Where to Stay When Visiting Machu Picchu: Choose a place that fits your travel style.
Machu Picchu is one of those places that, no matter how much you’ve read or heard, manages to leave you speechless when you finally see it in person.
Exploring this ancient wonder requires more than just a visit; it calls for an experience that starts with the best hotels to stay and In this post, I’m excited to share my favorite places to stay when exploring Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas.
Over the years, I’ve discovered that suitable lodging can transform your journey from simply ticking a destination off your list to something truly unforgettable.
If you are planning a trip to Machu Picchu and want to find the best hotel for you, first, you need to decide in which area you want to stay.
For an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, consider staying in one of three key areas:
Cusco, the Sacred Valley, or Aguas Calientes, each offering unique advantages. Cusco, with its rich history and colonial charm, provides a cultural backdrop and is ideal for those seeking luxury before or after their visit to the ancient citadel. The Sacred Valley offers serene landscapes and is perfect for a peaceful retreat closer to nature. Finally, Aguas Calientes positions you right at the doorstep of Machu Picchu for easy access to an early morning tour.
This guide reviews the best luxury accommodations in each area, helping you find the ideal place to stay on your journey to this world wonder. The lodgings i have selected are perfect for luxury travelers seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, or indulgence.
I hope this guide inspires you to find a place that resonates with your travel style.
Let’s dive into the best Machu Picchu hotels !
A peek into what you’ll find in this blog post:
Guidance for Choosing Your Machu Picchu Route: Deciding how to approach Machu Picchu is about matching your comfort and adventure level. Look below at my tips on the scenic train journey and the iconic Inca Trail hike so you can choose the one that fits your travel style.
Our Hotel Selection Based on Location: In Cusco, soak up history and culture; in the Sacred Valley, immerse yourself in the serene landscapes; or stay in Aguas Calientes for easy, next-day access to Machu Picchu.
Accessibility and Altitude Insights: Peru’s dramatic landscapes make it incredibly beautiful but also challenging. I have covered options that are both accessible and comfortable, with details about locations near main attractions, restaurants, and shops.
If planning all this sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—we’re here to help! You can access our on-the-ground knowledge and expertise when you book a curated trip with my team and me. We’ve walked these paths, tried the best spots, and are ready to share insights to make your journey seamless.
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Why the Right Hotel Matters for Your Machu Picchu Experience
Machu Picchu, the famed Inca citadel high in the Andes, is a lifetime journey. Every traveler should feel the mystery and wonder of these ancient ruins, and choosing a suitable accommodation is essential. Whether you’re looking for a short, scenic trip or an immersive trek, there are several ways to access this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How to Experience Machu Picchu: Choose Your Route
There are different ways to explore Machu Picchu. If you enjoy adventure or prefer a comfortable visit, let me briefly guide you on how to see the Citadel:
Day Trip by Train from Cusco: Enjoy a comfortable ride with beautiful views of the Sacred Valley. This trip is excellent for a relaxing day; visit the ruins and then return to your hotel in Cusco.
Day Trip by Train from the Sacred Valley: This scenic route gives you more time to enjoy the natural beauty before reaching Machu Picchu. You can either stay in the Sacred Valley, just 1 or 2 hours from Cusco and return to your hotel or spend the night in Cusco.
Hiking the Inca Trail: This multi-day trek along ancient paths through vibrant landscapes leads to the stunning Machu Picchu. It is perfect for adventurous travelers or families looking for an exciting outdoor experience.
One-Day Hike from the Sacred Valley: This shorter, single-day hike on the Inca Trail combines comfort and adventure, making it ideal for moderate hikers.
READ MORE: The best things to do in Machu Picchu
Recommended Hotels to Enhance Your Journey to Machu Picchu, Peru.
Now that you know your options for visiting Machu Picchu, consider the accommodations that combine comfort, style, and proximity to the site.
If you’re starting to plan from scratch, then consider the following places to stay:
✨In Cusco: Soak up history and culture
✨In the Sacred Valley: An Immersive Andes Experience
✨In Aguas Calientes: Your Gateway to the Ruins
In Cusco: soak up history and culture.
The city of cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is situated at 3,400 meters in the Peruvian Andes. Known for its rich history and colonial charm, it is a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The Plaza de Armas is the city’s centerpiece, surrounded by cobblestone streets and historical sites like the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun).
Nearby hotels offer easy access to attractions and dining. Luxury options include Belmond Palacio Nazarenas and Belmond Monasterio, while JW Marriott Cusco provides modern comfort. Boutique hotels like Inkaterra La Casona and Casa Cartagena offer intimate atmospheres to experience Cusco’s culture. Let’s take a look at my selection of hotels in Cusco:
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas – This hotel is a captivating blend of colonial charm and contemporary luxury, nestled in the peaceful heart of Cusco. Once a convent, it now offers guests elegantly designed suites with minibars and complimentary yoga classes for ultimate relaxation. The hotel also boasts a beautifully designed spa set within a historical ambiance that adds to the magic of staying here.
Belmond Monasterio – Set in a restored 1575 monastery, this property combines stunning architecture with a serene atmosphere. Originally housing 200 monks, it features an enchanting interior church and occasional live opera performances. While the decor may feel intense for some, it enhances the unique experience. With 117 rooms, including junior suites with stairs, each stay offers a memorable touch of history.
JW Marriott Cusco – This hotel offers a sophisticated experience, merging modern comforts with local traditions. Guests enjoy elegant rooms in a setting that reflects Cusco’s historical charm, creating a unique ambiance for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Inkaterra La Casona – This eco-friendly hotel offers an authentic cultural experience in a historic setting surrounded by lush gardens. While it lacks balconies, the property includes a lovely patio and cozy plaza, with decor that embraces the local heritage.
Palacio Manco Capac – Perched atop a hill with stunning views of the Sacred Valley, this boutique hotel is steeped in history as the former palace of the first Inca emperor. Managed by Nanai, it offers a peaceful escape with 20 cozy rooms, a charming restaurant, and awe-inspiring vistas. A 15-minute walk to Cusco’s
main square may be challenging for some, but taxis are available for a quick and scenic journey.
San Blas Boutique Hotel – Situated in the lively San Blas district, this intimate hotel embraces local artistry, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It offers 20 comfortable rooms, including thoughtfully designed junior suites with bathrobes. Although it has a few stairs, it provides an authentic, cozy experience.
Casa Cartagena – Set in a beautifully restored building, this boutique hotel blends colonial elegance with modern comfort. The spacious rooms feature contemporary decor and plush furnishings. A tranquil courtyard, spa, and restaurant serving local cuisine make it an excellent choice, all while being centrally located for easy exploration.
In the Sacred Valley: An Immersive Andes Experience
The Sacred Valley, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is a lush region along the Urubamba River, surrounded by stunning Andean peaks. Known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, and impressive Inca sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac, it offers a tranquil atmosphere ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude and exploring Peru’s cultural heritage.
My favorite hotels in the Sacred Valley blend luxury with local charm; take a look below to this luxury accommodation :
Sol y Luna – This hotel offers a peaceful escape in unique bungalows surrounded by vibrant gardens. The property supports four community projects, including a school, and offers activities like horse shows. For a memorable evening, guests can enjoy an intimate dinner in a charming wine cellar.
Explora Lodge Valle Sagrado – With curated excursions and a talented chef from Lima’s acclaimed Central restaurant, this lodge provides immersive Sacred Valley unique experiences. Its breathtaking landscapes and expertly crafted meals make it perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts.
Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba – A haven for nature lovers, this retreat offers spacious rooms in harmony with the local heritage. Guests can enjoy tea time with local herbs, cooking lessons, or pizza nights (for an extra cost), with breakfast on a patio overlooking stunning scenery. Specific excursions are included in the stay.
Tambo del Inka – This luxury hotel is nestled in the stunning Sacred Valley; Tambo del Inka is known for its impressive architecture, incorporating natural stone, wood, and local materials to blend harmoniously with its surroundings. Guests enjoy spacious, elegantly luxurious rooms with beautiful Andean views, a full-service modern spa offering treatments inspired by Incan wellness practices, and a high-end restaurant serving locally sourced Peruvian cuisine. The combination of modern amenities, serene landscapes, and direct access to Machu Picchu makes Tambo del Inka an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Rio Sagrado by Belmond – Positioned alongside the peaceful Urubamba River, this belmond hotel luxury property offers an enchanting escape in the heart of the Sacred Valley. The hotel exudes rustic elegance, with rooms that resemble traditional Andean cottages, each designed to maximize comfort and capture the tranquility of its natural setting. Guests can relax in the serene riverside gardens, indulge in treatments at the hotel’s riverside spa, or dine at the exceptional restaurant serving locally inspired dishes with a gourmet twist. The views from Rio Sagrado are breathtaking, with sweeping vistas of the Sacred Valley’s lush landscapes, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful, nature-immersed experience while exploring Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
READ MORE: The Best Places to Visit in Sacred Valley Peru
In Aguas Calientes town: Your Gateway to the Ruins
The small town of aguas calientes, or Machu Picchu Pueblo, is the closest town to the Machu Picchu ruins, nestled along the Urubamba River. For accommodations, Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel at the entrance, which is ideal for early visits. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel offers an eco-friendly retreat with nature trails, while Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel provides luxury and gourmet cuisine near the river. These hotels ensure comfort and a great location with easy access to the inca ruins for a memorable stay:
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge – As the only hotel right at the entrance of machu picchu, the lodge has the best location for early exploration of the site. When staying at Machu Picchu sanctuary lodge, you can enjoy meals at the inviting buffet restaurant and 31 cozy guest rooms, with a bus service that offers easy site access, avoiding the long lines for a seamless experience.
Samaq Hotel—This modern, conveniently located hotel offers comfortable rooms and up-to-date amenities. It is close to the bus stop from Machu Picchu Citadel, making it ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel – Surrounded by lush gardens, this hotel is a peaceful retreat perfect for unwinding after a visit to the ruins. It offers family-friendly eco-activities and a cozy lobby with a fireplace. The hotel features a private butler and complimentary refreshments, while some villas located in the mountains provide stunning views but may pose accessibility challenges.
Key Takeaways for Your Machu Picchu Exploration
Choose the Best Route: Whether by scenic train or trekking the Inca Trail, the good news is that you can choose your journey to Machu Picchu based on comfort and adventure level.
Select Accommodations Based on Location: Stay in Cusco for history and culture, the Sacred Valley for nature and tranquility, or Aguas Calientes for proximity to Machu Picchu.
Pay attention to accessibility and altitude. Peru’s dramatic landscapes—filled with steep mountains and cities built into hillsides—make choosing the suitable accommodation essential for an enjoyable trip. During my recent stay, I found that some hotels, while charming, featured countless stairs or uneven pathways that might be challenging, especially at these altitudes. These setups can add an extra layer of difficulty for those with mobility concerns or anyone adjusting to the altitude.
To help you avoid surprises, I’ve highlighted accommodations that offer excellent site access and prioritize comfort and ease, making your journey more enjoyable from start to finish.
By the way, here are the altitudes for each location for your reference:
Cusco: Approximately 3,400 meters (about 11,155 feet)
Sacred Valley: Ranges from 2,000 to 2,800 meters (around 6,562 to 9,186 feet), with towns like Urubamba at about 2,870 meters (around 9,416 feet)
Aguas Calientes: Approximately 2,040 meters (about 6,692 feet)
Note that these elevations make Cusco the highest, with the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes progressively lower, providing an excellent acclimatization range before visiting Machu Picchu.
Conclusion: Make Your Journey to Machu Picchu Truly Unforgettable
During my last trip to Peru, I inspected many properties, from luxurious lodges to eco-retreats immersed in nature. Each of these accommodations offers a memorable and enriching stay on your Machu Picchu journey.
Let my team and me take care of the details—reach out to us, and we’ll design a seamless, personalized experience crafted around your dreams of Peru.
Maria ✨