How To Turn Your Machu Picchu Tour Into A Luxurious Experience

What do you think of when you think about Machu Picchu? Perhaps ancient civilizations, lush mountaintops, or exquisite architecture? And what do you think about when you ponder actually visiting this world wonder for yourself? Do long hikes, challenging altitude, and lots of bugs spring to mind? Though these are all issue you may battle during a Machu Picchu vacation, it doesn't have to be that way. As the popularity of a Peru vacation to Machu Picchu continues to increase, the quality of travel services are improving in the Cuzco region. Here are some ways you can make sure you have the best Peru travel agency experience possible.

Choose a top rate hotel. Machu Picchu is still visited by thousands of backpackers every year. And there are plenty of hostel accommodations to suit them. But if you're looking for something a bit more luxurious, you're in luck. Many people know about the Sanctuary Lodge because it is the only hotel located on the mountain where the ruins are actually located.

It is literally situated right next to the entrance gate. But just because it is the closest doesn't mean it is the best. Only some of the rooms have views of Machu Picchu, and you're not allowed in the park earlier or later than anyone else. Possibly a better option is staying at the bottom of the mountain at Pueblo Hotel. The prices are better and the experience much more luxurious. The hotel consists of bungalows laid out like a traditional Andean village, giving each guest plenty of privacy.

Take the right train. The only way to get to Machu Picchu Pueblo, the town at the foot of the Machu Picchu ruins is by train. There are three types of train class: Expedition, Vistadome, and Hiram Bingham. Although many people are happy with the middle option (the Vistadome train), if you're truly looking for a luxury experience, take the Hiram Bingham train.

Often ranked as one of the best rain journeys in the world, this train trip includes gourmet lunch on the way to the ruins and dinner on the way back, alcoholic beverages included. The carriages look like the inside of a 5-star hotel and you'll enjoy a private guide for every 14 passengers and tea at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge near the ruins.

Choose the right travel company. If you're heading off on a luxury Peru vacation, you want to be sure you're in good hands. Look for and book with a quality tour company that has a strong presence both in the United States and Peru, as this balance will give you the best mix of travel security with on-the-ground knowledge. If you're looking for a luxury vacation, make sure you book with a company that specializes in this type of travel.