Splurge-Worthy Hotels in Peru
By Allie Almario
At Premier Tours, we specialize in customizing adventures that fit your timeframe, budget and style of travel. Those who are looking for a luxury getaway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu often ask us for our hotels recommendations that stand out for their five-star reputations.
Here’s a shortlist of some of our favorite boutique getaways approved by our travelers.
LIMA
Hotel B, a Relais & Chateaux property, is located in the Barranco neighborhood overlooking the Pacific Ocean. White columns are mixed in with fine marble touches, exotic woods, and sumptuous balconies which showcase its Bohemian and Italian influences.
CUSCO
The most legendary hotel in this gateway city to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is the Monasterio, a Belmond property that exudes old-world charm. As you walk the hallways of its cloisters, you might hear Gregorian chants playing softly in the background or admire huge urns filled with magnificent flower bouquets. Many of their rooms are two stories tall, with separate living rooms downstairs and bedrooms above for more privacy.
Belmond also offers the Palacio Nazarenas, a former convent and the first hotel in the city of Cusco to build an outdoor pool. With usually under 100 guests at a time in residence, personal attention is guaranteed. Oxygen can even be pumped into your room if you’re feeling some slight side affects from the Andean high altitude.
SACRED VALLEY
Sol y Luna is part of the coveted Relais & Chateaux property group. Instead of rooms, there are 43 “casitas” – each one is set up like tiny villas with individual hand-painted colored murals and artwork created on site.
Tambo del Inka offers a unique touch – its own private stop on the train headed to Machu Picchu. Its world-class spa is a must since it’s considered one of the best in the entire country. Special treatments include Incan ingredients and healing touches.
Belmond’s Rio Sagrado is designed to feel just like a Peruvian “tambo” or village – a place of shelter. With only 11 suites, 10 rooms and two villas, exclusivity is an important factor for its guests. Easy access to the Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu from the hotel makes this a favorite stop for travelers who are overnighting in the Sacred Valley.
MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO
(formerly known as Aguas Calientes)
Just a stone’s throw from the train station bringing guests to Machu Picchu, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a popular luxury choice. The design of its lush grounds also makes it feel like a private village with terraces, waterfalls and many beautiful hiking trails around the property. They host guests in one of 83 white-washed adobe casitas. Rare birds and orchids are scattered here, so set aside time for some wandering.
The Sumaq is perched above the Vilcanota River, one of the few luxury hotels with water views. A mystical shaman experience is a must for those seeking a true understanding of Andean culture. You might even want to splurge on a private dinner on a balcony overlooking the river.
MACHU PICCHU
The ONLY hotel at the foot of the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu is the iconic Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond property. Of course, it means the shortest commute to the ruins and of course, priceless views of the mountains of Machu Picchu. You are paying for location, location, location at the Sanctuary Lodge, but it’s a privilege very very few Machu Picchu travelers enjoy.
