Tambo Del Inka (for free!)

Tambo del Inka: Luxury in the Heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley

Nestled between the ancient cities of Cusco and Machu Picchu, Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, offers a serene and sophisticated retreat in Urubamba, Peru. Whether you’re a travel hacker cashing in points or a luxury seeker chasing unforgettable views, this resort delivers a world-class experience with a distinctly Andean soul.

Prime Location in the Sacred Valley

Located right on the main road between Cusco and Ollantaytambo, Tambo del Inka is perfectly positioned for travelers heading to Machu Picchu. In fact, it’s one of the few hotels with direct access to the PeruRail train station, making your journey to the ruins seamless and scenic.

The Grounds & Atmosphere

From the moment you pass through the security gate, you’re greeted by lush gardens, a peaceful lagoon, and the gentle flow of the Urubamba River. The property feels more like a private retreat than a hotel, with winding paths, native flora, and stunning mountain views.

Rooms & Amenities

Rooms are spacious, modern, and infused with local design elements—think stone walls, warm wood accents, and cozy textiles. Many offer private terraces with river views. Guests can enjoy:

• A heated indoor pool with outdoor access

• A full-service spa and thermal circuit

• On-site dining featuring Peruvian and international cuisine

• Daily activities like Andean bread-making and beer tastings, included with the resort fee

Spa & Wellness

The thermal spa circuit is a highlight, featuring a steam room, sauna, and plunge pools. Access is included with the resort fee, and it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the Sacred Valley.

How We Booked It (For Free!)

We stayed here for three nights using Marriott Bonvoy free night certificates, earned from cobranded credit cards. Each certificate covered up to 50,000 points, and we topped off with a few extra points to meet the nightly rate. With rooms typically priced between $450–$500 per night, this redemption offered incredible value. This Marriott credit card will sometimes feature a sign up bonus of 5 free night certificates worth 50,000 points each. We used these to make our stay in Peru absolutely free! We stayed 3 nights here and 2 nights in the Palacio Del Inka in Cusco.

Getting There

We arranged a transfer from Cusco airport through the company Taxidatum for about $50—a bit more than a local taxi, but worth it for peace of mind. I used this company to book every ride we needed to take and they were phenomenal. The drivers were friendly and we ended up having the same one chauffeuring us multiple times during our stay.

Why Tambo del Inka Is Worth It

• Ideal location for Machu Picchu travelers

• Luxurious amenities with authentic Peruvian charm

• Incredible value when booked with points or certificates

• Peaceful, immersive experience in the Sacred Valley

Whether you’re starting your journey to Machu Picchu or simply seeking a luxurious escape in the Andes, Tambo del Inka is a destination in itself.