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Hotel · Cusco · Cusco

Secret Garden Hostel - Cusco

A family-run hostel in Cusco's historic center, known for warm hospitality and a quiet location a short walk from Plaza de Armas.

  • Daily housekeeping and bed-making
  • Free tea, coffee, and hot water
  • Tours and ticket assistance available
7.8 good 183 reviews Booking.com 7.8 · 183 reviews

About

Secret Garden Hostel - Cusco

Secret Garden Hostel is a 2-star property on Calle San Miguel, about 10 km from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. It offers a paid airport shuttle and free Wi-Fi throughout. The hostel is roughly 3 km from Qenko Ruins and within walking distance of Cusco's main square.

Guests can choose from shared dormitories, private rooms, and an economy quadruple. Common spaces include a TV lounge, outdoor dining area, and a kitchen with cookware. The 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and locker room make it practical for travelers heading to Machu Picchu or the Salkantay trek.

  • Smoking allowed in designated areas
  • Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room

In brief

What works, what to weigh

+

Strengths

3 reasons to book
  • Friendly, attentive staff — Guests consistently mention the owner and family going out of their way—helping with early check-ins, storing luggage, arranging taxis, and organizing tours.
  • Central yet quiet location — A short walk to Plaza de Armas and the old town, but set away from the noise of the tourist center. Easy to explore Cusco on foot.
  • Clean rooms and daily housekeeping — Beds are made daily and private and shared rooms are described as spotless, with comfortable beds and warm blankets.

Worth weighing

3 to weigh
  • Wi-Fi can be limited — One guest noted the connection was unreliable, particularly in rooms. Those needing a strong online connection may be frustrated.
  • No pets allowed — The hostel does not accommodate pets, so travelers with animals will need to look elsewhere.
  • Breakfast may be basic — While some guests enjoyed the breakfast, it is described as simple—not a full spread. It's fine for a quick start but not a highlight.

01 — Rooms

Rooms & rates

High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.

8 Bed Dormitory Room Dormitory Room Mixed

  • 1 Bed in shared room

6 Bed Dormitory Room Dormitory Room Mixed

  • 1 Bed in shared room

Deluxe Queen Room

  • 1 Queen-size bed
  • Shower

Standard Twin Room

  • 2 Single beds
  • Shower

Economy Shared Bathroom Quadruple Room

  • Sleeping arrangements for 4 persons

02 — Amenities

Services & amenities

Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.

General

  • Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • Smoking allowed in designated areas
  • No pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Currency exchange

Food & Drink

  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Cookware/Kitchen utensils
  • Outdoor dining area

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Leisure

  • Leisure/TV room
  • Board games
  • Sitting area

Safety & Comfort

  • Fire extinguishers
  • Parquet floor

03 — Reviews

What guests say

Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.

7.8
good 183 reviews

Guest-rated 7.8/10 from 183 reviews

Booking.com · 7.8 · 183 reviews
7.8Verified guest

“A clean hostel with friendly staff and a great location. They secured my luggage and made the bed daily. The owner went out of his way, even walking me to meeting points. Wi-Fi was limited, but for the price it's perfect if you don't need to be online all the time.”

7.8Verified guest

“The staff were incredibly welcoming and always around to answer questions. They made my Christmas stay memorable. The location was ideal—close to the main sights but not in a touristy area. I also liked having hot water and tea available throughout my stay.”

7.8Verified guest

“I stayed here recently and loved how close it was to everything. The atmosphere was warm and cute, and I felt at home right away. Beds were comfy, rooms were spacious, and the daily cleaning kept things tidy. Staff were friendly and helped with any request. They also offered great tour prices and let me store my backpack while I went to Machu Picchu.”

7.8Verified guest

“Exceptional. We needed an early check-in and the owner understood, giving us a private room even though we hadn't booked one. The bed was comfortable and the place was spotless. Location was great, close to Plaza de Armas, and they stored our luggage during a backpacking trip. Staff were friendly and accommodating.”

7.8Verified guest

“Friendly owners who helped with an early morning airport taxi and a doctor visit. Luggage storage is available. Good beds and hot water with pressure. It's a small hostel in a perfect location, run by a welcoming family. Tea and coffee in the common room, soft beds and warm blankets. Kitchen works but you pay for gas. Free tea and Wi-Fi, and always someone to talk to. They arranged an amazing Salkantay Tour at a good price. Great value—I'd love to come back.”

7.8Verified guest

“Very convenient location, just a short walk from the center. Rooms are clean and comfortable with warm duvets and good beds. Staff are friendly, let you check in early, and even serve tea when you arrive.”

04 — Location

Getting around Cusco

The property sits in Cusco.

Plaza de Armas: The main square of Cusco is a short walk from the hostel, packed with restaurants, shops, and colonial architecture. A good starting point for exploring the city.

Qenko Ruins: Located about 3 km from the hostel, this archaeological site features limestone formations and underground chambers. It's a quieter alternative to some of the more crowded ruins.

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport: The airport is about 10 km away. The hostel offers a paid shuttle to help with arrivals and departures.

Calle San Miguel 250, Cusco, Cusco, Peru

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05 — Good to know

Policies & conditions

Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.

Check-in
From 12:00-23:59
Check-out
By 10:00-11:00
Cancellation
Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
Payment
Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
Pets
Not allowed
Property
42 rooms

06 — Questions

Frequently asked

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is from 12:00 to 23:59, and check-out is between 10:00 and 11:00. Some guests have been able to check in early, but it's best to confirm in advance.

Does Secret Garden Hostel offer parking?

No parking is listed. If you're arriving by car, you may need to find public parking nearby—check with the hostel directly for options.

Can I bring my pet?

No, pets are not allowed at this hostel.

Is there an airport shuttle?

Yes, a paid airport shuttle is available. Guests have mentioned the owner helping arrange early morning taxis to the airport.

Are there luggage storage facilities?

Yes, luggage storage is available. Several guests stored their bags during treks to Machu Picchu or the Salkantay route, often free of charge.

What dining options are available?

The hostel has a kitchen with cookware and utensils, plus an outdoor dining area. Free tea and coffee are offered in the common room, and there is a TV lounge. Some guests mentioned a simple breakfast is available.

The bottom line

A reliable, budget-friendly choice in Cusco if you value genuine hospitality and a quiet, central location. The staff's proactive help with luggage, early check-ins, and tours makes it especially practical for trekkers. Wi-Fi reliability and a basic breakfast are minor drawbacks.

7.8Best for: backpackers and trekkers who want a home-like base with helpful staff.

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