Urubamba Peru Travel Guide | Underrated Gem in the Sacred Valley
Urubamba Peru is a lovely village located smack dab in the heart of the enchanting Sacred Valley, or Valle Sagrado. This authentic town makes the perfect “home base” to explore the diverse highlights of Peru’s Sacred Valley. The Sacred Valley is an incredibly lush region that offers sprawling Inca Archaeological Parks, charming villages, hiking trails for days, and many more hidden gems. The Sacred Valley of the Incas is also the gateway to Peru’s most famous treasure: Machu Picchu.
There are so many fantastic things to do in Urubamba Peru. The centrally located village sits next to the mighty Urubamba River. There are spectacular traditional markets and a large open central market. The Urubamba cemetery is one of the most beautiful burial sites in all of Peru. Make sure to stroll through one of the many artisanal shops and eat at one of delightful Urubamba restaurants and coffeeshops that are scattered throughout the city.
From Urubamba there are nearby Inca sites that can easily be reached via public transportation or hiking, if not a combination of both. Discover all the Sacred Valley highlights and popular day trips from Urubamba. It’s worthwhile to pencil in at least a few days in the extraordinary Urubamba Valley. Seriously, what better place to explore than from the village of Urubamba Peru?
Here are all awesome things to do in Urubamba Peru and why this underrated village is the perfect base to explore the rich treasures of Peru’s Sacred Valley.
Table of Contents
- Where is Urubamba Peru Located?
- How to Visit Urubamba Peru
- Urubamba in the Sacred Valley | Authentic Peruvian Village
- Fantastic Things to Do in Urubamba Peru
- Visit Free Inca Sites in Urubamba & Nearby Villages
- Stunning Nature Hikes from Urubamba Peru
- Visit More Adorable Village of the Sacred Valley
- The Best Urubamba Restaurants
- Where to Stay in Urubamba Peru
- Urubamba Peru | A Hidden Gem in the Sacred Valley
Where is Urubamba Peru Located?
Urubamba Peru is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, or the Urubamba Valley. This magnificent region is about 50 km, or 31 miles, from the heart of the Imperial City of Cusco. Urubamba is easily accessible via collectivos, which are small vans, or by larger buses.
The two villages of Pisac and Urubamba are the easiest access points to the Sacred Valley from Cusco. Pisac is less than 20 miles from Cusco, but there’s also a direct route from Cusco to Urubamba.
Cusco sit at a towering altitude of 11,152 ft. (3,400 m), whereas the villages of the Sacred Valley of the Incas have a lower altitude closer to 9,000 ft. (2,743). Needless to say, the valley has quite a different climate than Cusco. The weather in Urubamba Peru is usually temperate and maybe it just feels that way, but the sun seems to shine a little more here than in Cusco.
☛ Steal my best Cusco Itinerary ideas
Sacred Valley Highlights from Urubamba Peru
To get a better understanding of Urubamba’s central location in the Sacred Valley, here are bus/collectivo times to the popular points of interest in the Sacred Valley
✈ Peru Travel Planning | The Ultimate Sacred Valley Peru Travel Guide
- 5 minutes to Media Luna
- 20 minutes to Pachar
- Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado
- 25 minutes to Ollantaytambo
- 30 minutes to Maras Transit Stop
- Gateway to Maras Village & Moray Archaeological Park
- 40 minutes to Calca
- Collectivo transfers to Pisac and Lares Valley
- Urqo Inca Site
- Lamay and the trailhead to the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
- 50 minutes to Chinchero
- Chinchero Archaeological Park & the Old Inca Road to Urquillos
- 60 minutes to Pisac
- Pisac Archaeological Park
- Artisanal Markets
- Access to Kinsa Cocha Hike
- 75 minutes to Cusco
How To Visit Urubamba Peru
Most people arrive to Urubamba from Cusco, or upon return from visiting Machu Picchu. Here’s the most up to date travel information on how to reach Urubamba Peru from Cusco and how to include it as a stop after Machu Picchu.
Public Transit | Cusco to Urubamba
There are two main stations in Cusco with departures to Urubamba.
One route is direct, while the other passes by Pisac village.
Collectivos Cusco to Urubamba via Pisac
Find the Collectivos in Cusco to Pisac on Puputi Street, near the Garcilaso Monument roundabout. There are multiple vans departing from both sides of the street. Collectivos drop near Pisac before the main bridge, however some continue all the way to Calca or Urubamba for a higher fare.
🚐 Cusco to Pisac | Average Fare: 4 PEN ($1 USD) | Duration: 45 minutes | Depart: frequently, when collectivo is full from Puputi Street, near the Garcilaso Monument | Hours: 6:00 – 19:00
If the Collectivo stops in Pisac, head out of town, towards the left, and flag down a frequent collectivo to Urubamba or Calca.
Direct Collectivos Cusco to Urubamba Peru
Collectivos and buses depart frequently from Cusco to Urubamba bus station terminal. These collectivos and buses pass by the popular villages of Chinchero and the busy Maras Transit Hub, which is the access point to the Moray Inca Ruins.
🚐 Collectivo Logistics | Average Fare: 8 PEN ($2 USD) | Duration: 1 hour | Depart: frequently, when collectivo is full | Departure Location: Av. Grau 510 | Hours: 6:00 – 19:00
🚌 Bus Logistics | 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
Reverse Route | Machu Picchu to Sacred Valley
After touring Machu Picchu, visit Urubamba to appreciate the magic of Peru’s Sacred Valley. Most people will depart Aguas Calientes and head to Ollantaytambo, or go directly back to Cusco. Simply, exit at Ollantaytambo and head towards the central market to catch a bus to Urubamba Peru.
Collectivos Ollantaytambo to Urubamba
In Ollantaytambo, follow Calle Principal from the Plaza de Armas. Buses depart directly in front of the main market.
🚐 Collectivo Logistics | Average Fare: 2 PEN (50¢ USD) | Duration: 25 minutes
Urubamba in the Sacred Valley | Authentic Peruvian Village
Exploring the Valley is literally at your fingertips from Urubamba Peru. Local people can be seen staying true to ancient traditions, many of them still donning their typical clothing. There’s a small and well established expat community that gives the Sacred Valley a special vibe.
The Sacred Valley Expat Community
The Sacred Valley has an amazing energy, so people from all over the world are drawn to this magical region. There are foreigners from all sorts of backgrounds living throughout the valley, resulting in a unique social dynamic. Pisac has many expats; however, Urubamba seems to have less. Urubamba is much larger than some of the more touristic villages, so that’s maybe why the expats seem to blend a little more.
In Urubamba there is still a thriving expat community, but it feels more like a working Peruvian Village. Throughout the entire Sacred Valley most of the expats immerse themselves seamlessly into the valley. Many contribute to the valley by supporting local farmers and shops, encouraging sustainable business practices, and giving back to the local Peruvian people. There is a strong sense of respect towards the local people from foreigners who continue to learn from and integrate with the Peruvian society.
Fantastic Things to Do in Urubamba Peru
There are so many awesome things to do in Urubamba Peru. From local markets, artisan shops, and a surprisingly beautiful cemetery, here are some worthwhile places to see in Urubamba.
Visit the Bustling Traditional Market in Urubamba
Urubamba hosts one of the most authentic markets to visit in Peru. Vendors come from the entire Sacred Valley to sell produce, cheese, flowers, pots and pans, clothing, and so much more. Anything you seek can be found at this happening market. People set up makeshift stands with tarps and are separated by specific regions. This fertile region pumps out massive pumpkins, diverse fruit, coffee, honey, fresh cheese, spices, gorgeous flowers, and is home to a wide range of livestock.
The main market has multiple food stands with women who are serving up cuy (guinea pig), fresh trout (trucha), and stuffed peppers wrapped in a batter and cooked in oil. These massive plates of typical Peruvian dishes are served up on make-shift tables, so grab a plastic stool and enjoy a home cooked meal. Share tables with men and women dressed in their traditional clothing. Women don bright red hats with flowers that are tied delicately with a thick strap of intricate beading. Men wear bright red ponchos with a knitted cap with colorful strings sitting at the top. This is an excellent place to watch the local people and eat authentic, budget friendly delicious food.
Grab a varietal of chicha from a woman selling it out of large buckets. Watch them strategically move a massive umbrella to keep the juices from fermenting too much from the sun. Save plastic by drinking it on site from a glass for only 1 PEN.
Livestock Market
Below the main market, vendors are selling a wide range of poultry, squeaking guinea pigs, and fluffy little chicks. There are ducks quacking and bags violently jerking with massive roosters. There are often times bunnies and kitties which little girls look at with longing eyes. Women are selling large bundles of greens which they carry on their backs with care. The livestock area was probably one of the most interesting aspects of the market and can be seen only on Wednesdays.
Practical Info about Market Days in Urubamba Peru
The local Urubamba Market happens on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Wednesday is the busiest and best days to visit and includes the livestock market. The other two days are not nearly as large or colorful.
The market is in full swing from 10:00 – 15:00. This is when the food stalls are filled with locals eating, people playing music and flutes in the open field, and vendors can be seen overflowing onto the sidewalk selling goods. After 15:00, find many vendors packing up their goods and stands made of tarps and head home to the mountain communities. The market does run before and after, but I think the best times to experience the liveliness of the market is from 10:00 – 15:00.
The traditional market in Urubamba is conveniently located next to the main bus terminal.
💬 Real Talk | The Wednesday Urubamba Market is truly an authentic experience in Urubamba Peru.
Central Urubamba Market & Beyond
Wondering what to do in Urubamba if you’re not there on a market day? No worries! Urubamba also has a large and open-concept central market. On the first floor is a wide range of fresh produce, cheese, meats, spices, greens, and the many varietals of potatoes. Fun fact, Peru has over 3,000 different types of potatoes! Find everything from honey, chocolates, baked goods, incense, and olive oils. The central market in Urubamba is the best central market in the entire Sacred Valley.
The second floor has some eateries, although admittedly, I never ate on the second floor. Instead, I drank juices and grabbed quick bites like fresh empanadas, cookies, or stuffed peppers from women scattered near the 4 main entrances. Visit here to snack and shop your way around the large central market.
The third floor has lots of home-supplies and some clothing shops. The central market in Urubamba literally has everything and feels the equivalent of a Wal-Mart, except with local storekeepers. Shopping here helps keep the money in the local community.
Extension of Central Market
On either side of the bustling central market are two smaller marketplaces. The one closer to the Plaza de Armas sells meats, produces, and has little eateries and fruit stands. This is the place to find beautiful fresh flowers for cheap. This market is often referred to as the “old market.”
On the opposite side of the central market, is a huge clothing market. Find jackets, sweaters, shirts, socks, underwear, and anything else clothing related.
These three markets are the center of commerce in the heart of Urubamba Peru.
Practical Info on Urubamba’s Central Market
The central market can be be found two blocks to the East of the Plaza de Armas in Urubamba. The market opens early and vendors shutdown, usually around 18:00. There are multiple entrances into the central market, so make sure to check a few of them if one or two is locked up.
Stroll Through the Urubamba Cemetery
I know it sounds weird, but the cemetery is absolutely gorgeous and a visit is one of the best things to do in Urubamba. This graveyard is decorated with beautiful fresh cut bouquets of flowers and is surrounded by the lush green mountains. In the center of the cemetery is a small makeshift flower shop where locals buy huge floral arrangements to place on headstones. Wander to the back of the cemetery to find a small church hidden with a serene path winding through the grass.
The cemetery is small, but enclosed by a large fence. Find families sharing a drink or meal around a headstone and spending time with a family member who is no longer here in the form of their body. There is a certain energy here, since this cemetery was built on top of the Inca ruins of Palacio de Huayna Capac.
The cemetery in Urubamba may just be the most hauntingly beautiful cemetery I’ve visited in all of Peru.
Visit the Artisan Shops on Avenida Berriozabal
There are some wonderful artisanal shops on the street of Avenida Berriozabal. Many shops include intricate ceramics based on Inca design, clothing, and other handmade goods. This is just an excellent street to browse the unique artisanal shops of Urubamba.
Treat Yourself at Begonies Botanicals
Behind the Plaza de Armas, stop in at Begonies Botanicals, a local shop that boasts natural skincare product, soaps, essential oils, and all kind of unique self-care products. This shop focuses on products made from organic plants found right in the Sacred Valley and the nearby jungle of Peru. Almost all of the products are biodegradable and kind to Mother Earth.
This is the perfect shop to stock up on hygiene products for all those multi-day treks in Peru, since the soaps and products are natural.
Find Them Here: Sagrario 440 | Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 – 18:00, Saturdays closes at 14:00 | Facebook Page
Relax in the Urubamba Plazas
In Urubamba Peru find two lovely plazas. Of course, there is the main Plaza de Armas in Urubamba that boasts a church, a lovely park, and is surrounded by bustling restaurants, cafes, and other shops. Grab a churro from the corner bakery of Cafe Pastalería Emanuel on Jirón Palacio Street and watch the world go by.
Another Plaza, Plaza Pintacha is a few blocks away and is usually filled with families. There are plants, benches, a fountain, and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
One of the best things to do in Urubamba Peru is so to simply relax and watch life go by.
Visit Free Inca Ruins in Urubamba & Nearby Villages
Besides the Urubamba Cemetery, there are some free Inca ruins to visit in Urubamba Peru and the nearby villages. A majority of these Inca sites are free! One of the best things to do in Urubamba is to discover hidden Inca sites right from the village.
➯ Detailed Peru Travel Guide | 35+ Inca Sites You Need to Visit in Peru
Colqas
On the outskirts of Urubamba, in the connecting hamlet of Moccopata, are the hillside Colqas. Colqas, or qullqas, translates from Quechua to mean “storehouse.” The colcas in the Sacred Valley come in a majority of shapes and sizes, but were probably used to store food.
To hike up to the colqas just outside of Urubamba, head towards Moccopata. Follow the road. The colqas are easy to see on the hillside. Continue on the trail past the ecolodge of Las Chullpas.
Notice the small ruins that are believed to be the remnants of an abandonded Spanish mill. Take the short path uphill to explore the abandoned colqas. The reward is a magnificent view of Urubamba Peru. These Colqas are free to explore and are best enjoyed at sunrise and sunset.
Saywa Mountain
The hilltop Saywa Archaeological Park is a splendid half day hike located right in the backdrop of Urubamba Peru. On top of Saywa, are two ancient pillars. It’s not so much the ruins of Saywa, but the energy and views of this place. These two powerful structures may have ties to the sun, but no one knows for sure. The trailhead can be accessed close to the Urubamba Cemetery.
🥾 Saywa Hike Guide | Distance: 3.15 miles | Excursion Duration: -/+ 4- 7 hours | Download the Free Map here
This trail is not hiked often, so it can be a little overgrown. The biggest challenge is the ascent of over 3,000 feet. The views of Urubamba and Chicón Mountain are an incredible reward. Following the ridge line, be prepared to see grazing cows, giant agave plants, green hills, and beautiful wild flowers.
On top of these peculiar free Inca ruins, there are 360 degree views of the mountains with towering glaciers, the stunning valley, and of course the villages which appear as speckles of orange and white.
Don’t miss a climb up the magical Saywa Mountain when visiting Urubamba Peru.
Ñaupa Iglesia
The Sacred Site of Ñaupa Iglesia is fantastic and worth a visit. It’s conveniently located in Pachar, which is only a 20 minute bus ride from Urubamba. From the bus stop, it’s a mostly flat 1.75 mile hike to these most unusual sacred ruins.
It’s not so much that the site is large or impressive, rather, the energy here is incredible. See the ancient alter and the controversial “portal” that sits facing the direction of the Milky Way. There are whispers that these impressive structures are from ancient times that predate the Incas and may have connections to Egypt.
A visit to Ñaupa Iglesia can include a tranquil hike to Ollantaytambo village, which passes by the Choqana ruins. Adventurous hikers can continue past Ñaupa Iglesia and visit the Perolniyoc Waterfall and Raqaypata ruins that sit above the falls.
Stunning Nature Hikes from Urubamba Peru
Urubamba Peru has many hikes that can be reached right from the village and the neighboring communities. Here are some incredible Sacred Valley hikes to tackle from Urubamba Peru.
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Hike to the Cross
To the left of Saywa, there is a smaller hilltop that houses a cross. This casual hike is accessed past the Urubamba Cemetery, on the road towards Chicon. On the left, look for the staircase and continue uphill.
The cross in Urubamba provides nice viewpoints and is not as strenuous as Saywa.
Laguna Juchuycocha
Visit the hidden alpine lake of Laguna Juchuycocha from Urubamba Peru. This intense day hike climbs up to an elevation of almost 15,200 ft. To reach the trailhead, take a taxi to the small village of San Isidro. The trail twists up the hillside and offers incredible views of Chicon.
At the end of a tiring climb, be rewarded with the shimmering turquoise waters of the stunning Juchuycocha Lake. From there, it’s possible to wander to a second lake with views of the snowy mountain top of Chicón Mountain and its iconic glacier.
Be mindful that this day hike is extremely challenging and remote, so always use your best judgement and never hike alone.
Media Luna Maras Salt Mines & Moray Inca Ruins
Visiting the Maras Salt Mines is easy and can be done as a quick and easy day trip from Urubamba Peru. Access the back entrance of the Maras Salt Mines from the village of Media Luna, which is less than a 5 minute collectivo ride away from Urubamba.
Maras Salt Mines | Admission Ticket: 10 PEN ($2.75 USD) | *Not included on the Cusco Tourist Ticket
Intrepid hikers may wish to continue to the village of Maras, where it’s possible to follow a scenic trail all the way to the Moray Inca ruins. Remember, the Moray Terraces are part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which can be purchased onsite.
🥾 Hiking Guide | The Complete Guide on How to Hike from Maras to Moray
💬 Real Talk | While many Sacred Valley tours offer organized tours, in my humble opinion, it’s best to discover all 16 sites of the Cusco Tourist Ticket independently.
Visit More Adorable Villages of the Sacred Valley
Urubamba Peru has the ideal central location, so it makes for an excellent option to discover all the charming villages of the Sacred Valley.
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo has picturesque cobblestone streets lined with Inca canals, a plethora of exciting Archaeological Sites, and is the starting point to some of the best Sacred Valley hikes. Don’t miss the casual hike up to the Wari and Inca site of Pumamarca, which is said to resemble the sacred Puma itself. A climb to the incredible Sun Gate of Inti Punku is a highlight of any visit to the Sacred Valley. The hike follows along the Old Inca Quarry Trail and has stellar views of the sacred Mount Veronica.
➯ Detailed Peru Travel Guide | The Best Things to Do in Ollantaytambo Peru
Ultimately, Ollantaytambo is THE gateway to Machu Picchu. Hop on a train, catch a shared collectivo, or start the official Inca Trail. Either route you take, you’ll be in Aguas Calientes to explore the most significant Inca ruin in Peru.
This little village has plenty of coffee shops, artisanal craft shops, and modern restaurants. Don’t miss the Destilería Andina or the unique farm to to table El Albergue that also is a fabulous guesthouse.
Urubamba to Ollantaytambo
Collectivos depart Urubamba’s main terminal frequently to Ollantaytambo
🚐 Urubamba to Ollantaytambo | Average Fare: 2 PEN (50¢ USD) | Duration: 25 minutes
Calca
Calca is another overlooked village in Peru’s Sacred Valley. The town itself has two inviting plazas, the peculiar Urqo ruins, and a challenging hike up the mystical Pitusiary Mountain.
From Calca, visit Lamay to access one of the hiking trails that leads to Huchuy Qosqo, or “Little Cusco.” This hilltop Archaeological Park is often overlooked, but played a significant role in the Inca empire.
Calca has two busy bus terminals that connects the Sacred Valley Peru with Cusco and also the nearby Lares Valley. Lares has incredible aguas termales hot springs and some awesome hikes. For a one day Lares Valley trek, try climbing the Huilquijasa Pass. Betweeen Calca and Lares, stop by the peculiar Ancasmarca Inca ruins.
Urubamba Peru to Calca
Buses and Collectivos depart frequently between Urubamba and Calca’s main terminals.
🚐 Urubamba to Calca | Average Fare: 2 PEN (50¢ USD) | Duration: 40 minutes | Depart: frequently
Chinchero
Chinchero village boasts Inca ruins with a massive colonial church built on top of the site. Walk through terraces and visit the included museum. The village of Chinchero is also known for its artisan weavers, many which setup and sell their handmade items in the center of the archaeological park.
For a lovely hike in the Sacred Valley, leave from the Chinchero site and follow an Old Inca road down to Urquillos.
Urubamba to Chinchero
Frequent Buses and collectivos run between Cusco and Urubamba Peru, which passes directly by Chinchero.
🚐 Buses and Colletivos Urubamba to Chinchero | Fare: 3 PEN (75¢) | Duration: 50 minutes | Public Transportation runs frequently | Depart when full from Urubamba main bus terminal | Exit at the Village of Chinchero
Pisac
Pisac has a sprawling Archaeological Park that sits on a hilltop. This park is massive and can take a full day if exploring both the top and bottom sections of the park. Note that due to mudslides, oftentimes the bottom section of the Pisac ruins are closed.
The cobblestone streets of Pisac are a delight to explore. There is a local market that serves up fresh juices and typical plates of food in a daily menu. With it’s thriving expat community, Pisac boasts unique restaurants, coffeeshops, pizzarias, and bakeries.
Pisac village has an inviting plaza that hosts a daily artisan market. The little hamlet is also the access point to the lovely Kinsa Cocha hike, which is home to three beautiful lakes in a mountain community.
Urubamba Peru to Pisac
🚐 Collectivo Urubamba to Pisac | Average Fare: 3 PEN (75¢ USD) | Duration: under 1 hour | Depart: frequently, when collectivo is full on the main road towards Calca
The Best Urubamba Restaurants
Urubamba not only has traditional food, but some excellent modern places to grab a coffee, sweet treat, or enjoy a reasonably priced daily lunch menu. Lunch menus usually include a starter of soup or salad, main course, and a drink. Here are some excellent places to eat in Urubamba.
Urubamba Coffeeshops, Bakeries, & Cafes
In Urubamba, find eclectic coffee shops, bakeries, and cozy cafes.
Da Colektor
Da Colektor is one of those destination coffee shops working dually as a delicious cafe with a cool chill-out space and an artisanal shop selling unique textiles, purses, and artwork. It’s such a hip establishment that is decorated to perfection. The concept is literally open air, with benches, tables, couches, and offers a contemporary workspace vibe.
The coffee is excellent and they offer fresh baked goodies. The food menu has hearty sandwiches made with love. Da Colektor should not be missed when visiting Urubamba Peru.
Find Them Here: Avenida Berriozabal Cuadra 1 | Hours: Daily, 10:00 – 20:00, Sunday closes at 16:00, Closed Wednesday | Facebook Page
Migas del Valle
Migas was my “go-to” bakery when I was craving sourdough bread. This little bakery pumps out full loaves of bread, buns, and lots of specialty treats that are uncommon at most Peruvian pandalerias. On top of delicious homemade breads, Migas also has brownies, mini-cakes, cookies, and other scrumptious pastries.
Find them here: Jirón Bolívar 559 | Hours: Daily, 8:30 – 19:00 | Facebook Page | This location serves up a tempting lunch menu 12:00 – 15:00 starting at 14 PEN ($3.50 USD)
El Edén
El Eden is a small little cafe that sells lots of homemade pastries and specialty treats, especially gluten free cookies. This tienda also sells jams, marmalades, and other canned goods.
Find them here: Av. Mariscal Castilla 960 | Hours: Monday – Saturday 8:00 – 20:00 | Facebook Page
Monkey Coffee
Monkey Coffee Cusco is a specialty coffee shop that was originally in San Blas Neighborhood in Cusco. Recently, this brand opened up a new cafe in Urubamba Peru. Find coffee, teas, smoothies, and a Japanese-inspired menu.
Find Them Here: Jirón Huascar 610 | Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 9:00 – 20:00 | Facebook Page
Best Urubamba Restauranats for Menu del Dia
Urubamba is serving up some fantastic daily lunch menus, or menu del dia, all around town.
Kachi Wasi
An excellent lunch option with a lunch menu that starts at 8 PEN. Lunch comes with a starter, main, and grab a glass and pour your own fresh tea. There’s even an option to add the fresh salad bar for only 2 PEN. There is a wonderful dessert case with fresh cakes slices that are huge. Kachi Wasi is filled with locals at lunchtime.
Find Them Here: Av. Mariscal Castilla 113 | Hours: Daily, 8:00 – 21:00, Sundays closes at 17:00 | Facebook Page
Pizzeria Quinoa
Pizzeria Quinoa is serving up an excellent lunch menu for 10 PEN. Lunch comes with a generous soup or salad, a main course, and a fresh limonada. Each booth is cozy and comes with a plug-in. The internet here is surprisingly fast. Around midday, they start the wood-burning stove and pump out pizzas. There are also some pies and cakes to choose from.
Find Them Here: Jirón Mainique 323 | Hours: Daily, 11:00 – 22:00 | Facebook Page | There is also a location in the Ollantaytambo Plaza de Armas
Colmeiras
For a truly authentic menú del día in Urubamba Peru head to Colmeiras. It’s a few blocks out of town, but worth the walk. This place gets crazy busy during lunch, where locals fill the tables to eat a reasonably price menu in a lovely garden setting. There are a few menu items to choose from and all the portions are large.
Find them here: Av. Berriozabal
More Urubamba Restaurants
These Urubamba Restaurants are also worth a visit!
Pakakuna Posada Gourmet
Although they have recently moved a little out of Urubamba, those looking for some delicious food and excellent pastries should seek out Pakakuna Posada Gourmet. They served me one of the best burgers I had my entire year in Peru. Their new location is a little out of town and closer to Moccopata.
Find Them Here: Paradero Ayllupampa KM 80.5 | Hours: Daily, 12:00 – 18:00, Fridays open until 20:00, Sunday closes at 16:00 | Facebook Page
Puka Pukará – Sushi & Ceviche
Puka Pukará is a higher-end Urubamba restaurant that is serving up fresh seafood, especially focusing on local trout. They also make delicious sushi rolls. A small and intimate restaurant a little past the Urubamba Bus Terminal.
Find Them Here: Urubamba Peru | Hours: Daily, 12:00 – 20:00, closed Tuesdays | Facebook Page
Visit an Authentic Chicharia
Notice all those make-shift red flags lining the streets of Urubamba and other Sacred Valley villages? These are home to authentic Chicharías, a small establishment that serves up the fermented beverage corn beverage, chicha.
Where to Stay in Urubamba Peru
Urubamba Peru has many options from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Spend at least one night in Urubamba Peru when exploring the Sacred Valley.
➜ Find the perfect place to stay in Urubamba
Popular Urubamba Hotels
Luxury | Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is a luxury hotel in Urubamba Peru. Find spacious rooms, or rent an entire private bungalow with a fireplace and terrace. Enjoy an onsite restaurant and stunning mountain views. Book here
High-End Wellness Retreat | Aranwa Sacred Valley is located outside of Urubamba but still has access to all the highlights of the Sacred Valley. This retreat is built in an old 17th-century hacienda and boasts a spa, swimming pool, mountain views, an onsite restaurant, and lovely gardens all with views close to the Vilcanota River. Book here
Mid-Range | Wifala Harmony Hotel offers a unique sleeping experience in Urubamba Peru with kind hosts, a terrace, and a lovely garden space. Book here
Urubamba Guest Houses
Mid-Range | Las Casitas del Arco Iris is a nice guesthouse that is integrated into a local school. Sleeping here literally gives back to the school. Rooms have terraces, and fireplaces, and are surrounded by gardens. Book here
Mid-Range | Hospedaje Venka Urubamba is located close to the city center. With spacious and clean rooms, a garden, and terraces, this is a perfect place to stay close to the center, but still appreciate the tranquility. Book here
Budget Friendly | Bull House is a budget-friendly guesthouse with comfy beds and spacious rooms. Enjoy the beautiful garden and spacious grounds. Attentive hosts with a fully equipped kitchen. Book here.
Urubamba Hostels
Urubamba hostels are far and few between. Sadly, many of the accommodations in the city are more luxurious and higher-end. For a simple hostel outside the city, sleep at Valle verde, Hostel & camping.
Visitors traveling slowly should check with guesthouses to make longer-term arrangements for a discount.
Urubamba Peru | A Hidden Gem in the Sacred Valley
Urubamba Peru is the best place to discover the rich treasures of the diverse Sacred Valley. From its perfectly central location, truly authentic markets, large open central market, a hauntingly beautiful cemetery, and the artisan street of Avenida Berriozabal, Urubamba is ideal for any type of traveler.
Urubamba offers incredible free Inca sites, and stunning hikes in the Sacred Valley, and all are accessible with a slick public transportation system. Bonus, it’s easy to reach nearby picturesque villages. The Sacred Valley of the Incas has fascinating Archaeological Parks, hidden Inca ruins, and out-of-this-world mountains dotted with alpine lakes.
Urubamba Peru has many excellent places to eat, sleep, and immerse in the local culture of the Sacred Valley.
Have you been to Urubamba Peru in the Sacred Valley? Did you do any of these “things to do in Urubamba Peru?” Did you visit the Sacred Valley Peru, or plan to in the future? I left a piece of my heart in Urubamba Peru, and hope you will enjoy this hidden gem as much as I did. Did you find the magic in Peru’s Sacred Valley? Let me know what you think in the comments below!
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I loved reading about this special village. What a hidden gem. I absolutely adore the vibe of Da Colektor!
Thanks Elena! Yes, Da Colektor is super funky and I love the open concept with views of the mountains! ☕️
The views around there look seriously stunning. What a magical looking place. The mountains are so huge, and that alpine lake!! You lost me a bit at the guinea pigs but the rest of the town sounds just perfect. I hope to visit Peru one day so this is very firmly on my list
Yes Urubamba is so authentic and the mountains (Apus) are so powerful! I hope you can make it in the near future 🏔
Incredible guide. I’m here dreaming of a Peruvian adventure and wondering if those cute squeaky guinea pigs are to be eaten!
Love your photo of the salt mines and the colorful market!
Thanks Catherine!
Unfortunately the guinea pigs are a delicacy in Peru, and eaten for special celebrations… but the bunnies are definitely loved pets!
Urubamba is a magical place to have the perfect adventure in the Sacred Valley ✨
Such a robust guide. I especially appreciated the information about the restaurants was so helpful!
Thanks so much Yvonne! I love the menu del dia… you can never go wrong! 😋
Fantastic guide to the area and all its amazing offerings.
I had no idea about Urubamba before reading this guide but I took a chance and went for it and boy am I glad I did!
I’ve been here for a few days so far and have been exploring all Megs’ recommendations which are fab.
Thank you Megs!!
Awesome! Thanks so much Jamie for reaching out and sharing your experience 💚 Urubamba is seriously so overlooked in the Sacred Valley, especially for hikers 🥾 Enjoy
I lived in Urubamba last year. Looking at your photos was just as if I was walking through the plaza and mercado. Thank you for this, Megs! So accurate views… just as I remember every corner and sunset. I think I can barely see the keyboard as I type this… watery eyes. It was a dream living there <3
Awe thanks so much Maria! I lived there too and it’s such a special place. I miss it every single day… the people, the mountains, the magic. Thanks for the heartfelt comment. Big hugs ✨