Originally Posted by
LM225
Really appreciate all of this detail, thank you! Sounds like you had a wonderful time.
Of Central and AyG, did you prefer one over the other?
We loved Central and AyG. Central wasn't even on the top 50 list when we booked, but it debuted at 50 shortly before we went. I'd say both are amazing. AyG is the more traditional dining room, while Central is more modern in decor. Central is probably a bit more experimental, but we're splitting hairs here.
Ah, didn't realize that about Tambo, thanks, though I suppose I can see that looking at some of the TripAdvisor photos.
I agree Tambo being more corporate, but it is still a very unique property. But consider that even as SPG Plat, we stayed at Rio Sagrado. But to be honest, I don't think you can go wrong at one of Tambo, Belmond, or Inkaterra. It's about what you prioritize.
One alternative we're considering is dropping to one night at MP
We are a rarity in that we stayed at the Sanctuary Lodge for 2 nights. But MP was the single biggest priority for our trip...so giving it just a single night seemed wrong. We VERY much appreciate that we spent 2 nights here, as it gave us TONS of time to (1) do a tour with the Belmond free afternoon, (2) walk around and explore on our own, (3) see the site with plenty of early mornings and late afternoons after the crowds dispersed. We have photos of MP that make it look like we were there alone, in fact...because we largely were for 30-45 min at those times. For us, that meant the world at one of the greatest sites in the world. Of course, we had 3 weeks total trip time!
and then adding either:
1) A 4th night (3rd FULL day) in Sacred Valley -- I know we want to do the Ollantaytambo and Maras salt mines trips, though I imagine would could quite easily fill a third day as well.
2) A 3rd night (2nd FULL day) in Cusco.
3) A 2nd night (1 FULL day + an evening) in Lima.
Anyone have thoughts there?
I'd stick with the 2nd night at Machu Picchu unless you are a quick study or want to save $$$. I definitely wouldn't sacrifice a day at MP for a night in Lima! I also think that by doing BOTH Sacred Valley and Cusco, you'll already have seen plenty in both. We allowed ourselves down time at both the SL and the Rio Sagrado.
You have to do what you think is best. You save money by spending only 1 night at the MP SL but then that is often the biggest reason you're there in Peru in the first place.