Aguas Calientes, also known as Machupicchu Pueblo or Machupicchu Town, is the bustling town that sits below the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. The town was named Aguas Calientes by the Spanish as there are hot springs in and around the area.
Today, there are literally hundreds of accommodation options in Aguas Calientes. Choosing the right hotel or hostel can be confusing.
Below, I have tried to simplify matters based on my experience and that of our readers when it comes to hotels in the town. I have separated my analysis of the best hotels in Aguas Calientes into three categories:
- Cheap and Cheerful
- More Comfort
- Premium and Luxury
These accommodation categories will help you find a reliable and comfortable hotel that suits your budget.
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Best Hotels in Aguas Calientes - Budget to Premium Options
Let's talk about the best hotels in Aguas Calientes - starting with the more affordable ones, while working my way up to the comfortable and lavish accommodation options further down.
Cheap and Cheerful Hotels
Generally speaking, affordable accommodation options in Aguas Calientes range from $30-$70 per person per night. This type of accommodation is most ideal for tourists looking to have a little spending money left over during their trip.
Below are three of my favourite cheap and cheerful hotels in Aguas Calientes.
Ecopackers Machupicchu Hostel
This is one of the better hostels I've have stayed at in the world. The rooms and beds are clean, toilets and showers are adequate, and the staff are supper friendly. It has a great shared bar and communal space to meet fellow backpackers.
El Tambo Machupicchu
El Tambo Machupicchu is centrally located and an incredibly affordable hotel. There are no bells and whistles, but you get a comfortable, clean room and basic amenities.
Casa Machu Picchu
Okay, Casa Machu Picchu is a seriously budget affair, so I would only recommend it if you are trying to save lots of cash. The rooms are very basic, and the general vibe isn't that great. But it's a fine place to rest your head if you don't have too much money.
More Comfort Hotels ($70-$150 per night)
Generally speaking, mid-range accommodation options in Aguas Calientes will cost visitors anywhere from $70-$150 per person per night. This type of accommodation is most ideal for tourists looking for some familiar creature comforts while exploring Machupicchu Town.
Below are three of my favourite mid-range, comfort hotels in Aguas Calientes.
Panorama B&B
This is a super authentic little B&B that is just outside of Aguas Calientes. The rooms are delightful and the views on the river are fantastic. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town, then Panorama B&B is a great option. The complimentary breakfast is very good as well!
Hotel La Cabaña Machu Picchu
Hotel La Cabaña Machu Picchu is a really nice 3-star hotel that is centrally located in town. The hotel is tastefully decorated, and the rooms are very comfortable. The hotel is also a short walk from the hot springs. The on-site restaurant is pretty good as well.
Hotel Taypikala Machupicchu
Hotel Taypikala Machupicchu is another very well-located hotel (only 200m from the bus stop to Machu Picchu). It offers very comfortable rooms, most of which have nice mountain views. The restaurant is good and so is the garden. I highly recommend getting a massage in this hotel, it is very good and cheap!
Premium and Luxury Hotels ($150+ per night)
Generally speaking, premium and luxury accommodation options in Aguas Calientes will cost visitors more than $150 per person per night. This type of accommodation is most ideal for tourists who are looking to splurge for the VIP treatment during their travels.
Below are three of my favourite premium and luxury hotels in Aguas Calientes.
Casa del Sol Machupicchu
Casa del Sol Machupicchu is a very nice 4-star hotel. They are centrally located and offer all that one would expect from a good 4-star hotel. Make sure you take advantage of their complimentary concierge and shuttle services!
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Aguas Calientes. It's an excellently 5-star hotel with awesome facilities and impeccable service. I was lucky enough to spend 2 nights at Inkaterra, all expenses paid, and can attest that it exceeded my expectations. Alas, it is not cheap!
Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
Full confession, I haven't stayed at the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel personally, but I know the hotel well from having drinks and dinner there frequently in the past. The hotel offers everything you would expect from a 5-star hotel, and it's cheaper than the Inkaterra! You should definitely try the traditional Guinea pig dish on the à la carte menu at Qunuq Restaurant!
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Conclusion
Still have questions about the best hotels in Aguas Calientes? Leave a comment below and we will respond within 24 hours. If you have stayed in one of these hotels and would like to leave a review, please also do so in the comment section below.
See more in our related guides:
- Best hotels in Cusco and reviews
- Best hotels in Ollantaytambo and reviews
- Where to stay at Lake Titicaca
- All hiking routes to Machu Picchu - including the famous Inca Trail
Tags: Best hotels in Aguas Calientes Peru, Aguas Calientes Accommodation, Accommodation Aguas Calientes, Hotels in Aguas Calientes
References: (1) TripAdvisor (2) Agoda (3) Booking.com (4) Personal Experience
Any hotels in town that will fit a family of 5?
Hi Annemarie, almost all hotels in Aguas Calientes could cater for a family of 5 (two rooms – triple and double). Hope this helps!
Hi!
In your opinion, which hotel would you recommend to your best friend and her family of 4 (husband, wife, 18 year old boy and 11 year old daughter). Somewhere down the middle, not super expensive but not a hostel either. Any MUST visit spots in town? Restaurants, bars?
Thank you!