Six kilometers north of Huaraz along the road to Caraz is the laidback village of Monterrey. There are a few hotels and restaurants here, but the main attraction is the thermal baths (7 a.m.-6 p.m., $1). The baths consist of two large pools, each varying in temperature, and a range of private bathing rooms for one or two people. The upper pool is nicer, but is teeming with people on weekends and Peruvian holidays. The pools are closed on Monday for cleaning. Despite its brownish color—the result of mineral deposits—the water and the pools are among the cleanest and most hygienic in the area. If you can, get up for an early morning soak, as the pools are quietest and cleanest at this time. From Huaraz catch a city bus along Av. Luzuriaga ($0.22, until 7 p.m.). You can also catch a taxi ($2-3).