Traveling through Peru is like stepping into a living tapestry of flavors, landscapes, and history. From the capital city bursting with world-class cuisine to ancient Incan citadels perched among misty peaks, every stop reveals a new layer of wonder. For us, the journey began in Lima and carried us through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and finally to Machu Picchu — with the elegance of Belmond properties and the iconic Hiram Bingham train weaving it all together.
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Lima: A Culinary Beginning
Our Peruvian adventure began in Lima, a city that is as much about food as it is about history. Known as the culinary capital of South America, it’s the best place to start a trip before heading to the Andes. We wandered through colonial plazas, watched paragliders jump from the cliffs of Miraflores, and, of course, ate our way through the capital.
From ceviche marinated in lime and ají peppers to velvety lomo saltado, craft cocktails, and the creamiest lúcuma ice cream, Lima lived up to its reputation. It was the perfect (and delicious) introduction before continuing our luxury travel to Machu Picchu.
Cusco and the Altitude Shift
Landing in Cusco at over 11,000 feet, we were struck not just by the city’s charm but by the altitude. The cobblestone streets and colonial architecture were beautiful, but even a short climb left us breathless. Altitude sickness in Cusco is real, and we felt it — lightheadedness, pounding hearts, and the reminder to take things slowly.
After a few hours in Cusco, we descended to the Sacred Valley. We made a short stop at an alpaca and llama farm, learning about traditional weaving practices of the Andes and getting close to the animals whose soft fibers make the textiles Peru is known for. Our guide gave us some Coca tea to ease the altitude sickness and herbs to breathe into. Some coca candies helped too!
Finding Ease in the Sacred Valley
Driving from Cusco into the Sacred Valley, we immediately felt a sense of relief. At around 9,000 feet, the lower elevation made acclimatization easier. For many travelers, this is the best place to stay before visiting Machu Picchu.
Our home was the Belmond Hotel Río Sagrado, a riverside sanctuary designed to resemble an Andean village. Coca tea awaited us at check-in, a gentle remedy for altitude.
Our terrace overlooked the Urubamba River, its rushing waters lulling us into rest each night. Hummingbirds darted between flowers in the gardens. Alpacas roamed freely. It’s easy to see why this property is often considered one of the best hotels in the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu.
The hotel that sits in the Sacred Valley of the Incas is patterned after a traditional Andean village, and their shapes and materials are meant to merge with the landscape. The bathrooms featured an open concenpt and had the soaps and shampoos in these traditional vials. All the standard comforts were present, save one: there was no television 🙂 which was replaced with the river and garden view.
Days in the Sacred Valley
We spent our days wandering the colorful market stalls of Pisac, climbing the dramatic terraces of Ollantaytambo, and soaking in the valley’s timeless rhythm. Evenings were for slow dinners at the hotel’s riverside restaurant, where fresh trout, quinoa, colorful potatoes, and Andean herbs were transformed into memorable meals. There were plenty of options for vegetarians!
All Aboard the Hiram Bingham
When it was time to continue the journey, the train station was just minutes away. We boarded the Belmond Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu, greeted with mimosas and music. Inside, polished wood, gleaming brass, and crisp linens evoked the golden age of travel.
As the train traced the path of the Urubamba River, the scenery shifted from open valley to lush, jungle-covered peaks. Fine dining, live Andean music, and the thrill of anticipation carried us all the way to Machu Picchu, where the citadel revealed itself in its mysterious veil of mist. Traveling by the Hiram Bingham is truly the best luxury train experience to Machu Picchu — elegant, unforgettable, and every bit as memorable as the destination itself.
Staying at the Belmond in Cusco
Back in Cusco, we had the chance to experience Belmond Hotel Monasterio, a former 16th-century monastery turned luxury hotel. With its cloistered courtyards, original frescoes, and serene atmosphere, it felt like a retreat from the bustling streets outside. Breakfast was amazing!
Our rooms even have oxygen enrichment — a thoughtful touch in a city where altitude can be challenging. Staying here gave us a taste of Belmond’s signature hospitality, even at 11,000 feet, and made our brief time in Cusco both comfortable and memorable.
Why This Journey Stays With Us
Looking back, beginning in Lima, slowing down in the Sacred Valley, and then rolling into Machu Picchu on the Hiram Bingham wasn’t just a trip — it was a carefully layered journey. The flavors of Lima, our chocolate making class, the altitude lessons of Cusco, the tranquility of Belmond hospitality, and the elegance of the train all built toward that unforgettable moment of standing before Machu Picchu itself.
It reminded us that in Peru, the journey is every bit as extraordinary as the destination.
Our One-Week Peru Itinerary [7 to 10 days]
- 2 days in Peru
- Fly into Cusco and drive to the Sacred Valley, stay 3 days
- Day 6: Train to Machu Picchu
- Drive to Cusco, Stay 2 days
- Fly to Lima and back home
Planning Your Belmond Journey to Machu Picchu
If you’re planning a similar trip, here are some helpful tips from our experience:
Where to Stay Before Machu Picchu
- Belmond Hotel Río Sagrado, Sacred Valley – A riverside retreat perfect for acclimatizing before Machu Picchu. Lower altitude than Cusco makes it one of the best hotels in the Sacred Valley before Machu Picchu.
- Cusco Hotels – Spend just one night if you want to explore the city, but be mindful of altitude sickness in Cusco.
What to Eat in Lima & Beyond
- Don’t miss ceviche in Lima — the freshest in South America.
- Try lomo saltado (a beef stir-fry with Peruvian flair).
- I enjoyed the Aji de Gallina, a creamy chicken stew, a few times.
- Pisco sour is a drink you must try!
- Sample quinoa dishes and fresh fish in the Sacred Valley.
- Treat yourself to chocolate and coffee tastings — Peru produces some of the best.
Getting There
- Fly into Lima, spend 1–2 nights enjoying the city’s food scene.
- Continue to Cusco, but head quickly to the Sacred Valley to acclimate.
- From the valley, board the Belmond Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu — the most elegant and unforgettable way to arrive.
Pro Tip: Coca tea, slow pacing, and staying hydrated help ease the altitude. Many travelers find the Sacred Valley the best place to stay before visiting Machu Picchu because it balances comfort with acclimatization.
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