Peru Luxury Travel: Go to Machu Picchu in Style

The Gateway to Peruvian Elegance: Lima

Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, is not only the gateway to Machu Picchu but also a hub of culinary excellence and upscale accommodations. The city is at the forefront of a gastronomic revolution, boasting an array of dining experiences that cater to the most discerning palates. For those seeking a luxurious stay, the JW Marriott in Miraflores offers an exceptional blend of comfort and convenience, complete with a first-class restaurant, health club, and casino.

Soaring to New Heights: Cusco and the Sacred Valley

A brief flight from Lima takes travelers to Cusco, the historical heart of the Inca Empire. Here, luxury meets history with hotels like the Aranwa Boutique, Monasterio, and Libertador offering sumptuous stays. The Palacio Nazarenas, which opened in 2012, is a standout with its personalized butler service and modern amenities, including iPod docks in each room.

For those acclimatizing to the altitude, a sojourn in the Sacred Valley is recommended. The valley, with its lower elevation, is home to Inca ruins and vibrant markets. The Aranwa chain's countryside retreat combines modern luxury with breathtaking scenery, making it a tempting place to extend your stay.

The Pinnacle of Luxury: Machu Picchu by Train

The journey to Machu Picchu is elevated by the Hiram Bingham service, a train that epitomizes luxury travel. With a capacity of 84 passengers, the train features dining cars, a bar, and a kitchen, all staffed by a team dedicated to impeccable service. Departing from Cusco, the train arrives in Aguas Calientes, the village at the base of Machu Picchu, by midday. Here, travelers are treated to a guided tour of the ruins and afternoon tea at the Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel adjacent to the ancient site. For those desiring a second day at Machu Picchu, the Sanctuary Lodge offers a lavish overnight experience.

Alternatively, the Inkaterra Pueblo hotel in Aguas Calientes provides a range of luxurious accommodations for those seeking variety.

Trekking in Style: The Inca Trail

For the more adventurous, the Inca Trail presents an opportunity to combine the thrill of hiking with the comforts of luxury lodges. This option allows travelers to immerse themselves in the Inca Trail experience without forgoing the pleasures of warm showers and modern restroom facilities.

Interesting Stats and Nuances

While many travelers are aware of the traditional and rugged Inca Trail trek, few may know that the luxury lodge-to-lodge trek has been gaining popularity. According to Mountain Lodges of Peru, one of the companies offering this service, their lodges have seen a steady increase in occupancy, with many travelers opting for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, which offers a more secluded and high-end experience compared to the traditional Inca Trail.

Moreover, the Hiram Bingham train, operated by Belmond, is often fully booked months in advance, indicating the high demand for luxury travel experiences in Peru. Belmond reports that the train's occupancy rates have been consistently high, with many travelers booking the exclusive Presidential Service for an even more personalized journey.

For those interested in the culinary scene, Lima has been repeatedly named the "Gastronomic Capital of Latin America," with two of its restaurants, Central and Maido, consistently ranking in the top 10 of The World's 50 Best Restaurants list.

In summary, Peru's luxury travel scene is vibrant and growing, offering a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and modern comforts that cater to the upscale adventurer.

Discover more about the Hiram Bingham service Explore the luxury lodges on the Salkantay Trek Learn about Lima's award-winning restaurants