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. 

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.

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. 

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.