Deciding how to tackle your dream of hiking the Inca trail takes some thought – there are so many options! For some, it’s a no-brainer to opt for the full trek experience of hiking the full trail to Machu Picchu and camping along the way. For the not so bold, a short inca trail is enough to get your Inca Trail fix, followed by a night in some luxury digs.
Tour operators offer a variety of options, including packages that incorporate Inca Trail tour treks and hotel stays combined. Otherwise, you may decide to plan your trek separately and handpick your lodgings of choice to relax in after a big day’s exploration.
Here are some of the top choices for accommodation in Machu Picchu and surrounding areas. We’ve listed them in order of budget, starting with the top-end options.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
This stunning mountain lodge is a 5-star hotel set among terraced hills within 5 hectares of private reserve. The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo hotel boasts 83 whitewashed casitas surrounded by forest, orchids and hundreds of bird species. The hotel itself hosts a variety of in-house excursions, as well as an enticing spa to nurture your hiked-out muscles after doing the Inca trail.
At a glance:
- 5-star casita suites set amidst stunning cloud forest
- Unique spa concept with mystical traditionally Andean approach
- 2,020 meters (6,627 ft.) above sea level
- 110 kilometers (70 miles) from Cusco City
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
Another beautiful 5-star lodging, the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is also as close to the finish line of an Inca Trail trek as you can get. With private sunrise breakfasts, a rejuvenating spa and relaxing garden surrounds, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after your Inca adventures.
At a glance:
- 5-star lodging with beautiful garden surrounds
- Private sunrise breakfasts and other activities
- Mystical wedding and blessing ceremonies
- Day spa with massage and aromatherapy treatments
- Seconds from the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, situated at 7,700 ft. above sea level
Sumaq
Hailed as one of the best hotels in South America by travel publication Condé Nast Traveler, Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel is a stunning oasis known for its 5-star personalized service. With innovative cuisine and cultural experiences like exploring Machu Picchu guided by a shaman on offer, this hotel is sure to please.
At a glance:
- World-renowned 5-star personalized service
- Located at the foot of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu
- Activities including tasting menu experiences and Pachamama rituals
- Spa amenities with ancient Inca treatments
Inkaterra El Mapi
With its natural accents and panoramic windows, the Inkaterra El Mapi is a uniquely atmospheric experience. It’s conveniently located on a street renowned for its restaurants in the heart of Machu Picchu Pueblo. With contemporary, comfortable rooms, this hotel offers all the amenities you could need to enjoy some restorative down-time after an Inca Trail trek.
At a glance:
- 4-star accommodation with a lively, friendly atmosphere
- Conveniently located in the village of Machu Picchu
- Spa service including sauna, hydro showers and plunge pool
Casa Andina Standard
The Casa Andina Standard hotel is the perfect modern, no-frills option for a well-earned post-Inca Trail rest. With some rooms overlooking the river, the welcome amenities of a breakfast buffet, room service and soundproof windows allow for the peaceful recovery you need. It is also conveniently situated moments away from the Machu Picchu Pueblo train station.
At a glance:
- 3-star affordable yet modern accommodation
- Incredible views of the Vilcanota River and surrounding mountains
- Located in Machu Picchu close to the train station
Inti Punku
Inti Punku is a chain of inexpensive hotels in Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes), that are both comfortable and conveniently located. The chain has three properties – Machu Picchu, El Tambo and Alameda Inn – which are all within minutes of the train station and in close proximity to a variety of affordable restaurants and handicraft markets. Whilst somewhat basic, the rooms are perfectly comfortable with amenities such as en suite bathrooms, heating, air conditioning and LCD televisions.
At a glance:
- 3.5-star hotels with basic but well-appointed rooms
- All located in Machu Picchu close to the train station
- Breakfast and Wi-Fi included
Final thoughts
Hiking the Inca Trail and discovering the wonders of the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu is (for most) a once-in-a-lifetime experience that deserves to be done right. It’s important to bear in mind that it’s imperative to take some time to acclimatize to the altitude when making this trip, so consider that when deciding on your schedule and destination points. If you are already aware that you are prone to altitude sickness, you may want to research your choice of accommodation further, as some are located at higher altitudes than others.
