Historic center, Cusco, Peru
A 500-year-old mansion facing the Qoricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, with the only thermal circuit spa in Cusco.
The Property
Palacio del Inka is a restored colonial mansion built among Inca stones, facing the Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun. Gonzalo Pizarro, brother of Francisco Pizarro, claimed the building in 1533, and parts of the colonial residence, like the Casona de los Cuatro Bustos, still form part of the hotel.
There are 203 rooms and suites in a traditional colonial style, from doubles to one-bedroom and family suites. The Andes Spirit Spa has a thermal circuit with an arched waterfall pool, and Inti Raymi restaurant serves Peruvian cuisine with local ingredients. Rumi Bar is the place for a pisco sour.
Why It’s Here
Most of Cusco's best hotels cluster around Plaza Nazarenas, uphill from the main square. Palacio del Inka is in a different part of the center, right in front of the Qoricancha, and its thermal spa is unique in the city. It's the choice for travelers who want a full-service hotel with a real spa and history on the doorstep.
The Rooms
203 rooms and suites, all with colonial touches, but some categories are far more special than others.
Classic Rooms The entry category, with a king or two double beds, facing the city or the inner courtyards.
Deluxe Rooms More space, with a king or two double beds. Look out for the Colonial Marquis rooms, with antique furniture and the most traditional decor, and the Premium rooms overlooking the courtyard or the church, some with a balcony.
Family Deluxe Rooms Three double beds in one large room, a good fit for families with older kids.
Imperial Junior Suites Colonial-style junior suites with a king bed; some have a balcony.
One-Bedroom Suites A separate living area, with a king or two double beds.
Colonial Family Suites Two bedrooms, one with a king and one with two double beds. The easy choice for a family of four.
Presidential Suite The hotel’s only two-bedroom suite, with a king and two double beds.
My recommendation: Book one of the colonial categories: a Colonial Marquis room, an Imperial Junior Suite or a Colonial Family Suite. They are definitely the most beautiful rooms in the hotel, with hand-painted ceilings, carved wood and antiques that make you feel like you are sleeping in a palace.
Ideal For
Couples, families and wellness lovers who want a full-service hotel with a spa. Less ideal for travelers who want a very small, intimate hotel.
Good to Know
Location: Facing the Qoricancha
Nearest airport: Cusco (CUZ)
Getting there: About 15 to 20 minutes by car from the airport
Best time to visit: May to September, the dry season
Good to keep in mind: With more than 200 rooms, it's a large hotel; room style and views vary, so ask for a historic room.
Tip: Book the thermal circuit for the afternoon you arrive; it helps you relax at altitude.
Book It
Ready to stay? Book Palacio del Inka through me and you’ll receive exclusive perks like daily breakfast for two and a hotel credit, plus an upgrade if one is available at check-in. Send me your dates and I’ll take it from there.
