Peru is one of those countries where you can stay in 5-star hotels even if you usually don’t. The price is right and the value is incomparable when viewed next to hotels with a slightly lower rating. Take off a star and you’re ripping yourself off.  

You also don’t want to experiment with local stabs at luxury, as that is highly hit and miss. I learned quickly that hotel chains aren’t something to try to avoid in Peru (and South America in general) and turned into Hilton representatives very fast. The fact that you know what to expect was just comforting for someone like me with high expectations.  

I’ve curated a list of the best hotels in Peru in the luxury and boutique category in the top tourist destinations in Peru. They’re places I’ve either personally stayed at or places that I have good intel about and am comfortable putting my name behind.

If you are deep in the planning stages of your trip, let me help you out with my 2-week trip plan, complete with all the logistics you need:

 

 

My adventures are next level, so my accommodation needs to keep up, too

 

My list of top luxury hotels in Peru:

1. Hilton Lima Miraflores (Miraflores, Lima)
2. Radisson Red Miraflores (Miraflores, Lima)
3. Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel (Miraflores, Lima)
4. Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport (Lima Airport)
5. Hilton Garden Inn Cusco (Cusco)
6. Palacio del Inka, A Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott (Cusco)
7. Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa (Urubamba, Sacred Valley)
8. Vertical Sky Luxury Suites (Ollantaytambo, Sacred Valley)
9. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (Aguas Calientes)
10. Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel (Machu Picchu)
11. CIRQA - Relais & Châteaux (Arequipa)
12. The Legend Paracas Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Hotels (Paracas)
13. Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort (Paracas)
14. QHAPAQ Lago Titicaca (Lake Titicaca, near Puno)

 

 

What I look for in a hotel: My criteria

Look at the pool!
 

Let’s face it: not all luxury is created equal. When I pick a hotel, I’m not just looking for a fancy lobby or an infinity pool for Instagram. I’m looking for:

• The kind of comfort that feels effortless—like the hotel has anticipated my every need before I even realize I have one. Thoughtful details are key. Pillow menu? Yes please.
   
• Cleanliness is non-negotiable.  It’s the one “detail” that can make or break a place.
   
• Customer service should strike the perfect balance: friendly and professional without being over-the-top or invasive. The best service makes you feel cared for without realizing you’re being served. Bonus points for staff who speak a good level of English.
   
• A fantastic breakfast is my power-up for the day. Whether it’s fresh local fruit or the perfect coffee, I need a proper start if I’m going to explore at full throttle.
   
• Parking is one of the basics that I check for because I always rent a car for full freedom when I travel.

From superb hotels to very local establishments in the Sacred Valley
 

What about prices? I’m not the type to go for the most expensive option just because I can. A luxury hotel needs to deliver value for money. Sure, I appreciate beautiful design and top-notch amenities, but I spend most of my day outside exploring. So, I don’t need over-the-top extravagance if it doesn’t genuinely enhance my stay.

With these non-negotiables in mind, I’ve handpicked the best luxury hotels in Peru. These aren’t just any hotels—they’re places that tick all my boxes and then some. Let’s dive in.

 

My top tips for choosing a hotel in Peru:  

• Book international hotel chains wherever you can. The value is incredible and local 5-stars are just not up to standard. 
   
• If wifi is important for you, check reviews first and don’t assume that good and free wifi is automatically included because you’re staying at a luxury hotel. This is still Peru (though I have to say that the wifi and mobile signal was overall fantastic).  
   
• In Lima, always stay in Miraflores. It’s an upscale neighborhood with the best views, best restaurants, and, most of all, the best safety record.

Me, in Sacred Valley

 

The best hotels in Lima Peru (and near the Lima airport)

Lima Miraflores has some nice, luxurious hotels!
 

I always recommend staying in the modern, clean and safe neighborhood of Miraflores in Lima. It’s a bit south from the historic center (take a taxi there) and you get all of the best hotels, shopping, and restaurants in a relatively small area. And those coastal views!

 

 

Hilton Lima Miraflores

I loved the rooftop spa at Hilton Lima Miraflores 
 

The Hilton Lima Miraflores has some fantastic rooftop hot tubs and pools that’ll fix your first impressions of Lima faster than you can say cocktail. It has a great restaurant with killer views. The breakfast is wonderful, the shower was probably the best we had in Peru and, as an extra bonus, the hotel is QUIET. You can’t hear the horns of the crazy drivers. It’s like your own little sanctuary.   

• Location: Miraflores  
• Style: Elegant, simple, natural tones  
• Bonus points: Rooftop spa  

See prices and photos: Hilton Lima Miraflores

Radisson Red Miraflores 

The cool lobby of the Radisson Red Miraflores Hotel
 

If you like to be a little funky, are artsy, or consider yourself a cool cat, you should check out the Radisson Red Miraflores. It has a colorful, youthful design. The colors being black, white, and—how unexpected—red. Think street art meets modern art gallery. Rooftop bar with great drinks, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. The gym is superb and the wifi is fast. And it’s cheap.  

• Location: Miraflores 
• Style: Funky, youthful 
• Bonus points: Rooftop bar 

See prices and photos: Radisson Red Miraflores

Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel 

The presidential suite with private pool @ Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel
 

The Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel has rooms with ocean and coastal views and private pools (that’s if you stay in the presidential suite, otherwise “just” views). The staff is exceptional and the food at the restaurant is always spoken highly of. There’s a rooftop pool, wellness facilities and a gym if you want to break a sweat. The best rooms are freakishly expensive.  

• Location: Miraflores 
• Style: Classic elegance 
• Bonus points: Right on the coast, rooftop pool 

See prices and photos: Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel

Lima’s best airport hotel? This mediocre one

If you’re looking for a good hotel near the Lima airport, you’re out of luck. As is the norm, airport hotels are either crappy or overpriced or both. If you really don’t want to make the 30-minute drive to or from Miraflores, choose this hotel solely for the convenient location (it’s right at the entrance of the airport):  

Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport 

The best hotels in Lima are not by the airport... but if you must, stay at the Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport.
 

Like I said, the Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport isn’t the best value, but it does the trick and it’s better than anything else on offer. It’s the best hotel by the Lima airport, but it wouldn’t otherwise be anywhere near the top of my best hotels in Lima list.  

You’ll get a night’s sleep, and you can even get speed-pampered at the Spa Express. Or at least I assume it’s a very quick massage before you run to catch your flight. No idea, I may be bad-mouthing them. The hotel is right outside the airport, winning it the biggest (and only) brownie point. Oh, apparently the towels are super soft, too, so another small brownie point for that.  

• Location: Five steps from the Lima airport entrance   
• Style: Airporty chic, aka soul-less and bland 
• Bonus points: Five steps from the Lima airport entrance  

See prices and photos: Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport

 

Luxury hotels in Cusco and Peru’s Sacred Valley

Me, on Plaza de Armas in Cusco
 

Cusco and Sacred Valley should be in the top spots on your Peru itinerary—you can easily spend a week there! All the more reason to choose one of the best hotels to base yourself at. And you’re in luck—Sacred Valley is where some of Peru’s very best hotels are located.

 

 

Are you looking for a truly special hotel experience? Take note of the many exceptional resorts in Sacred Valley. Most of them are located in and around Urubamba—a town that has absolutely nothing for you to do as a tourist, so choose a resort that you won’t want to leave.  

Hilton Garden Inn Cusco

It's a pleasure enjoying a drink in the courtyard of the Hilton Garden Inn Cusco, though the restaurant has exceptional views over the city and surrounding mountains
 

I absolutely loved Hilton Garden Inn Cusco. It has super comfortable beds, wonderful staff, and though it’s located a 10-minute walk to the Plaza de Armas, the bonus is that it’s quiet. That’s a polite way to say it’s not right in the city center (but it still came out on top for me—Cabify will scratch that itch for you).

The spa is so good—they even have a special acclimatization massage—Cusco is at a high altitude, so people often deal with altitude sickness when they first arrive. How brilliant is that?! Add one of my favorite restaurants in all of Peru, the Garden Grille, on site, and you have one of the best hotels in Cusco.  

• Location: 1 km (0.6 miles) from Plaza de Armas in Cusco
• Style: Modern, simple, with Peruvian accents in the design
• Bonus points: One of the best restaurants in Peru and excellent views 

See prices and photos: Hilton Garden Inn Cusco

Palacio del Inka, A Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott 

The hotel, which is the old Inca Palace is a very thematic accommodation choice in Peru  
 

The Palacio del Inka, A Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott is right in the city center, neighboring Qoricancha, a top tourist attraction in Cusco. You’ll be staying at an old Inca palace, which is also part colonial. The decorations maintain the authenticity of the space. Staff go above and beyond, yadda yadda. There’s a harpist that plays during breakfast... ‘nuff said!

• Location: Cusco city center, next to Qoricancha 
• Style: Regal with bold colors 
• Bonus points: Oxygen and coca tea available to help cope with mountain sickness

See prices and photos: Palacio del Inka, A Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott  

Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa (Urubamba)

Bringing guests closer to nature... while they lounge at the pool @ Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado
 

At Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado, you get not only luxury everything and an exceptional spa and pool, but staff are also happy to share their Inca knowledge. Hopefully, you’re happy to learn, otherwise it’s just annoying. No really, it’s like nothing is impossible at Tambo del Inka. Case in point: they have a private train station to Machu Picchu.  

• Location: Urubamba 
• Style: Elegant and earthy with a hint of Peruvian 
• Bonus points: Private Machu Picchu train station 

See prices and photos: Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado

Vertical Sky Luxury Suites (close to Ollantaytambo)

How’s that for views? I’d call Vertical Sky Luxury Suites a hidden gem if hidden gems were so awe-inspiringly bold that they didn’t bother hiding at all
 

At the Vertical Sky Luxury Suites, you can choose to sleep in a glass pod on the side of a cliff above the valley floor that you get to by walking, strapped in, mountain climbing-style, to the ledge of the mountain, before getting into your “room”. You can get your own Jacuzzi up there, too. Or, you can choose the more spacious and less hanging glass dome. You still get views for days, but it provides more comfort, like an actual floor you can walk on.  Epic.  

• Location: 4 km (2.5 miles) past Ollantaytambo 
• Style: Spiderman chic (jk) 
• Bonus points: It hangs on a cliff 

See prices and photos: Vertical Sky Luxury Suites

 

Luxury hotels in Machu Picchu

Where to stay when you plan to visit Machu Picchu?
 

Machu Picchu is definitely one of the top (if not the top) place to see in Peru. I recommend visiting it over two days, because you can’t see everything in one visit (there are literally assigned routes that you can’t deviate from).

Aguas Calientes (also referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo) is the town that lies at the foot of the mountain on top of which the Inca city of Machu Picchu sits. This is where almost all tourists stay the night. See my detailed article about how to get to Machu Picchu where I give you updated info on tickets, routes, and my pro tips on planning the best visit: 

 

 

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (Aguas Calientes)

Surrounded by nature at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
 

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, located in Aguas Calientes, pulls out all the stops, with terraced hills, stone paths, waterfalls and villas in lush gardens that will make you want to stay another day. The colonial-style property is decorated with Andean-style tapestries. The beds are to die for and come with alpaca blankets, and sometimes with a fireplace or private pool, too! The wifi sucks.  

• Location: Aguas Calientes (southern end by the river) 
• Style: High-end mountain chalet  
• Bonus points: Lush surroundings and restaurant overlooking the river 

See prices and photos: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (right by Machu Picchu itself

The lodge under Machu Picchu itself!
 

The wonderful Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel is up on the actual mountain near Machu Picchu. If you visit the Inca city over two days (like I recommend), it’s a fantastic choice that saves you time and bus trips up and down the mountain.

It will not, however, save you money, because it comes with a hefty price tag. The hummingbirds that swoosh around the grounds better be trained to sit on your shoulder and whisper sweet nothings in your ear for that kind of money.

You can spend the evening at their restaurant or take a wander around the manicured grounds with ponds. There are direct views of Huayna Picchu, one of the mountains that tower above Machu Picchu Inca city. You’ll be amazed by them right after you wake up in your silk bedding.  

• Location: Right next to the Inca city of Machu Picchu 
• Style: Simple, earthy elegance in light tones 
• Bonus points: Right on the mountain next to Machu Picchu Inca city 

See prices and photos: Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel 

This Inca empire, Machu Picchu, is an essential stop on your journey to South America

 

The best hotel in Arequipa

Arequipa
 

The “White City” of Arequipa is surrounded by natural highlights like one of the world’s deepest canyons, Colca Canyon, and the salt lagoon named Laguna de Salinas which I found to be an unexpected highlight of my stay. If you’re blinded by the white, check out the Santa Catalina Monastery, which gives you all the colors of the rainbow. Here are Arequipa’s top things to do (and my tips on visiting the city).

I have a single top-runner in Arequipa that you need to try out:

CIRQA - Relais & Châteaux 

I mean come on… CIRQA - Relais & Châteaux is hard to resist
 

The CIRQA - Relais & Châteaux is a former monastery in the heart of the city and if the natural tones and stone walls won’t calm your soul, I don’t know what will. A peaceful haven where you can simply relax in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Arequipa. Free wifi, a terrace, a restaurant. They are proud to have bidets in the bathrooms.  

• Location: Right by the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa 
• Style: Monastery chic 
• Bonus points: Walls made of sillar volcanic rock 

See prices and photos: CIRQA - Relais & Châteaux 

 

The best hotels in Paracas

Paracas National Reserve is a must!
 

Some people might just come to Paracas to see the Ballestas Islands and then head out again, but those people would be making a HUGE mistake! Because the Paracas National Reserve is where it’s at! Not to mention day trips to Ica, yachting and kayaking, and some cool desert oases! 

A good hotel is a must, because there is literally nothing to see in the town itself. For details, see my Paracas travel guide:

 

 

The Legend Paracas Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Hotels

That’s what I call luxurious! The Legend Paracas Resort (formerly DoubleTree Resort by Hilton)
 

Note: When I stayed at this hotel, it was the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, and it was AMAZING! After my stay, in 2024, it was bought by Hyatt. New reviews mention some complaints about staff that I presume will get up to speed once they have been there for some time. Luckily, you can’t change the location and I doubt they’ll be getting rid of the awesome pools.

Here’s my original review from when it was still the DoubleTree by Hilton:

The DoubleTree by Hilton Paracas (now called The Legend Paracas Resort by Hyatt Hotels): Right on the beach with ocean views from the rooms, fabulous pool, breakfast, and staff at a standard every other hotel in Peru needs to take note of. Not to mention the hundreds of flamingos as neighbors and the free kayak and paddleboard rentals. I loved this hotel so much I couldn’t shut up about it in many of my Peru articles.

The hotel restaurant, El Pardo al Mar, made my top restaurants in Peru list.  

• Location: Just south of Paracas town center, close to Paracas National Reserve entrance 
• Style: Beachy chic
• Bonus points: Flamingos and water sports

See prices and photos: The Legend Paracas Resort by Hyatt Hotels

Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort

Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort for proper relaxation!
 

You can also opt for the Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort. I have to admit that the property is immaculate and just oozes relaxation, and there’s no reason it shouldn’t be considered if you’re staying in Paracas. I’m just biased because my experience at the DoubleTree (the Legend Resort) was so good. There is a spa, pools inside and out, and plenty of spots to laze away in your spare time after your adventurous endeavors.   

This property is closer to Paracas town than the Legend Paracas Resort, but further from Paracas National Reserve.  

• Location: Just north of Paracas town center 
• Style: Modern beach vibes 
• Bonus points: Private dock 

See prices and photos: Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort

 

The best hotels in Lake Titicaca (literally on the lake!)

The reed everything of the Uros people
 

Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest lake. It straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia, making it a little far out to visit unless you have a longer vacation in Peru (see my 4-week Peru itinerary to see how to visit Lake Titicaca after seeing Cusco).

There are all kinds of islands on Lake Titicaca, some weirder than others. If you stay on one of them, I think I can confidently say that you’ve never been on an island like this before!  

QHAPAQ Lago Titicaca 

When you expect a grass hut but get this… the floating hotel of QHAPAQ Lago Titicaca
 

And the award for the strangest hotel on this list goes to… QHAPAQ Lago Titicaca! This Lake Titicaca hotel floats. On an island that also floats. Both are made of grass.

The Uros people of Lake Titicaca historically lived on islands made of reed because they couldn’t own land. Clever, right? Some of the families on the islands have made it possible for tourists to spend the night. Many are very basic rooms, but the QHAPAQ is anything but. I wouldn't call it luxury, but maybe put it in the special boutique hotels category where you're living with the local community.  

The rooms are fantastic, with hot water, huge windows with infinite views of Lake Titicaca, and the friendliest family taking care of you like their own. The food here is excellent, too, and comes included in the price of your room. Spectacular and a must-try. They’ll also arrange for some wonderful boat trips.  

• Location: On Lake Titicaca, close to Puno town 
• Style: Cool and reedy 
• Bonus points: It floats, what more do you want 

See prices and photos: QHAPAQ Lago Titicaca

 

What are the best months to visit Peru?

The best months to visit Peru depend on where you’re headed: For Machu Picchu and Cusco, May to September is ideal (dry season). Lima and the coast shine from December to March when it’s sunny. If you’re venturing to the Amazon, aim for June to November for fewer mosquitos. Keep in mind that Peru's climate zones are wildly different, so plan your trip based on your priorities. I went in “wet season” but had an incredible time.

The best time for visiting Cusco is from May to September

 

Can you do Machu Picchu in a day from Cusco?

Yes, you can technically visit Machu Picchu in a day from Cusco, but I don’t recommend it. You’d be shortchanging yourself! Between the early train rides, the rushed experience, and missing out on the magic of Machu Picchu at different times of day (and the hikes to the mountains), it’s just not worth it. Instead, stay overnight in Aguas Calientes and enjoy a 2-day visit. If you must go in a day, book your tickets (and train) in advance and plan everything meticulously.

 

What is the best way to travel in Peru?

Always rent a car for flexibility—it’s the best way to explore places like Sacred Valley, Paracas, and Arequipa at your own pace. But whatever you do, don’t drive in Lima. That city is a madhouse! Between chaotic traffic and unpredictable drivers, I was so frustrated I wanted to abandon my car in the middle of the road. Save yourself the stress and take a taxi or rideshare in Lima instead.

Renting a car is always the most comfortable and convenient option

 

Is Lima or Cusco more fun?

Cusco wins this debate by a landslide. With its rich history, second-to-none scenery, and access to Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain, it’s hands down one of Peru’s most exciting destinations. Lima? Let’s just say it’s worth a quick stop for its international airport and maybe a meal at one of its famous restaurants. Spend a day there and then move on to where the real magic happens.

 

 

You might also be interested in reading:

• The Best 3-Day Cusco Itinerary with Sacred Valley Day Trip
• A 2-Week Peru Itinerary: A Day-By-Day Trip Plan
• The 10 Best Ruins to Visit in Peru
• Top 9 Places to See in Sacred Valley

 

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