When we were planning our luxury trip to Machu Picchu, we wanted to stay at a place that went beyond the typical backpacker lodging. This was a trip of a lifetime for us, one that I had been dreaming about for years. We were looking for the perfect place. That’s how we discovered Hotel Sumaq, a Peruvian owned luxury hotel at the foot of the road that leads to Machu Picchu.
Finding Hotel Sumaq
Personally, we love to mix it up: save a little money on one part of the trip to be able to splurge a little later on. For example, on our recent trip to Peru, we were grateful to come back ‘home’ to soft bed sheets after our hiking experiences. The warm embrace of the upscale Hotel Sumaq after a couple of wet hours exploring magical Machu Picchu was the perfect treat. About our experience…
Location
As said, Aguas Calientes can really only be reached on foot or by train and we chose the latter, coming from Cusco. The Hotel Sumaq porter who welcomed us at the train station to haul our luggage guided us through the beautiful hustle and bustle of the station and its adjacent market. With such a warm welcome, we knew that we were in good hands.
The raging waters of the Urubamba (Vilcanota) river are not what gave Aguas Calientes its name but it is certainly a spectacular feature of the town. Our 5 min. walk from the train station to Hotel Sumaq gave us a taste of its impressive location surrounded by rugged mountains, overlooking the river.
The Rooms
Its location and views are by no means the only reason why Hotel Sumaq is such a great choice but if you can you should try to get a river-view room; two big sliding patio window doors open up to a balcony where you can take in the raw beauty and energy of the place. Where there is raw beauty outside, there is refinement indoors. From the friendly and helpful staff to the décor to the food; Sumaq stands out by doing things in style.
Our room was ample, with a very comfortable bed that hit the spot after we had spent the last two days hiking and taking in the beauty of the Cusco region. The room also had complimentary water bottles and a big tub to soak your tired muscles after a long day exploring Machu Picchu.
The Food
You come to Hotel Sumaq for the unparalleled luxury but you stay for the food. Take for example the afternoon tea service (included in room rate). Sweet and savory bites, delicate fruit cups, elegant mini sliders, and sandwiches: you’ll find yourself making multiple trips to the tables where all this deliciousness is presented. And no tea service is complete without a freshly poured cup of your favorite.
The fact that the afternoon bites are so good is no surprise: Sumaq has really doubled down on being a destination for fine dining. We were so happy to hear from the chef how he takes inspiration from and insists on using, local produce including many varieties of quinoa, corn, fruit, seafood, potatoes and other vegetables. All served with a lot of refinement and creativity yet in generous portions. As a matter of fact, I recommended the restaurant to my friend Maribel and she was just as satisfied with the food and service.
Special Occasions
We had the opportunity to indulge with a tasting menu at a special room at the back of the property. This room can be reserved for small receptions or if you wish to have a romantic dinner for two. There, we had the opportunity to talk to Chef Ribelino who walked us through his creative menu which included crispy quinoa, trout ceviche over hot stones, and Andean chocolate. Even if you don’t choose to stay at Hotel Sumaq, I highly recommend booking a dining experience. The tasting menu goes for $118 per person (plus tax and service) but it is worth every little bite.
The Spa
To reflect on the impressive experience there is no better way to reward your tired body than a delicious massage in Sumaq’s spa and steam room. Our bodies were reinvigorated by the Andean herbal oils. I was a bit bummed that the spa staff mixed up our treatments (I REALLY wanted that face massage). I suggest booking the spa experience ahead of time so you can have flexibility with the booking times as the spa can get busy.
Hotel Sumaq: The Verdict
After our massage and a freshly made ‘Chicha’ (delicious Peruvian Corn drink), we headed back to Cusco by train feeling we conquered Machu Picchu in style by staying at hotel Sumaq. If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Macchu Picchu, Hotel Sumaq is the place for you.
Hotel Sumaq, Avenida Hermanos Ayar, Machu Picchu, Peru, Website
