Today you will visit Peru’s most famous attraction and arguably the most recognised archaeological site in all of South America, the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.
You will board the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train at the Rio Sagrado’s own private station and enjoy a delicious brunch and champagne reception on board, whilst the train travels alongside the Urubamba river and descends into the cloud-forest.
After 1 ½ hours you will arrive at Aguas Calientes station, where you will board a comfortable mini-bus which will take you the final section of the way to the ruins. Machu Picchu is built on a mountain and the 20-minute bus journey takes you up a series of switchbacks, before arriving at the entrance to the ruins and also your hotel.
The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge has a privileged position next to the entrance of Machu Picchu and means guests don’t have to take the shuttle bus back to their hotel at the end of the day. The advantage of staying at the Sanctuary Lodge is you don’t have to leave to take the final bus of the day and therefore getting a little longer in the ruins. For those wanting to make the experience even more special, you can upgrade to a room with a view of the ruins at the hotel.
On arrival at the ruins you will be taken on a private tour of the Inca Citadel. Your local guide will explain the history and significance of Machu Picchu and you will have plenty of opportunity to take pictures and see the llamas which wander through the ruins. After your tour an afternoon tea is served at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.
Stay: One night at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge – half-board