The town of Ollantaytambo is located 40km from Machu Picchu in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Generally it is a busy and bustling tourist hub where most tourists catch the train to Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo recieves and average of around 13000 visitors every month. The town is full of history, great architecture and has some wonderful stories to tell. The town should not be missed giving a mix of new and old. Get lost in the winding cobble stoned streets filled with wonderful restaurants, cafes, souvenir stores and craft markets. Find out what there is to do and see here?
History of Ollantaytambo
Before the Inca took over this site, Ollantaytambo belonged to an Aymara tribe. We do not know much of this tribe and their language as only 3% of the Peruvian population speak this language and their is no written history. It was in the middle of the 15th Century that Inca Pachacutec conquered this area and built the archeological site that we see today. The principal language of the Inca was Quechua, so the town in named in Quechua and that language is spoke in the area.
Ollantaytambo had many uses under Inca rule, including Pachacutec personal estate, a retreat for royalty, and a religious center, and was later used as a military stand-off against the Spanish Invaders. It is the only place that the Inca resistance defeated the Spanish Expedition in a battle. The Incas won this battle, but because their numbers were so depleted they fled towards the dense jungle. It is around the 19th Century that the Inca ruins in Ollantaytambo attracted the attention of several foreign explorers.
Today, its history is still evident and thriving. It attracts thousands of visitors every month. If you are looking for a more detailed history, presented in an informative and modern way, visit the Ollantaytambo Site Museum. The Catcco Museum (Andean Center for Technology and Culture of the Communities of Ollantaytambo)
Transportation and Location of Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is about 60km from the city of Cusco and 30km from Machu Picchu. It´s located 2,792m (9, 160ft) above sea level. It´s part of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The furthest from Cusco, but closest to Machu Picchu. To visit this town from Cusco you can take a taxi, a bus or train.
Getting to Machu Picchu on the other hand has limited options. The most popular way is by train. They have train stations for both Peru Rail and Inca Rail. The best part about their train stations is that they run all year round, wet and dry seasons, making it a super convenient location to start your trip to Machu Picchu. Another way to get to Machu Picchu is by trekking, the most famous being the Inca Trail, but there are other options on roads less traveled.
What to do in Ollantaytambo?
1.- Visit the Ollantaytambo ruins and terraces
Snaking up the hills, these ruins define and dominate Ollantaytambo from nearly every angle. However, it’s important to try and get to them in the early morning or later in the afternoon as it can be incredibly crowded once the large tourist buses turn up. The town is at an altitude of 2,792 m, so don’t be surprised if you’re a wee bit out of breath making your way to the top.
Entry to the ruins is only possible with the Cusco Boleto Turistico – a multi site ticket that covers many of the best Sacred Valley ruins. It is not possible to buy a single entry ticket to Ollantaytambo, so find out more about the Boleto Turistico, where to buy it, and its three ticket price packages. Give yourself 1-2 hours to explore the site at your own pace.
2.- Explore the old town streets
It always sounds like it’s raining in parts of Ollantaytambo, and that’s due to the town’s unique and incredibly well-preserved Incan open-draining system which runs straight through the center of many of its pretty cobblestone streets (if you don’t spot them in time, expect wet feet). Walking the town’s narrow back streets feels like stepping back in time and, as Ollantaytambo is so compact, you’ll never really get lost. Just look up to the Inca site towering above you to get your bearings.
3.- Browse the souvenir market
Enjoy spending some time exploring the wonderfully colorful outdoor markets. Found at the base of the ruins, the market has all the usual fare one would expect to see in a Peruvian tourist spot but you may find some gems for yourself. Haggling is part of the process, but remember to only try and get a deal that is fair for everyone involved in the transaction.
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There’s a cute little side street branching off from the tourist market where there are small shops selling similar items.
4.- Stop by the local market
Near the central plaza, the local market is a great place to visit. See the locals going about thier day to day lives, the market today remains authentic. Here is a great place to stock up on your snacks for the Inca Trail.
5.- Enjoy the view from the deposits of Pinkuylluna
If you want a short hike and great views over Ollantaytambo trek to Pinkulluna. These Inca storehouses are not often visited but offer an opportunity to escape the hordes at the ruin of Ollantaytambo and great practice for the Inca Trail.
To find the trail, simply go down Lare Street and you will see a set of stairs and a sign on your right to take you on the trail; the start point is also clearly pinpointed on Google Maps if you type in ‘Pinkuylluna’. The walk-up takes 30-45 minutes, and be careful on the way down!
6.- Secret corners in the Sacred Valley
Ollantaytambo is a great place to spend some time, it has a small town vibe and is an attractive alternative to discover the valley at a slower pace. Looking to do something off the beaten track, hike up to the Perolniyoq Waterfalls, near the village of Socma, the falls are peaceful and free of tourists. Back in Ollantaytambo in the evenings when the tourists have gone, explore the charming streets and enjoy the peace that the night will bring.
7. Quarry of Cachicata Inca
Cachicata Quarry is a pre-Inca quarry near Ollantaytambo, Peru. The quarry is located on a mountainside and is famed for its spectacular Inca stonework, which was used to construct many of Ollantaytambo’s buildings and constructions.
This is a full day journey from Ollantaytambo to the Inca Cachicata Quarry. Here you will learn about how the Inca cut and shaped the stone using traditional methods. This trek is great prepartion for the Inca Trail. The trek to Cachicata begins in Ollantaytambo, where you will cross an Inca Bridge over the Urubamba River. The paths where the Inca slid the large stone blocks down the slopes, across the river to Ollantaytambo can to bee seen on the way.
Peruvian Sky Lodge Hanging Hotel
Something of an experience, the Skylodge Adventure Suites in Ollantaytambo offer a once in a lifetime adventure. Perched 400 meters above the Sacred Valley, this eco friendly retreat is worth a stay, for the spectacular panoramic views of the mountains alone.
The hotel is made up of three translucent capsules, each with a comfy bed, a private bathroom, and a spectacular view of the valley. For stability and safety, the capsules are built of aerospace aluminum and polycarbonate and are fastened to the cliff by steel cables. Visitors must climb a 400-meter via ferrata to reach the capsules.
Inca ruins Ñaupa
Ñaupa Iglesia is an old temple in Ollantaytambo, Peru’s Sacred Valley. The temple is thought to have been constructed during the Inca Empire, between the 15th and 16th centuries. It is a one-of-a-kind and historically significant archaeological site with a rich history and a profound spiritual importance for the community.
The site is accessible from the town of Ollantaytambo, which is located nearby. Although it is preferable to go with a local travel agency or guide who can also help you locate the best method to get there.
Salt Mines of Maras
The Salt Mines of Maras are located in the Sacred Valley of the Inca, not far from Ollantaytambo. The salt mines have been in use since before Inca times. Each mines is owed by a local family and the techniques are still the same as they have been for hundreds of years. The site is made up of 6000 salt pools each around 5 square meters that are filled by a nearby spring. Visitors can take a guided tour from Ollantaytambo to the salt mines and learn from their guide the history and cultural significance of the site. Make sure to take in the view from the top and many photos.
Treks and Tours from Ollantaytambo
1. Mountain bike tour in Patacancha Valley to Ollantaytambo
A unique and fun way to see the high Andean countryside. This mountain bike tour travel across the beautiful Patacancha Valley. Have the opportunity to stop at traditional communities and see weaving. Pass the villages of Huilloq and Patacancha on your way back to Ollantaytambo, whose life has not changed since ancient Inca times.
***Patacancha and Huilloq, ancient indigenous communities, are beautiful examples of ancestral Andean living. Their inhabitants still wear traditional, colorful clothing and follow the same practices as their ancestors. These scenic and amazing routes take you to the most rugged Andean landscapes. You will experience wild Andean mountains and an authentic way to explore Inca origins.
2. The 1 day Inca Quarry Trek and Sun Gate
The Inca Quarry is where the rocks came from for the massive Ollantaytambo site. On this 1 day trek, visit the this impressive quarry. Also trek to Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, on thistrek through the Peruvian Andes. Enjoy this trek with amazing views of Veronica Mountain glacier and the Sacred Valley.
Inti Punku is a small Inca construction, at the top of a 3,900-meter hill overlooking Ollantaytambo. On this scenic hike, you will enjoy the views of the Urubamba River, the Ollantaytambo Archeological Site, and stunning views of Mountain Veronica.
3. Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
The Sacred Valley Tour is specially designed for those most interested in the fascinating history of the Inca empire and amazing archeological finds. You get to see the best highlights of the Sacred Valley: Ollantaytambo, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and Pisac Inca ruins & market. All of this is provided in a small private tour with a guide who is passionate about Inca archeology, culture, and history.
The valley between Ollantaytambo and Pisac is known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It is strategically located between Cusco and Machu Picchu and played a key role in Inca culture and history. The Valley has a milder climate and is at a lower altitude than Cusco. Throughout the day, you will see picturesque villages, ancient Inca terraces, and the most important archeological sites.
4. Sacred Valley To Machu Picchu Tour 2 Days/ 1 Nights
These are the absolute highlights! If you want to see the most important places from the Inca Empire and enjoy relaxing luxury in the most scenic part of the Sacred Valley, this is the perfect tour package! In only two days you will see the most sacred archeological sites of the Sacred Valley and visit the fabled Machu Picchu!
5. Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail Package 3 Days / 2 Nights
These are the absolute highlights! If you only have three days, this is the perfect tour package. Hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you get to discover the Sacred Valley´s treasures and its most fascinating archeological sites. Walk in the footsteps of the Inca to arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. On the Inca Trail, you visit the astonishing Wiñay Wayna on your way to Machu Picchu!
6. Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days
When you hike the SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU you will see Inca ruins, expansive mountain views, lush subtropical vegetation, and extraordinary ecological varieties. The “Ancient Inca Road” goes through the National Park and enters through the Sun Gate with unforgettable views of Machu Picchu! We will pass cloud forests that turn into lush subtropical vegetation. People hiking the short Inca Trail Trek will have the privilege of seeing the famous Machu Picchu Citadel in the afternoon when there isn´t much foot traffic for those unobstructed shots of Machu Picchu. They also get to visit the next morning with a 2-hour guided tour. This trek was designed for those with little travel time but who would like to experience a part of the Historic Inca Trail.
7. Inca Quarry trail trek to Machu Picchu 4 days/ 3 nights
This hike takes you off the beaten track! This trek also brings you the most amazing camping experience! The Inca Quarry Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is a uniquely designed trek, taking you to remote and rarely-visited Inca ruins. You’ll visit waterfalls, view wild panoramic landscapes, and ancient Inca aqueducts, and take yourself back in time to the Inca stonemason’s unmatched masterpieces. On your final day, will be the long-awaited tour to explore and experience the New 7 Wonder of the World of Machu Picchu!
Where to stay in Ollantaytambo?
There’s no shortage of locally run hostels, hotels, and guesthouses catering to every travel style. You will always be able to find somewhere cheap and cheerful if you just turn up (less possible in the May-September high season).
Here is our recommendation. This hotel will handle both your stay and tours with its in-house trekking company.
- Veronica View Hotel: Arriving at the hotel, you will be greeted amid gardens of native flowers and orchids. Take in the amazing sight of Veronica Mountain, covered with glaciers year-round. After you settle into your room, walk through the gardens to the pool and restaurant area. Their amenities include a steam sauna, dry sauna, spa, swimming pool, and restaurant. They also have a tour company that runs very successful tours to Machu Picchu and beyond.
More information on the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu?
The small town of Aguas Calientes is the access point to Machu Picchu, and people can walk to the site from there or take the shuttle bus for 25 minutes to the entrance. We recommend you travel to Aguas Calientes by train from Ollantaytambo (it’s only 32 km away) rather than going straight from Cusco. The starting point for the Inca Trail can also only be accessed via Ollantaytambo.
This is why so many tour groups and independent travelers end up in the town for a night!
Take the train
There are regular daily departures to Aguas Calientes from Ollantaytambo train station with both Peru Rail and Inca Rail – this is the Machu Picchu train which you’ve probably already heard a lot about.
It’s highly recommended to buy your tickets in advance online to get the best price and departure times for your trip. It is also possible to buy them last minute at the train station in Ollantaytambo but the choice will be very limited in high season and most tickets left will be for the most expensive services.
Where is the train station? The train station is easily found at the end of Av. Ferrocarril (go left just before the small bridge which takes you to the tourist market and terraces). It’s a 10-minute walk downhill from the plaza, so make sure you leave with plenty of time to catch your train.
How much are the tickets? It varies depending on the company, departure time, and train service chosen as they have different levels and train types available (i.e. the Vistadome). Prices start from $56 one-way but can cost a lot more.
What are the schedules? The train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes 1h 20m to 1h 40 mins (it covers the distance slowly intentionally).
Click on the following link to get more information on Inca Rail and
Peru rail. https://machupicchutravelguide.com/inca-rail-vs-peru-rail/
Walk the Inca Trail or any Alternative Trek
The start point for the Inca Trail is by the train tracks at Kilometer 82, about half an hour’s drive outside of Ollantaytambo. However, it’s only possible to do the Inca Trail with an official tour group and you have to book your place months in advance. Most Inca Trail tours will include your transport to Ollantaytambo from Cusco.
For all the information you need to prepare for the Inca Trail, click on the following link here!
Best Restaurants
Chuncho: They host a Pachamanca lunch on their organic farm. Pachamanca is a form of ritual to celebrate life and fertility and to thank ´pacha mama´ mother earth for giving food.
Heart Cafe: The great thing about this place is its great location and wholesome English-style foods.
Don Dante Restaurante: They make a mix of Mexican and Italian food if you looking for something international.
Amanto- Comida Sagrada: This place specializes in upscale Peruvian cuisine. Try an Alpaca steak or any of the delectable local Peruvian dishes.
Blue Magic: If you are looking for nothing special, just a cool and affordable dive bar with burgers and chips. This is the place.
Tour Services
Veronica View Tours
Veronica View Tours is an in-house tour company under the Veronica View Hotel umbrella. It is a highly professional trekking company, giving the best quality service in small groups averaging 6 to 8 people and not more than 10. They are located in the heart of Sacred Valley in Ollantaytambo. They have unparalleled knowledge of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and have years of experience in trekking. If you are looking for a specialist tour company to book a day trip, multiple-day trekking tour, or a trip to Machu Picchu, then look no further than Veronica View Tours.
Link: https://www.veronicaviewhotel.com/tours-to-machu-picchu/
