Top 3 Best Hot Springs in Cusco

Cusco is home to impressive archaeological sites and natural wonders. Among these natural wonders are the famous hot springs, which is why we are sharing our top 3 best hot springs in Cusco here. Read our travel guide, learn about the properties of each one, and choose your favorite.

The 3 Best Hot Springs in Cusco

1.- Cocalmayo Hot Springs (La Convención)

Located in the district of Santa Teresa, in the province of La Convención, these hot springs are perfect for those who enjoy relaxing after hiking or swimming in turquoise waters.

They are considered the best hot springs in Cusco because of the following:

• Location: They are located approximately 20 km from Machu Picchu. They are a strategic stop for those taking the Hydroelectric Route to Machu Picchu.
• Properties: They have medicinal and therapeutic properties.
• Opening hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm.

Approximate cost

• Foreign visitors: S/ 10.00
• Peruvian nationals: S/ 5.00
• Cusco residents: S/ 2.50
• Children (up to 5 years old): S/ 1.00

2.- Lares Hot Springs (Calca)

Surrounded by high mountains and characterized by a high concentration of minerals, these hot springs are considered among the best because of their medicinal properties, which help relieve rheumatic and muscular pain.

• Location: Just a few minutes from the town of Lares.
• Properties: They contain many minerals, including zinc, copper, magnesium, iron, and more.
• Opening hours: 5:00 am – 11:00 pm.

Approximate cost:

• Foreign visitors: S/ 10.00
• Peruvian nationals: S/ 4.00

In addition, these hot springs are the starting point of the little-known Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.

3.- Pacchanta Hot Springs (Ausangate) 

These hot springs offer a privileged view of Ausangate Mountain (Apu). They rank third because, unlike Cocalmayo and Lares, they have fewer pools.

• Location: In the rural community of Pacchanta.
• Properties: They help improve blood circulation, relax muscles, and reduce tension.
• Opening hours:  5:00 am – 11:00 pm. 

Approximate cost:

• Foreign visitors: S/ 10.00
• Peruvian nationals: S/ 4.00

These hot springs are perfect for relaxing after completing the Ausangate 7 Lakes Route during the Salkantay Trek tour.

Hot Springs Throughout History

• During the Greek era, hot springs were valued for their medicinal properties. It was believed that the benefits were greater for the gods.
• In ancient China, hot springs were used to treat illnesses, unblock the meridians, and harmonize qi with the blood.
• During the Inca era, hot springs were also used for relaxation, physical healing, and certain rituals.

Other Hot Springs in Cusco

• Aguas Calientes Hot Springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo/Aguas Calientes, which enjoy a privileged location close to Machu Picchu.
• Occobamba Hot Springs in Canchis, known as the “La Raya” baths, stand out for their medicinal mud baths.
• Chimur Hot Springs in Paucartambo have green areas where visitors can camp.
• Marcapata Hot Springs in Quispicanchi stand out because they are located near Pachatusan Mountain.
• Minas Moqo Hot Springs in Calca are located just a few hours from the city of Cusco.

Would you like to visit these hot springs during your trip to Cusco but don’t know how to include them in your itinerary? Sign up here, and we will send you a personalized itinerary.

Why Visit the Top 3 Best Hot Springs in Cusco?

• Immediate muscle relief: The fatigue accumulated after a day of trekking will fade as you immerse yourself in the water. Your joints and muscles will recover, allowing you to continue your adventures as usual.
• Improved blood circulation: Without a doubt, the high mineral content of hot springs activates and directly benefits your circulatory system.
• Stress reduction: They are the best remedy for eliminating stress and balancing your body by reducing cortisol and increasing happiness hormones (endorphins).
• Skin health: Hot springs also help alleviate the symptoms of skin problems.

What Should I Bring to the Hot Springs?

• Swimsuit and a long towel. Hot spring water temperatures vary, so it is important to bring a swimsuit that can withstand temperatures above 30°C.
• Sandals for walking around the pools.
• Mosquito repellent if you are visiting hot springs in the upper or lower jungle, such as Cocalmayo or Chimur. It is also recommended to choose an environmentally friendly product because you will be using it regularly.
• 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 in small denominations. Remember that most hot springs are located in rural areas, so they do not accept cards. In addition, some areas have no internet signal.

Combine Hot Springs and Hiking in Cusco

These routes will completely transform your Cusco itinerary, taking you beyond the traditional routes.

• Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu (4 Days) includes 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 to combine with Cocalmayo.
• Ausangate 7 Lakes
• Cusco to Manu, where you will visit the Shintuya Hot Springs.

Relax in the best hot springs in Cusco, visit Machu Picchu, and enjoy Cusco your way. Contact us and request your personalized itinerary.

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