Belmond Sanctuary Lodge

I have dreamed about staying in this hotel since our first visit to Machu Picchu in 1988. My dream finally came true and it was so much better than I had anticipated. The staff was absolutely top-notch. Our expectations continually exceeded. This is an expensive hotel and we had to save up, but unlike other top tier hotels I’ve been to, everything was included. Not just the meals, but lots of little amenities in the room, the mini bar, ponchos for our visit to Machu Picchu, etc.

Recommended by friends, the Sanctuary Lodge exceeded all expectations with attentive and friendly staff and rooms perfect for relaxation after long trip. The meals were fabulous with Peruvian specialty foods, spirits and chocolates! Access to Machu Picchu entrance was right out the front door. Book early for this amazing stay!

From the moment we booked to the moment we left the train station in Machu Picchu, the entire staff simply excelled in providing a truly amazing and personalized curbside service. They communicated with us on whatsApp from the moment we booked, helped us make arrangements, respected our preferences and choices, received us at the train station, helped us with our bags and boarding the bus to hotel, made us feel welcomed and accomodated our needs, provided an amazing service whether it be room service, restaurant service ( all food and drinks of very high quality are included ) in the price, escorted us with the same warmth and care to our train, and then they did something truly amazing. We inadvertantly forgot our laptop in the hotel. The manager Angela moved hevents and earth to deliver the laptop to our hotel in Urubamba within a matter of one and a half hour after we reached our next hotel stay in Urubamba, just in time to catch our flight next morning. It's expensive, but where else do you get personalized service like the way they offer. Once in a lifetime stay, even for one night is just worth it. The hote is right at the entrance of Machu Picchu. You just walk 40 feet to the entrance.

Staying at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge was one of the highlights of our trip. The location is absolutely unmatched—you’re literally steps away from the entrance to Machu Picchu, which made for a magical early morning visit without the crowds. The service is truly 5-star in every way. The cleanliness was impeccable, and the food was simply amazing, especially after a day of hiking. What really stood out was the staff: everyone was warm, professional, and went above and beyond—but a special shoutout to Alex, who made us feel like family. If you’re lucky enough to stay here, you’re in for something unforgettable.

Not inexpensive or easy to get around if you are not in good shape, but the views & service are impeccable! The food is also great, but do not expect to leave quickly! There is an art to relaxing & they have mastered it. From live music & alpacas wondering about you can not help to embrace the culture. We just wished we had more time to try the spa, pool & some of the other on site amenities! And it's the perfect spot to catch the Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu too!