Are you ready to discover a secret paradise near Machu Picchu? This is Mandor. It is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Mandor Gardens is one of Cusco’s least-known destinations. Few tourists venture here. Many consider it one of the best-kept secrets on a trip to Machu Picchu.
The Mandor Gardens lie almost 2 kilometers from Aguas Calientes. They sit at the foot of Machu Picchu beside the Vilcanota River. This is a tropical forest teeming with life.
To reach Mandor, follow the train tracks toward the Hydroelectric station. After about 2 kilometers, a sign marks the entrance to Mandorpampa. Follow the path to the ticket office. Buy your ticket and continue through the trees to the falls. The falls are the heart of Mandor Gardens.
The walk to Mandor Gardens is an adventure. It starts in Aguas Calientes. This walk follows the train route toward the Hydroelectric station. After 30 minutes, a sign points to Mandor Waterfalls. Follow the path through lush vegetation. You have arrived when you reach the ticket booth.
The Mandor Gardens offer a short walk. Here, you can enjoy landscapes filled with vegetation, mountains, and rivers. Admire the flowers and butterflies. The roads are easy and pleasant. It is a simple 2-kilometer walk from Aguas Calientes.
Mandor Gardens feature many plants and trees. It is like a botanical garden. Botany lovers will be captivated. Orchids stand out. There are over 200 species in Machu Picchu.
The Mandor Falls are the garden’s biggest attraction. The waterfall is 30 meters high. Some tourists swim in its waters. Few visitors come here. You might find yourself alone in this magical place.
Orchids flourish in Mandor Gardens. They have bilateral symmetry and diverse colors. The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu has over 400 orchid species.
Cedar trees are native to the Andes. These leafy trees with strong trunks are abundant in Mandor and Machu Picchu. Their branches block the sun. It is wise to wear a jacket.
The plants and flowers attract butterflies. These butterflies are famous for their colors. The Historic Sanctuary has over 500 butterfly species. There is even a butterfly house near Aguas Calientes.
One of the world’s smallest deer lives here. It is called the Sachacabra. It is also known as the rabbit deer or small pudu. It grows to 70 centimeters and weighs 3 to 6 kilos. This species is vulnerable.
The cock-of-the-rock is a beautiful bird. It is Peru’s national bird. It lives in tropical forests like Machu Picchu and Mandor Gardens. Males have orange and black feathers. The Incas admired this bird.
Mandor Gardens’ thick vegetation attracts hummingbirds. You might see giant hummingbirds. You might also see chestnut-breasted and white-bellied hummingbirds. The area is a bird-watching paradise. The birds’ songs enhance the visit.
Mandor Gardens is open daily from 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM. You can camp here at night.
The Mandor gardens are generally safe. Bring mosquito repellent. Mosquito bites can be bothersome.
Mandor Valley is great for outdoor activities. It is also a bird-watching hotspot. The property has cabins and campsites. You can stay and enjoy this quiet place.
The Mandor Waterfall is 30 meters high. The gardens are on the slopes of Huayna Picchu mountain.
Nelly Alagón founded the Mandor Gardens project in 1998. She named it “Jardines de Mandor”. Volunteers and relatives helped create the path to the waterfall.
Listen to the birds and the wind in the leaves. The Machu Picchu Nature Reserve has 400 orchid types. They come in different shapes and colors.
Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to Mandor Falls. The entrance fee is 5 to 10 soles. Five soles is for national tourists. Ten soles is for foreign tourists. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. You can request the camping area for an extra cost. Bring a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to swim. Stay hydrated. Do not leave or throw garbage. Do not damage plants or hunt animals.
Mandor is more than just a garden. It is an experience. It is a chance to connect with nature near Machu Picchu.