With terraced hills, organic gardens, waterfalls and cobblestoned pathways, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo feels like an intimate village of its own. A 5-hectare mountainside reserve, the pristine cloudforest setting is a dream for all travellers, but even more so for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, with over 210 bird species and 370 orchid species (making it the world’s largest native orchid collection) recorded in the exact area. Amazingly, the hotel’s sustainability efforts have helped preserved hectares of Amazonian forest and native fauna, while also striving to make stays 100% carbon neutral. Staying here for the full Machu Picchu experience just feels right.
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The hotel is the epitome of “built in harmony with nature”. Terracotta floors, palm-thatched roofs and rugged wood beams characterise the low-lying buildings, all connected through stone paths and surrounded by a lush jungle setting (Google Map it - you’ll literally just see trees). Interiors are stylish and Andean alpaca blankets and throws add colour - and warmth! Common areas include a library, spa and sauna, popular café and large glasshouse-style restaurant and bar, where the included buffet breakfast and dinner are served.
The hotel’s 85 whitewashed adobe “casitas” (little houses) are scattered around the greenery. All have marble bathrooms with standing showers and eco-friendly toiletries, a dining area, minibar and TV, but rooms range in size from 30-ish m2 to the palatial 293m2 Villa Inkaterra suite. In all the suites, you'll find fireplaces and sitting areas, while others come with a private garden and covered terrace with heated plunge pool too - and imagine coming back to that after your Machu Picchu adventure...
Macchu Picchu is obviously the main attraction, and the hotel offers special guided tours for guests who prefer this over doing it solo. However, there are a few complimentary excursions for guests too, including early bird-watching walks, twilight nature walks, orchid trails and even visits to a nearby native farm. UNU spa is a great option for relaxing in a movie-like setting, and cooking classes and wine tastings are always fun alternatives too.
The hotel offers a truly secluded jungle paradise feel, but it’s only a five-minute walk into the lively town where you’ll find everything from souvenir stalls to bars and restaurants. Best of both worlds for sure.
The absolute best thing about this hotel is the setting, so take some time to really enjoy it and explore it. Staying overnight just to visit Machu Picchu will probably fall short - plus you’ll probably won’t get to enjoy the free excursions!
The hotel’s sheer size and surroundings means quite a lot of walking is required, as well as up and down stairs between your room and common areas. And remember it’s in a cloudy forest, so expect a few mosquitoes around.
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A mix of mystery and sublime beauty, this Modern Wonder of the World hardly needs an introduction
