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Ollantaytambo Peru Guide | 10+ Absolute Best Things to Do

Ollantaytambo Peru is arguably one of best small towns in Peru and quite possibly one of the most overlooked, yet transited villages in South America. This picturesque village is nestled in the mighty Andes Mountains, next to the Vilcanota River and is tucked away in the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas, not so far from the Imperial City of Cusco.

This charming village boasts picturesque cobblestone streets lined with Inca canals that still flow with water. Walking along the narrow alleyways has a way of transporting you back in time, when this was not only a strategical center, but a ceremonial hub of the Incas.

Offering a rich history and the absolute sheer beauty of the Urubamba River Valley, there are endless things to do in Ollantaytambo Peru. For a geographically small area, Ollantaytambo boasts both Pre-Inca and Inca ruins, worthwhile hikes, and treasures scattered among the mighty snow capped mountains.

This definitive guide to Ollantaytambo Peru includes useful travel tips, how to reach the village from Cusco, the best things to do in Ollantaytambo, Sacred Valley highlights nearby, and where to eat and sleep in Ollantaytambo.

Feel the energetic heartbeat of the rich village of Ollantaytambo Peru.

Table of Contents

Ollantaytambo Peru Travel Tips

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One of the top Ollantaytambo Attractions is the Ollantaytambo Sanctuary

A short overview on tips and tidbits to help navigate a visit to Ollantaytambo Peru.

Olla Say What?

First off, you may be asking how to pronounce Ollantaytambo? Honestly, I struggled, too. Phonetically, it can roughly be pronounced like Oi-yahn-tie-tam-bo.

Breaking down the Quechua word, of Ollantaytambo, it makes more sense….. Ollantay-tambo. Ollantay was believed to be an Inca ruler. Tambo may be more familiar, especially those travelers who have been following the Inkas history and dynasty throughout South America. Tambos were a place of rest for those moving along the vast Qhapaq Ñan, or the complex Inca road system. Tambos can still be seen everywhere, like along the Inca Trail of Ecuador, and in barrios of Peru’s “White City of Arequipa.”

Ollantaytambo can be shortened by locals and tourists alike, and is simply referred to as “Ollanta.” Gracias.

How Many Days in Ollantaytambo Peru?

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Sweeping views of Ollantaytambo Peru in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Well that depends on your travel style. The village is small, and most travelers simply pass by Ollantaytambo on a full day Sacred Valley tour. Others stop on their way to or from Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the impressive World Wonder of Machu Picchu.

In my humble opinion, Ollantaytambo is so much more than an afterthought and the few hours allocated by tour companies is simply not enough time. Those travelers who can appreciate a slower pace, crave a more authentic experience, and want to travel deeper should strive to spend at least one full day in Ollantaytambo Peru.

Ollantaytambo is small, making it extremely navigable. There are a wide range of hostels, guesthouses, and camping options, making it a desirable place to stay in the Sacred Valley.

With the beauty and allure of the Andes Mountains, there are countless day hikes, so avid hikers may wish to spend 3 -5 days in Ollantaytambo alone. Those just wanting to visit the main Ollantaytambo attractions can leisurely explore the sites in 2 – 3 days.

No matter how many days you spend in Ollantaytambo, the village is worthwhile and a must-visit on any Peru itinerary.

Ollantaytambo Elevation

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Patacancha Valley on the trek to Pumamarka

Another bonus of Ollantaytambo is that is has one of the lowest elevations in the Sacred Valley. At the opposite end of the Valley, Pisac sits at an altitude of around 9,751 ft (2,972 m). Ollantaytambo altitude is 9,160 ft (2,792 m). Pisac is almost 40 miles from Ollantaytambo, yet the elevation is almost 600 ft lower. The Sacred Valley elevation is much lower than that of Cusco. The Imperial City sits at a sky-high 11,152 ft.

Some say the lower altitude gives the valley a more favorable climate than Cusco. There is still a distinct rainy and dry season. In the Sacred Valley, rainy season typically runs from November to April, while dry season is from May to October.

Be sure to be acclimated before attempting any hikes in the Cusco region. One way to help altitude sickness is drinking coca tea or chewing coca leaves.

How to Get to Ollantaytambo Peru from Cusco

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One of the best views of Cusco from the Mirador San Blas

Most travelers will spend time in Cusco before heading into the Sacred Valley. Relatively speaking, they are close in proximity, so it’s easy to move between the two places and experience the best Peru attractions on a Cusco and Sacred Valley Itinerary.

The good news is, there are multiple options on how to get to Ollantaytambo from Cusco and the Sacred Valley in its entirety.

Cusco Peru Travel Guides | 23 Spectacular Things to Do in Cusco | Where to Eat in Cusco | Unique Cusco Itineraries | Discover the Cusco South Valley | 8 Free Inca Ruins in Cusco | Hike Cerro Picol the Tallest Peak in Cusco

How to Get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo Peru

🚐 Collectivos from Cusco to Ollantaytambo Peru | Fare: 10 PEN ($2.75) | Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes | Collectivos run frequently | Catch the mini vans on Av. Grau 510 | Depart when full and may have to transfer in Urubamba

If you Have to Transfer in Urubamba….

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Urubamba Peru is larger than Ollantaytambo and has a more “lived-in” vibe.

Collectivos run frequently from Urubamba to Ollantaytambo. They depart from the main terminal in Urubamba and pass by Yanahuara and Pachar. Collectivos arriving in Ollantaytambo drop in the Plaza de Armas of Ollantaytambo or in a gravel lot a few blocks from the Plaza. Pay upon exit.

 🚐 Collectivo Urubamba to Ollantaytambo | Average Fare: 2 PEN (50¢ USD) Duration: 25 minutes 

Buses to Ollantaytambo from Cusco

Alternatively, there are no direct buses to Ollantaytambo from Cusco. However, you can catch a larger, yet much slower bus to Urubamba. Follow the transfer logistics above.

🚌 Cusco to Urubamba Bus | Average Fare: 6 PEN ($1.50 USD) | Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes | Depart: frequently from Jirón 21 de Mayo 944 | Hours: 6:00 – 19:00 | Transfer to a Collectivo to Ollantaytambo

Taxi to Ollantaytambo Peru from Cusco

Those who don’t feel comfortable taking public transportation can find plenty of eager taxi drivers in Cusco that will be willing to drive to Ollantaytambo for a steep fare of $35 – $50 USD for the hour drive. Of course, negotiation and Spanish skills can significantly affect the final price. Make sure to agree on a price before entering the taxi.

Best Things to Do in Ollantaytambo Peru

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Qellorakay are free Ollantaytambo ruins that offer stellar sunset views

There are so many awesome things to do in Ollantaytambo Peru. The village offers tons of jaw dropping Inca ruins, some for a fee and some for free. From the village enjoy some of the best Sacred Valley hiking trails.

Jump to | Wander the Streets | Plaza de Armas | Face of Wiracocha | Pumamarka Ruins | Inti Punku Ollantaytambo | Pachar & More Hikes | More Things to Do in the Sacred Valley

Explore the Oodles of Ollantaytambo Ruins

One of the best things to do in Ollantaytambo Peru is explore the many Inca ruins, both ticketed and free.

Main Archaeological Park Ollantaytambo Peru

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The head scratching Temple of the Sun in the main Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site

Perched on the hillside and lined with terraces, the Ollantaytambo ruins are a must-see. The main ruins of Ollantaytambo are part of the popular Cusco Tourist Ticket. The site boasts highlights like the Temple of the Sun, the Water Temple, and Inkawatana.  Due to the protective and almost strategically placed walls, it is theorized that these ruins could have also acted as a fortified military fortress.

The Temple of the Sun is an impressive megalithic stone and a head-scratching highlight of the Ollantaytambo ruins. The giant stone and origin is attracting attention from shows like “Ancient Aliens” for its unique coloring and sheer size.

Those who are interested in history should opt for a Ollantaytambo Archaeological site tour to get more complex history on the site, the village itself, and the famous Battle of Ollantaytambo. It is believed the village was one of the last strongholds for Manco Inca, against the Spanish forces. He won the battle in January 1573, but shortly after, lost to the Spanish conquistadors and was forced to flee to Vilcabamba. Tour guides are available on-site, simply verify their credentials.

Wander up the Inca terraces to see picturesque views of the Sacred Valley. Out in the distance across the river, can you spot the Inca Quarry Trail that hauled in these heavy and enormous stones?

The Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park requires an entrance fee. The site can be visited with either the complete Cusco Tourist Ticket or the Circuit III ticket portion. The Circuit III ticket includes the worthwhile Sacred Valley ruins of Pisac, Chinchero, and Moray.

☛ Travel Tip | Visit all 16 Sites of the Cusco Tourist Ticket Without a Tour

After exploring these incredible ruins of Ollantaytambo, browse the colorful artisan market near the entrance.

Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site | Hours: Daily 7:00 – 17:00 | Cusco Tourist Ticket is required to access this site | Tour guides available, make sure to verify their information

Pinkuylluna Granaries | Pinkuylluna Ruins

Across from the hillside Ollantaytambo ruins, look for the granaries of Pinkuylluna. Due to their shape and location, it was believe that these were colcas, or storage devices for crops.

The Pinkuylluna Granaries are free to explore and offer incredible views of the Sacred Valley from a different and let’s be candid, a more budget-friendly angle. The views looking at the main Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site aren’t bad either. To access Pinkuylluna, simply walk on Calle Lares and enter the small shop here.

Note that some sections of these trails may be closed during the rainy season.

 Peru Travel Resources More Hidden Gem & Free Inca Sites in Peru

Quellorakay | Qellorajay

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The picture perfect terraces of Quellorakay from one of the Inca Quarry Trails

A few minutes walk from the Ollantaytambo cemetery find Quellorakay. This small, but free Inca site, looks out over the Urubamba River. Alternatively, the river is also referenced as Rio Vilcanota.

This site see little foot traffic, but is a tranquil place. Not many people visit, so expect to share the views with a few grazing cows. Quellorakay is best to visit at sunset. The site also offers a different angle on the Inca Quarry Trail.

Ollantaytambo Steps

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Most travelers miss the experience of walking through the stone step of Ollantaytambo

While most collectivos enter Ollantaytambo along the main road, there is another impressive and lesser visited entrance that can only be accessed by foot. Not far from the far end of the Quellorakay ruins, find the ancient Ollantaytambo steps that lead into the village.

The ancient steps lead to one of the absolute best things to do in Ollantaytambo Peru…..

Wander the Cobblestone Streets

It’s hard not to get lost, figuratively, while wandering those picturesque streets of Ollantaytambo Peru. In fact, it’s one of the romanticized things to do in Ollantaytambo. Inca canals, check. Cobblestone streets, check. Dramatic mountains, check. Beautiful Indigenous people donning traditional clothes, check. Is that a llama? Check.

The village purely showcases the urban planning design from the Inca Empire. With that being said, there are theories suggesting that Ollantaytambo may be one of the “oldest continuously inhabited human settlements in the Americas.” Not much has changed along these streets in the past 600 years, well except for maybe those souvenir shops.

Keep your eyes peeled for the bikes that help transport goods throughout the village. Heart overload.

People Watch at the Plaza de Armas Ollantaytambo

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The Plaza de Armas Ollantaytambo Peru

The charming Plaza de Armas of Ollantaytambo Peru is encircled by green lush mountains, yellow buildings, and makes the perfect spot to watch the world go by. This is the ideal spot for people watching.

The Plaza de Armas has plenty of tiendas selling last minute and essential items, coffeeshops, restaurants with views, and how about those jovial street dogs that the local police seem to have taken under their wing.

Only a block from the main plaza, find the superb local market, Mercado San Pedro. The first floor has excellent fresh produce. Head upstairs to catch women serving up heaping plates of traditional food for a more than fair price. The second floor of the San Pedro Market was my go-to spot to eat in Ollantaytambo.

Look for Wiracocha on the Mountainside

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Do you see the face hidden in the mountain just to the left of the Pinkuylluna granaries?

Wiracocha is known as the main the creator god of the Inca. If you wish to believe the legend, you can spot him hanging out in Ollantaytambo Peru.

Close to the granaries of Pinkuylluna, actually below, some say his face is carved into the rocky mountainside. Others will laugh and say that this is simply a weird coincidence and natural erosion. Either way, once you locate him on the mountainside, it’s kind of hard to un-see him.

The best way place to see Wiracocha is from the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site.

What do you think? Was Wiracocha made by man, nature, or by the hand of the creator himself?

Hike to the Pumamarca Ruins from Ollantaytambo Peru

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The hike through the Patacancha Valle really make the Pumamaka ruins worthwhile

Behind the Ollantaytambo Plaza de Armas, wander along the Patacancha River. Follow the trail to the often overlooked Pumamarca Archaeological Site. The scenic hike passes by sprawling Inca terraces, through eucalyptus forests, next to Inca canals, and includes panoramic views of the Patacancha Valley. 

Pumamarca can be reached via a half day hike from Ollantaytambo Peru.

The Pumamarca ruins may look different than nearby Inca sites. That is a major indication that it was probably built by the Wari civilization (Pre-Inca) and integrated into the Inca Empire. The building structures are taller, almost like the sacred site of Huchuy Qosqo just down the valley a ways near Lamay.

Travel Tip | More Wari Sites can be seen in the Cusco South Valley at Pikillacta

This site has taller walls than most Inca building techniques, indicating that it was probably used as a ceremonial site. The structure of the site is said to resemble a Puma, one of three revered animals of the Incas. During the time of the Spanish conquest, Pumamarca was more than likely used as a tactical fortress.

Pumamarca Archaeological Site | Entrance Fee: 10 PEN ($2.75 USD) | This money goes directly to the surrounding communities | Hours: Daily, 8:00 – 17:00

Inti Punku Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo Peru

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The Inti Punku Ollantaytambo with the jaw-dropping and snow covered Apu Veronica in the backdrop

One of the most incredible hikes in the Sacred Valley is to the Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo. This full day hike follows along the Inca Quarry trails, pass a few crumbling ruins, and ends at Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Although the ruins themselves are small, be totally blown away by the epic views of snow covered Mount Veronica.

This is a completely different sun gate than Inti Punku Machu Picchu. The Machu Picchu Sun Gate is the main entrance to Machu Picchu via the Classic Inca trail.

Visit Nearby Pachar Village & Nearby Sacred Valley Hikes

A short and speedy 5 minute collectivo ride away is the small village of Pachar. However, if you wish to walk there, why not follow this Inca Trail past Choqana, which probably acted as a checkpoint along the Qhapaq Ñan. The flat trail takes a little over an over and follows the Urubamba River.

If you don’t want to hike, stop by the Cerveceria Valle del Sagrado. This brewpub has a lovely garden, delicious brews, and serves up pub fare.

Those looking to hike more should visit Ñaupa Iglesia, a peculiar “dimensional portal” that is said to have mysterious ties to Egypt. If you wish to follow the active train tracks, hike to Perolniyoc Cascade. Ambitious hikers can tour the Raqaypata Inca ruins that sit at the top of the falls.

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Perolniyoc Waterfall with the Raqaypata Archaeological Site at the top of the cliff

The Perolniyoc Waterfall hike takes a full day, but can be turned into a multi-day trek. One popular route includes camping near the Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo. Alternatively, head deeper into the Andes via the intrepid and stunning Laguna Ancascocha trek.

Best Things to Do in the Sacred Valley Peru

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Views from Saywa Mountain in Urubamba

While Ollantaytambo Peru is a great place to explore the treasures of the Sacred Valley, less than 30 minutes by collectivo is Urubamba. Although not quite as small or visually appealing as Ollanta, Urubamba has lively local markets, yummy restaurants, and is more centrally located in the Valley.

Detailed Urubamba Peru Travel Guide

From Urubamba, it’s possible to hike to the Maras Salt Mines and continue all the way to the Moray Inca Ruins. Urubamba also has the scenic hike to the sun pillars of Saywa, with incredible views of Mount Chicon. Another worthwhile hike from Urubamba is to the breathtaking alpine lake of Laguna Juchuycocha at a staggering elevation of over 15,200 ft! There’s easy access to Chinchero Archaeological Site and the Old Inca Road that connects Chinchero to Urquillos.

Don’t worry, Ollantaytambo is a short thirty minute ride to Urubamba, so it all depends on what kind of atmosphere you’re craving.

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Pisac Plaza de Armas

Although Pisac village sits on the opposite side of the Valley, it’s still easy to tour the Pisac ruins and even squeeze in a half-day excursion to the three lakes of Kinsa Cocha.

Travel Tip | Over 60+ things to see and do in the Sacred Valley Peru

Ollantaytambo Restaurants

There are no shortage of ymmy Ollantaytambo restaurants. Besides the main market, don’t miss these places to eat in Ollantaytambo Peru.

Apu Veronica Restaurant

Apu Veronica Restaurant is locally run by a sweet woman who serves up huge portions of food for a more than reasonable price. Besides the food being on point and sourced from the local markets, the large windows offer stellar views. Dishes are thoughtfully and visually prepared. Apu Veronica Restaurant offers plenty of vegetarian options. Don’t miss the daily menu del dia. If you’re lucky, the women owner may tell you the romanticized legend of Apu Veronica.

Pizzeria Quinoa Ollantaytambo

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Beers with a view of the Plaza de Armas at Pizzeria Quinoa

Located on the Plaza de Armas in Ollantaytambo, Pizzeria Quinoa is a great place to snag a large and delicious menu del dia for a fair price. They also offer wood-fired pizzas with speedy service. There are a few small outdoor tables on the terrace, the perfect place to sip on an artisan brew.

El Albergue Restaurant

Located near the train station Ollantaytambo Peru, El Albergue provides a true farm-to-table experience in the Andes. Many of the ingredients are fresh and come directly from their onsite garden and farm. Reservations are highly recommended.

El Albergue offers a wide range of unique culinary experiences, from Cafe Mayu, Chuncho, and its very own distillery, Destilería Andina.

Chuncho

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Chuncho is one of the best places to eat in Ollantaytambo Peru

Chuncho has ties to the El Alburgue and serves up traditional regional cuisine of Cusco but with an artistic touch. Again, this restaurant focuses on farm-fresh ingredients from locally sourced vendors. Chuncho translates from Quechua to mean “native,” and this top Ollantaytambo restaurant wants to showcase seasonal and exquisite Peruvian fare.

Cerveceria Valle del Sagrado Pachar

Although not technically in Ollantaytambo, the microbrewery Valle Sagrado Pachar has such a spectacular beer garden it would be a shame not to mention it. The menu is more “pub style,” so don’t expect to find traditional Peruvian cuisine. The beers here are refreshing after a long day hiking the Sacred Valley.

Ollantaytambo Peru | Gateway to Machu Picchu

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Epic views of Machu Picchu from Machu Picchu Mountain

Ultimately, Ollantaytambo Peru is THE gateway to Machu Picchu. The train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu is the most utilized means of transportation to reach the grandest landmark in Peru.

Make sure to have your ticket to Machu Picchu already booked! Gone are the days where you can just show up and buy a ticket to enter the Lost City of Machu Picchu.

Train Station Ollantaytambo Peru

Ollantaytambo Train Station is the primary reason travelers visit Ollantaytambo. Both  IncaRail and PeruRail offer daily departures to Aguas Calientes, the tourist town that sits below the mighty Lost City of Machu Picchu.

PeruRail offers departures from Cusco, but all but one of the trains depart from Poroy Station in Cusco, which is close to 20 minutes from downtown. The train takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to reach Aguas Calientes from Poroy. One-Way train tickets start at $66+.

Check the Current Train Schedules with PeruRail here

IncaRail utilizes a mixture of both buses and trains to reach Machu Picchu. The bus shuttles visitors to Ollantaytambo, where they load the train to Machu Picchu. Again, this option takes just over 3 hours and 30 minutes. There are multiple trains including some that depart from the San Pedro train station in Cusco, but they are more expensive. One-Way train tickets start from $65+.

Check the Current Train Schedules with IncaRail here

Inca Trail Ollantaytambo

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Patallacta Archaeological site along the Inca Trail. There are multiple Inca ruins along the Inca Trail

Of course, the most famous way to reach Machu Picchu is via the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Due to its popularity, the Inca Trail is highly regulated and a guide and permit are required to complete the most famous trek in Peru. Permits include guides and porters and pass by a handful of sacred Inca sites. After 4 days of trekking, reach Machu Picchu via the grand entrance way, Inti Punku Machu Picchu.

The Standard Inca Trail tours depart from Ollantaytambo to the hamlet of Chillca, or more commonly known as Kilometer Marker 82 (KM 82). The Classic Inca Trail is 4 days and 3 nights and it is best to book well-in advance. Be mindful that the Inca Trail shuts down for maintenance for the entire month of February.

🥾 Best Cusco Multi-Day Treks | 🎒 Peru Packing List for Multi-Day Treks

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The Inca trail from Inti Punku Machu Picchu to the World Wonder that is Machu Picchu

If 4 days of trekking seems like too much, there are more tour options becoming increasingly popular, like the Short Inca Trail options of 2 day 1 night and the one day Short Inca Trail.

Collectivos from Ollantaytambo Peru

There are collectivos from Ollantaytambo that stop at the Central Hidroelectrica, so you will need to take the train into Aguas Calientes, or opt to walk the 5 plus miles next to the railroad tracks. Collectivos may not always be direct and can include transfers in Santa Maria or Santa Teresa. Santa Teresa has the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, so you may wish to spend the night there to break up the trip to Ollantaytambo or Cusco.

Peru Travel Planning14 Peru Hot Springs You Need to Visit

Alternative Treks to Reach Machu Picchu

While the Inca Trail is the most popular (and most expensive) route to Machu Picchu, there are many ways to trek to Machu Picchu. It really is true what they say… All roads lead to Machu Picchu!

Salkantay Trek

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Views along the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek is the second most popular trek to reach Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trail standard route takes 5 days and more or less covers a distance of 45 miles. A guide is not necessary to complete this alternative trek to Machu Picchu. Highlights of the Salkantay trek include the stunning Humantay Lake, the towering Salkantay Pass at 15,090 ft elevation, and a quick jaunt through the coffee region.

Trekkers come to the Central Hidroelectrica where they reach Aguas Calientes via the flat walk along the train tracks next to the Rio Vilcanota or by catching a train.

Lares Valley Trek

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Lares Valley is known for beautiful handwoven artisan goods

The stunning Lares Valley is becoming more and more popular. There are multiple Lares trekking routes ranging from 1 – 6 days. The most popular is the 3 day “Weavers Way,” which starts from the Lares hot springs and continues through small weaving communities. Note that hikers will need to take a train or collectivo from Ollantaytambo to reach Machu Picchu.

On a time constraint? This one day Lares Valley trek is lovely

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek

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The Choquequirao Archaeological Site sees less than 20 visitors a day

Intrepid hikers will love the 9 day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek! This alternative trek to Machu Picchu sees little tourists, is challenging, and spans parts of Peru most people never visit.

The bold trek to Machu Picchu can be completed without a guide and includes a stop at the impressive Choquequirao ruins. The trek continues over towering mountain passes, through tiny communities, to finally meet up with the Salkantay trail. Highlights of the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek include the massive Choquequirao Archaeological site, authentic hamlets, snow capped mountains, and wild camping along the route.

🥾 Peru Packing List | The Best Peru Packing Guide for Multi-Day Treks

More Treks to Machu Picchu

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The horned fortress of Waqrapukara is double the altitude of Machu Picchu

The following Peru treks are becoming popular to pair with a visit to Machu Picchu. Again, these treks will all include a bus or train ride from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu.

Psst… I think these treks are awesome as standalone Cusco treks, too!

Best Place to Stay in Ollantaytambo Peru

There are lots of places to sleep in Ollantaytambo Peru for every type of style and budget. No matter where you stay in Ollantaytambo, there is a common thread of warm hospitality, incredible mountain views, and quiet nights.



Booking.com

  • Budget | Casa Quechua Hostel Camping
    • This simple guesthouse offers private and shared rooms in a lovely garden space. The owners are incredibly sweet, breakfast is included, rooms are clean, and the showers hot. They also provide places to set up a tent.
  • Budget | Be Free Ollantaytambo
    • Located on a quiet street, Be Free Ollantaytambo offers private rooms with a hearty breakfast included. Friendly owners that offer plenty of green space in a garden.
  • Budget | Casa Inka B&B
    • A popular Ollantaytambo guesthouse that includes breakfast, kind staff, large rooms, and a chill family vibe.
  • Mid-Range | Picaflor Tambo Guest House
  • Upper Mid-Range | Apu Lodge Ollantaytambo
  • Luxury | El Albergue Ollantaytambo also rents rooms near the Train Station in Ollantaytambo Peru
  • High-End Luxury | Vertical Sky Luxury Suites

Browse the best hotels in Ollantaytambo Peru

The Ultimate Guide for Ollantaytambo Peru

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One of the best things to do in Ollantaytambo is to hike to Inti Punku

In short, or not so short, this is the ultimate guide to visit Ollantaytambo Peru. The picturesque mountain village in the rich Sacred Valley boasts stunning Inca sites, stellar hikes, delicious food, and truly beautiful people. While most travelers only visit Ollantaytambo as the gateway to access Machu Picchu, there are so many things to do here.

The best way to experience Ollanta is to slow down and spend a few days here. So, climb to the Sun Gate, explore the surrounding villages, and be enchanted by the special Inca town of Ollantaytambo Peru.

Did you visit Ollantaytambo Peru? What did you think? Is there something missing from this best things to do in Ollantaytambo bucket-list? Let me know in the comments below.

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6 Comments

  1. So excited to read this! We are going to Peru next year. We’ll have to add some of these hikes to our plans.

    1. Excellent! I love Peru you and will enjoy it. Try to get a little off the tourist circuit to truly experience the magic ✨

  2. Meg you have outdone yourself. Your photos and descriptions of this picturesque town blow me away. I feel like I just walked around the village with you. Great post!

    1. Thank you so much Terri.. that is the biggest compliment ever!☺️ I spent a lot of time in the Sacred Valley so it’s so easy to write about a place you left your heart 💙

  3. OMG what an incredible guide! Before today I’ve never heard of Ollantaytambo, but now I want to go! Reading this whole guide, you’ve really covered it all. I’d love to do all the hikes and see all the ruins nearby. What a variety of attractions for this small village! Saving for a future trip.

    1. Thanks Nikki! It always boggles my mind how many sacred sites are near Ollantaytambo, and how many are still buried away, waiting to be discovered, in the towering Andes Mountains. Such a sacred area. 🔆

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