate
Now that you know about the hot springs of Cusco, don’t wait any longer and book your trip with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hot springs are closest to Machu Picchu?
The Aguas Calientes hot springs (Machu Picchu Town) are the closest to the Inca citadel. The Cocalmayo hot springs are the second closest. Both are accessible if you visit Machu Picchu via the Hydroelectric route or by train.
Are the hot springs in Cusco safe for swimming?
Yes, most hot springs receive regular maintenance and have staff on site. They also have areas where you can shower before and after entering the water. We recommend showering before and after using the pools and avoiding submerging your head in pools with temperatures above 45°C.
Can I visit several hot springs on the same trip?
Yes. Many trekking routes to Machu Picchu, such as the Inca Jungle Trek (Cocalmayo), Lares Trek (Lares), and Ausangate Trek (Pacchanta), include a visit to hot springs as part of the itinerary.
Do I need to book in advance?
It is not mandatory for most hot springs, but if you want to do trekking routes to Machu Picchu, such as the Inca Jungle Trek or Lares Trek, during the high season (June to August), you need to book at least 3 months in advance. If you plan to visit the hot springs independently, the most popular pools, such as Cocalmayo and Aguas Calientes, can fill up quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your itinerary carefully so you can enjoy the best of Cusco without complications.
