Although Aguas Calientes originated as a campsite for engineers and workers of the railway that connected Cusco with Santa Ana in 1901, the town has been adapted for tourism as the years went by, which is why now is possible to experience even more than the majestic Machu Picchu citadel.
The Incas left a deeply-rooted legacy in the Peruvian lands, where ancient mysticism revolves around every single living creature. It is said that during the Spanish conquest, many Inca priests fled to the mountains to keep their cultural heritage alive.
The mystical surroundings of Machu Picchu offer the perfect setting to practice ancient ceremonies that will help you find your spiritual connection with nature, and yourself or strengthen the bond between you and your partner.
Also, if you’ve been following our Aguas Calientes travel guide, you must know that this beautiful village is located right at the heart of the cloud forest, where a dream-like scenery will leave you spellbound as soon as you get there.
1. Andean Wedding
For those looking for a more profound romantic experience through the Andes, there is a distinctive bonding ritual that grants the Pachamama’s blessing and protection to the newlywed couple. It also serves as a vote renovation for those who have been previously married but want to bind their souls to the prosperity and guidance of Mother Earth.
The celebration is often made in a previously selected site, surrounded by mountains and the exuberant nature of the region. Therefore, a well-prepared shaman must guide the ceremony, which is why we have structured a special travel package where a Queros Shaman will lead the whole experience.
The so-called Arac Masin is carried out after the cleaning and purification of the aura, some other rituals also include a fire ceremony, which strips away any bad energy thanks to the fire's mystical power. If you wish to be part of this experience, please check our travel package and strengthen your spiritual bond with your loved one.
2. Sacred Fire Ritual
During the Inca Times, the fire was considered a sacred element since they believed that its “power” transformed dense and dark energy into light. This “heavy” energy was represented by wood or other solid materials in ceremonies.
The Sacred Fire Ritual looks to cleanse the mind and spirit of all negative aspects. Likewise, our ancestors used fire to celebrate and strengthen the bond between the body and soul through prayers to show gratitude and ask for protection
The ceremony takes place in an open-sky natural environment, where the shamans gather around the fire. Later, they pray to the universe and the Pachamama (Mother Earth) with songs and musical instruments, asking to cleanse their souls and minds and to enlighten the path towards the inner self to live in alignment and balance with the world.
If you wish to experience this at its fullest, you’d be glad to know that we count on this activity and you can include it in your itinerary.
Also, we have structured the Andean Wedding package so you can take part in this spiritual enlightenment before the Arac Masin ceremony. For more information, please contact us.
As we said earlier, Aguas Calientes has one of the most flourishing natures of the region since it’s located in such a privileged location. The town itself is as astonishing as you can imagine, the Aguas Calientes river crosses the entire village and continues its course towards the Vilcanota river.
Towering green mountains rise in the surroundings, making you feel guarded by their greatness. Aguas Calientes is also visited by a variety of exotic birds that play along the banks of the river as they hunt insects and look for materials for their nests.
For that reason, we recommend taking some time off to get in touch with nature in this fairytale town. Luckily for you, different activities let you explore and connect with the environment.
If you have some spare time, make sure to explore the Jardines de Mandor, an ecological reserve that houses hundreds of plant species and one of the most visually striking waterfalls in the area. Also, the walk only takes 30-45 minutes from the Aguas Calientes town.
Likewise, some hotels offer a more intimate immersion in the region’s natural heritage, as it is in the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, where they have a collection of over 300 orchid species and much more.
We’d like to highlight that you can organize any of these experiences with us, just make sure to contact our travel specialists and we’ll take care of the rest!
As you may already know, Peru is recognized for its extensive variety of traditional textiles and handicrafts, which is why you can’t leave our country without taking a unique piece of Peruvian art home.
Aguas Calientes is a tourist hub, basically the meeting point for everyone who wishes to visit Machu Picchu. Therefore, if you haven’t found the perfect souvenir to take home, then you must give the Aguas Calientes Market a visit.
Here you’ll find a great variety of textiles, handicrafts, alpaca clothing, and much more. This picturesque market is located near the town’s main square. However, we’d like to mention that it could be a bit pricey, but you surely could find something unique here.
Looking for some Peru travel inspiration? Check our travel packages and start planning the trip of your life! We are eager to show you the best of our country while also providing the most comfortable experience throughout your trip. Find out more while you’re here.
