Welcome to Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Hotel

Cusco is located at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level and Machu Picchu is at 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level. Some people may experience altitude sickness at these elevations, but it is usually mild and can be prevented by acclimatizing properly and staying hydrated. Explore our Machu Picchu Tours today!

The easiest way to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco is by taking a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or hike up to the ruins. Book your stay with us today

Traveling to Cusco and Machu Picchu is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any travel destination, it's important to take certain precautions and be aware of local conditions. Here are some key points to consider for safety:

1. Altitude Sickness: Cusco is located at a high altitude (over 3,400 meters or 11,200 feet), and altitude sickness can be a concern. It's advisable to acclimatize for a few days in Cusco before heading to higher altitudes like Machu Picchu. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and heavy meals, and possibly taking altitude sickness medication can help.

2. Health and Medical Facilities: Cusco has adequate medical facilities for routine and emergency care. However, it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and possible evacuation.

3. Personal Safety: As in any popular tourist destination, it's wise to be cautious with personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist spots and markets, so keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings.

4. Traveling and Transportation: Using reputable transportation services is recommended, especially for long journeys or when traveling to remote areas. For train travel to Machu Picchu, using well-known companies like PeruRail or Inca Rail is advisable.

5. Natural Hazards: The region can experience occasional natural hazards like landslides, especially during the rainy season. Staying informed about local weather and road conditions is important.

6. Local Laws and Customs: Respecting local laws and customs is crucial. This includes rules at historical sites like Machu Picchu, where there are specific guidelines for visitors to preserve the site.

7. Food and Water Safety: To avoid stomach ailments, it's usually recommended to drink bottled water and be cautious with raw foods or street food.

8. COVID-19 Considerations: Depending on the current global and local situation, there may be specific health guidelines or travel restrictions related to COVID-19. It's important to check the latest travel advisories and health guidelines.

Overall, with sensible precautions and awareness of local conditions, travel to Cusco and Machu Picchu can be a safe and rewarding experience. As always, staying informed and prepared is key to a safe trip.

The best time to visit Machu Picchu largely depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. Generally, the most recommended time is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. Here's a breakdown:

1. Dry Season (April to October):

   • Advantages: This period offers clearer skies and less rainfall, making it ideal for hiking and photography. The visibility is usually better, and you're more likely to enjoy panoramic views of the Andean landscape.
   • Considerations: These months, especially June to August, coincide with peak tourist season. Therefore, you can expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and tours. It's essential to book your trip, including Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets, well in advance.

2. Wet Season (November to March):

   • Advantages: The landscape is more lush and green, and there are fewer tourists, which means less crowded conditions. This can enhance the experience for those who prefer solitude and a more personal connection with the site.
   • Considerations: The wet season brings more rain, which can sometimes lead to muddy trails and obscured views. There's also a higher risk of travel disruptions due to weather conditions. The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February.

3. Shoulder Months (April and October):

   • These months can offer a balance between the dry and wet seasons, with fewer tourists than the peak season and generally good weather, though occasional showers are still possible.

It's important to note that Machu Picchu is located in a subtropical area, so weather can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to be prepared for both rain and sunshine. Additionally, visiting during local holidays or school vacation periods can also affect crowd levels.

Yes, luxury hotels in Cusco and Machu Picchu often provide services to arrange private tours and exclusive experiences for their guests. These hotels typically offer personalized services to cater to the unique interests and preferences of their guests. Here are some examples of what they might arrange:

1. Customized Guided Tours: Many luxury hotels have partnerships with local tour operators or have their own in-house tour guides. They can organize private tours to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and other historical sites with knowledgeable guides.

2. Cultural Experiences: Guests can enjoy exclusive cultural experiences such as private cooking classes, Pachamanca (traditional Andean cooking method) demonstrations, or visits to local communities to understand the indigenous culture and traditions.

3. Adventure Activities: For those interested in adventure, hotels can arrange private hiking, mountain biking, or zip-lining tours in the surrounding Andean landscapes.

4. Luxury Train Rides: Some hotels may facilitate bookings for luxury train services like the Belmond Hiram Bingham, offering a lavish journey to Machu Picchu with gourmet meals and spectacular views.

5. Wellness and Relaxation: Private yoga sessions, meditation, and spa treatments using traditional Andean techniques and ingredients can be organized for relaxation and rejuvenation.

6. Astronomy Experiences: Given the clear skies in the region, some hotels may offer private stargazing sessions, often guided by an astronomer.

7. Exclusive Dining: Arranging private dining experiences with exquisite menus, often in unique locations with stunning views, is another service offered by luxury hotels.

It's always advisable to communicate your interests to the hotel in advance so they can tailor the experience to your preferences. Additionally, some of these experiences might require additional charges beyond the standard accommodation fees.

Tourists often wonder about the logistics of catching the earliest tours of Machu Picchu and ask about hotel options that would facilitate this.

Given the iconic status of Machu Picchu, a common query is whether there are hotels available that offer direct views of the ruins from their premises.

Knowing the popularity of Machu Picchu, potential visitors often question how far in advance they need to book accommodations to ensure availability.

Aguas Calientes is known for its thermal baths, and tourists frequently ask for hotel recommendations that provide easy access to these hot springs.

Some travelers prefer package deals for convenience and often inquire if hotels in Aguas Calientes offer packages that include tickets to Machu Picchu.
 

Logistics and transportation to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes are a common concern, leading to questions about hotels with the best access to transport services.

When choosing a hotel in Machu Picchu, consider the proximity to the ruins, the level of comfort and amenities you prefer, and whether the hotel offers early access to the site. The closer the hotel, the easier it is to visit the ruins at less crowded times.

To find the best deals on Machu Picchu hotels during peak season, it's recommended to book well in advance, look for promotions or package deals that include tours, and compare prices across different booking platforms. Flexibility with dates can also help secure better rates.

Staying in Aguas Calientes offers the advantage of being close to transportation that takes you directly to Machu Picchu. Additionally, Aguas Calientes has a variety of dining and shopping options, making it a convenient base for exploring the area both before and after your visit to the ruins.