The hype
Travelers universally adore the historic atmosphere and personalized butler service, often calling it a 'peaceful oasis' in a chaotic city.
Inkaterra La Casona - Relais & Chateaux
$400-650/ night
Book this if You want to sleep in a literal 16th-century national monument where Simon Bolivar once stayed, and you prefer profound silence over a party scene.
Why People Love It
- Only 11 suites means you basically own the mansion
- Hot water bottles placed in your bed during turndown service
- The Yacu therapy room uses local coca leaves for altitude relief
Quick Take: It feels less like a hotel and more like staying in the private estate of a wealthy colonial count who really hates noise.
Reviewed by @deafjourney: I felt like royalty staying in this 16th-century manor. The silence inside the thick stone walls is unreal, even though you're steps from the plaza. My favorite part was curling up by my private fireplace after exploring. Truly a bucket-list stay.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The shower pressure is the Achilles' heel of this otherwise perfect property, and the 'Plaza' rooms let in street noise.
- You appreciate 'patina' and history over modern sterility
- You need a quiet sanctuary to acclimate to the altitude
- You hate crowded breakfast buffets (this one is intimate and a la carte)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.4
- Housekeeping: Impeccable twice-daily service. Turndown is thorough.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless marble and stone, though grout lines show the building's age.
- Maintenance: Generally excellent, but watch out for slow drains and finicky fireplaces.
- Linens & towels: High-thread-count cotton sheets, heavy wool blankets, plush towels.
- Odors & scents: Smells of eucalyptus, woodsmoke, and fresh wax. Zero mustiness.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Festivals/parades in Plaza Las Nazarenas (Plaza suites only)
- Echoes in the stone courtyard (rare, but possible)
Before you book
Good to know
- Oxygen is available on request to help with altitude sickness
- Tea time (4pm-6pm) is complimentary and excellent
- The hotel entrance is a heavy wooden door that is kept locked; ring the bell
What to pack
- Warm pajamas (nights get cold, even with heating)
- Converter for Type A/C outlets (though some are updated)
- Hydration packets for the altitude
Room Genie
Best picks
- Patio Suites (quietest, face the internal courtyard)
- Balcony Suites (have a dining area and fireplace, good balance)
Rooms to avoid
- Plaza Suites during festivals (unless you want to watch the parade from your window)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am seeking a quiet stay to acclimate. Please assign a Patio Suite facing the internal courtyard to avoid street noise. If possible, I would love a room with a strong fireplace draft.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there air conditioning?
No, but you won't need it. Cusco nights are cold, and the rooms have heated floors and fireplaces.
Do they have oxygen in the rooms?
Yes, supplemental oxygen is available upon request to help you adjust to the 11,000ft elevation.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, a high-quality buffet plus a la carte options is included in the rate.
Can I park my car there?
No, there is no on-site parking. You'll need to use a nearby public garage.
Is it suitable for kids?
Technically yes, but the vibe is extremely quiet and adult. Bored kids might struggle with the 'museum' atmosphere.
How far is the main square?
It's a 2-3 minute flat walk to the Plaza de Armas. Very central.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for the 'hot water bottle' service at turndown—they tuck a fuzzy bottle into your sheets.
- ✨
The concierge can arrange a private coca leaf reading with a shaman.
- ✨
You can order dinner to be served in front of your room's fireplace for a romantic night in.
5 things to know before you go
💡The check-out time is a painful 10:00 AM.
💡There is no gym, pool, or sauna (only a therapy room).
💡The 'lobby' is basically a living room; there is no grand reception desk.
💡The water pressure is historically authentic (read: weak).
💡You are sleeping on top of an actual Inca complex (the foundations are visible).
Local Playbook
Map
See where Inkaterra La Casona - Relais & Chateaux is located and what's nearby.