Cusco: 8 perfect destinations to stay in Peru

Cusco, the historical heart of South America, is one of the most captivating destinations on the continent. Located in the majestic Andes Mountains, in southern Peru, it not only houses the ancient capital of the Inca Empire but also a network of towns and provinces ideal for enjoying a memorable stay. Beyond the city, charming areas like Urubamba, Aguas Calientes, or even Machu Picchu itself stand out. Below, discover the 8 most recommended places to stay during your visit to the Inca world.

1. Cusco: Tradition and Modernity in One Place

Located at 3,399 m.a.s.l. (approx. 11,152 feet), the city of Cusco combines history, culture, and a vibrant tourist life. Its attractions include the Cathedral, the Coricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Tambomachay, and much more. During the day, the climate is usually temperate (18 °C / 64 °F on average), while at night it drops to a cold 5 °C (41 °F).

This is where the largest number of accommodations in the region are concentrated, from accessible hostels to luxury hotels with all amenities. The city has more than 500 options in the historic center. Some include breakfast, Wi-Fi, hot water, and personalized service.

Featured Accommodations:

• Hotel Palacio del Inka (5⭐)
• Sonesta Hotel Cusco (4⭐)
• Casa Andina Standard Cusco (3⭐)
• Loki Hostel (hostel)

Approximate Prices per Night:

• 5⭐: S/1,350 (approx. $365 USD)
• 4⭐: S/450 (approx. $120 USD)
• 3⭐: S/150 (approx. $40 USD)
• Hostel: S/50 (approx. $13.50 USD)

2. Aguas Calientes: The Gateway to Machu Picchu

Also known as “Machu Picchu town,” Aguas Calientes is located just 10 km (about 6 miles) from the Inca sanctuary. With a tropical mountain climate (20 °C / 68 °F during the day and 10 °C / 50 °F at night), it is a town 100% focused on tourism.

Most visitors spend the night here before or after visiting Machu Picchu. There are accommodations of all types: from comfortable hostels to luxurious eco-hotels. Camping is also available at affordable prices.

Recommended Accommodations:

• Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5⭐)
• Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (4⭐)
• Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu (3⭐)
• Supertramp Hostel (hostel)

Approximate Prices per Night:

• 5⭐: S/1,150 (approx. $310 USD)
• 4⭐: S/750 (approx. $200 USD)
• 3⭐: S/250 (approx. $67 USD)
• Hostel: S/50 (approx. $13.50 USD)

3. Urubamba: Peace and Luxury in the Sacred Valley

Urubamba is the capital of the province of the same name and one of the favorite destinations for its pleasant climate (22 °C / 72 °F during the day, 14 °C / 57 °F at night) and relaxed atmosphere. It is located about 53 km (about 33 miles) from Cusco.

The hotel offer is diverse, with luxury options and family-run accommodations, surrounded by nature and living culture. It is an excellent alternative for acclimatizing before going to Machu Picchu.

Recommended Options:

• Río Sagrado Belmond (5⭐)
• Hotel Andes de Urubamba (3⭐)
• San Agustín Urubamba (3⭐)

Approximate Prices per Night:

• 5⭐: S/2,470 (approx. $665 USD)
• 4⭐: S/350 (approx. $94 USD)
• 3⭐: S/240 (approx. $65 USD)

4. Pisac: Nature, Spirituality, and Living Culture

Located 34 km (about 21 miles) from Cusco and at 2,972 m.a.s.l. (approx. 9,751 feet), Pisac is known for its impressive archaeological site, its artisan market, and its special energy. Its temperatures range from 21 °C (70 °F) during the day to 13 °C (55 °F) at night.

This picturesque town offers accommodations in direct contact with nature: lodges, rural houses, and hostels that allow you to rest in a quiet and bohemian environment.

Recommended:

• Hotel Altar Inca Pisac (4⭐)
• Hotel Samay Wasi (3⭐)
• Pisonay Hotel (3⭐)

Approximate Prices per Night:

• 4⭐: S/310 (approx. $83 USD)
• 3⭐: S/100 (approx. $27 USD)

5. Ollantaytambo: Living History at the Foot of the Andes

Just 61 km (about 38 miles) from Cusco, at 2,792 m.a.s.l. (approx. 9,160 feet), Ollantaytambo is an archaeological gem and a key point to board the train to Machu Picchu. It features ruins, cobblestone streets, and an unmistakable ancestral energy. The climate ranges between 23 °C (73 °F) and 10 °C (50 °F).

Its variety of hotels is ideal for those who wish to spend the night in a historical setting with quick access to the train.

Recommendations:

• Hotel Tikawasi Ollantaytambo (4⭐)
• Inka’s Haven Hotel (3⭐)

Approximate Prices per Night:

• 4⭐: S/250 (approx. $67 USD)
• 3⭐: S/130 (approx. $35 USD)

6. Yucay: Rural Charm and Total Tranquility

This peaceful town in the Sacred Valley is 4 km (about 2.5 miles) from Urubamba and 55 km (about 34 miles) from Cusco. With a mild climate (20 °C / 68 °F during the day, 12 °C / 54 °F at night), it is perfect for those seeking relaxation amidst rural landscapes and streets steeped in history.

Here you can find the historic palace of the Inca Sayri Túpac, as well as cozy hotels that combine comfort and connection with nature.

Featured Hotels:

• Sonesta Posadas del Inca (4⭐)
• Hotel La Casona de Yucay (3⭐)
• Hotel Casa Tía María (3⭐)

Approximate Prices per Night:

• 4⭐: S/420 (approx. $113 USD)
• 3⭐: S/250 (approx. $67 USD)

7. Mollepata: Adventure on the Route to Salkantay

This small Andean town is located in the province of Anta, 101 km (about 63 miles) from Cusco, and is a starting point for Humantay Lake and the Salkantay trek. With a temperature of 18 °C (64 °F) during the day and 3 °C (37 °F) at night, it is ideal for trekking enthusiasts.

The hotel offer is designed for adventurers: lodges and refuges with all essential amenities, amidst imposing and serene landscapes.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Refugios Salkantay (3⭐)
• Sarawasi Hotel (2⭐)
• Alturuna Lodge (2⭐)

Approximate Prices per Night:

• 3⭐: S/150 (approx. $40 USD)
• 2⭐: S/75 (approx. $20 USD)

8. Machu Picchu: Sleeping Steps Away from the World Wonder

Although most people stay in Aguas Calientes, there is a unique and unparalleled luxury option right next to the archaeological site: the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located in front of the entrance to Machu Picchu.

Its rooms are equipped with Jacuzzi, terraces, King beds, and spectacular views of the sacred mountain. It is the perfect option for those seeking an exclusive and unrepeatable experience.

Recommended Accommodation:

• Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (5⭐)

Approximate Price per Night:

• S/4,500 (approx. $1,200 USD)