Sure, you could sleep in a regular hotel—or you could check into a futuristic glass pod suspended high over the Sacred Valley, spend the night in style on a luxury train, or choose another of these unique accommodation options during your travels in Peru.
## Embark on Unforgettable Stays: Unique Lodging Options in Peru
Peru, a land of ancient mysteries, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a tapestry of experiences for every traveler. Beyond the typical hotel stay, a world of unique lodging options awaits, promising unforgettable memories and a deeper connection with this captivating country. From luxurious train journeys to historical palaces, and gravity-defying capsules suspended high above the Sacred Valley, prepare to be amazed by the diverse and enchanting places to rest your head in Peru.
## Sleep on a Luxury Train: A Journey Through the Andes
Imagine waking up to the majestic scenery of the Andes Mountains without ever leaving the comfort of your room. This dream becomes a reality aboard the **Belmond Andean Explorer**, South America’s first luxury sleeper train. Launched in 2017 by the renowned Belmond brand, known for its exceptional luxury hotels throughout Peru, this train offers a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Rather than simply checking into a hotel, the Belmond Andean Explorer transforms your journey into an integral part of your adventure. Offering four distinct itineraries, the train embarks on one- or two-night voyages between **Cusco** and **Puno**, or in reverse, as well as between **Arequipa** and Cusco, with a captivating stop in Puno.
As the train glides through the breathtaking landscapes, you’ll be captivated by the ever-changing scenery visible through the panoramic windows. The Belmond Andean Explorer provides numerous opportunities to fully immerse yourself in these stunning surroundings. Indulge in a glass of champagne in the open-air Observation Car, feeling the crisp Andean air on your skin, or savor a comforting cup of coca tea in the privacy of your elegant cabin. Given the high altitudes, the air can be quite chilly, but fear not, each passenger is thoughtfully provided with a luxurious alpaca shawl to keep warm and cozy throughout the journey.
The magic of the Andean Explorer lies in its meticulous attention to detail. The exquisite dinner menus, crafted by the celebrated Peruvian chef Diego Muñoz, known for his masterful creations at the iconic Astrid y Gastón restaurant in Lima, promise a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds. The cabin bathrooms are adorned with locally sourced stone, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and supporting local artisans. And for those seeking ultimate relaxation after a day of exploring the Andes, a rejuvenating spa onboard offers a sanctuary of tranquility. Every aspect of the Belmond Andean Explorer has been carefully designed to create an exceptional and unforgettable experience.
## Check Into a Historical Palace: Immerse Yourself in Cusco’s Past
Cusco, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas, boasts a rich history spanning over 3,000 years. When visiting this captivating city, choosing accommodation that reflects its historical significance is a must. The **Palacio del Inka Hotel**, housed in a stately old mansion that dates back almost five centuries, perfectly embodies Cusco’s historical charm.
While the building has undergone renovations to provide modern comforts, its original stone walls remain visible in various parts of the interior, serving as a constant reminder of its rich past. As you linger over a delightful café con leche in the courtyard, surrounded by the palace’s beautiful architecture, the magic of Cusco will truly envelop you. The lavish breakfast buffet, with its array of local and international delicacies, is an experience in itself, promising a delightful start to your day.
The Palacio del Inka Hotel’s prime location directly across from the **Koricancha**, also known as the Temple of the Sun, places you within easy walking distance of most of Cusco’s main attractions, making it the perfect base for exploring this historical city. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture with a stay in this majestic palace.
## Stay With a Peruvian Family: Embrace Cultural Immersion
For travelers with basic Spanish (or, even rarer, Quechua) language skills and a thirst for cultural immersion, spending a night or two with a local Peruvian family offers an unparalleled experience. Numerous organizations facilitate homestay programs, ranging from simple apartment accommodations in Lima to more luxurious homes in Cusco featuring private terraces where you can socialize with your host family after dinner.
These homestays provide a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture on a deeper level, learn about their traditions and daily life, and practice your language skills. Sharing meals, stories, and laughter with a Peruvian family will undoubtedly create lasting memories and provide invaluable insights into the country’s vibrant culture.
**Aspiring Adventures** specializes in more rustic homestay experiences in rural villages nestled in the Andes, including stays in **Huchuy Qosqo**, a charming community and archaeological site located just outside of Cusco. Huchuy Qosqo, renowned for its impressive Inca ruins and bustling Sunday market, provides an authentic glimpse into traditional Andean life. For an even more off-the-beaten-path adventure, consider a **Chaullacocha** homestay, which can be incorporated into a trek through the stunning **Lares Valley**. Embrace the opportunity to live like a local and create unforgettable memories with a Peruvian family.
## Stay on a Private Peninsula on Lake Titicaca: A Serene Escape
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world and the cradle of Inca civilization, holds a prominent position among Peru’s most cherished destinations. While the beauty of this pristine body of water can be appreciated from any location, a stay at a unique hotel like **Lodge Titilaka** elevates the experience to new heights.
This elegant Relais & Chateaux property enjoys a secluded location on a private peninsula, ensuring tranquility and unparalleled views. Every room boasts breathtaking, unobstructed vistas of the shimmering lake, providing a constant connection with the stunning natural surroundings. The lodge itself is an oasis of luxury, offering impeccable service and world-class amenities.
Lodge Titilaka serves as the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Titicaca. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the floating Islas Uros, remarkable islands constructed from buoyant reeds in the heart of the lake. The hotel offers an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the island’s natives, learn about their unique traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. Indulge in the serenity and beauty of Lake Titicaca with an unforgettable stay at Lodge Titilaka.
## Defy Gravity in a Glass Capsule High Above the Sacred Valley: An Adrenaline-Fueled Adventure
For thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, the Skylodge Adventure Suites offers an experience like no other. Prepare to sleep in a transparent glass pod suspended high above the dramatic cliffs of Peru’s Sacred Valley.
Reaching your otherworldly accommodation requires either scaling the rock face via a thrilling rock-climbing ascent or embarking on a challenging hike followed by an exhilarating zipline ride. The reward for your efforts is well worth the adrenaline rush, provided you possess a healthy disregard for heights. During the day, sweeping panoramic views of the famous Sacred Valley stretch out before you, while at night, clear skies reveal the breathtaking expanse of the Milky Way.
Each pod is meticulously constructed from aerospace aluminum and weather-resistant polycarbonate, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay regardless of the weather conditions. The hotel owners aptly compare the experience to sleeping in a condor’s nest, albeit one furnished with down pillows and plush quilts instead of sticks and twigs. Embrace the adventure, conquer your fears, and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a gravity-defying stay at the Skylodge Adventure Suites.
B-2103