Tour overview
We invite you to discover Santa Teresa and the Cocalmayo hot springs, an oasis of warm water on the edge of the cloud forest, a short distance from the route to Machu Picchu. We operate this full-day tour from Cusco, with private transport and a trail guide, so you can combine the scenic drive with a relaxing soak in the municipal pools rebuilt after the 2010 floods. It is the right plan if you want nature, warmth, and rest without giving up a day well organized by KYD Tours.
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Best time to travel Year-round; warm weather on the cloud-forest edge
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Approximate altitude ~1,600 m a.s.l. (Santa Teresa area)
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Physical difficulty Low; travel by vehicle and bathing in the hot springs
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Minimum number of passengers 2 adults
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Maximum number of passengers 10 adults
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Booking lead time 1 day in advance
Overview
- Full-day tour: Cusco → Santa Teresa → Cocalmayo thermal pools → return to Cusco.
- Morning: scenic transfer from Cusco and arrival at Cocalmayo (entrance fee not included).
- Afternoon: time in the hot springs and return to Cusco at dusk or in the evening.
- Includes private transport and a trail guide. Entrance tickets and meals are not included.
Itinerary
Morning — Cusco – Santa Teresa – Cocalmayo
We leave Cusco early in our private transport. We descend along the route toward Santa Teresa, leaving the highland altitude behind and entering a warmer climate and landscapes of mountains covered in vegetation. The drive is part of the experience: curves, valleys, and the change in temperature that anticipates the cloud-forest edge. Our trail guide stays with you, with notes on the day and the surroundings of Santa Teresa.
When we reach Santa Teresa we make a brief approach to the town and head for the Cocalmayo hot springs. These municipal pools were rebuilt after the 2010 floods and are once again the great local attraction: thermal water in a green, relaxed setting. We prepare the entrance (ticket not included) and guide you on how to use the facilities.
Afternoon — Cocalmayo hot springs – return to Cusco
We spend the central block of the day enjoying the Cocalmayo pools: thermal baths, rest, and photographs in a natural setting. It is the most pleasant moment of the tour; the warm water contrasts with the air of the area and lets you recover after the drive from Cusco. Our trail guide stays available for timing, safety, and the return plan.
In the afternoon we leave Cocalmayo and Santa Teresa and start back to Cusco in private transport. The climb toward the highlands changes the landscape and the temperature again. We reach the city at dusk or early evening and drop you at your hotel or the agreed point. That is how we close our day in Santa Teresa and Cocalmayo: relaxing, scenic, and operated by KYD Tours.
Recommendations
- Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of dry clothes.
- Use sunscreen and light clothing for the heat of the area.
- Bring a warm layer for the high stretch of the drive to and from Cusco.
- Confirm the departure time with us; the drive is long.
- Respect the rules of the Cocalmayo municipal pools.
Inclusions
Included
- Private transport.
- Trail guide.
Not included
- Entrance tickets to the Cocalmayo hot springs.
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Drinks.
- Tips.
- Travel insurance.
- Towel rental or other local services.
- Personal expenses.
Frequently asked questions
Are the Cocalmayo hot springs open?
Yes. The municipal pools were rebuilt after the 2010 floods and operate as the main attraction in the area.
Is the Cocalmayo entrance fee included?
No. Entrance tickets are not included; they are paid on site or according to the current procedure. Confirm with us.
Is it a full-day tour?
Yes. We leave Cusco, visit Santa Teresa and Cocalmayo, and return the same day.
What should I bring for the hot springs?
A swimsuit, a towel, sandals, and cash for the entrance fee and small expenses.
