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.

Where to Stay when you Visit Machu Picchu

Where to Stay to be close to Macchu 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.

Where to Stay to avoid the crowds for Machu Picchu

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.

Great Value Places to stay when you visit Machu Picchu

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.

If you haven’t found your idea of where to stay when you visit Machu Picchu on our Guru’s list you could:

• You could expand your search slightly to include the 20 Best Hotels in the Sacred Valley?

• Or consult our Guru's list of recommdendations for all the best places to stay in Aguas Calientes? or all the best places to stay around Machu Picchu? or all the best places stay in Cusco?
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

Where to Stay when you Visit Macchu Picchu

 

Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 21st July 2021