The square is named after the first Sapa Inca and the founder of the Kingdom of Cusco.
The statue in the square is a bronze-colored representation that serves as the town's most prominent landmark.
The square sits at an elevation of approximately 2,040 meters above sea level in the Urubamba River valley.
It is built on a limited footprint due to the steep, mountainous terrain surrounding the entire town.
Manco Capac Square, also known as Plaza Manco Cápac, is the central town square of Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. The square is defined by a central bronze monument depicting Manco Cápac, the legendary founder of the Inca Empire. It serves as the primary meeting point for visitors before or after their train journeys to the sanctuary. The surrounding area is densely packed with restaurants, craft markets, and tourism agencies. A small stream runs near the periphery of the square, adding to the town's mountainous atmosphere. The architecture reflects the utilitarian and tourism-centric nature of the town rather than historic colonial style.
Directly in front of the Manco Cápac statue with the mountain vegetation in the background.
Use the square as a central reference point for navigation, as the town layout is irregular.
Sit on the stone benches for a few minutes to acclimate if you have just arrived by train.
Be aware that the area can become highly congested when multiple trains arrive simultaneously.
Avoid relying on local vendors in the square for tour bookings if you have pre-arranged official guides, as solicitation is constant.
