Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge by Orient-Express

A very unremarkable lodge in an absolutely spectacular setting. The rooms are small and ordinary. The location obviates the 2o minute zig zag bus ride from Agua Caliente, the next closest resource for lodging. You also have the advantage "finding" your way into the sacred grounds at night(the gates close a sunset). Under moonlight, Machu Picchu is even more spectacular. Staying in lodge very much enhanced my Machu Picchu experience. I was very happy with my stay.....but value can be very subjective.

My father and I stayed at The Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel that sits at the base of Machu Picchu. Typically, if you're going to stay overnight in this area, you have to stay in Aguas Calientes, a town that is about a 30 minute bus ride from Machu Picchu (all the way down the mountain). If you stay at the Sanctuary, you don't have to worry about that bus ride. Which means more time at Machu Picchu. The downside is that this hotel charges approx $1,000/night. In May 2009, we had the good fortune of learning that the country's train workers decided to strike the day we were in Machu Picchu. So we were stranded, and couldn't get back to Cusco, our base, which is 4 hours south. Machu Picchu is only accessible by train or by foot via the Inca Trail. We decided to spend a 2nd night at this hotel. So have a backup plan in case that happens to you! The food was excellent, the rooms modest but nice. The internet connection/terminals could have been better.

This hotel is really a Sanctuary next to another one. They are a really good hotel, but what makes them even better is that they are the only one located next to Machu Picchu, which is unbeatable.

First of all I have to say that this is an expensive hotel, but what you pay for accommodation includes 3 meals (lunch, dinner & breakfast), all you can drink, room service, a 30min massage for each guest, free mini bar and the common amenities of a hotel. My only suggestion would be building a pool. The massages are a great idea and help you getting more relaxed and enjoy the beauty of Machu Picchu.

The hotel is very clean, the common areas and the bedrooms are always kept clean and tidy. Also they would light on scented candles. Also the beauty supplies are very good too.

The bed was really comfortable and I like the view we got in our bedroom. Nothing can compare to open your eyes and see the Wayna Picchu while the sun is rising.

The bathroom & shower are very good. I'd love if they can add a tub, but there is not enough space in the bathroom. Nevermind, the shower is very good and they have really nice hot water.

The restaurants and bar of the hotel are great. I'm writing a review of each of them individually. What I can't forget to mention is the fact that they have a common room with tv and 2 showers, so you can take a shower and relax even when you have already done the check out. This is very convenient, specially if you visited Machu Picchu and want to chill out before going back to Cusco.

And at last but not least, the staff deserves an A+++ They are really helpful and friendly. Always checking if everything is ok and if you need anything else. In your room you will find all the information about Machu Picchu and the hotel, you might need.

Well, if you can afford it and want to spoil yourself, stay here for 1 night. You won't regret it :)