If you plan to visit the magical Machu Picchu, it can be confusing where to base yourself and where to stay. You can stay in Cusco or closer to Machu Picchu in the Sacred Valley. I highly recommend basing yourself in the Sacred Valley. My husband and I loved the hotel we found near the train station in Ollantaytambo, versus staying in Aguas Calientes. Even though Aguas Calientes is closest to the entrance of Machu Picchu, I wouldn’t recommend staying there, and I’ll explain why in this post. Here are the best areas to stay and the best Sacred Valley hotels!
Sacred Valley Hotels Recommendations You Need to Know!
What you Need to Know before Visiting the Sacred Valley
What’s the best season to visit Machu Picchu?
When packing for your 10-day Peru itinerary, you’ll want to plan for all temperatures. The best time to visit Peru is from April to September/October. The temperatures are fairly temperate year-round, depending on where you’re visiting, but we experienced fairly cool temperatures in the evenings. It was so cool, I sometimes wish I had even had my winter jacket, but your girl always only brings a carry-on, and there wasn’t room for one! If you’re also planning on hiking Machu Picchu, Peru, to avoid the rainy season and peak summer travel, it’s best to visit April to May or September to October.
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Is it better to stay in the Sacred Valley or Cusco?
If you’re hiking Machu Picchu, Peru, it’s better to stay in the Sacred Valley versus Cusco. This will first allow you to acclimate to the altitude, especially if you are flying directly into Cusco. Second, Cusco is quite a ways from Machu Picchu by train. It is possible to take a day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu, but this will make for a long day. I highly recommend staying a few nights in the Sacred Valley, getting acclimated to the altitude, and staying right at the closest train station in Ollantaytambo El Albergue Hotel.
Here’s everything you need to know for hiking Machu Picchu, Peru, a perfect Peru 10-day itinerary, or the best places to stay in Cusco.
Best Sacred Valley hotels: Where to Stay while visiting Machu Picchu
4 Areas to Stay in the Sacred Valley
There are four main areas to stay in the Sacred Valley: Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Urubamba, and Aguas Calientes. Aguas Calientes is the closest town to Machu Picchu. Many of these towns are similar, but have different locations and different access to train stations that connect to Machu Picchu. After spending some time staying in Ollantaytambo, I would highly recommend staying here if you’re planning on hiking Machu Picchu, Peru. Aguas Calientes isn’t anything special, but it is the closest town to Machu Picchu. It would be beneficial to stay there if you’re entrance to Machu Picchu is at sunrise or very early in the morning. Keep reading for the most popular places to stay and the best Sacred Valley hotels.
Best Places to Stay in Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is a beautiful village with a colorful market and some of the most incredible Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley. It is also conveniently located near the train station. This Ollantaytambo train stop will be where you can board a train to Machu Picchu. It also has one of the most beautiful hotels, located right at the Ollantaytambo train station, making it very convenient for your day trip to Machu Picchu.
El Albergue Hotel $: This is hands down the best location in Ollantaytambo. It’s situated right at the train station. This oasis has the most lush gardens, a wonderful buffet breakfast and restaurant, and even offers packed lunches for Machu Picchu! I can attest they are delicious, I would highly recommend a stay here.
Del Pilar $-$$: This hotel was perfect for us to acclimate to the altitude. We loved how quiet and serene it was, the views and food were incredible! It is a short drive from the main village of Ollantaytambo and will require a taxi transfer to the train station. This hotel isn’t within walking distance of the town, and there is no public transport.
Las Qolqas EcoResort $: This eco-friendly spot is in a great location, and even offers bikes for you to use during your stay!
Vertical Sky Luxury Suites $$$: This is the ultimate experience of adventure mixed with luxury. Sleep and dine right alongside a cliff and under the stars, with a sprawling view of the Sacred Valley!
Best Places to Stay in Pisac
Pisac is similar to Ollantaytambo in that it is also a small village with Inca ruins. The town itself is a fair bit smaller than Ollantaytambo, and you can find quite a few more budget-friendly accommodations here. Pisac’s location is closest to the Cusco airport. If you’re heading to Machu Picchu, you will have to board a train from either the Ollantaytambo station or Poray station,n closest to Cusco.
Andenia Boutique Hotel $$: This boutique hotel is probably one of the nicest you’ll find in Pisac.
Pisac Inn $: Located right in the heart of town, this spot is beautifully decorated and offers wonderful dining options. This would probably be one of the best places to stay while you’re in Pisac!
Hospedaje Chaska Pisac $: This hotel offers rooms with views of the Pisac mountains. It is extremely affordable.
Florencio Casa Hacienda $: This spot offers a 24-hour front desk, and is proximity to Pisac town as well.
Best Places to Stay in Urubamba
Urubamba is in the middle of the Sacred Valley and is home to more luxury accommodations. There are no ruins in Urubamba, but there are a lot of good restaurants, a market, and a more local atmosphere. Here are a few options for Sacred Valley hotels in Urubamba.
Tambo del Inka $$: This five-star luxurious hotel features a spa, a modern gym, a cozy lounge with a pool table, and various board games. They also have a travel agency on site that can organize tours of the Sacred Valley. All the rooms also have a private balcony with stunning views of the mountains! The best part though- there’s a private train station on site to take you to Machu Picchu.
Inkaterra Hacienda $$: Another luxurious spot in Urubamba, this one seems quite like an oasis in the Sacred Valley. This is a popular location and has stunning views of the mountain range from its front doors! This property is also visually stunning, decorated in traditional Peruvian decor, and especially offers nature walks and stargazing.
Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado $: One of the more affordable options in Urubamba, this property is quite large. The hotel also has a spa with a hot tub and a sauna for guests to use.
San Agustin Monasterio de la Recoleta $: A former monastery now completely renovated, it is quite beautiful but very budget-friendly! It is a bit out of the main area of Urubamba, but if you’re to stay on a budget this would be a great option.
Best Places to Stay in Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes is very touristy. One of the main reasons to stay in Aguas Calientes is if you have the earliest entrance to Machu Picchu and want to visit at sunrise. Due to the train schedules, it wouldn’t be possible to take a train to Aguas Calientes from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to be there that early in the morning, you would need to hire private transport. Here are the most popular Sacred Valley hotels in Aguas Calientes.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel $$$: This five-star property is probably one of the best places if not the best to stay in Aguas Calientes. This spot almost feels like an extreme glamping experience, as you’re surrounded by the nature of Machu Picchu itself. Some of these rooms even have private pools!
El MaPi by Inkaterra property $: An additional Inkaterra property, it is the more affordable option. This spot has much more of a casual hipster vibe.
Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel $$$$: This is the ultimate five-star Machu Picchu experience. I also listed it under the location of Aguas Calientes, but it is right at the base of the entrance to the citadel. By booking with Belmond, you book for the entire experience, as they can assist you with all your Machu Picchu needs. The best part about this hotel is that many of these rooms have views of Machu Picchu itself!
Casa del Sol Machupicchu $$: A fabulous option that won’t break the bank if you’re looking to stay in Aguas Calientes.
Best Places to Stay in Cusco
Even though Cusco wouldn’t be my first choice to stay if you’re visiting Machu Picchu and staying in the Sacred Valley, Peru, many do manage a day trip from here. I would highly recommend the first choice on this list. Palacio Manco Capac is where we stayed during our time in Cusco, and we loved it. It’s a five-star hotel that won’t break the bank. The rooms are stunning, and it has a great location within Cusco that also offers incredible views!
Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay Hotels $$: Not only is this Cusco location perfect for a stay in Cusco, but it’s also a budget-friendly and extremely affordable five-star hotel! The hotel itself is stunning, and the food is delicious!
Palacio Nazarenas $$$: Another five-star location in Cusco, the pool views alone are reason to book a stay at this stunning property.
Here are a few of the other best hotels and best places to stay in Cusco!
Planning a trip to Peru? Here are the posts you need to read:
10 Day Peru Itinerary: Machu Picchu, Cusco, & Lima
Hiking Machu Picchu Peru: A Comprehensive Guide for First Timers
2 Days in Cusco: My BEST Hotel Recommendations
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