There are two incredible places you should visit on the road to Machu Picchu. One of those is the paradise of Cocalmayo and the other is the fascinating garden of Mandor. Both are found on the Inca Jungle route to the world famous site.
The Inca Jungle is an alternative and famous route that takes you to this Wonder of the World. It is one of the most popular treks for travelers who have fewer resources or were not able to schedule an Inca Trail journey with sufficient advance. Along the way you enjoy amazing scenery, vegetation, animals, and much more.
The trip lasts for two days. You take a bus for the first part, make a stop, and then walk a distance. The first stop is in Santa María (five hours from Cuzco). Then there are local buses that take us to Santa Teresa, an hour away approximately.
In Santa Teresa is found the paradise of Cocalmayo. It is a balneario, a bathing pool found among in the midst of nature. Immense and steep mountains and a large river that passes by its side surround it. There are three crystalline swimming pools with warm water. It is the best place for resting after a day of travel. There is a food stand, drink, and much more to make the moment wonderful.
The place is also recognized for its thermal waters. The people of the area say they are medicinal water with rich benefits for your health. The water comes in after filtering through the depths of the mountain.
After spending time at this much-visited attraction we await a local bus to take us to Hidroeléctrico (1 hour). Once we arrive there our trek begins as we walk to the town of Aguas Calientes, about three hours away. This trail is the most beautiful. You breathe in fresh, pure air. The vegetation makes the road beautiful. You hear the song of birds and they make the path a joy.
Continuing your trail, on Km 4 from Aguas Calientes you reach the Jardines de Mandor (Gardens of Mandor), a place in which you discover the natural beauty of macho Picchu. It is a fascinating family initiative to conserve forest life and well as all its flora and fauna.
They have an ecological trail where you can get to know the flora and fauna as well as at least three waterfalls, which enliven the scene. The way is adorned with beautiful flowers such as the famous orchids and many of their varieties. It takes about an hour to do.
These two options are really worth visiting on your way to the famous Inca City of Machu Picchu. It is the Wonder of the World yet we should also get to know the attractions that are around it.
Editorial Note:
Yesterday the bridge over the Aobamba River by Santa Teresa washed out, due to the season’s heavy rains. As a result tourists and locals had their path blocked. Officials anticipate a system of cables and platforms to move people across this river. Travelers should check before beginning the Inca Jungle trek at the moment.
