Cusco to Welcome Its First International Hotel Near Historic Center
On January 1, 2026, Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, will open its first hotel. Guests will have access to modern and comfortable rooms, which will help them get to know the city better. Meliá Hotels International, a Spanish hotel chain, is getting ready to open it. Cusco, located more than 3,400 metres above sea level in the Andes, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important entry point for travelers visiting Machu Picchu. This opening marks a further expansion of international hotel chains in Peru’s key cultural destinations.
The hotel, named Hotel Cusco La Paccha Affiliated by Meliá, was previously operating under a different brand. It will have 167 rooms, a restaurant, bar, spa, and event spaces, arranged around a central courtyard. The property is situated approximately ten minutes from the city’s main square, Plaza de Armas, and is next to the ornamental fountain La Paccha de Pumaq Chupan. Around the hotel, visitors will find colonial-era churches, lively traditional markets, and a variety of museums showcasing Cusco's rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Qoricancha Museum, once the Inca Sun Temple, is close by and contains artifacts from the pre-Inca era, the Inca period, and the colonial era. By visiting the museum and nearby galleries, you can learn about the city's rich history. The hotel is conveniently located, as there are many cultural and historical attractions within walking distance. This provides an opportunity to learn about history and culture. All of this testifies to the importance of Cusco as a center of Andean culture and how the city has preserved its old buildings and traditional layout.
San Pedro train station, located close to the hotel, is the primary departure point for trains to Machu Picchu. Thanks to this proximity, visitors can plan trips to the archaeological complex and explore the Andean landscapes around it. The area is easily accessible via regional transport networks, allowing visitors to combine cultural sightseeing with hiking or short excursions. Its excellent location makes the hotel an attractive choice for both tourists and travelers who are simply passing through the Cusco area.
The opening of this hotel signals the growing presence of global hotel chains in Peru's important cultural cities. It offers guests easy and comfortable accommodations, allowing them to effortlessly explore cultural sites, archaeological wonders, and natural attractions. This highlights Cusco’s ongoing role as a key hub for tourism and cultural heritage, providing visitors with both historical insights and modern conveniences when planning trips to Machu Picchu and the nearby Andean region.