Situated in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu was a lost ancient retreat for leaders of the Inca Empire civilization that was rediscovered in 1911. Today the ruins of Machu Picchu have become a world-renowned historical and archaeological site praised for its complex architecture and irrigation system. It is estimated that 3,000 tourists visit Machu Picchu every day. If you are looking for luxurious and comfortable accommodations close to the ruins, there are a few options available.
This luxury hotel is the only hotel located at the base of the Machu Picchu ruins. Guests can relax in four-star accommodations and hike up to the ruins at their leisure. There are 31 rooms, including standard and mountain view rooms, and two suites. Two restaurants boast international cuisine and local Peruvian dishes. The concierge will help you book your tour of Macchu Pichu and advise you on hiking trails. The hotel also offers room packages and a wedding package. As of September 2010, rates start from $785 per night.
Machu Picchhu Sanctuary Lodge
Machu Picchu
Cuzco, Peru
800-237-1236
sanctuarylodgehotel.com
Sumaq is situated in the closest town to Machu Picchu, appropriately titled Machu Picchu Town. It is only 20 minutes from the ruins and is the only five-star hotel in town, with 60 rooms that include superior deluxe rooms, junior suites and three large Sumaq suites. Half of the rooms overlook the Urumbamba River and the other half face the Andes Mountains. The hotel's architecture and interior design is meant to reflect the Macchu Pichu ruins and the people of the Andes region. The hotel also has a spa and a world-class restaurant run by a Peruvian master chef who combines traditional Peruvian dishes with modern international cuisine. Rates start from $433 per night as of September 2010.
Sumaq Hotel
Av. Hermanos Ayar
Mz 1 Lote 3
Machu Picchu
Cusco, Peru
866-682-0645
sumaqhotelperu.com
Inkaterra, an ecological research and conservation organization that funds itself through sustainable tourism, offers this boutique hotel just 30 minutes away from the Machu Picchu site. Situated on 12 acres of the lush mountainside of Machu Picchu Town, the hotel offers 85 casitas (rooms) and suites that resemble a traditional Andean village home. Each room or suite has handmade blankets, a fireplace and spa bathroom, while the two luxury villas come with a butler and a plunge pool. This eco-friendly hotel offers free guided tours of forest trails and 372 wild orchid species. Rates started at $449 as of September 2010.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Railroad Km 110
Machu Pichu
Cuscos, Peru
800-442-5042
inkaterra.com
