Hot Springs in Peru
Much of South America is ripe with hot springs, but Peru has more than most of the other countries. As a matter of fact, Peru boasts some 400 thermal sources along the Andes Mountains, some that reach up to about 190 degrees Fahrenheit, just twenty or so degrees short of the boiling point of water! (Obviously, you’ll want to avoid those.)
For centuries, these thermal springs have been a favorite with locals and visitors, offering the potential of healing a variety of ailments as well as simply providing a wonderful place to relax. Many organized tours offer stops at one or more hot springs or “thermal baths” within the country. Many include any opportunity to indulge in a massage or other spa treatment if offered at those locations. Of course, guests traveling on their own can visit as well and will probably welcome a long soak after a strenuous hike or other extreme activity.
§ Aguas Calientes – The name of this town literally means “hot waters.” The closest access point to Machu Picchu, this town on the Urubamba River has long been known for its natural hot baths, which were destroyed by a flood several years ago but have been rebuilt. Very popular with the locals and often quite crowded, these thermal baths are accompanied by changing rooms and an onsite café. It’s a great place to hang out after completing the Inca Trail. A swimsuit, towel, and sandals are required to enter.
§ Inca Baths – Located in the town of Cajamarca, the Inca Baths were said to be favorites of the Inca rulers. The waters here were long considered medicinal and remain popular today. Stone canals and fountains date back to Inca days and many structures have been preserved intact. New pools have been recently built for groups and individuals and temperatures at the hot springs reach about 158 degrees F. However, most pools used for relaxing and curative purposes hover around 98-105 degrees.
§ Yuras and Aguas de Jesus – These two thermal baths are located 17 and 4 miles from Arequipa, respectively. Temperatures at both hot springs reach about 75-80 degrees F, so they’re not as hot as some of the others. Nonetheless, local doctors recommend them as a treatment for a number of different ailments ranging from rheumatoid arthritis to respiratory diseases.
§ La Calera Hot Springs – Located 3 km outside the town of Chivay, here you’ll find two large swimming pools, one indoor and one outdoor, both kept at a temperature of around 98 degrees F. There are showers onsite, lockers are available, and there’s a café on the premises as well. You can walk to the hot springs from the town or take a cab or bus.
§ Churin/Picoy – The mountain town of Churin boasts a small resort – Mamahaurmi – with several pools of thermal waters. However, by most people’s standards, the water here is less than thermal. Also nearby is Picoy, where the waters are a lot hotter.
§ Chilca Lakes – All the lakes here are quite famous for their supposed therapeutic properties and each has been assigned a name and a list of ailments they can help treat. Laguna Milagrosa (The Miraculous Lake) is said to be advantageous for those with rheumatism and acne, while Laguna Mellicera (The Twins' Lake) is ideal for treating gynecological problems. Laguna Encantada (The Enchanted Lake) is used by individuals suffering from nervous and skin problems.
§
San Mateo – Situated near the town of
Moyobamba, this complex has hot baths, cool swimming pools, and waterfalls.
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