Nestled in the cloud forest on the outskirts of the town of Aguas Calientes, sits the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo hotel. Hummingbirds greet you as you walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens abundant with native plants to find the rustically elegant reception where friendly staff quickly and efficiently check you in and take you to your room.  Here everything flows seamlessly…

Simply put, this is one of the finest hotels we have ever stayed at, not simply for the excellent service or extremely comfortable rooms but for the overall experience. Don’t just take our word for it though, Inkaterra have won numerous accolades including most recently inclusion in Conde Nast Traveler’s ‘Top 10 Hotels in Central & South America 2014’ and Travel & leisure ‘Top Resorts in Central & South America 2014.’

Inkaterra are ecotourism pioneers having introduced the concept of sustainable tourism to Peru back in the 70’s. Their four Inkaterra properties around Peru are as sustainable as possible given their locations, but here at the foot of Machu Picchu, sustainable tourism takes on a whole new meaning.

Inkaterra have tried and succeeded in introducing their guests to the principles of sustainable tourism in a gentle way. All buildings are created to blend in with the nature that surrounds the 12 acres of gardens, guests are encouraged and educated on the different initiatives in place and all activities are designed to leave each guest with a precious memory of nature and their time here in Machu Picchu.

A dedicated sustainable tourism department on-site offers an incredibly diverse range of tours and activities that include early morning birdwatching, visits to the Inkaterra organic tea tree plantation were you pick, process and finish up by tasting a fresh cup of tea from the property and a fun twilight walk where you learn all about the culture and magic of this area. Our guide was both knowledgeable and funny regaling us with funny stories about Peruvian culture. Be warned however that a one night stay won’t allow you to fully enjoy and explore this hotel, you will wish you had more time…

The rooms, in keeping with the natural surroundings are rustic (You won’t find flat screen TV’s or iPod docks here) but very comfortable. Modern bathrooms and power showers ease aching limbs after a day of hiking around Machu Picchu. King size beds with fabulous sheets, downy pillows and the soothing sounds of the forest guarantee a great night’s sleep and with an open fire and deep armchairs it’s hard to find the energy to drag yourself away from your room. The daily tea time tradition however, might serve as an incentive for some with freshly baked goodies including tasty brownies and cookies as well as Inkaterra’s own home grown teas available to tide you over until dinner time.

Part of the charm of Inkaterra is that it feels like family.  Most of the staff lives on site and it’s clear that they love working here and are passionate about what they do. It can be difficult for an 85 room hotel to create that sense of intimacy and atmosphere but not here. Guests are genuinely welcomed and it’s hard not to be carried along by the staff’s passion and enthusiasm.

The main hacienda style house offers many nooks and lounge areas where you can relax with large roaring fires, book cases and candlelight in an intimate, restful atmosphere. A small gift shop offers high quality souvenirs and the Unu spa has a range of Andean inspired treatments including a fabulous hot stone massage, one of the best I’ve ever had.

Book Great rates at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo hotel Here!

Best of Peru Travel Recommends:

  • Try and stay at least two nights here so you can really experience and soak up the atmosphere at this luxury boutique hotel.
  • Book your spa treatments as soon as you arrive if not a few days before as they book up fast.

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