Putukusi

This forested rock dome 400 meters above Aguas Calientes is a superb half-day hike that offers great views of Machu Picchu and a chance to see many different cloud forest birds. The highlight is 200 meters (600 feet) of wooden ladders nailed to the near-vertical cliff face. The trailhead is signed and is 150 meters past the control point on the railroad tracks.

The walk is approximately three hours, allowing you to arrive in leisure and get a very different photo of Machu Picchu.

Mandor Waterfalls

Another option for out-of-town recreation is the Mandor waterfalls. About a one-hour walk (five kilometers) along the railway track in the direction of the hydroelectric plant brings you to a small house where you must pay the entrance fee (US$3.50). From here, it is a 45-minute hike through a banana plantation and jungle that starts from Km 115 off the tracks. Make sure to take the trail on the right-hand side.

Orchid Garden

Operated by four locals, this garden is truly a work in progress, with around 250 different species of orchids. In Las Orquideas, from the left entrance of the stadium, the garden is at the end of the street at the house of Leonardo Guttierez. He will gladly take you on a one-hour tour for a small donation towards the maintenance of the garden. Those interested in doing research here should email hatunchaca [at] hotmail [dot] com. Fernando, who speaks English, can assist you in organizing a field study on the endemic orchids for a month or longer.

Alccamayo Waterfall

This hike is perfect for those with little time on their hands. From the top right-hand corner outside the stadium in Las Orquideas, follow a small lane until you reach the chapel. Continue on to the end of the street and take a left behind the last house. The walk takes you through the forest to a 25-meter cascade. If you are looking for a guided tour (in Spanish), ask around for a man named Edwin Escalante, the young owner of the property, who over the past four years has been improving the paths, flora, and fauna.