We left Machu Picchu around 1 pm feeling like we did everything we wanted to do there (we actually took the bus down the hill!). Unfortunately, it wasn't as spiritual or meditative as I had imagined with tourists in every corner of it. But the whole trek was an amazing experience I would definitely recommend.
Since our train back to Cusco wasn't until 7 pm, we had plenty of time to check out the thermal springs (the aguas calientes), the city's known for.
Well the springs weren't as exotic as I'd hoped. They were outdoor, pool-like tubs with varying temperatures and sizes. I couldn't really tell where the source of the water was or whether it was being drained anywhere. There were way too many locals hanging out, drinking beer, and doing who knows what in the pools. We didn't stay very long but it was a nice way to relax our feet at the end of the trek. From Aguas Calientes, we took a train to and bus back to Cusco. We stayed at a standard hotel where there was still no hot water! So after the trek, I still didn't hadn't had a decent shower.
