The thermal baths of Cocalmayo, also known as the thermal baths of Santa Teresa Machu Picchu is a perfect for relaxing after an exciting visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. After exploring this incredible place, you’ll likely feel tired and in need of some relaxation.
Location Cocalmayo
The town of Santa Teresa is located in the Urubamba River, in the province of La Convención, Cusco. It is about 14 kilometers from Machu Picchu Pueblo and 220 kilometers from the city of Cusco.
Climate on Cocalmayo
The thermal baths of Santa Teresa are surrounded by beautiful subtropical jungle scenery, with an average temperature of 21°C. The rainy season lasts from November to April, and during this time, there can be heavy rains that may cause landslides and road closures. From May to October, the weather is drier and cooler, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 11°C, making these the best months to visit.
Elevation and Population
Santa Teresa sits at an altitude of 1,511 meters above sea level and, according to the 2017 census, has a population of 5,972 inhabitants.
History of Colcalmayo
The district of Santa Teresa was established on October 11, 1957, and is famous for producing fruit, coffee, and coca leaves, thanks to its mild and humid climate. In 1998, a landslide from the Aobamba River destroyed much of the town and the thermal baths. The town was later relocated 50 kilometers upstream.
How to Get to Cocalmayo
There are several ways to reach Cocalmayo, depending on your budget and willingness to walk.
By Bus from Cusco: Take a bus from the ‘Almudena’ station in Cusco. The trip takes about 5 hours to reach Santa María. From there, take another bus or a taxi to Santa Teresa, which is about an hour away on a dirt road. The hot springs are 10 minutes by car or an hour on foot (4 km) from Santa Teresa. The cost of the trip varies between S/.70 and S/.100 one-way, depending on the type of transport.
Tour from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu): Cocalmayo is just 14 kilometers from Machu Picchu. You can either walk for about 3 hours from the ‘Hidroeléctrica’ station to Santa Teresa, surrounded by lush tropical scenery, and then walk an additional hour to reach the hot springs, or you can take the train to Hidroeléctrica, which takes about 20 minutes, and continue by foot or car. The train ride costs S/.5 for Peruvians and USD31 for foreign visitors.
- Tour recommended: Salkantay Trek 5 Days
Hotels in Cocalmayo
In Santa Teresa town , you’ll find accommodations starting at S/.50 and more luxurious lodges that can cost up to S/.200. There are no five-star hotels in Santa Teresa, but you can find them in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Entrance Fee to the Hot Springs
The entrance fee is S/.10 for foreigners and S/.5 for nationals. The hot springs are open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Features of the Hot Springs
Cocalmayo has three large pools of crystal-clear water from underground sources, with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 45°C. The complex offers changing rooms, showers, camping areas, sports fields, restaurants, bars, bathing suit rentals, and parking. The waters are said to have healing properties for skin problems, rheumatism, and joint pain, while also providing a natural hydrotherapy experience. If you want to cool off, you can enjoy the cold waterfalls of the Uripata lagoon, located next to the hot springs.
Cocalmayo at Night
Visiting the thermal baths at night is an unforgettable experience. The sounds of the jungle, such as cicadas, create a unique atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent, as the area is filled with insects due to the lush vegetation.
Other Tours in Cocalmayo
Besides relaxing in the hot springs, there are other activities you can enjoy in Santa Teresa:
- Adventure Sports: Santa Teresa is perfect for zip-lining, rafting, and rock climbing. These activities can be booked through local agencies.
- Hydroelectric Walk: The walk from the Hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes is a pleasant 10-kilometer hike through stunning scenery. The route is safe and follows the train tracks along the Vilcanota River.
- Visit Machu Picchu: You can visit Machu Picchu before or after your trip to Cocalmayo. It’s about 20 kilometers away and can be reached by foot or by train. Machu Picchu is open daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Visit Quillabamba: Located 49 kilometers from Cocalmayo, Quillabamba offers waterfalls, pools, and green landscapes. Known as the ‘City of Eternal Summer’ for its warm climate, it’s a great place to relax.
