Santa Catalina Ancha 366, Cusco City Centre, Cusco, Peru | (586) 210-9239
Top location a few blocks from Cusco's main plaza
Bright rooms with traditional touches, plus TVs and heating
Three- and five-bed rooms are available
Buffet breakfast, and use of the communal kitchen during the day
Covered courtyard and indoor seating, too
Internet stations and free Wi-Fi
Free luggage storage
Hard to find, down a shabby alley
Rooms mostly overlook the interior courtyard
No dorms (pro for some)
Extra fee for heaters
Two-pearl La Posada del Viajero Hostal is a basic option with a top location just a few blocks from Plaza de Armas and the cathedral. There are no frills here and it's tricky to find, hidden down a shabby alley. Inside, though, the off-street location gives the property a secluded feel, and the bright interior courtyard is a nice place to kick back. There's a laid-back atmosphere and guests use the kitchen facilities when the daily free buffet breakfast is finished. The hotel is popular with groups thanks to the larger rooms, which can have three and even five beds. Alternatively, La Casona de Rimacpampa has a similar rustic style and might be preferable for those traveling in by train, as it's a bit closer to the station.
Scene
Laid-back family-run hotel with a cozy atmosphere
La Posada del Viajero is tucked away down a long, rather rundown alley, but once you've found it, the location is a blessing -- away from the busy main streets of Cusco. It's a traditional Andean budget hotel, arranged around a central courtyard -- with sunny yellow walls and a covering protecting guests from the elements. The common areas inside are attractive, if basic, with a split-level layout. There are various sofa areas, internet stations, and a breakfast room on a mezzanine level. The lack of dorms mean that there isn't the biggest communal vibe here, which some budget hostel guests may be seeking. Instead, the property has a laid-back family-like atmosphere, and guests tend to also be families -- or friends traveling together.
Location
Central location, just a few minutes from Plaza de Armas and historic attractions on foot
La Posada del Viajero is a bit tricky to find, as it's tucked down an alley, but the location is prime. It's just a couple of minutes from Plaza de Armas on foot. There's a popular vegan restaurant next door, and several restaurants and stores along the main streets. Cusco Cathedral, and other central attractions -- like the Qurinkancha temple -- are all within a 10-minute walk. It's 15 minutes to the main rail station on foot, or a 10-minute drive, and the airport is just a touch farther, at 15 minutes away by car. Getting to Machu Picchu is straightforward via Poroy station, which is about a 30-minute drive from the hotel.
Rooms
Bright rooms in a variety of configurations, with TVs and private bathrooms
Unlike some of the shared areas, which can feel dark, rooms at La Posada del Viajero are pleasantly bright. Most open off of the interior courtyard, so views are onto the corridors. They have cute homemade Andean-style room numbers outside, colorful flower displays, and indigenous artwork on the walls. Furniture is looking a little worn and basic, but everything is clean. There are a variety of configurations, including Triple Rooms and five-bedroom units, as well as more traditional double rooms. Keep in mind that there are no official dorms here. All units have wardrobes and tables, plus wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, safes, free Wi-Fi, and heaters (though the latter cost extra). The private bathrooms are functional, with showers, pump products, and towels.
Features
Continental buffet breakfast, use of the kitchen, and pretty covered courtyard
La Posada del Viajero Hostal is a small guesthouse, so features are few. It has a leafy covered courtyard with tables and sofas, and there are also seating areas inside. Three internet stations in the lounge come in handy, though Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. A breakfast buffet is provided daily, which is included in prices. Once breakfast is done, guests are permitted to use the kitchen and dining room to prepare their own food. As with most hotels in the city, there's free coca tea available, too. The hotel will store luggage free of charge.