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Rumi means “stones” and Punku means “door” which is exactly what you will see at the threshold to this hotel. This Inca doorway is considered a Historic Monument of the City of Cusco and it was once the entrance to a very sacred place. Feel the energy of this ancient civilization as you enter the building.
This is a family run, charming, friendly and affordable establishment that will more than suit your needs for your hike on the Inca Trail. If you do indeed choose to hike, you are able to store your luggage here for free. They have 40 rooms with private baths and cable TV. The rooms are simple, clean and very well maintained. You will find Norwegian thermal blankets on your bed and for a small fee; you can make use of the Finnish Sauna, jacuzzi and gym. However, if you hike the trail, I don't think the gym will be necessary! If you are fond of breathing and find the altitude hard to take (3,400 metres above sea level), The Rumi Punku will greet you with some coca tea known to help with the headache from the altitude, and if you need something stronger, oxygen is provided by the hotel. I think this is the first time I've listed oxygen as an amenity in a hotel.
Beside oxygen, there is a small lounge with fireplace here that serves up Piscos, which is a Peruvian liquor made from grapes – this is a place where you will always feel “high.”
The Rumi Punku offers free airport pick up, 24/7 security and also provides a free computer room for the guests. It is close to many fine restaurants and is located only 3 blocks from the main square, Plaza de Armas.
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, so exploring this city is a real treasure. You can do it by hiking, horseback riding, white water rafting or just soaking up the culture. The staff at the hotel can arrange tours and guides. Cusco's climate is sub-tropical with the dry months being April to October. November to March are the wet months and July is the coolest, so please bear that in mind when making your plans.
I mentioned hiking the Inca Trail earlier, but there is another option that will take you to Machu Picchu and that is the train. It's about a three and a half hour ride from Cusco. You can break the bank and board the Hiram Bingham, voted one of the best in the world and be pampered on your journey, or you can take the Vistadome, which is the mid-range price option. It's surrounded by glass and has very comfortable seating. The options go down from there and you can make the call. Be sure to book these trains well in advance of your trip especially if you're traveling in the high season.
The Rumi Punku serves up a delicious breakfast in the dining room and has a roof terrace with great views of the city, so enter the sacred portal and inhale the essence of the ancients as you journey to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Website: www.rumipunku.com
Rating: 
August 15, 2023
