The Sweetheart of Peru’s Sacred Valley
Some travelers simply use Cuzco as a stop on their way to Machu Picchu, but this vibrant UNESCO World Heritage Site deserves its own time and attention. The itinerary might include touring its magnificent baroque cathedrals, shopping at the bustling San Pedro Market, learning how chocolate is made at the ChocoMuseo, watching them spin alpaca fibers into brightly colored textiles at Awana Kancha, or sampling roasted cuy and other local delicacies.
Machu Picchu Pueblo
Inkaterra’s Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel perfectly compliments a visit to Machu Picchu by providing guests with a deeper understanding of why the Incas chose this hidden location in the Andean cloud forest to build their marvelous citadel. Nestled among 12-acres on the outskirts of the backpacker town of Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Clalientes), it is also a peaceful haven away from the tourist crowds that are inevitably a fixture of any visit to Machu Picchu. The lodge is laid out like a traditional Andean Village; guests follow stone pathways to their rooms, crossing gurgling water channels within a cloud forest dripping with exotic orchids and buzzing with colorful hummingbirds. All of the construction is done in traditional Andean style, using local materials of stone, adobe, stucco and eucalyptus. The expansive grounds offer a perfect refuge for bird watching as well as hands-on lessons in botany and ecology and trained naturalist guides lead guests on a variety of thematic nature walks in the morning and afternoon. After a long day of hiking among the Incan citadel, a soothing treatment at the full-service Unu Spa provides the perfect rejuvenating experience.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Website
A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
PART OF MY CLARK KOTULA PORTFOLIO
Machu Picchu
Its sublime mountaintop location (it is the only hotel situated adjacent to the Machu Picchu ruins) makes Belmond Sanctuary Lodge the ideal base for exploring this world-class archaeological site. Watch the sun rise over mountains, then head off for a day of discovery. Enjoy a buffet lunch where oversize windows give way to spectacular views. For cocktails and dinner, enjoy the intimate atmosphere of Tampu, serving delicious international and Peruvian fare. The Lodge has a relaxation area perfect for yoga and meditation. Or unwind with relaxing treatments in one of two massage rooms, or in the garden facing Huayna Picchu.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).
A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
PART OF MY BELMOND PARTNER PORTFOLIO
Urubamba / Sacred Valley
Sacred Valley Located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, explora Valle Sagrado was designed as the base from where you can explore a remote and amazing site: the Sacred Valley of the Incas. All our programs include accommodation, transfers, meals and beverages, and a selection of more than 20 exclusive explorations developed by explora. Through our explorations, you can visit from Cusco to Machu Picchu, passing by remote villages, archaeological sites such as Ollaytantambo, Moray, Chinchero and Pisac, and this region’s high peaks, like La Verónica or Incañan. Built amid Inca remains and terraces, our hotel is located in one of the remotest haciendas of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The lands have an ancient cornfield and the Casa de Baños Pumacahua, a colonial mansion that belonged to Peru’s hero, Mateo Pumacahua, and the current location of the hotel’s Spa. All of this makes explora Valle Sagrado a unique site in the region.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).
A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
Cusco
Inkaterra La Casona was the first boutique hotel in Cusco, and in our opinion, remains the best. Located in a carefully restored 16th-century Spanish Colonial mansion, the opulent period interiors are discretely closed to the curious public behind a heavy, intricately carved wooden door facing the flower-filled Plaza Nazarenas. This quiet area of Cusco, which today is a highly coveted locale among discerning guests, was formerly reserved for the homes of Inca elite, the warrior class and institutes of higher learning. With just 11 suites that surround a central garden, La Casona provides an intimate residential feel, capturing the sense of privacy and privilege experienced by those who once lived here. All guests are treated to top-flight service and cuisine, as La Casona was the first property in all of Peru to be incorporated into the prestigious Relais & Châteaux community.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).
PART OF MY RELAIS & CHATEAUX PARTNER PORTFOLIO
PART OF MY CLARK KOTULA PORTFOLIO
Cusco next to the Moray
From the creators of Central in Lima.
Cusco / Machu Pichu
Beside standard Train and Trolley service to Machu Pichu, Belmond does offer a total luxury option for getting to Machu Pichu
Named after the explorer who rediscovered the citadel at Machu Picchu, the train rolls gently through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Rising through the majestic Andean countryside, it delivers guests to the ancient city of the Incas. A visit to a once-in-a-lifetime place calls for a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Sink into an armchair in the 1920s-style carriages, where polished wood and brass catch the light. Make your way to the Observation Car to watch the sun rise or give way to starry skies. Your Peruvian adventure has begun.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with Belmond. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me.
between Arequipa / Lake Titicaca / Cusco
This is an excellent choice if you have the time and budget.
South America’s first luxury sleeper train glides from Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire, across the lofty Andean plains to the white city of Arequipa. Take in the region’s spectacular highlights en route, including Lake Titicaca and Colca Canyon.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with Belmond. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me.
Belmond Andean Explorer Website
Arequipa / Lake Titicaca / Colca Canyon
General Information Page
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page updated: May 2020
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