Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu

The walls are so thin they’re basically cardboard. A bar was loud enough to make a lot of noise until 2 a.m., and trains can come through at random until 11:30 p.m. We weren’t told about the trains ahead of time, so remember earplugs. That bar, or whatever it is, will probably keep you awake unless you sleep heavily. The hotel itself is nice, breakfast is basic but okay, and the staff are friendly and accommodated our needs. The bathroom smelled a bit moldy, and it’s good to have an adapter because the rooms only have USA model outlets.

The location makes it easy to explore Aguas Calientes, and the rooms are clean and comfortable, though basic. Just know that the train runs right outside the window, so the front rooms can be noisy. Casa Andina Standard is fine for a quick one-night stop, as long as you’re only looking for the basics.

After our Inca Trail hike, we were too exhausted to move rooms, even though they offered us another one when I complained. The train-side rooms get constant ding-dongs, announcements, and passing trains, not just the occasional noise. For some peace and quiet, insist on a room on the other side. Consider yourself warned. I don’t know how this hotel got 4.5 stars.

The breakfast buffet was excellent, and there’s a free filtered water refill machine in the lobby. Our clean, comfortable room had a lovely river view, and the beds were comfortable too.