Image by Олег Дьяченко from Pi
The beautiful ruins of Machu Picchu have become a recognisable symbol of Peru, and possibly even South America. At the bottom of a dramatic ridge of rock, these wonderfully preserved Incan buildings are the reason many people travel in this direction. For some people to see the city - which was lost for hundreds of years - is enough, but for some of us the journey to the city, through the mountainous jungles is part of the experience. But however you want to arrive here the question of where to stay when you visit Machu Picchu can be a tricky one.
These days Aguas Calientes - or Machu Picchu Town - is busy all the time. In the high season, between May and September about 2,500 people arrive every day. And people are booking up years in advance. It can also be surprisingly expensive, and not all of the accommodation options offer good value. But our Gurus have put together what they consider to be a selection of great properties to answer the question of where to stay when you visit Machu Picchu.
The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is in an unbeatable position, right by the entrance to Machu Picchu. There are 32 charming rooms decorated with contemporary art work against white-washed walls. The views from the terrace are bound to be spectacular and the cuisine is fantastic too.
The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is in a beautiful, riverside spot about half an hour away from Machu’s Picchu’s entrance, in Aguas Calientes. The 80+ rooms are atmospheric, with working fireplaces and exposed beams, and there’s a great restaurant and cosy lounge.
The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel is in a beautiful spot at the foot of the mountain below Machu Picchu, close to the Vilcanota River. There are 56 rooms and the decor is richly coloured but contemporary in style. The views are amazing
El Albergue is about 19miles from machu Picchu, in a peaceful spot on the outskirts of Ollantaytambo. There are just 15 rooms, decorated in a chic, rustic style, plus beautiful gardens and beautiful views. If you’re fresh off the trail you’ll appreciate the sauna and possibility of booking a massage.
The hotels and guesthouses in Aguas Calientes are more expensive than a lot of people expect them to be. For many people this is a once in a lifetime experience, but we all have a cap on how much we can spend.
El MaPi is a good compromise and offers great value, considering how close you are to the sanctuary. Stylish and contemporary, the hotel has 140 rooms with large windows, a great restaurant and the option to treat yourself to a massage, or a soak in the hot tub if you’ve been on the trail for a while.
Ollantaytambo (Av Ferrocarril 1)
This inn is situated in Ollantaytambo, 19 miles away from Machu Picchu. It features rooms decorated in a chic, rustic style and has wonderful views of the surrounding area. Relax in the sauna after a long day hiking or book yourself a massage to fully unwind. A peaceful and unique spot.
Aguas Calientes (Pachacutec 109)
This stylish contemporary hotel is situated in the heart of Machu Picchu town. It boasts smart rooms with large windows and black out curtains whilst the food on offer is simply excellent. Treat yourself to a massage after an afternoon outside hiking for the perfect end to the day! A top-notch spot.
Aguas Calientes
A charming lodge located just half an hour to Machu Picchu. Atmospheric rooms are complete with working fireplaces, exposed beams, tartan fabrics and warm lighting. A cosy lounge is the ideal spot to unwind with an evening tipple. Gorge on regional dishes and sip Peruvian wines. Superb.
Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
A chic boutique property with an unbeatable location right at the entrance to Machu Picchu. Charming rooms are simply styled with contemporary artwork contrasting against the white washed background and pretty terraces boast spectacular views. The cuisine is fantastic too. A winning combination.
Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu,)
A beautiful setting at the foot of the sanctuary of Machu Picchu, close to the Vilcanota River. Rich Peruvian colours create a welcoming interior echoed in the rooms giving a sumptuous feeling of luxury. Delicate Andean & Asian flavours influence the cuisine to great effect. A memorable stay.
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