The thermal baths of Cocalmayo are located 4 km from the town center of Santa Teresa, approximately 221 km west of Cusco. Nestled against the Urubamba River, these three hot springs constitute a regular stop on the alternative route to Machu Picchu, particularly for travelers taking the Inca Jungle Trek.

Why visit Cocalmayo

Cocalmayo offers a thermal retreat within a striking river gorge, between the Urubamba River and the first forested foothills of the Andes. At approximately 1,600 meters altitude, the site stands out for the clarity of its waters, contrasting with many other Peruvian thermal springs that are often murky. The high temperature of the basins, around 42°C, and the concentration of minerals (calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulfate, bicarbonate) make it a cherished stop for hikers returning from Machu Picchu or Salkantay, who come to ease their muscles after several days of trekking.

The site remains relatively unpretentious: no luxury spa, but well-maintained pools beside a river course, surrounded by dense vegetation. The relaxing properties of hot water are widely recognized; however, the healing claims sometimes displayed (joint pain, skin conditions) rest more on local tradition than established medical evidence.

What to see and do

The three thermal pools

The complex features three basins of varying sizes and depths, fed by natural springs. The bottom is sandy and the exterior walls are lined with sculpted stone, giving the place a well-maintained appearance without breaking from its natural setting. The temperature hovers around 42°C depending on the basin, warm enough for extended immersion yet accessible to most swimmers.

The immediate surroundings

The baths run along the Urubamba River, enclosed between rocky walls covered in tropical vegetation. The surrounding jungle is dense: the site sits at the transition between the Andes cordillera and the upper Amazon. Evenings allow for bathing under a starlit sky, as the facility closes late.

Facilities and additional activities

• Showers and changing rooms
• Sports fields (football in particular)
• Camping area
• Wooden kiosks offering beverages and snacks
• Picnic area

Practical information

Admission is paid, with moderate rates differentiated for foreign visitors, domestic visitors, and children (half price). Prices in soles change regularly; it is advisable to verify on-site or with your accommodation in Santa Teresa before departing.

The site is open throughout the day and closes late, allowing for evening bathing. Remember to bring:

• an effective mosquito repellent (the surrounding jungle hosts plenty of them)
• a towel and sandals
• drinking water to stay hydrated between baths

When to visit

The dry season, from May to October, remains the most comfortable period: passable roads, mild temperatures, and fewer storm risks. It is also peak tourist season, a period when visitor numbers increase significantly, particularly in July-August. The rainy season (November-March) offers a less crowded site but may complicate road access from Cusco.

How to get there

Cocalmayo is reached from Cusco in several stages:

• Bus Cusco → Santa María: approximately 5 hours of travel from Cusco's bus terminals.
• Santa María → Santa Teresa: approximately 1 additional hour by colectivo or minibus.
• Santa Teresa → springs: approximately 10 minutes by colectivo from the edges of the Plaza de Armas, or 20 minutes on foot for hikers.

The site is also frequently included in trekking itineraries (Salkantay, Inca Jungle) that reach Machu Picchu via Hidroeléctrica.

In the surrounding area

Santa Teresa makes a good base for exploring the region:

• The sanctuary of Machu Picchu, accessible via Hidroeléctrica and then a walk along the railway tracks.
• The ruins of Choquequirao, an isolated Inca citadel, reachable after several days of trekking from the Cachora region.
• The ruins of Ollantaytambo, on the classic Sacred Valley route.
• Villages in the Urubamba valley and their coffee and cacao plantations.

Frequently asked questions

Include Cocalmayo in your trip

Cocalmayo integrates easily into an itinerary combining the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Inca Jungle Trek. To plan a custom journey including this thermal stop, consult our suggestions for travel to Peru.