Aguas Calientes is the small town that services the ruins of Machu Picchu. It is a 30-minute bus ride up from the village to the entrance of the ruins. Almost everyone has to arrive to Aguas Calientes via train, so the entire town revolves around the tracks. There is a half-mile line of track that is crowded on either side with shops, cafes, restaurants, souvenir stands, and artisan crafts (see photo). There are several restaurants in town but not that many motels. Be warned that there are no fancy hotels here. The town probably wouldn't even be on a map if it weren’t for the fact that it's next to Machu Picchu. You will be able to find almost any type of artisan craft here. The locals know that at one point or another during your journey you will have to visit Aguas Calientes. Even when the bus returns from the ruins it drops you off on the edge of town where the market starts, forcing you to cross the majority of the stands in order to get to your train. They are very clever. The tracks are lined with tourists sitting in cafes, sipping Matte de Coca while waiting for their train. Matte de Coca is the most commonly found tea in the area, it is said to help ease altitude sickness. It is made from the leaves of the Coca plant, the plant that is used to make cocaine. Don't worry, you won't test positive.