Visiting Hot Springs Near Cusco
James Bustamante is Native to New York but born to Peruvian parents. He has been traveling throughout Latin America since early 2003 and finally made his home in Peru. James has made his way by eating and traveling through almost every country in Central and South America.
Last Updated on October 22, 2022 by James Bustamante
Visiting hot springs near Cusco is a popular activity among travelers that come to Peru. Relaxing at the thermal springs tends to be widespread towards the end of an itinerary and is particularly welcome among travelers who recently took a multiday hike to Machu Picchu.
The idea of relaxing on the soothing warm waters of an Andean hot spring, relieving muscle pain while gazing at the highland landscape, certainly seems attractive. However, some travelers don’t realize that to reach most of the hot springs near Cusco, a tour will have to be organized because they are not in locations where one can get up one day and head over. Let’s go over some of the most visited hot springs near Cusco.
Pacchanta Hot Springs
The Pacchanta hot springs might not be the most accessible for a day trip outside Cusco, but that might add to the sense of adventure. To get to the Pacchanta hot springs near Cusco, we first need to get to the tiny village of Pacchanta, located near the Ausangate mountain. The hot spring is spread out into many pools of thermal water that vary in temperature, depth, and size. All of them feel fantastic once you jump. If you’re lucky, you’ll see herds of Alpacas munching on grass in the background, which is already beautiful.
How To Get To Pacchanta Hot Springs
The Pacchanta hot springs are located approximately 3 hours from Cusco on paved and dirt roads. Some buses will head in that direction, but to get to Pacchanta, they must take a detour. To get there, you’ll need to leave Cusco early or plan to spend the night at the village. Organized group tours to the hot springs leave at 4:30 am, but private tours can go a couple of hours later. The Pacchanta hot springs are high, 14,000 feet above sea level (4.300 meters).
La Raya Hot Springs
The La Raya hot springs are situated near the “Laguna Langui,” around three hours and fifteen travel distance from Cusco. The La Raya hot springs are attractive; they have indoor and outdoor pools for travelers to try out. However, the pool temperature also varies, some being relatively cool while other pools get pretty hot and reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 Celcius).
How To Get To La Raya Hot Springs
There are a few ways to get to la Raya hot springs. First, since they are near Cusco, a bus will take you to Sicuani; once there, you’ll need to board a second bus to bring you the rest of the way. Travelers can also charter a cab to the La Raya hot springs for $20 to $30. The absolute best way to get there is by leaving at 4:00 am to get there by 7:00 am, having a quick breakfast in Sicuani before entering the springs, and being out by noon. This schedule can be done with a one-day organized trip to La Raya.
Chimur Hot Springs
The Chimur hot springs are yet another fantastic set of pools for travelers to visit and relax in its natural medicinal waters. The Chimur springs are also surrounded by mountaintops and a lush, green rainforest landscape that adds to the beauty of the location.
The crystal clear Chimur thermal waters range from 114 degrees Fahrenheit (46°C) to 128 degrees Fahrenheit (53°C) and, according to the locals, have medicinal properties that help with rheumatic issues.
The Chimur springs stand out over other similar thermal ponds due to the visually stunning landscape. This day trip is recommended for anyone finishing a week-long hiking schedule.
How To Get To Chimur Hot Springs
To reach the Chimur hot springs, you’ll need to leave Cusco at 4:00 am and drive for 2 hours to the city of Paucartambo. On the way to Paucartambo, I recommend stopping to have breakfast near the old colonial bridge. There are a few places where you can get freshly baked bread, cheeses, eggs, coffee, juice, etc.
After having breakfast, travelers will continue for another 2 hours until finally arriving at the Chimur hot springs. The total travel time is long, even for a day tour, but the beautiful scenery and relaxing highland hot springs are well worth the trip.
Minas Moqo Hots Springs
The Minas Moqo hot springs, in a similar fashion to other thermal waters, are said to relieve rheumatoid diseases, skin problems, and even intestinal disorders. Some locals even claim that the Minas Moqo springs also cure metabolic diseases. Of course, we can’t confirm or deny this, but they are very relaxing.
These springs are not very hot, bordering between 65 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit, at least not when you compare them to the other thermal waters in this list. The water is packed with specific chemical compositions, which are unique according to the people that live near the springs.
How to Get To Minas Moqo Hot Springs
Getting to Minas Poqo hots springs is quicker than other regional thermal ponds. First, travelers must head to the town of Calca, located 32 miles (52 km) from the city of Cusco. While visiting the hot springs, visitors will have a chance to see the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site due to its proximity.
What To Pack When Visiting Hot Springs Near Cusco?
- A Towel. Visitors need a towel to dry off and cover up after leaving the hot springs. Remember that it might be hot in the water the highlands might be cold in the mornings.
- Swimsuit/bathing suit. Thermal bath locations will require travelers to wear bathing suits to enter the pools, so make sure to pack one in your daypack.
- Sandals. Sandals or any grippy, reliable, comfortable footwear (Crocs, for example). Travelers will also walk around the pools, and walking around barefoot might not be comfortable.
- Soap. Before entering any hot springs, travelers will be asked to take a quick shower in the same fashion you would before entering a pool.
- Lock. Travelers will find that most hot spring locations have lockers to put away your items, so it is a good idea to bring a small lock.
- Cash. Most hot springs will have a small entry fee, so it is essential always to carry around cash. Make sure to bring along Peruvian soles.
Conclusion
If you are looking to Visit hot springs near Cusco, there are plenty to choose from 2-4 hours away. Most travelers will be happy to know they can visit them on their own using public transportation, but it is good to know that there are organized tours as well.
It is also important to keep an open mind. Some travelers might be expecting luxury-oriented thermal baths, and while a few do fit that description, most are more rustic. All the hot springs on the list are in beautiful locations, so there will be no shortage of natural beauty surrounding you.
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