Palacio del Inka occupies a historic mansion on Plazoleta Santo Domingo, the small square beside the Coricancha, and the hotel lists a location about two minutes' walk from the Temple of the Sun and about seven minutes from the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral and San Blas. The page describes a palace with Inca heritage, where breakfast comes with Andean music and an evening Inca ceremony takes place in the candlelit courtyard. The property is large by Cusco standards, with 203 rooms in ten categories, from classic rooms of about 240 square feet to family and presidential suites, and every category has premium bedding, a workspace, a bathrobe and a shower-tub combination. Facilities include the Inti Raymi restaurant serving regional cuisine, a bar, a spa offering massage, a gym and a garden terrace, and the staff can provide oxygen for guests affected by altitude. Guests rate it 9.6 out of 10 from about a thousand reviews, and the property holds a Biosphere sustainability certification. The airport is about six minutes away by car.
The location is the argument for staying here. You can walk to the Coricancha in two minutes, and the textile center, the native-arts center and several small museums are within five. The Plaza de Armas is a gentle walk downhill, the San Pedro Market is nearby and the Wanchaq railway station, used by some services, is about ten minutes away on foot. The streets around Santo Domingo are quieter than the main square after dark, which suits travelers who want to be central without the nightlife noise.
The experience
Expect a grand, traditional hotel with a service rather than a boutique feel, with rooms that vary in character, so look at the category descriptions before booking. Reviewers consistently praise the staff, and the booking page notes free infant beds and an airport shuttle on request for a fee. Smoke-free premises and a no-pets policy apply. Check the total price including taxes and any fees before booking, and use the free-cancellation rates if your plans are uncertain.
Who it suits
First-time visitors who want a central, well-run base, couples marking an occasion and families who need larger suites. If you want an intimate small-property feel, the converted-convent hotels in the old city or the boutique options in San Blas suit better. If you worry about altitude, ask about oxygen when you book and plan a restful first day; the hotel is at roughly 3,400 meters like the rest of the city.
Why stay here
- ✓Beside the Coricancha
- ✓Oxygen available for altitude
- ✓Inti Raymi regional restaurant
- ✓Spa with massage
- ✓Gym and bar
- ✓Garden terrace
- ✓203 rooms and family suites
- ✓Airport shuttle on request
Good questions
How close is Palacio del Inka to the Coricancha?+
The hotel lists the Coricancha about a two-minute walk away, and the Plaza de Armas and Cathedral about seven minutes on foot.
Does the hotel help with altitude sickness?+
The booking page says staff can provide oxygen for altitude sickness. Rest on your first day and ask about it when you arrive.
Is it suitable for families?+
Yes. The booking page shows family suites, free infant beds and a garden terrace. Ask about extra beds for older children when booking.
