A 16th-century former convent converted by Belmond in 2012, Palacio Nazarenas occupies a singular place in Cusco's historic center. Steps from the Plaza de Armas and facing the pre-Columbian art museum, the property combines colonial heritage, Incan vestiges and high-end hotel services.

Why stay here

Palacio Nazarenas appeals to travelers seeking prestigious accommodation without sacrificing historical dimension. The building preserves its colonial frescoes, Incan stone walls and original arcades, meticulously restored during a careful renovation overseen by Belmond. The 55 suites are equipped with oxygen enrichment systems—a useful feature for acclimating to Cusco's altitude of 3,400 meters—and each suite benefits from a dedicated butler service.

The property brings together three assets rarely combined in Cusco: a restored convent setting, a restaurant helmed by an acclaimed chef, and a heated outdoor pool, presented by the hotel as the only one in the historic center.

Atmosphere

The Palacio Nazarenas atmosphere stems from how the space reveals itself: silent courtyards, stone galleries, a former Notre-Dame of the Assumption chapel transformed into a lounge with its 16th and 17th-century paintings preserved. A guide can discuss the displayed works and objects discovered during restoration. The whole approach embraces understated luxury—more contemplative than ostentatious—where colonial architecture converses with contemporary furnishings and Peruvian textiles.

The private courtyard also hosts yoga and meditation sessions, extending the contemplative dimension inherited from the convent.

The suites

The hotel features 55 suites divided into four categories:

• Junior Suites
• Studio Suites
• One-bedroom Suites
• Signature Suites

Décor blends traditional Peruvian elements with contemporary comfort: king-size beds, underfloor heating, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, safe, minibar, iPad docking station. Marble bathrooms feature heated floors, a bathtub or rain shower, silk robes and premium bath products. Some suites open onto a balcony overlooking Cusco's rooftops and surrounding mountains.

The oxygen enrichment system, installed in each suite, mitigates altitude effects during the night. Connecting suites and family-friendly touches (books, iPad games, children's menu, souvenir toy) are available for families.

Dining, spa and services

Since 2023, the restaurant Mauka has been directed by chef Pía León, one of contemporary Peruvian cuisine's most prominent figures. The menu highlights local, seasonal ingredients complemented by herbs and aromatics from the property's garden. Meals are served in the dining room or on the terrace near the pool.

The Senzo Bar offers small plates, South American wines and cocktails, including the classic pisco sour. Twice weekly, the bar organizes free salsa classes open to residents.

The Hypnôse spa works with Andean products—coca leaves, Andean pink salt, honey, coffee beans—offered as massages, facials and holistic therapies. Facilities include individual cabins, a couples' room and a hammam, with a herbal tea bar.

Practical services include airport transfers, laundry, twice-daily housekeeping, local craft shop, billiards table and library adjacent to the lounge. The team organizes private guided tours of Cusco, hiking and excursions to Machu Picchu, as well as weaving and pottery workshops with local artisans.

Location

The hotel is situated in Cusco's historic district, minutes on foot from the Plaza de Armas and facing the pre-Columbian art museum. The cathedral, San Pedro market and Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) are all within walking distance. Alejandro Velasco Astete international airport is about twenty minutes by car.

Around the hotel

Cusco serves as a base for exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. If you extend your itinerary, several properties complement a stay at Palacio Nazarenas well: Hotel Monasterio, another convent conversion in central Cusco, Antigua Casona San Blas in the bohemian San Blas district, Hotel Rio Sagrado in the Sacred Valley, and Sanctuary Lodge at the gates of Machu Picchu itself.

Plan your stay

Palacio Nazarenas fits naturally into an itinerary combining Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. To craft a bespoke itinerary including this property, explore our Perú journeys.