Machu Picchu, the enigmatic Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains, is a destination that has captivated the imaginations of travelers from around the world. While any visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site is bound to be unforgettable, luxury tours to Machu Picchu offer an unparalleled experience, combining adventure with opulent comfort. This article explores the top luxury tours Machu Picchu, highlighting the features that make each tour a unique and indulgent way to explore one of the world’s most iconic locations.
1. Belmond Hiram Bingham: A Journey in Elegance
Overview: The Belmond Hiram Bingham train offers one of the most luxurious ways to travel to Machu Picchu. Named after the American explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911, this train journey combines breathtaking scenery with world-class service.
Features:
- Luxurious Carriages: The train’s carriages are designed in the style of 1920s Pullman cars, with polished wood, plush seating, and large windows for panoramic views.
- Gourmet Dining: Onboard dining includes a welcome cocktail and a gourmet brunch, as well as a multi-course dinner featuring Andean and international cuisine.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy live Peruvian music and dance performances during the journey.
- Private Guides: Upon arrival, guests are escorted by expert guides for a private tour of Machu Picchu.
2. Mountain Lodges of Peru: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Overview: For those seeking a blend of luxury and adventure, Mountain Lodges of Peru offers a lodge-to-lodge trek along the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu. This alternative route provides a less-crowded and more intimate trekking experience.
Features:
- Luxury Lodges: Each lodge along the route offers comfortable beds, hot showers, gourmet meals, and stunning views of the Andes.
- Gourmet Meals: Enjoy high-quality meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, complemented by fine wines.
- Wellness Services: Lodges offer amenities such as outdoor hot tubs and massage services to help you relax after a day of trekking.
- Personalized Service: Expert guides and attentive staff ensure a seamless and personalized experience.
3. Explora Valle Sagrado: All-Inclusive Luxury Adventure
Overview: Explora Valle Sagrado offers an all-inclusive luxury adventure in the Sacred Valley, with guided excursions to Machu Picchu and other nearby attractions.
Features:
- Exclusive Lodging: Stay in a luxurious lodge with spacious rooms, stunning views, and modern amenities.
- Tailored Excursions: Choose from a variety of guided excursions, including hikes, cultural visits, and archaeological tours.
- Gourmet Cuisine: Enjoy gourmet meals prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on Peruvian flavors.
- Wellness and Relaxation: The lodge features a spa, hot tubs, and wellness treatments to help you unwind after a day of exploration.
4. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel: Eco-Luxury Retreat
Overview: Nestled in the cloud forest near Machu Picchu, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel offers an eco-luxury retreat that combines sustainability with comfort.
Features:
- Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Stay in charming casitas (small houses) surrounded by lush gardens, each with its own fireplace and Andean-inspired decor.
- Gourmet Dining: Dine on organic cuisine prepared with ingredients from the hotel’s own ecological farm.
- Cultural Activities: Participate in activities such as orchid tours, birdwatching, and visits to the on-site tea plantation.
- Private Tours: Enjoy private guided tours of Machu Picchu and other nearby sites, led by knowledgeable guides.
5. Abercrombie & Kent: Private Machu Picchu Luxury Tour
Overview: Abercrombie & Kent offers bespoke private tours to Machu Picchu, designed to provide a completely personalized and luxurious experience.
Features:
- Custom Itinerary: Your tour is tailored to your interests and preferences, ensuring a unique and personalized adventure.
- Luxury Accommodations: Stay in some of the finest hotels and lodges in the region, with top-notch amenities and exceptional service.
- Exclusive Access: Enjoy exclusive access to sites and experiences, such as private tours of Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites.
- Gourmet Dining: Savor gourmet meals prepared by renowned chefs, featuring both Peruvian and international cuisine.
- Seamless Logistics: Every detail is handled by Abercrombie & Kent’s expert team, from transportation and accommodations to guided tours and special requests.
6. Aracari: Tailor-Made Luxury Peru Tours
Overview: Aracari specializes in tailor-made luxury tours of Peru, including bespoke itineraries that highlight Machu Picchu and the surrounding regions.
Features:
- Personalized Itineraries: Each tour is custom-designed to match your interests, whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure.
- Luxury Accommodations: Stay in handpicked hotels and lodges known for their comfort, style, and service.
- Exclusive Experiences: Enjoy private tours, behind-the-scenes access, and unique cultural experiences curated by Aracari’s local experts.
- Gourmet Dining: Experience the best of Peruvian cuisine with gourmet meals at top restaurants and exclusive dining experiences.
- Expert Guides: Benefit from the insights and knowledge of experienced guides who are passionate about Peru’s history and culture.
Conclusion
Luxury tours to Machu Picchu offer an unparalleled way to explore one of the world’s most iconic destinations. Whether you prefer the elegance of a luxury train journey, the adventure of a lodge-to-lodge trek, or the personalized service of a bespoke private tour, these luxury experiences ensure that your visit to Machu Picchu is as comfortable and memorable as possible. Indulge in the extravagance and discover Machu Picchu in a way that combines the thrill of adventure with the highest standards of comfort and service. Embrace the opulence and make your journey to Machu Picchu truly exceptional.
