Casa del Sol Machupicchu

Casa del Sol Machupicchu is situated alongside the town's main railway track, surrounded by stunning mountainside and the trickling waters of the Vilcanota River. Inside, the property is dimly lit and decorated with warm earthy colors, adding a sense of coziness and warmth. Plants and flowers are scattered here and there for freshness and color, while polished all-wood interiors and exposed stone walls create a rustic feel. The hotel has a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal respite after a long day of exploring and hiking. The restaurant is spacious and cozy, but it can get busy at peak times, especially when there are large groups. Most guests are tourists stopping off on their way to Machu Picchu, with a broad range of nationalities staying at the hotel. 

This sharp little hotel is located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, surrounded by numerous shops, bars, and restaurants. The property sits right next to the town's main railway line, which runs right through the middle of the street. There are no cars in the center of town, and the location is incredibly convenient for anyone heading up into the mountains. The bus station for Machu Picchu is a one-minute walk from the hotel, while the train station and craft market are a three-minute walk. From Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, travelers should take a taxi to Poroy and get a train to Aguas Calientes from there. The journey takes roughly about three hours. The hotel offers a free train station pickup, which is ideal for guests with a lot of hiking gear. 

This boutique hotel has 30 rooms, and all are similarly decorated in a traditional Andean style. Like the rest of the hotel, all-wood decor dominates, with polished wood floors and furniture. Colonial grid windows let in plenty of natural light, and offer views of either the street or riverside. Riverside rooms are better (though more expensive) as street-facing rooms get a lot of noise from the railway right outside. Flat-screen TVs, safes, phones, work desks, and minibars come as standard. All rooms have standing fans, but no air-conditioning, which means rooms can get a little stuffy. Wi-Fi is free, but can be spotty. Free robes, bottled water, and welcome chocolates are a thoughtful touch. Matrimonial Suites add extra living space, coffee machines, and sunrooms with deep-soaking tubs. White tiled bathrooms are modern and clean in all rooms, with rainfall showers/tubs, granite vessel sinks, hairdryers, and free eco-friendly toiletries.

The eco-conscious Kintu Spa is one of the hotel's big selling points, offering relaxing massages and body treatments in a tranquil setting. The spa also has a hot tub, and a traditional hammam. Manka Restaurant serves local cuisine in a casual setting, plus a bar serving beers, wines, and spirits. Breakfast is free for all guests, and some packages also include dinner. The breakfast buffet includes a variety of hot and cold options, such as cooked-to-order eggs, bacon, sausages, breads, croissants, cheese, cereal, fruits, juices, and hot drinks. The hotel also has a small business center, plus an on-site clothing boutique. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, luggage storage, and laundry for a fee. The hotel offers free pickups from the train station, and airport transfers can be arranged for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though not the most reliable.