Ecopackers Machupicchu

The hostel is housed in a small four-story building, sitting beside a railway track that runs straight through the middle of the town. It's quite distinctive from the outside, thanks to its bright orange facade with flowering window boxes and an array of international flags. Interiors aren't as vibrant, with plain decor in the lobby and hallways. The lobby is small and quiet, with most guests congregating on the upstairs terrace in the evenings. The spacious indoor/outdoor terrace has a restaurant and bar with rustic decor and stunning mountain views, plus a cozy communal area with a pool table, TV, couches, and bean bag chairs. The vibe is young and fun, with music playing at the bar and a lively atmosphere at night. Most guests tend to be young European backpackers, though some families also stay here. 

The hostel is located in the heart of Aguas Calientes. It sits alongside the railway tracks, and there's usually a big train parked right in front of the property. There are a few hotels, shops, and restaurants in the surrounding area, though more dining options are in the main square, which is a five-minute walk away. The hostel is conveniently located for tourists, as it's just a few minutes' walk from the bus stop to Machu Picchu. For those willing to go to Machu Picchu on foot (about a three-hour hike), it's one of the closest properties to the road leading there. The Manuel Chavez Balloon Site Museum and Huayna Picchu are a 5- to 10-minute drive from the hostel, while the Butterfly House is a 30-minute walk. The nearest airport is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. From there, it's a 40-minute drive to Poroy Station and then a four-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes. 

The hostel has a total of 41 dormitories and private rooms. All rooms are basic and simply decorated with white walls, hardwood floors, and light wooden bed frames. Dorms can sleep a maximum of six people, and are equipped with bunkbeds, large private lockers, and basic en-suite bathrooms with hot showers and separate toilets. Towels must be rented. Female-only dorms are also available. Private rooms have either double or single beds, adding towels and free soap. Some rooms offer lovely mountain views, though rooms facing the train tracks can be noisy. Some guests have also reported noise from the bar at night, which may be an issue for light sleepers. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though it can be spotty in rooms. Keep in mind that while linens are provided, there is no air-conditioning.

Ecopackers Machupicchu is aimed at backpackers on a budget, so amenities are limited, but there's a huge terrace that's great for socializing. It has stunning mountain views and plenty of places to sit and relax, equipped with a TV, pool table, bean bag chairs, and couches. There's also a well-liked restaurant serving local dishes and light snacks all day. A free simple breakfast in the morning includes hot tea and coffee, and starts incredibly early to accommodate those leaving on treks to Machu Picchu. The bar has a lively atmosphere in the evenings and serves ice-cold beers and fresh cocktails. The hostel has a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and tour desk. Other services include free train station transfers and free Wi-Fi.