Peru’s Machu Picchu… and way more

Visiting the Machu Picchu citadel in Peru is a transformative expertise, mixing introspection and awe. Believed by historians to be a sacred website the place Incas related with the divine, for the customer too, the “Misplaced Metropolis” evokes a non secular sense inside even probably the most agnostic. The palpable expertise and feeling of stepping again in time to a misplaced civilization stays with you perpetually.

Although experiencing Machu Picchu is the crowning glory for many worldwide vacationers who come to Peru, this nation abounds with extra journey potentialities that shouldn’t be discounted or ignored.

With the thought of prompting discerning vacationers to go to Peru by unearthing this “land of hidden treasures,” right here we’ve traced only one Machu-Picchu-focused route for these searching for upscale journey.

First cease – Sacred Valley: A journey by means of historical past and nature

In your pilgrimage to the citadel, your worldwide flight will first land on the Peruvian coast within the capital metropolis of Lima, adopted by a connecting flight to Peru’s heartland: the inland metropolis of Cusco. There, your awaiting information will whisk you away to close by Urubamba Valley earlier than you start to really feel the results of the excessive altitude. This space was identified by the traditional Inca because the “Sacred Valley,” a reputation that conjures up pictures of primeval civilizations, storybook landscapes, and an otherworldly mystique within the air.

Residing as much as its legendary popularity, Sacred Valley is crossed by crystalline streams meandering down hillsides and jagged rocky facades. Hallowed ruins abound on this revered expanse the place conventional cultures thrive and a number of the world’s most iconic websites might be discovered.

Vacationers may also go to any one of many space’s small villages for a glimpse of genuine rural life. Surrounded by towering mountains and hugging the shore of the breathtakingly blue Lake Piuray, agriculture dominates these close-knit communities the place the ladies of the village are weaving masters who use historic Incan strategies, supplies, and patterns.

Although Sacred Valley is commonly visited by vacationers from all around the world, it’s nonetheless doable to get pleasure from your individual intimate experiences on this picturesque, rustic, and historic area. You’ll discover many off-the-beaten-paths and nature walks, little-known archaeological websites, and quaint colonial cities to see, to not point out a few of Peru’s most interesting and most characterful lodging.

Luxurious lodging in Peru’s Sacred Valley: A keep in serenity

Talking of lodging, a variety of luxurious retreats are provided amid the gorgeous landscapes of Peru’s Sacred Valley. For vacationers searching for lavish getaways offering an beautiful mix of consolation, tradition, and nature, these upscale lodges are excellent. Such lodging function a reinvigorating base for exploring the valley and taking in its breathtaking surroundings earlier than returning to indulge of their world-class facilities.

Together with the unique Belmond Lodge Rio Sagrado, the secluded Explora Valle Sagrado, and the eco-friendly Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, is one other luxury-class standout: the Tamba del Inka lodge. This riverside paradise blends seamlessly with nature, that includes luxurious rooms and an atmospheric restaurant.

As described by Luxurious Latin America, Tambo del Inka stays “the lodge to beat in Cusco’s Sacred Valley of the Incas,” being much more fashionable and having superior high quality facilities in nearly each side, be it the restaurant, its bar, the frequent areas, in-room electronics, and Tambo del Inka’s luxurious spa and pool.

Furthermore, the 126-room Tambo del Inka is the one Sacred Valley lodge to take a seat proper within the heart of the world’s principal city of Urubamba. This provides the lodge a giant plus in that one can stroll off the resort to have dinner on the city’s glorious El Huacatay restaurant or have a drink in one in every of its understated bars and cafes. Tambo de Inka can be the one lodge having its personal railway station in Urubamba for journeys to Machu Picchu.

These opulent lodgings promise to make your keep within the Sacred Valley so exceptional and refreshing that you just’ll by no means wish to go away.

Arriving in Machu Picchu: A journey to the clouds

The principle attraction for a lot of if not most worldwide vacationers in Peru is the journey to Machu Picchu.

Though the citadel was constructed within the fifteenth century, the “Misplaced Metropolis of the Incas” didn’t come to gentle for hundreds of years till 1911, when an American explorer revealed its existence to the Western world. 

Since then, it has spun an online of fascination over generations. Nonetheless immediately, this image of the Inca Empire captures folks’s imaginations simply as a lot as in these early days of its “discovery.” As Machu Picchu supplies a window right into a bygone period, this historic complicated was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Website and has been included on the listing of the “New Seven Wonders of the World.” Machu Picchu, probably the most distinguished archaeological website on the continent, manages to carry on to its grandeur and its accompanying thriller; a spot that’s positive to alter one’s perspective on the world.

Touring throughout Sacred Valley you’ll make your approach to this imposing and mysterious citadel, which is South America’s hottest vacation spot. This journey itself provides to the sense of journey and discovery as vacationers could make their approach to the Misplaced Metropolis. The positioning is reached by way of a soothing practice journey or by enterprise a several-day trek alongside the well-known Inca Path. Both method, a magical environment is created by the luxurious greenery and misty peaks alongside the best way, all of which add to the historic marvel by making the journey one in every of scenic magnificence as you narrow your method deeper into the canyon, getting ever nearer to the primary occasion.

This journey will then be topped with an ascent to a excessive mountain ridge to enter the awe-inspiring magical metropolis. The primary sight of any complicated of this caliber is one thing one will all the time keep in mind. The view of the magnificent stone edifices and well-kept lawns juxtaposed with the inexperienced vary of mountains and the deep ravine within the foreground is a sight one can’t overlook.

The positioning is unmistakable proof of the Incas’ superior architectural and engineering abilities. Its rigorously constructed terraces, temples, and stone buildings are marvels of precision, whereas additionally mixing seamlessly into the mountainous panorama. As soon as inside, an insightful non-public strolling tour of Machu Picchu will take you to former dwelling quarters, the Temples of the Solar and Moon, Intihuatana (a ritual stone), agricultural terraces, and extra. Via this mind-expanding expertise, you’ll be taught of the rituals and theories behind Machu Picchu’s objective, as every construction supplies a glimpse into the non secular and cultural significance of the positioning. Later, and by yourself, you possibly can then discover the inexperienced areas, gorgeous lookout factors, and the slender passages of the complicated at your leisure.

Nearly all those that go to Machu Picchu discover it an unforgettable journey into the traditional previous and one of the breathtaking journey experiences on this planet.

Machu Picchu lodging: For indulging within the actually finer issues in life

Any discerning traveler searching for the once-in-a-lifetime Machu Picchu expertise will discover that the vacation spot’s luxurious lodging mix all of the fascinating elements: subline consolation, elegant sophistication, and proximity to the historic website. Such upscale lodges permit the customer to get pleasure from a panoramic panorama, gourmet-class fusion delicacies, and privileged entry to the famed citadel.

Deep in a lush cloud forest, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is an intimate luxurious property consisting of dozens of cottages sprawled over twelve acres to create the environment of a captivating Andean-style village. Located on the foot of the mountain upon which the Incan citadel sits, the lodging are a brief zigzagging trip as much as its famed archaeological namesake. Inkaterra Machu Picchu eco-lodge boasts a location that’s additionally particular in that it’s surrounded by a high-mountain forest full of all sorts of unique crops, animal life, and tropical birds. Plus, the cottages lie on the fringe of the city of Machu Picchu Metropolis (previously known as Aguas Calientes), the place you’ll discover a vary of bars and eating places – for these within the temper for some city exploring. Likewise, the cabanas are conveniently situated simply throughout from the Machu Picchu Pueblo practice station.

The eco-luxury cottage lodging are characterised by their spaciousness, a luxurious spa, and contemporary Andean delicacies, which makes the final word in consolation go hand-in-hand with the pure environment. Nature walks, unique wildlife watching, and enjoyable scorching spring baths are a number of the actions accessible to visitors.

For these wishing to mix journey with a wholesome dose of excessive dwelling, this luxurious lodge near Machu Picchu presents a possibility to witness the great thing about the traditional Inca metropolis within the best of consolation.

Having discovered your self awe-struck by Machu Picchu; you’ll now return to Cusco. Your keep might be within the metropolis’s historic heart, an interesting fusion of Incan settlements and a modern-day South American metropolis that attracts vacationers from all over the world.

Right here, the number of historic and non secular websites will hold you occupied for so long as you’re prepared. The principle sq., dwelling to Cusco’s iconic Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral, is – in fact – a must-visit venue. The town’s gorgeous structure and an imposing Inca fortress are testaments to each Inca ingenuity and Spanish affect.

In Cusco, historical past comes alive as you stroll down the slender cobblestone streets passing locals wearing conventional apparel. Inevitably you’ll encounter colourful markets like those who have existed right here for hundreds of years; nowadays showcasing an array of dazzling materials, handmade ornaments, and scrumptious Peruvian meals whose engaging aromas fill the air.

Each nook of Cusco holds one thing extraordinary; it’s a type of locations the place guests really feel deeply related to the town’s vibrant spirit, making them able to return and uncover much more.

All this makes Cusco one in every of our favourite locations in Peru. Whether or not you come to get pleasure from its vibrant festivals, be taught extra about its wealthy historical past, or discover the in-town Inca ruins, Cusco is enthralling to all who go by means of.

Luxurious lodging in Cusco: A keep in magnificence and historical past

Returning to this historic metropolis, you’ll unpack and settle in on the Belmond Monasterio del Cuzco, a singular museum-hotel adorned with Sixteenth-century work and native antiques all through the magnificent interiors.

As a former monastery relationship again to 1592, the property’s appeal and ambiance have endured for hundreds of years, whereas its standing as one of many world’s most interesting lodges continues immediately. The Belmond fuses the magnificence, consolation, and subline qualities of a contemporary 5-star lodge with the solemnity of its colonial previous.

But, while you settle into your room, the Twenty first-century kicks in as every suite is oxygen-enriched to fight the results of Cusco’s excessive altitude. You’ll discover such up-to-date fixtures built-in with the unique amenities, conventional colours, murals, and stones that mirror the spirit of the unique period.

Likewise, eating on the lodge is a recent expertise in itself, with its connoisseur eating places serving a fusion of Peruvian and worldwide delicacies.

For withdrawing to a hidden courtyard or nursing a pisco bitter below arched colonnades, the Monasterio lodge is a tranquil refuge although conveniently situated within the coronary heart of busy Cuzco.

Flight to the Peruvian Amazon: A wild paradise of biodiversity

After a restful evening in your charming boutique lodge in Cusco, it’s on to the Amazon. In lower than a half hour, you’ll transition from city bustle to a realm deep throughout the Peruvian jungle the place human presence takes a again seat to the grandeur of nature.

A seemingly limitless mass of dense emerald rainforest carved up by the indomitable Amazon River and its tributaries, Peru’s portion of the world’s best rainforest cradles supreme biodiversity. It sprawls throughout over sixty p.c of Peru’s land mass, sheltering an eye-blinking number of wildlife: from kaleidoscopic birds like tanagers, macaws, and toucans, to all method of monkeys, equivalent to capuchins, tamarins, and Spider monkeys.

On the similar time, caimans, anacondas, and the legendary pink river dolphin thrive within the river’s murky waters, whereas on land you would possibly get the possibility to identify a jaguar or two.

After reaching the already distant Amazonian city of Puerto Maldonado, you’ll journey deeper into the jungle to search out the Inkaterra Amazonian Reserve.

This primary journey may be on close by Lake Sandoval, the place in a picket canoe you’ll glide throughout the gorgeous, mirror-like lake that’s dwelling to raucous howler monkeys and colourful macaws. A whole sequence of different jungle adventures observe.

Luxurious lodging within the Peruvian Amazon: An expertise in rainforest stylish

For vacationers in quest of journey, whereas nonetheless demanding probably the most in consolation, within the Peruvian Amazon you could find a number of upscale lodges providing genuine Amazonian experiences whereas offering world-class facilities and personalised companies.

One in every of these is the Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, which prides itself as an “eco-luxury” lodge. This distant but simply accessible jungle retreat is just a 25-minute flight from Cusco in a rainforest area generally known as the “Biodiversity Capital of Peru.”

Chosen by Nationwide Geographic Traveler journal as among the many world’s 25 finest eco-lodges, Inkaterra affords its visitors a complete menu of journey excursions, together with jungle hikes, evening safaris, and twilight boating adventures. On the similar time, your keep affords the final word in comfort, private service, and facilities; all the pieces from a plunge pool and plush bathrobes to Andean slippers and a siesta lounge furnished with hammocks.

Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica is only one of a number of Peruvian eco-lodges for vacationers searching for each consolation and a deep connection to the untamed pure fantastic thing about the Amazon.

Ending up in Lima: A cultural, historic, and culinary gem of South America

Following your adventure-filled journey within the Amazon, you’ll then jet again throughout the nation to totally expertise each colonial and fashionable Lima. Throughout your metropolis tour, you’ll uncover high-rise condos constructed subsequent to pre-Columbian temples, stately museums alongside edgy artwork galleries, and solemn midnight non secular processions exterior of jam-packed nightclubs that includes laser-light reveals.

Lima is a metropolis wherein exist the traditional and the fashionable spirit by means of tradition, historical past, and creativity. Being the most important metropolis within the nation and the nation’s hub, Lima attracts vacationers from throughout the planet. Located on the Pacific coast, Lima is a compelling mixture of breathtaking ocean vistas, colonial-era structure, fashionable business complexes, and a rare culinary scene.

One other Lima spotlight is its historic colonial heart, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Website. As the town was based by Spanish conquistadors near 500 years in the past, its colonial traits are in all places. For a unique layer of curiosity, go to the ocean-front districts of Lima, particularly the Miraflores and Barranco. Whereas Miraflores is extra refined, because of its beautiful parks and the Pacific Coast views from the cliffs, Barranco is a extra laid-back bohemian melting pot of musicians and artists; its color-filled streets are lined with artwork galleries, road artwork, and loads of bars, eating places and cafes that add to Barranco’s vibrant nightlife.

Constructing upon its deep culinary traditions relationship again over a thousand years, Lima is now known as the “Gastronomy Capital of Latin America,” because it’s the perfect place to find the multi-faceted array of Peruvian delicacies.

Utilizing each native elements and up to date elements, mixed with Peruvian and worldwide strategies, and led by a brand new technology {of professional} cooks, Lima has develop into the middle of the nation’s modern “fusion” delicacies. From this, thrilling dishes are being created right here, producing a mixture of fantastic, distinctive flavors and textures. The outcomes have attracted foodies from across the planet searching for to expertise for themselves the town’s various culinary choices, sitting down in all places from conventional cevicherías to pioneering fine-dining institutions.

Regardless of whether or not you’re attracted by its historic heritage, the thriving cultural scene, or its wonderful eating, Lima has one thing for each customer.

Luxurious lodging in Lima: Again to the creature comforts of modernity

As Peru’s capital metropolis, Lima is an lively metropolis that merges an astounding historical past, coastal appeal, and world-class fusion eating – making it an ideal metropolis for luxurious vacationers.

Lima’s main lodges present unmatched consolation and magnificence, guaranteeing unforgettable stays. Amongst these upscale Lima lodging is the Belmond Miraflores Park Lodge, a premier capital metropolis hideaway with a rooftop pool teetering above the Pacific Ocean. Timeless, well-equipped, and perched in an unmatched place on a clifftop with views of the ocean, the 5-star Belmond Miraflores Park is a number one Lima lodge. Whenever you’re not wandering the streets of the modern Miraflores district, that are proper on the lodge’s doorstep, you would possibly wish to work out within the lodge’s fitness center or reconnect with a yoga and meditation class, feast on Asian-Peruvian fusion delicacies in its Tragaluz restaurant or have the workers on the Belo bar craft you a personalised cocktail.

A keep on the Belmond epitomizes model and leisure because of the good design, present facilities, and lavish furnishings of every suite. Word, as an example, that almost all of those rooms have non-public balconies from which breathtaking ocean vistas might be loved by visitors.

Further options embody the lodge’s famend restaurant, which is a culinary expertise spotlighting a fusion of Peruvian and worldwide flavors. Likewise, the lodge’s spa supplies soothing therapies designed to resume the thoughts and physique for these searching for pure leisure. Plus, the lodge’s proximity to Lima’s upbeat cultural and procuring districts makes the Belmond an unmatched selection for discriminating vacationers trying to expertise the very best of Lima surrounded by the utmost in luxurious and luxury.

The upshot: Don’t postpone discovering “the land of hidden treasures”

Peru affords itself as a diverse journey vacation spot with a myriad of sights. The nation possesses all the pieces from the primeval Amazonian rainforest to unmatched cities dripping with Inca and colonial jewels; and, in fact, there’s the world-famous Machu Picchu, an unforgettable journey into historic historical past that showcases beautiful stone structure preserved centuries again. Along with these iconic ruins, the encircling Sacred Valley retains an ageless however nonetheless thriving native tradition, conventional markets, and gorgeous pure magnificence.

Whether or not you’re searching for journey, historical past, or delectable fusion delicacies, Machu Picchu, and Peru as an entire make for a timeless and enriching expertise that blends historic wonders with fashionable appeal. All of that is Peru — timeless, vibrant, and savory — itself a real South American delicacy simply ready so that you can dig in.

Alfonso Tandazo

Alfonso Tandazo is President and CEO at Surtrek Tour Operator. Surtrek Tour Operator is a well-established agency, specializing in custom-designed luxurious excursions in Ecuador, the Galapagos and all through the remainder of South America. If you need to be a visitor blogger on A Luxurious Journey Weblog with a view to elevate your profile, please contact us.