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Glamping Sacred Valley
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Glamping en route to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Cusco has an extraordinary geography. That is why you can find different spaces where you can do thousands of activities. Many of these with the risks inherent to venturing into the mountains and natural landscapes. However, you can also do the same adventures, but with the ideal comforts. Thus, spend an excellent night, have exquisite food and not risk the outdoors and the changing climate of Cusco. That is why in this blog we want to talk about the new trend, glamping, learn more about this new travel option and the options that can be obtained on the way to Machu Picchu and in some places near Cusco.



Extreme glamping in the Sacred Valley
Extreme glamping in the Sacred Valley

Can I go glamping in Cusco?

Cusco has one of the best geographies in the world, which allows you to have and do thousands of activities. Many of them are extreme activities and there are also luxury alternatives.

Glamping can be understood as a combination of both activities, hence the word is a compound word. It comes from the words “glamour” and “camping”. Therefore it can be understood as a luxury camp.

Cusco, located in the Andes Mountains, is one of the ideal places for glamping. In addition, the Sacred Valley of the Incas seems to be the best option or alternative to consider this activity.

In this sense, it is possible to do glamping in several places in Cusco. This activity dates back to the activities of royalty. However, there are records that the word “Glamping” began to be used at the end of the 19th century.

Although it may seem like a luxury activity, it is possible to access these activities by visiting many destinations in Cusco that are not necessarily expensive. Although there are destinations that require a better investment. Despite all this, one of the best activities accompanied by luxury can be done on the route to Machu Picchu.

Enjoying the sunrise in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Enjoying the sunrise in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Does Machu Picchu have a glamping room?

Yes, it is possible and there are several options that we will detail in the content of our blog. Now we can only mention that this travel option is one of the best ways to get to Machu Picchu.

Many of the options are detailed in our blog. But you can also find many more. Likewise, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, before visiting or making the trip to the wonder of the world, you can spend time in luxury hotels. And, from there, start with day trips to multiple destinations.

The most visited destinations in Cusco are Vinincunca or Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lagoon, you can also visit the Rainbow Mountain of Palcoyo and even do more activities both in the Sacred Valley and in Cusco. This is because the distance from Cusco to the Sacred Valley does not exceed 2 hours of travel.

Extreme glamping on the route to Machu Picchu
Extreme glamping on the route to Machu Picchu

Features of the perfect glamping

  • Comfort – Comfort will be one of the main requirements. That is why they usually offer king -size beds . Ideal for spending time as a couple and also comfortable beds with top-quality mattresses.

    Likewise, there should be private spaces for toilets, showers and the like. Also, an ideal space for eating. All this without losing the beautiful view of nature.

  • Nature – This element is vital when talking about camping. Glamping sites are usually located in remote areas that have to be reached on foot or by means of transport.

    Locations in remote spaces allow for a better contemplation of nature in its natural state. That is, you will be able to find more details or spaces than beautiful landscapes. Many times new experiences are added.

  • New experiences – Being located in places far from large cities allows for experiences in contact with local communities, agricultural tasks and even textile workshops, as is the case in Cusco.

    In some cases, these are the only activities that will allow contact with nature, so you have to make sure that there are itineraries for exploration, hiking or other activities.

  • Eco-friendly – It is important that the glamping sites offered offer this type of service, based on the premise that in theory an activity is carried out in contact with nature.

    This is also important for tourists or clients who wish to spend the night in one of these places. Therefore, it is recommended that travelers make the trip without disposable or single-use products.

  • It can be enjoyed all year round – The facilities must be active all year round. This is a way of ensuring the safety and comfort of the thousands of clients who are increasingly choosing to have similar spaces to meet and spend time with their families.

    The safety of the infrastructure must be reflected in both the rooms and common areas. Because, if it rains heavily, there must be security for movement and an ideal space to rest, without the weather having a negative influence.

  • Use of renewable energy – It is essential that the services provided have a low carbon impact. It is recommended that energy sources be captured by panels or similar.

    Likewise, many glamping services have spaces dedicated to collecting and purifying water. In addition, they will use reusable utensils and also eco-friendly products.

What do I need to get to Machu Picchu?
Although it may seem trite, the main thing to get to Machu Picchu is to get the entrance ticket. There are 10 entrance tickets and also two seasons that modify the availability of the same. It is recommended to make the reservation for the ticket to Machu Picchu, because they usually sell out in a short time. In other words, it is not advisable to make the reservation a week in advance and even worse with days. It is best to make the reservation online and 3 or 5 weeks in advance. This, in order to have a ticket that allows you to make the reservation on the day as planned.


Glamping options in Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Below, we explain some of the activities you can do to have a trip with the essence of luxury in Cusco. Discover the best glamping options on the way to Machu Picchu.

  • During the Salkantay Trek

    The Salkantay Trek is one of the most famous routes to Machu Picchu, allowing you to hike through different landscapes. The entire route to the wonder of the world takes approximately 4 to 5 days.

    Nights are usually spent in rustic camps, but there are also different lodges in each of the camps. For example, the first night will be spent in the Sky Camp Lodges, which are domes made of glass, ideal for enjoying the night.

    Likewise, for the rest of the days, you can find campsites that are very suitable for the space in which you will spend the night. These options are ideal for those who really want to feel nature without losing the comfort of an excellent bed and a personal space to rest.

  • Sacred Valley (Urubamba)

    Urubamba is one of the most beautiful destinations in Cusco. This is mainly due to the warmth of its climate and the beauty of its landscapes. This is why many tourists decide to spend the night in this place.

    Likewise, Urubamba is an ideal place to have a moment of relaxation and do other activities before and after visiting Machu Picchu. Pincopata, a community in this district, houses the Ecocamps.

    This is a dome lodge located near Mollepata, making it ideal for starting the Salkantay Trek or simply spending the days with beautiful landscapes and views.

  • Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo)

    On the route to the Cusco jungle and just before leaving the Ollantaytambo district, you can find one of the most spectacular hotels in Cusco. We are talking about the Skylodge Adventure Suites.

    Natura Vive offers this ideal option for extreme glamping in the Sacred Valley. It offers large dome-shaped cabins suspended high up in the rugged mountains that give you beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.

    To reach these destinations, you have to climb some sections and also do some trekking. This can be an option for groups of friends or especially for couples. It is recommended to visit this place, either before or after visiting Machu Picchu.

  • In the Piuray Lagoon (Chinchero)

    Another ideal destination to get in touch with nature without leaving aside the comforts of the city are the domes and tents found near Laguna Piuray.

    The cabins of Piuray Lagoon are located in the district of Chinchero in the Sacred Valley of Cusco. There you can find rustic cabins, but with a very comfortable interior and beautiful details.

    Among the activities that stand out are the walk on Lake Piuray, the coexistence with the local communities and also the tasting of local gastronomy.

Inside the Skylodge
Inside the Skylodge

How to book?
All the services we mentioned have their own websites and contact information. Normally, they are able to help you with any questions or queries that may arise during the quotes. Likewise, some travel agencies have trained staff to help you even with the reservation of these types of services. Although it may not seem like it, there are more and more people who want to experience hotels that offer glamping and at the same time do other types of activities.

Best glamping options in Cusco
Glamping en CuscoIncludesPrices
During the Salkantay Trek
  • 4 nights in different domes.
  • Really comfortable domes.
  • Option to choose shared and couple domes.
  • Ideal spaces for personal hygiene.
  • Spaces for feeding.
995 USD per person.
Sacred Valley (Urubamba) – Ecocamp
  • Ideal location for various activities.
  • Option to do the Salkantay Trek.
  • Option to spend the night near Humantay lagoon.
  • Option to do the Choquequirao Trek.
  • Comfortable, safe and warm domes and camps.
  • Feeding.
  • Bar and electricity.
Between 450 and 550 PEN. Varies per person and service.
Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo) – Skylodge Adventure Suites
  • Transportation to the location.
  • Pick up from Cusco.
  • Equipment needed for climbing.
  • Safety and advice during the activity.
  • Option of double beds, 2 beds and single beds.
  • Drinks and food in the room.
  • Beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.
  • Ideal space for meditation.
From 1640 PEN to 1915 PEN. Varies per person and service.
In the Piuray Lagoon (Chinchero)
  • Transportation and pick-up from Cusco.
  • You can stay in cabins or tents.
  • Personal spaces such as bathrooms and dressing rooms.
  • Option of personal, shared, double and individual rooms.
  • Option to carry out activities together with the community.
  • Walks near the lagoon.
  • Beautiful views.
Between 250 and 350 PEN. Varies per person and service.

Advice from people who have been there

Valle Sagrado

Alexander J.By: Alexander J.

“Magical“

“Touring the valley is to fall in love with each of the towns that make it up. You will love it if you like nature and archaeological sites, this place has everything, landscapes, people, gastronomy, all in pleasant harmony; I recommend visiting it before Machu Picchu, because after Machu Picchu nothing is as impressive.“

 

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, December 17, 2024