Best Hostels and Hotels in Machu Picchu for Backpackers

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Travel Cheaply, Sleep Comfortably: The Best Hostels and Hotels for Backpackers – Machu Picchu 2025 / 2026

A visit to Machu Picchu is a dream of many backpackers around the world. This ancient Inca city, located high in the Andes, offers not only a rich history and impressive architecture, but also unforgettable landscapes that take your breath away. For travelers with a limited budget, finding affordable yet comfortable accommodation is key to fully enjoying this unique experience.

Our Recommendation for Your Ideal Accommodation

SuperTramp Eco Hostel

Located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, SuperTramp Eco Hostel provides a vibrant atmosphere with modern amenities. Its terrace overlooking the mountains is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploration.
Location: A 5-minute walk from the main square and the train station.
Reasons for Recommendation: Friendly staff, clean rooms, and common areas ideal for meeting other travelers.
Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, storage lockers, and a tourist information desk.
Rating: ★★★
The latest reviews highlight the cleanliness and friendliness of the staff. Dorm bed prices start at €10 per night.

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Nativus Hostel Machu Picchu

This hostel offers comfortable rooms with views of the river and mountains, creating a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation after a long day.
Location: A 10-minute walk from the thermal springs and main tourist attractions.
Reasons for Recommendation: Peaceful location, comfortable beds, and a homely atmosphere.
Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, laundry service, and a shared kitchen.
Rating: ★★★
Guests praise the beautiful view and the cleanliness of the property. Private room prices start at €15 per night.

El Mistico Machupicchu Hostal

Rooms with views of the mountains and river provide a unique experience of staying in nature.
Location: A 7-minute walk from the train station and 5 minutes from the handicrafts market.
Reasons for Recommendation: Excellent location, friendly staff, and comfortable rooms.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, transportation service, and a tourist information desk.
Rating: ★★★
Reviews emphasize the beautiful view and the comfort of the rooms. Double room prices start at €20 per night.

Casa Machu Picchu Hostel

This hostel offers simple but clean rooms with basic amenities, ideal for travelers seeking affordable accommodation.
Location: A 3-minute walk from the train station and 10 minutes from the thermal springs.
Reasons for Recommendation: Affordable prices, central location, and friendly staff.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and a 24-hour reception.
Rating: ★★
Guests appreciate the cleanliness and proximity to the main attractions. Private room prices start at €12 per night.

Hostal El Tambo Machupicchu

Located on a quiet street, this hostel offers a relaxing ambiance with basic amenities for a pleasant stay.
Location: An 8-minute walk from the main square and 12 minutes from the thermal springs.
Reasons for Recommendation: Peaceful location, clean rooms, and friendly staff.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and a reception open 24 hours a day.
Rating: ★★
The latest reviews highlight good value for money and the friendliness of the staff. Private room prices start at €13 per night.

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Eco Terra Lodge

A modern, environmentally conscious accommodation with an incredible view of the mountains and river.
Location: Located in a quiet part of Aguas Calientes, a 7-minute walk from the center.
Reasons for Recommendation: Sustainable concept, spacious rooms, and proximity to nature.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and a terrace with panoramic views.
Rating: ★★★★
The latest reviews emphasize the friendliness of the staff and the comfort of the beds. Double room prices start at €25 per night.

Retama Machu Picchu

A comfortable hotel with a modern interior, perfect for those seeking more privacy.
Location: A 5-minute walk from the train station, easily accessible.
Reasons for Recommendation: Good value for money, clean and spacious rooms.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and laundry service.
Rating: ★★★
Guests praise the comfort and the peaceful atmosphere. Private room prices start at €30 per night.

Vista Machu Picchu

A hotel with one of the best views of the river and mountains, ideal for relaxation.
Location: In the heart of Aguas Calientes, close to restaurants and shops.
Reasons for Recommendation: Rooms with terraces and an excellent location.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, restaurant, and included breakfast.
Rating: ★★★★
Reviews highlight the friendly staff and the spectacular view. Room prices start at €35 per night.

Machu Picchu - Great Preparation for a Perfect Backpacker Experience!

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Traveling to Machu Picchu is not just a tourist excursion – it is an adventure that requires proper preparation, especially for backpackers who want to maximize their experience while staying within budget. From planning transportation to choosing the ideal season for a visit, every detail can significantly affect the quality of your stay.

How to Get to Machu Picchu?

Although there are several ways to reach Machu Picchu, backpackers most often opt for one of the following options:

By Train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo: The fastest and most comfortable option, but also the most expensive. Ticket prices vary depending on the season and class of travel, with the most affordable tickets starting at €50 per direction.
Via the Hydroelectric Plant: An adventurous option that includes a bus ride to the hydroelectric plant and then a hike to Aguas Calientes (approximately 2-3 hours). This is a significantly more affordable way to travel, with total costs potentially under €20.
Inca Trail: A classic route for those who want to combine trekking with a visit. This tour lasts several days and requires advance reservations, with prices starting at €300 and up.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?

Weather plays a key role in planning your visit. The dry season lasts from May to October, and the rainy season from November to April. Backpackers often choose September and October because there are fewer crowds, and the weather conditions are still favorable.

Food and Local Cuisine

Aguas Calientes offers numerous options for affordable dining. Although prices are slightly higher than in other parts of Peru, backpackers can find budget-friendly meals in local markets and smaller restaurants. Recommended dishes include:

Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef with vegetables and rice – a classic Peruvian dish.
Quinoa Soup: A healthy and nutritious meal, perfect for trekkers.
Ceviche: Although more popular in coastal regions, it can also be found in Aguas Calientes.

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Additional Accommodation Recommendations

For those looking for something different, in addition to the previously recommended hostels, here are a few more options worth considering:

Gringo Bill's Boutique Hotel

A charming boutique hotel with rustic decor and a fantastic view of the mountains.
Location: A 3-minute walk from the main square, close to restaurants and shops.
Reasons for Recommendation: Unique style, relaxing atmosphere.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and a balcony in the rooms.
Rating: ★★★★
Reviews praise the friendliness of the staff and the peaceful atmosphere. Room prices start at €45 per night.

Susanna Inn

A family-run hotel that offers comfort and a warm atmosphere.
Location: By the river, a 5-minute walk from the center.
Reasons for Recommendation: Affordable prices, a homey feel.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and a 24-hour reception.
Rating: ★★★
Guests appreciate the tranquility and comfort. Room prices start at €35 per night.

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Retama Inn

A modern accommodation for those seeking a combination of comfort and affordability.
Location: Close to the main square, with an excellent view of the mountains.
Reasons for Recommendation: Clean and spacious rooms, affordable price.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and a terrace.
Rating: ★★★
Guests praise the friendliness of the staff and the calm ambiance. Room prices start at €30 per night.