In the district of Pichirhua, in the province of Abancay, in the Apurimac region, are the Santo Tomas Hot Springs.
These hot springs are located on the banks of the Pachachaca River and arise from two water sources that are distributed in rudimentary pools in the surrounding territory. The minerals that nourish the waters of the Santo Tomas springs are recommended for people with muscle ailments or high stress levels, since they have relaxing and analgesic properties.
In order to get to the Santo Tomas Hot Springs, it is necessary to walk along a 5 km path. Admission to the hot springs is free, and although the place can be visited at any time, it is preferable to do it in the morning.
The sun was as hot as the social protests when we left Abancay in search of some unlikely thermal baths. In half an hour, the taxi driver stopped in front of the magnificent colonial bridge of Pachachaca (built in 1654), which used to be part of the route to Andahuaylas. As soon as we got off, we were approached by Simón Aymara, a 74-year-old peasant, who showed us the way to the thermal baths of Santo Tomás. He was dressed almost in tatters, but his gaze was clean and conveyed dignity. He told us that he would wait for us with a cane juice.
Outdoor
We walk about 40 minutes downstream between cacti and molle trees. Suddenly, the valley thinned out and became a canyon of no more than 15 meters. There were the three outdoor pools; the water that fed them ran down a golden ocher wall. The amazing thing was bathing a foot from the restless Pachachaca River, which went to meet the Apurímac. Here time stops or, rather, begins; the cardinal points meet. Beauty is unlikely, but also wild, beyond our understanding, hence its terrible power of seduction.
They recommend them for muscle ailments; however, the most palpable effect is that your life stops overwhelming you, your past is episodic and the future a bit of heaven in your eyes. We return almost levitating to the Pachachaca bridge. Simon was waiting for us there with the promised cane juice. He didn't ask us for anything. The sun had already set, but his dignity remained intact.
Location
Located at kilometer 437 of the interoceanic highway and on the left bank of the Pachachaca River, a few kilometers from the city of Abancay, and one and a half kilometers from the Pachachaca colonial bridge.
After walking for about 20 minutes from Pachachaca and passing through some sugar cane fields, you pass a small river named Tincoc that descends from the heights of the annex of Tambo and Sotapa, from this small river the road becomes narrow and full of plants that try to cover the visibility of the walker, from this point you can see the Ampay Huaico ravine in front, one of the many micro-basins that the great Pachachaca River has.
From a rock wall of more than 20 meters the waters of Santo Tomás are born, which flows constantly to the water wells that are located on the edge of the river, the water wells that are like a step on the banks of There are two Pachachaca that have an average temperature of 20 °C and below these pools there are more than one pool but with a smaller diameter, however its water temperature increases significantly, reaching up to 35 °C.
The water's temperature
Varies between 20 to 35 °C
Health benefits of thermal baths
The Santo Tomás Thermal Baths in Abancay, Peru, offer numerous health benefits, so soaking in these hot springs has positive effects on several aspects of our well-being. From relaxation and stress relief to improving blood circulation, these thermal baths are an ideal option to take care of your health.
Relaxation and stress relief
One of the main advantages of the Santo Tomás Thermal Baths in Abancay is its ability to provide relaxation and stress relief, the hot water and therapeutic properties of these baths help relax the muscles and release accumulated tensions, so do not hesitate to immerse yourself. in the hot springs enjoying a calm and serene environment, which provides a relaxing and revitalizing experience for body and mind.
Improved blood circulation
Immersing yourself in the Santo Tomás Thermal Baths has a positive impact on blood circulation, the heat of the thermal water dilates the blood vessels, which improves blood flow throughout the body. This increased blood circulation has multiple benefits, such as efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, removal of toxins, and accelerating the healing process.
Relief of muscle and joint pain
The Santo Tomás Thermal Baths in Abancay are recognized for their ability to relieve muscle and joint pain, the heat of the thermal water relaxes and loosens the muscles, reducing tension and relieving various discomforts. Additionally, the healing properties of thermal water can help in reducing inflammation and relieving pain in joints affected by conditions such as arthritis or sports injuries.
Beneficial impacts on both the skin and respiratory tract.
In addition to its benefits for the body, the Santo Tomás Thermal Baths have positive effects on the skin and the respiratory system, the thermal water contains minerals and elements that can improve the appearance and health of the skin, helping in cell regeneration and hydration. Likewise, inhaling thermal water vapor can clear the airways, relieve congestion, and contribute to better breathing.
How to get there hot springs of Santo Tomás?
Economic option, there are public transport companies that provide service to Chalhuanca, they take you for 1.50 soles to the height of the bridge, in the place there are houses that offer the famous pachachaca sugar cane liquor; then you will have to walk to the colonial bridge of Pachachaca, for a time of 10 minutes.
After crossing and appreciating the bridge, you will have to walk for approximately 25 minutes to the right side (downstream) before arriving there is a small stream that you have to cross carefully, because in the rainy season the flow increases making it difficult to pass ; Total distance you have to travel, from the bridge to the baths is 1.61 kilometers.
The best option to get to Santo Tomás, go in a group and take a taxi to the Pachachaca bridge, for a cost of 15 soles, then follow the route indicated in the economic option, and on the way back there was a minivan to Abancay, cost 3 soles, that It was in the afternoon, I imagine that during the day one has to wait on the bridge much longer.
But if you are in a hurry you can calmly go to the Panamericana, there if there is mobility towards Abancay.
Recommendations
Do not get too close to the edge of the river, there were already many people who fearfully did the opposite and the consequences are not good, always go accompanied, since there is no visually close farmhouse or annex in the place. Even if you ask for help, no one would come to your aid because of the noise generated by the river; the risk of falling into the river exists if you get too close to the edge, because there is no wall or railing where you can hold on; take your precautions and enjoy the ride.
If you go alone, try to get to the Pachachaca colonial bridge and there join people who go to the bathrooms, I am sure that the walk will be a beautiful memory.
Preparation before the visit
Before visiting the Santo Tomás Thermal Baths, it is important to carry out adequate preparation. It is advisable to bring swimwear, towels and sandals to be comfortable and protected during the visit; In addition, it is recommended to hydrate before and during the thermal experience to avoid dehydration, in this way, you will be able to better enjoy the visit and make the most of all the benefits that the Thermal Baths offer.
- Rules of behavior and etiquette in the Thermal Baths
When enjoying the Santo Tomas Peru Thermal Baths, it is essential to follow the established rules of behavior and etiquette; cleanliness and order must be maintained in the facilities, avoiding throwing garbage or leaving personal items in non-permitted areas. It is also important to respect the space of other visitors and avoid making excessive noise. It is also recommended to follow the instructions of the staff and use the thermal baths appropriately, respecting the recommended times and temperatures. - Special care for people with specific health conditions
People with specific health conditions should take special care when visiting the Santo Tomás Hot Springs, so it is recommended to consult with a health professional beforehand to determine if it is safe for them to enjoy the hot springs. Some medical conditions that require caution include heart problems, hypertension, diabetes, pregnancy and skin diseases, so if you have any of these conditions, it is important to follow the established recommendations and limitations to avoid complications. - Recommendations to make the most of the thermal experience
To make the most of the thermal experience at the Santo Tomás Thermal Baths, it is recommended to follow some suggestions. First of all, it is advisable to enjoy the different types of thermal baths that offer different temperatures and therapeutic properties; Secondly, it is important to dedicate enough time to relax and rest during the visit, taking advantage of the natural and quiet spaces that surround the baths. Finally, it is advisable to maintain an open and receptive attitude, allowing the benefits of the thermal water and the natural environment to act in their entirety.
Costs
Taxi 13 soles for 5 people only round trip 1.50 public transport.
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