Sunday, August 3, 2025
Located in the breathtaking Peruvian Andes, Hacienda Urubamba and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel uniquely combine luxury, eco-friendly hospitality, and cultural immersion. These hotels have become famous for meeting the rapid market demand for sustainable travel in Peru, while simultaneously promoting sustainable tourism in the country. Because of their stunning natural and cultural beauty, these two properties have turned Peru and the ancient Sacred Valley into a go-to destination for international travellers, which has dramatically enhanced the local economy.
Hacienda Urubamba: A High-Elevation Retreat with Cultural Significance
Nestled 9,776 feet above sea level between the iconic Machu Picchu and the historic city of Cuzco, Hacienda Urubamba offers guests an unparalleled experience. The 10-year-old property features 40 luxurious units and boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Sacred Valley. The hotel’s design pays homage to the colonial-era hacienda style, with its architecture and décor inspired by local history and art. Guests can marvel at the intricate Inca masks, handcrafted woodwork, and colorful wall hangings that adorn the spaces, all framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that immerse them in the surrounding landscape.
The hotel sits on a 100-acre site, home to an organic plantation farmed using traditional hand tools and oxen. Guests can enjoy fresh, locally sourced New World foods, including corn, potatoes, and quinoa, which are harvested directly from the farm. This eco-friendly approach not only provides visitors with authentic tastes but also supports sustainable agricultural practices, which are crucial to the region’s economy.
The accommodations at Hacienda Urubamba are designed for comfort and privacy, with 28 stand-alone casitas spread across the property. These spacious 484-square-foot units are accessible by foot or via a motorized cart operated by staff, offering guests a private retreat amidst nature. Each casita is equipped with modern amenities, including a fireplace, sitting/dining area, and large bathrooms, ensuring that visitors feel pampered while being surrounded by nature’s beauty. The hotel also features larger suites and the Owners Quarters, providing ample space for families or groups seeking a more luxurious stay.
Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel: A Village Among the Clouds
A short distance away, at 6,627 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (also known as Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel) stands as a beacon of sustainable luxury. Opened in 1991, this unique property occupies 12.3 acres of private land within the cloud forest, directly below the legendary Machu Picchu Mountain. The hotel’s layout mimics a traditional village, with 83 whitewashed casitas that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with features like an organic tea plantation, where guests can partake in tea-making activities as part of their stay. The property is also home to the world’s largest collection of orchids, with 372 species on display, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Guests are encouraged to explore the local culture through activities like tea ceremonies and guided walks around the lush grounds, enhancing their connection to the area’s rich history and biodiversity.
The hotel’s culinary offerings emphasize local ingredients, particularly organic vegetables grown on-site. Two on-site restaurants serve delicious dishes, but guests can also book private dining experiences in their rooms, in select lobby areas, or even in the wine cellar. This flexibility and attention to detail contribute to the property’s reputation for offering an exclusive and intimate experience.
Luxury and Sustainability: A Winning Combination
What sets both Hacienda Urubamba and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel apart from other luxury accommodations is their unwavering commitment to sustainability. In 2021, Inkaterra, the parent company of Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, was recognized by the United Nations as the world’s first climate-positive hotel brand. This recognition highlights the company’s extensive efforts to reduce its carbon footprint while promoting eco-conscious tourism practices. Hacienda Urubamba, too, focuses on sustainability, integrating organic farming and environmentally friendly practices into its operations.
The emphasis on local culture and traditions is also central to both properties. Guests have the opportunity to participate in cultural activities, such as local cooking classes, ceremonies with a shaman, and guided tours of nearby Inca archaeological sites. These experiences not only immerse visitors in the rich heritage of the Sacred Valley but also contribute to preserving traditional customs and supporting local artisans.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
Both Hacienda Urubamba and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel have had a significant impact on the local tourism industry and economy. By attracting high-end travellers from around the globe, these hotels have helped put the Sacred Valley and the region surrounding Machu Picchu on the map as prime destinations for luxury tourism. Their focus on sustainability, cultural experiences, and local partnerships ensures that the influx of visitors benefits both the local economy and the environment.
The hotels’ efforts to source food and products locally have provided a significant boost to the region’s agricultural sector. By supporting small-scale farmers and artisans, these properties help preserve the region’s cultural heritage while creating jobs and opportunities for local communities. Additionally, both hotels contribute to the broader tourism industry by offering employment to local residents, from hospitality staff to guides and artisans, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are felt across the region.
A Future of Sustainable Luxury Tourism
As the demand for sustainable travel continues to rise, Hacienda Urubamba and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel are poised to remain at the forefront of luxury tourism in Peru. Their focus on environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and community support sets a powerful example for other properties in the region and around the world. With plans to expand and enhance their offerings, these hotels are contributing not only to the growth of Peru’s tourism industry but also to the sustainable development of the country’s economy.
Tourism in Peru has experienced a significant increase in recent years, particularly in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu area. As travellers seek authentic experiences that are both luxurious and environmentally responsible, Hacienda Urubamba and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel provide the perfect balance of comfort, culture, and sustainability. Their continued success will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in Peru and the broader South American region.
In conclusion, Hacienda Urubamba and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel epitomize the blend of luxury and sustainable tourism along with cultural preservation. These hotels profoundly reshaped Peru’s image and economy, integrating it into the world’s map of eco-friendly and luxurious tourism. These stunning hotels continue to enrich tourism and the economy, providing sustainable income to the locals, improving the economy, and fostering tourism. These hotels are expected to pave the way for sustainable tourism in the blend of Peru’s culture and pristine nature.
