Situated right across the road from where the buses leave to Machu Picchu, this budget hotel’s convenient location and affordable dorms make it a popular choice among the backpacking crowd. Standout features include modern decor, comfortable beds, permanently hot showers, and serviceable Wifi, although the place is admittedly a little lacking in atmosphere.
With dorm beds from just 23 PEN (US$7), Casa Machupicchu Hostel has proven that prices in Aguas Calientes don’t have to be twice as much as elsewhere in Peru. Be aware that this place is far from luxurious, with noisy adjacent train tracks and tiny dorm rooms to contend with. However, the staff are friendly and it’s adequately clean and comfortable for the price.
Situated on the southern end of town, Don Andre Hostal offers excellent value private rooms and dorms for budget orientated gringos. It’s no frills and lacks a little in atmosphere, but the friendly staff are always eager to dish out travel advice or even prepare a packed breakfast for guests to take with them to Machu Picchu the next day.
One of only two proper backpacker’s hostels in town, Ecopackers boasts a funky outdoor common area and a large upstairs bar for young travelers to meet and mingle. The dorms are a little on the small side but the hostel’s cleanliness, value for money and friendly vibe make it a fantastic option for solo budget travelers looking to meet new friends.
No frills but surprisingly spacious and well adorned, this budget hostal offers clean and quiet lodging on the northern edge of town. Due to its location away from the center, Sumaq Wasi is better value for money than similarly priced digs (US$15 per dorm), making it a great choice for budget travelers who aren’t interested in the backpacking scene.
The other traditional backpacker’s dig in Aguas Calientes, Supertramp Hostel is a rowdy locale known for the occasional boisterous late-night fiesta. In true backpacker style, much of the complex is covered in colorful graffiti and murals while its downstairs café is the perfect way to start the day thanks to their hearty breakfasts and strong Peruvian coffee. Best of all, the dorm rooms are spacious and cheap.
You won’t find any dorm rooms or common space in this simple Peruvian style hotel, although its ensuite privates are spacious, clean, and remarkably good value for money. Going for just 65 PEN (US$20) per double, the eight rooms of this modest 2-star hotel are among the best value cheapies in town.