Spotlight on Peru’s Sacred Valley: The Perfect Base to Explore the Inca Empire
Cusco is the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and Machu Picchu is its highlight, but there’s no reason to skip directly from one to the other when visiting this region of Peru. In fact, there’s all the reason in the world to slow down the clock once you arrive in the Sacred Valley and take your time exploring its many attractions, from mountaintop ruins to Quechua villages to trails alongside remote lakes. The luxury hotel explora Valle Sagrado is the perfect base to explore the Inca Empire and the wonders of the Sacred Valley.
As you’d expect of any explora property, whether in the Atacama Desert, Patagonia, or Rapa Nui/Easter Island, explora Valle Sagrado is meant to blend into a magnificent remote setting. It’s close to Cusco and Machu Picchu, but off the main tourist route, meaning that guests enjoy intimate seclusion here amidst the Peruvian Andes. The actual property of the hotel is an old corn plantation that used to belong to one of the most important farms in the entire Sacred Valley. The view of surrounding mountains is spectacular. You’ll find Inca platforms and walls within the hotel itself, which showcase the history of the area and let you appreciate the skill and artistry of the Incas.
You’ll find the hotel’s spa at the Pumacahua Bath House, a 17th-century colonial home that belonged to Mateo Pumacahua, a hero of the Peruvian Independence of the early 19th century. The building’s architecture and historical frescoes recreate the past and transport guests back in time as they enjoy pampering spa treatments.
When you visit the Sacred Valley, it’s necessary to spend a few days acclimating to the high altitude or you’ll risk getting winded (or worse) when going on hikes and exploring the likes of Machu Picchu and other mountaintop ruins. Luckily, explora Valle Sagrado is situated at an altitude of 800m/2,000ft below Cusco, which lets you gradually acclimate as you explore the valley over several days on a series of hikes or archaeological visits.
Beyond the stunning architecture, attention to detail, and unbeatable location, explora Valle Sagrado offers over 20 exploration options included in the price of accommodation. You can explore the valley on foot, by van, or by bike and discover traditional towns that seem to have been overlooked by modern expansion and ancient ruins that have stood the tests of time and remain preserved in all their glory. With the help of explora guides, guests can hike among Inca ruins, pedal along the banks of the Urubamba River, visit Machu Picchu, or reach a glacier for a picnic lunch.
In addition to all these exploration options, all stays at explora Valle Sagrado also include transportation to and from the airport, all food, an open bar, and unbeatable access to the magnificent surroundings. It’s a tailor-made exploration experience for globetrotters and a perfect way to explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The Sacred Valley deserves more than a fly-by on the way to Machu Picchu. A stay at explora Valle Sagrado is the best way to delve into its secrets and make the most of the region.
