Urubamba River Walk
A breathtaking journey alongside the Urubamba River, leading to the gateway of Machu Picchu. Choose the scenic train or an unforgettable walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Urubamba River Walk
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking journey alongside the Urubamba River, leading to the gateway of Machu Picchu. Choose the scenic train or an unforgettable walk.
"Choose this walk from Hidroelectrica to Aquas Calientes instead of taking the train. Takes 2 hours, but the views are worth it!"
🚶 Walk from Hidroeléctrica
Save money and enjoy incredible views by walking the 2-hour path to Aguas Calientes instead of taking the train.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for the varied terrain along the river path.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Urubamba River Path
From Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
A breathtaking 2-hour walk alongside the river, offering stunning mountain and jungle vistas.
The Adventurous Bridge Crossing
Various points along the river
Experience thrilling bridge crossings that add an element of adventure to your riverside exploration.
Gateway to Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes
The charming town of Aguas Calientes, nestled by the river, serves as the essential base for visiting Machu Picchu.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey to Aguas Calientes
Timing Your Riverside Stroll
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk from Hidroeléctrica
Save money and enjoy incredible views by walking the 2-hour path to Aguas Calientes instead of taking the train.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for the varied terrain along the river path.
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day.
📸 Capture the scenery
The route offers numerous photo opportunities of the river and surrounding mountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk from Hidroeléctrica
Save money and enjoy incredible views by walking the 2-hour path to Aguas Calientes instead of taking the train.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for the varied terrain along the river path.
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day.
📸 Capture the scenery
The route offers numerous photo opportunities of the river and surrounding mountains.
🌧️ Be prepared for rain
Pack a rain jacket as weather can change quickly in the region.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the scenic beauty of the Urubamba River Walk, particularly the trek from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, praising its value and stunning natural vistas. Some find the bridge crossings thrilling, while others note the wildness of the surrounding mountains.
"What a scenic place!! One of my favourite viewpoints during the Salkantay trek!"
Kisiel Hehuś
"An interesting bridge, but crossing it is only for the brave."
Petr Vodáček
"Choose this walk from Hidroelectrica to Aquas Calientes instead of taking the train. Takes 2 hours, but the views are worth it! Also you save a lot of money"
A.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular starting point for the Urubamba River Walk is Hidroeléctrica. From Cusco, you can take a collectivo or bus to Hidroeléctrica, which takes several hours. Alternatively, many travelers take the PeruRail train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying scenic views along the Urubamba River.
Walking from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes takes about 2 hours and is significantly cheaper than the train. It's also highly recommended for its beautiful scenery.
While the Urubamba River flows through the Sacred Valley, direct access for a 'walk' from Cusco is not typical. The most common river walks are near Aguas Calientes or within the Sacred Valley itself, like the one mentioned near Urquillos.
You can take a train from Cusco (Poroy station) or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Another option is a combination of bus/collectivo to Hidroeléctrica followed by a walk or short train ride.
Occasionally, landslides can affect routes to Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes. It's advisable to check local conditions before your travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes along the Urubamba River is generally free and open to the public.
The river walk is accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to start your walk with ample time before sunset for safety and enjoyment.
Aguas Calientes itself does not have an entrance fee. However, you will need to purchase tickets for Machu Picchu if you plan to visit the citadel.
It's highly recommended to book your PeruRail or Inca Rail tickets to Aguas Calientes well in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out.
Most of the bridges are part of the public access routes and do not have a fee. However, some smaller, more rustic crossings might have a small local toll.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes is considered moderate. It's mostly flat with some uneven terrain, taking approximately 2 hours.
You'll experience lush cloud forest, dramatic mountain views, and the powerful Urubamba River itself. It's a very wild and beautiful route.
There are limited facilities directly on the path from Hidroeléctrica. It's best to carry snacks and water. Aguas Calientes offers plenty of dining options.
The walk is generally safe, but it's important to stay on the designated path, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night.
Pack comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a rain jacket, plenty of water, and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Look for dramatic river bends, the various bridges, the lush vegetation, and the distant mountain peaks. The approach to Aguas Calientes also offers great shots.
Yes, the PeruRail trains are a common sight along the river, and you can capture them against the stunning natural backdrop.
Drone regulations can be strict in Peru, especially near protected areas like Machu Picchu. It's best to check current regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Aguas Calientes itself is a lively town with plenty of family-friendly restaurants. While the focus is often Machu Picchu, the journey along the Urubamba River offers a chance for kids to connect with nature and experience a different side of Peru. Look for bridges that are easily accessible and safe for a brief exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
When in Aguas Calientes, look for hostels and budget-friendly eateries to keep costs down. While the train is convenient, the walk provides an unforgettable experience that aligns perfectly with a desire for adventure and value.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Aguas Calientes: Train vs. Walk
For the more adventurous and budget-conscious traveler, the walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes is a highly recommended alternative. This approximately 2-hour trek follows the railway tracks and the river, offering stunning views of the lush cloud forest and dramatic mountain scenery. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region and is often cited as a highlight by travelers.
When choosing between the two, consider your priorities: comfort and speed versus cost and immersive nature experience. Both options provide a memorable introduction to the wonders of the Machu Picchu region.
Navigating the Urubamba River Bridges
These crossings are integral to the experience of exploring the areas around the Urubamba River, connecting different trails and communities. While some are part of the main routes, others might be smaller, local bridges that enhance the feeling of discovery. Always exercise caution and assess the safety of any bridge before crossing.
For those seeking an authentic adventure, seeking out these varied river crossings can be a rewarding part of exploring the Urubamba River's diverse landscapes. They offer unique perspectives and a tangible connection to the wild environment.
The Mystique of the Urubamba River
Many travelers experience the Urubamba River through its scenic train routes or the popular walk from Hidroeléctrica. The river's presence is constant, shaping the landscape and providing a dramatic backdrop to the journey. Its waters are said to have spiritual significance, connecting the various sacred sites along its path.
Beyond its role as a transport route, the Urubamba River is a symbol of the raw, untamed beauty of the Andes. Its journey from the highlands to the Amazon basin is a testament to the powerful natural forces at play in Peru.
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