Inka's Tambo Hotel

Getting to the Plaza de Armas or the airport takes about 20 minutes, and a taxi to either costs no more than 10 soles, if you can find one without traffic. Cusco traffic is usually heavy, though. That’s a useful part of my experience, but everyone will have to decide what works for them. The hotel is basic, which explains the low price, but a hot shower should be a basic service anywhere. Winter in Cusco gets very cold, and the gas shower didn’t heat the water on its own. Each time we wanted to bathe, we had to call someone to fix it, which was a real hassle in 9° weather. The Wi-Fi in the room didn’t work properly, so we had to go down to reception for a decent connection. I’ve had the same issue at other hotels, so it isn’t unique to this one. Breakfast was also very simple, and staff didn’t refill food or utensils unless we asked.

The owners live there, so it felt more like a guesthouse than a hotel. Staff and owners were pleasant and friendly, but we had to keep asking them to restock the very basic breakfast when it ran out. Towels weren’t changed, bathroom trash was sometimes left behind, and there was no soap or toilet paper in the room. I got tired of asking and bought my own. The owner also offered tours at higher prices than other agencies.

The service was friendly and excellent, and it was handy to have bus stops and restaurants just a few blocks away. I also liked that the linens and towels didn’t seem to be cleaned with much bleach. They felt more natural while still being very hygienic.

It’s a quiet area, and I felt fine walking back and forth for food after 8 pm. The hotel is about a five-minute walk from the bus station; for 80 cents, you can ride to the main square in ten minutes. My room had an LCD TV with cable, hot water was always available, breakfast was there each morning, and the staff were helpful. I’d read quite a few negative reviews before coming, but my service was very good. It’s obviously not a five-star hotel, though the quality for the low price is good. I’d recommend it to friends.