Cocalmayo Hot Springs, located in the Santa Teresa district, La Convención province in Cusco, is a unique destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness. This natural refuge is perfect for recovery after a day of adventure in the Urubamba Valley or a tour of Machu Picchu.
History and Origin of Cocalmayo Hot Springs
The Cocalmayo Hot Springs originate from underground springs in the heart of the Urubamba River Valley. Known since ancient times by local communities, these waters have been valued for their healing properties. Over the years, they have become a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a natural setting.
Benefits of the Hot Springs
The Cocalmayo Hot Springs offer a range of health benefits, such as:
- Relief from muscle and rheumatic pains.
- Improvement in blood circulation.
- Reduction of stress and fatigue.
- Healing properties for the skin.
The thermal water temperature ranges between 38°C and 45°C, providing a deeply relaxing experience, ideal for enjoying after an excursion in the region.
Location and How to Get There
The Cocalmayo Hot Springs are located about 220 km from the city of Cusco, in the town of Santa Teresa. There are several options for reaching this destination:
- Travel by bus from Cusco to Santa María (approximately 5 hours).
- Take a collective or taxi from Santa María to Santa Teresa.
- Once in Santa Teresa, the thermal pools are about a 10-minute drive or a one-hour walk away.
This beautiful destination can also be part of a tour that includes excursions to Machu Picchu and other wonders of the Sacred Valley.
Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Services and Available Activities
The Cocalmayo Hot Springs complex has several pools of different sizes and temperatures, ranging between 34°C and 40°C. Additionally, it offers services such as:
- Changing rooms and showers.
- Camping areas.
- Nearby restaurants and bars.
- Soccer fields and other recreational areas.
Visitors can also enjoy the nearby cold waterfalls, sourced from the Uripata Lagoon, to complement the thermal experience.
Tips for Visiting the Cocalmayo Hot Springs
To make the most of your visit to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, we recommend following these tips:
- Wear comfortable clothing and proper walking shoes. The path to the hot springs may involve a walk, so be sure to wear comfortable and suitable footwear for walking.
- Don’t forget sunscreen. The sun in the region can be strong, so it’s important to protect your skin while enjoying the outdoors.
- Stay hydrated while enjoying the thermal pools. Although the hot springs are relaxing, it’s important to stay well-hydrated during your visit, especially if it’s hot.
- There is no time limit in the pools. Feel free to enjoy the thermal waters at your own pace, as there is no time limit for staying in them.
- Bring a towel and swimwear. Don’t forget your towel to dry off after the bath and comfortable swimwear to enjoy the thermal pools.
- Visit early to avoid crowds. The Cocalmayo Hot Springs can be very popular, so if you prefer peace and quiet, it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning.
- Respect the natural environment. Make sure to not leave any trash and keep the area clean to preserve the beauty of the place.
- Check the water temperature before entering. While the temperature is pleasant, some pools may be hotter than others, so make sure to test them before fully immersing yourself.
- Bring cash. There are not always ATMs available at the site, so it’s recommended to bring cash to pay for entry or additional services.
- Enjoy the nearby waterfalls. If you feel like a change in temperature, you can visit the cold waterfalls near the hot springs for a revitalizing bath.
- Visit during the dry season. The best time to enjoy the hot springs is from May to October, when rain is less frequent and the weather is more stable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we answer some of the most common questions about the Cocalmayo hot springs:
- How much is the entrance fee? The entrance fee is 10 soles for foreign tourists and 5 soles for national tourists.
- Can I stay as long as I want? Yes, there is no time limit for enjoying the hot springs.
- Is it safe to bathe in the waters? Yes, the waters are completely safe and have healing properties.
- What time do the Cocalmayo hot springs open? The pools are open every day, generally from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
- Can I get to the hot springs by public transport? Yes, you can take a bus from Cusco to Santa Teresa and then a taxi or collective to the pools.
- Are the Cocalmayo hot springs suitable for children? Yes, children can enjoy the waters, but they should always be supervised by an adult due to the temperature of the water.
- Are there food services near the hot springs? Yes, there are restaurants and bars around the hot springs where you can enjoy local and international food.
- Can I camp near the hot springs? Yes, the complex has areas for camping if you want a more nature-immersed experience.
- Are there bathrooms and changing rooms available? Yes, the complex has changing rooms and showers for visitors who wish to change before or after entering the pools.
- What is the best time to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs? The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is more stable and warm.
Blog you might be interested in: best time to visit Peru - Do the hot springs have any specific medicinal properties? Yes, it is believed that the waters have healing properties for skin problems, rheumatism, muscle pains, and joints.
- Do I need a reservation to enter? No, it is not necessary to make a reservation to enter, but if you are traveling during the high season, it is recommended to confirm availability.
- What activities can I do around the hot springs? In addition to enjoying the thermal pools, you can hike in the area, explore the Urubamba Valley, or visit the nearby cold waterfalls.
Interesting Facts about the Cocalmayo Hot Springs
The Cocalmayo hot springs are not only a place for relaxation but also a site rich in history, geography, and curiosities. Here are some interesting facts you may not have known:
- Healing properties. The Cocalmayo hot springs are known for their medicinal properties. It is believed that they help relieve muscle pain, rheumatism, and skin problems thanks to their natural minerals.
- Various temperatures. The pools at Cocalmayo offer waters with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 45°C, allowing visitors to choose the pool that best suits their preference.
- Volcanic origin. These hot springs come from underground springs fed by geothermal activity in the area. This gives them their elevated temperature and healing properties.
- Strategic location. Cocalmayo is located near Machu Picchu, making it an ideal place to relax after an exhausting hike to the famous Inca citadel.
- Ancient rituals. Local communities have used these hot springs for centuries, both for therapeutic and ceremonial purposes. It is believed that the ancient inhabitants of the region already considered them a place of healing.
- Cold waters nearby. Right next to the hot pools, you can find cold water waterfalls from the Uripata lagoon, allowing you to alternate between a relaxing and a revitalizing bath.
- Unique accessibility. Unlike many hot springs that require long hikes or difficult transportation, Cocalmayo is easily accessible from Santa Teresa, and many tourists visit it as part of a journey to Machu Picchu.
- An experience for everyone. The Cocalmayo hot springs are suitable for the whole family, including children (always under adult supervision), making this place a perfect destination for all travelers.
- The natural surroundings. In addition to the pools, the area around the hot springs is surrounded by lush vegetation and panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley, making the experience even more memorable.
- A place for rest and adventure. Many travelers combine their visit to the Cocalmayo hot springs with adventure activities such as hiking, cycling tours, or forest walks, making this an ideal destination for adventurers and those seeking relaxation.
Relax and Rejuvenate at the Cocalmayo Hot Springs
The Cocalmayo hot springs are an incredible destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness. With their medicinal waters and unparalleled natural surroundings, this place has earned its place as one of the most attractive destinations in the Cusco region. If you visit Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley, you can’t miss this unique thermal experience.
