Aguas Calientes, Perú
Inkaterra Machu Picchu
Peruvian Paradise
What it is
An uber-pampering collection of 83 adobe casitas on 12 acres of lush cloud forest, with an indigenous-inspired spa.
What it isn't
Hangry. The on-site restaurant is tucked within a glass-walled home that fronts the rushing Vilcanota River.
What we think
Machu Picchu can be overwhelming, even for the experienced globetrotter. That’s where Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel comes in. The experts here have put together a Peruvian bucket list of exploits, all included in your stay—whether you want to take a twilight birdwatching (or orchid-finding) walk in the verdant forest, or proceed directly to a Machu Picchu archeological dig with a pro guide. If the altitude gets to you and you hole up in your room longer than you thought you might, you still won’t regret the journey, because each casita is nothing less than exquisite. Expect soaring eucalyptus beams, colonial carved furniture, and even rainbow-bright slippers locally crafted by artisans from upcycled materials. If you feel like a splurge, the Suite Inkaterra is topnotch—and includes a covered terrace overlooking your private garden, a heated plunge pool, and a flickering fireplace for cozy nights in.
You're here because
Service is nothing less than legendary, and includes a welcome gift; buffet breakfasts and a la carte dinners (plus pisco sours, of course); turndown; luggage schlepping to the train station; and myriad curated excursions.
The Moment
They use botanical extracts culled from the mountains and valleys to create the beauty products used in spa treatments here—and it shows. After your purification in the Andean-style sauna, you’re wrapped in actual tea leaves, then spritzed with a body mist made from the blooms of actual orchids. Bliss.
Restaurants & Bars
Cafe Inkaterra - traditional cafe
Dining Room - creative fusion cuisine
The Hotel Bar - glass-walled restaurant, with terraces offering the option of outdoor dining.
Location
Just a few minutes stroll from the train station that will chug you uphill to Machu Picchu—the city built in the 15th century at 7,970 feet elevation—within its own luxuriant gardens.