Cocalmayo hot springs, also known as the Santa Teresa hot springs, are an ideal place to relax after an intense visit to Machu Picchu.
The district of Santa Teresa was created by Law No. 12849. The Provincial Municipality of La Convención also confirms that October 11 of each year commemorates the political creation of the district of Santa Teresa, one of the districts of La Convención Province. It is known at the regional and national levels for the production of fruit, coffee, coca leaves, and other products that grow abundantly thanks to its warm and humid climate.
In 1998, a landslide associated with the Aobamba River basin severely affected the former town of Santa Teresa and almost completely destroyed both the settlement and the hot springs. The town was subsequently relocated.
The town of Santa Teresa is located in the Urubamba River Valley, in the district of the same name, La Convención Province, Cusco region. Cocalmayo is located near the alternative route connecting Hidroeléctrica, Santa Teresa, and Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The Santa Teresa hot springs are located in a beautiful subtropical jungle landscape, with an average annual temperature of 21 °C. The rainy season, as in much of the Cusco region, begins between November and December and usually ends in April. It is characterized by heavy rainfall that, in some cases, can cause landslides and road closures. During winter, the weather is usually dry, and nighttime temperatures can drop to 11 °C. This season runs from May to October and is considered one of the best times to travel.
The district of Santa Teresa is located at an elevation of 1,511 m above sea level and has a population of 5,972 inhabitants, according to the 2017 National Census.
There are several ways to reach this destination. The best option will depend on the traveler's budget, physical condition, and willingness to walk. Below are the main options:
You should take a bus from the Almudena bus stop, located in the Santiago district of Cusco. After approximately five hours of travel by road, you will arrive in the town of Santa María. From there, you should take a shared minivan or taxi to Santa Teresa. This journey takes around one hour on an unpaved road before reaching the town. The hot springs are approximately 10 minutes by car from Santa Teresa or one hour on foot, along a route of about 4 kilometers.
The cost varies depending on the type of transportation chosen (bus, private taxi service, or minivan), but traveling from Cusco to Santa Teresa by land generally costs between S/ 70 and S/ 100 one way.
After visiting Machu Picchu, you can continue to the Cocalmayo hot springs. The usual route involves traveling from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Hidroeléctrica. There are two ways to reach the hot springs: by train or by bus. The journey on foot takes approximately 20 minutes and costs S/ 5 for domestic visitors and USD 31 for international visitors.
In the town of Santa Teresa, you can find everything from budget hostels, with prices starting at around S/ 50, to lodges offering more comfortable services, with prices reaching up to S/ 200. It is important to note that there are no five-star hotels in Santa Teresa; however, Machu Picchu Pueblo offers a wider range of higher-category accommodations.
The entrance fee for international visitors is S/ 10, while domestic visitors pay S/ 5. Visitors from Cusco may have access to a special rate.
The opening hours may vary depending on the season and operating conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to confirm them before traveling.
The complex has three or four pools, depending on which ones are open, with temperatures ranging from approximately 38 °C to 44 °C. It has changing rooms for men and women, showers, camping areas, soccer fields, restaurants, bars, swimwear rental stands, and parking. These hot springs are traditionally attributed with beneficial properties for relieving skin problems, rheumatism, and joint pain.
They also offer a natural hydrotherapy and relaxation experience. If you want to cool off, you can access the cold-water waterfalls fed by Lake Uripata, located next to the hot springs.
Visiting the Cocalmayo hot springs at night is an unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that many of the animals and insects that inhabit the jungle are active during these hours, creating an atmosphere filled with the sounds of cicadas and other characteristic jungle sounds. This creates a very special setting that invites you to relax, enjoy the warm water, and forget about everything else. A recommendation for those visiting Cocalmayo is to bring mosquito repellent, as this subtropical jungle area has a significant presence of insects.
Would you like to visit Cocalmayo during your trip to Machu Picchu?
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Visiting the Cocalmayo hot springs is not recommended during the months of heavy rainfall: January, February, and March.
We recommend bringing swimwear, a towel, a hat, sunscreen, sandals, mosquito repellent, and personal hygiene items.
There is no mandatory length of stay, but most visitors can enjoy the pools for one or two hours.
It is possible, but it depends on your Machu Picchu entrance time, available transportation, and how much time you have after your visit. If you want to enjoy the hot springs at a relaxed pace, it may be more convenient to spend the night in Santa Teresa.
Yes. The complex has changing rooms and showers for visitors. It also offers basic facilities and services that make it possible to spend several hours there.
The complex has restaurants and other services for visitors. To avoid any inconvenience, it is advisable to check the current rules regarding bringing food and drinks into the pools before entering.
Yes, it can be a family-friendly activity as long as children remain under adult supervision. It is important to stay within the designated swimming areas and keep in mind that the pools have different temperatures.
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