Machu Picchu stands as a powerful testament to human ingenuity and ancient civilization. This incredible stone city, hidden high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, reveals a deep connection between nature and architecture. Built by the Inca people centuries ago without modern tools, its precision and harmony with the surrounding landscape are truly astonishing. Every wall and terrace speaks of advanced knowledge and meticulous planning. Visiting Machu Picchu offers a unique glimpse into a vanished world, inviting reflection on the builders’ lives and beliefs. It reminds us of humanity’s capacity for grand creations and the enduring legacy of a remarkable culture that understood how to live powerfully within its environment.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, nestled between the towns of Pisac and Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes, offers a profound journey into a vibrant past. These tours reveal a landscape where ancient traditions still thrive amidst stunning natural beauty. Visitors explore remarkable Inca ruins, like the agricultural terraces of Pisac and the formidable fortress of Ollantaytambo, witnessing the incredible engineering skills of a bygone era. Beyond the stones, the valley is home to thriving local communities, preserving age-old customs and crafts. Engaging with the people and experiencing the vibrant markets provides a tangible link to a continuous cultural heritage. A Sacred Valley tour is more than sightseeing; it’s an immersion into a living history, showing how a powerful civilization shaped its environment and left an enduring mark.
The Inca Trail is an ancient pilgrimage route located in the Peruvian Andes, leading to the remarkable site of Machu Picchu. This historic pathway, part of a vast Inca road system, traverses challenging mountainous terrain and lush cloud forests. Along the journey, hikers discover impressive archaeological ruins, revealing the Inca’s architectural and engineering mastery. The trek culminates with an awe-inspiring entry into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, offering a unique perspective of this iconic citadel nestled amidst dramatic peaks. It’s a profound experience, connecting modern travelers with a rich, ancient civilization.
Choquequirao trek offers a profound adventure into the heart of the Andes, revealing an ancient city that echoes the grandeur of Machu Picchu but remains less explored. This challenging journey takes you through dramatic mountain passes and deep canyons to reach Choquequirao, often called the “last Inca stronghold.” Here, vast terraces, temples, and residential areas cling to steep hillsides, showcasing the incredible skill of the Inca builders. Unlike its famous counterpart, Choquequirao provides a serene and personal encounter with history, where fewer visitors allow for deeper contemplation of its silent stones. These treks are not just about reaching a destination; they are about connecting with a powerful past and experiencing the raw beauty of Peru’s untouched landscapes, a true expedition into a hidden world.
An Amazon jungle tour offers an unforgettable dive into one of the planet’s most vital and diverse ecosystems. These expeditions take you deep into a world teeming with life, from towering trees forming a thick canopy to countless species of animals found nowhere else. You’ll navigate winding rivers, listen to the symphony of the rainforest, and witness wildlife in its natural home, often up close. Guides share their knowledge of the jungle’s secrets, revealing medicinal plants and hidden creatures. More than just a trip, an Amazon tour is a powerful reminder of nature’s raw beauty and immense power. It connects you directly with the pulse of the Earth, highlighting the importance of protecting such precious, wild places for future generations to experience.
Inca Jungle Treks offer a thrilling and diverse path to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, combining outdoor adventure with a deep dive into Peruvian culture and history. Unlike traditional treks, these journeys blend activities like mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and zip-lining with classic hiking through stunning landscapes. You’ll pass through cloud forests, coffee plantations, and small local villages, gaining a unique perspective on the region’s rich tapestry. This route provides a dynamic way to experience the Andes, moving beyond just walking to engage all your senses. It’s an active and engaging alternative for travelers seeking a more adventurous approach to reaching one of the world’s most iconic sites, culminating in the awe-inspiring views of Machu Picchu.
Vilcabamba treks offer an extraordinary journey into a remote and historically rich region of the Peruvian Andes. This area, known as the “Last Refuge of the Incas,” holds the secrets of a civilization that resisted Spanish rule for decades. These challenging expeditions lead adventurers through untouched cloud forests, over high mountain passes, and past pristine rivers to reach ancient Inca sites rarely seen by outsiders. Unlike more frequented paths, a Vilcabamba trek provides a unique sense of discovery, allowing you to connect deeply with history in a truly wild setting. It’s a powerful experience, revealing not only stunning natural beauty but also the resilience of a remarkable culture that sought freedom in the wilderness.
Salkantay treks offer an incredible alternative route to Machu Picchu, guiding adventurers through some of the most spectacular and varied landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. This challenging but rewarding journey takes you from the foot of towering, snow-capped mountains, like the sacred Mount Salkantay, down into lush cloud forests and tropical valleys. Along the way, you’ll witness dramatic changes in scenery, from high-altitude passes to vibrant coffee plantations. Unlike the more crowded paths, the Salkantay trek provides a deeper connection with nature’s raw power and beauty. It’s an immersive experience that culminates in the breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu, earned through an unforgettable passage across truly wild terrain. This trek truly captures the spirit of adventure and discovery.
Lares Treks in Peru offer a unique and profound way to experience the rich cultural tapestry of the Andes, providing a vibrant contrast to other, more strenuous routes. This journey takes you deep into remote valleys where traditional Inca ways of life still flourish. You’ll pass through small, welcoming communities, observe ancient weaving techniques, and witness daily life unchanged for centuries. Unlike high-altitude challenges, the Lares trek focuses on genuine human connection and cultural immersion. It’s a chance to meet local people, learn about their customs, and appreciate their strong bond with the land. This trek is more than just walking; it’s an intimate encounter with a living history, offering insights into the enduring spirit of the Andean people.
Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, Moray, Maras, Chinchero, Pisac, Alpaca and Llama Farm
Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo 1 Day
This long-awaited Sacred Valley journey will be unlike any other. After Machu Picchu, I’ll explore in reverse, starting from Ollantaytambo with a private guide to avoid crowds and truly absorb its rich history. Pisac’s vast ruins and vibrant market, the surreal Maras Salt Mines, and Moray’s ingenious agricultural terraces are must-sees. Finally, Chinchero’s living history and artisanal traditions will complete this immersive experience, a dream of authentic Andean discovery.
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This Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo 1 Day has been firmly on my bucket list for what feels like forever. I’ve always dreamed of a full-day tour through the Sacred Valley, but not in the typical, crowded way. My plan is to tackle it after a trip to Machu Picchu, starting from Ollantaytambo (2,792 meters / 9,160 feet) and doing the whole thing in reverse. There’s something so appealing about seeing these legendary sites without the usual hoards of tourists, having the space and time to really soak it all in before heading back to Cusco (3,399 meters / 11,152 feet) in the evening.
I’d kick things off bright and early, around 7 or 8 a.m., to make the most of the day. The dream is to have a private guide, a local expert who can bring the history and Andean traditions to life. I’m desperate to understand the real story behind these places.
Here’s a glimpse of the sites calling my name:
Ollantaytambo: I see it as more than just ruins; it’s an ancient administrative center, a perfect example of Inca city planning sandwiched between two dramatic hills. I can’t wait to explore the fortress looming over the town. I’ve read it was the last stronghold for Inca Manco Yupanqui, a place where he actually managed to push back the Spanish. It’s a site of victory and retreat, and I want to stand on those terraces and imagine that incredible history.
Pisac: The photos of the Pisac ruins look absolutely stunning. I’ve heard the archaeological site is massive, second only to Machu Picchu itself, and its Temple of the Sun is supposed to be unmissable. It’s also famous for its local market, and I’m already picturing myself wandering through the stalls, picking up authentic souvenirs directly from the artisans.
Maras: The Salt Mines of Maras look completely surreal. These geometric, white pools cascading down the hillside have been used since pre-Inca times. It’s wild to think they’re fed by a natural spring and that the local community still harvests the salt by hand, scraping the crystals off the ground after the water evaporates. I’d love to see that ancient tradition in action.
Moray: This place just looks otherworldly. The famous circular agricultural terraces, resembling a sort of sunken Roman amphitheater, are at the top of my hit list. I’m fascinated by the idea that this was an Inca agricultural laboratory. The fact that there’s a 15-degree Celsius temperature difference from the top to the bottom terrace is just mind-blowing. It’s a testament to their incredible ingenuity.
Chinchero: I feel like Chinchero is an underrated gem, and that’s part of its appeal. It was built as a country resort for the Inca Tupac Yupanqui, and its aqueducts and terraces are still in use today—a living piece of history. I’ve heard the soil here is the most fertile in the valley. I’m also craving a visit to its Sunday market to see the famous local weavers and their handmade textiles. Plus, there’s a white-washed colonial church built right on top of an Inca palace in 1607. That blend of history is something I can’t wait to see up close.
Highlights
What to Expect
Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco (Full Day)
To make the most of your visit to Peru, we’ve designed this fully customizable private tour, allowing you to choose which sites to visit and how much time to spend at each. Your personal English-speaking licensed local expert will guide you every step of the way.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is home to some of the most visited Inca archaeological sites. Most travelers opt for the traditional full-day Sacred Valley tour starting from Cusco—an excellent way to explore these ancient ruins.
Trip Details
Trip Details Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo
Itinerary
OPTION 1:
The Classics - Salt, Circles, and Weavers
This route feels like the ultimate way to hit the icons on the way back to Cusco.
Morning in Ollantaytambo and a Taste of Urubamba: The day would kick off with a deep dive into the Ollantaytambo ruins. I want a guide to walk me through the fortress, explaining every detail of its past. After getting my history fix, we’d drive to Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley. I’ve heard you can try Frutillada, a traditional fermented strawberry drink, and I’m definitely not missing that.
Afternoon at Moray and Maras: Next, we’d head to the incredible circular terraces of Moray. I’d love to learn about the Inca farming methods that are still practiced today. Then, it’s on to the picturesque salt mines of Maras for a guided tour to understand the ancient salt farming techniques.
Evening in Chinchero and Return to Cusco: The last stop would be Chinchero. I’m excited for a short tour of the agricultural terraces and a visit to the local handicraft market to see the Andean weavers’ work. We’d aim to get back to Cusco by 5:00 PM, where I’d be dropped off right at my hotel, buzzing from the day.
OPTION 2:
The Scenic Route - Ruins, Markets, and Alpacas
This option also sounds pretty perfect for the journey back to Cusco, with a slightly different focus.
Morning: Ollantaytambo and a Sweet Stop in Urubamba: The day starts the same, with an epic tour of the Ollantaytambo fortress. I want to absorb all the history I can. Afterward, we’d drive through Urubamba and make that essential stop for a taste of the local Frutillada.
Afternoon in Stunning Pisac: From there, the journey continues to Pisac. I’d want to start with the massive archaeological complex that overlooks the town, strolling through the ruins with a guide to uncover the significance of each area. Then, I’d head down to the famous Pisac market. I’ve been told it’s the best place to buy souvenirs, much cheaper than in Cusco, and I plan to take full advantage.
Evening with Alpacas and the Road to Cusco: On the way back to Cusco, the final stop would be an alpaca and llama farm. I’d love to get up close with these iconic animals and learn about their importance to both the Incas and modern local communities. After that, it’s a scenic drive back to my hotel in Cusco.
Inclusions
Included on the Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo 1 Day
Private transportation – Comfortable vehicle just for your group
Expert English-speaking guide – Licensed and passionate about Inca history
All entrance fees – Covers major archaeological sites (unless you already have a tourist ticket)
Scenic lunch – At a local restaurant with Sacred Valley views (dietary options available)
Door-to-door service – Pickup in Ollantaytambo & drop-off at your Cusco hotel
No Included on the Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo 1 Day
Additional meals & drinks – Only lunch is provided
Souvenirs & personal purchases – Save cash for artisan markets!
Gratuities (optional) – For guides/drivers, if you enjoyed the service
Photo Gallery
What to Bring
Packing List Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo 1 Day
Essential Documents:
Original passport (required for checkpoints)
Printed tour confirmation (if applicable)
Sun & Weather Protection:
Wide-brimmed hat & UV sunglasses
High-SPF sunscreen (50+ recommended)
Light layers (cool mornings, warm afternoons)
Comfort & Hydration:
Sturdy walking shoes (uneven terrain at ruins)
Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated at altitude)
Small backpack for daily essentials
Money & Extras:
Peruvian Soles in cash (markets/tips)
Camera or phone for epic valley shots
Portable charger (for all your photos)
About ISIC Card
Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu
To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:
Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
The name of the university
The student’s name and photo
A valid expiration date
ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore
Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount
Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:
The traveler is older than 25
The ID is expired
The ID does not have an expiration date
ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.
This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Why to Choose
Why choose “Cusco Tours”?
“Cusco Tours” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.
Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.
We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.
We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.
At “Cusco Tours,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.
Small Group Travel
To ensure a more personalized experience at “Cusco Tours,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.
About Our Tour Guides
Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
Our Inca Trail Porters
Hiking with “Cusco Tours” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.
We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!
Our Team and Equipment
Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Cusco Tours” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:
Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Air Mattresses: Available to rent for $20 USD.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.
Our Commitment to Social Responsibility
“Cusco Tours” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.
We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.
Pricing
Private Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo 1 Day
All these tours are private, meaning you’ll have an exclusive guide and transportation for your group. This ensures a more personalized experience, greater flexibility in the itinerary, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, avoiding the crowds often found on group tours. Typically, these tours last approximately 8 to 10 hours.
Classic Sacred Valley Tour
Price: $105 per person.
Destinations:
Ollantaytambo Ruins: An impressive Incan archaeological complex, renowned for its fortress and agricultural terraces. It serves as an excellent starting point for tours due to its historical significance and spectacular views.
Pisac Ruins: Another Incan archaeological site featuring well-preserved agricultural terraces, temples, and an Incan cemetery.
Pisac Market: Famous for its local handicrafts, colorful textiles, and agricultural products. It’s a great opportunity to interact with local culture and find unique souvenirs.
Best Sacred Valley Tour
Price: $110 per person.
Destinations:
Ollantaytambo Ruins: (Same as the Classic tour).
Maras Salt Mines: An astonishing landscape of thousands of terraced salt ponds, used since Inca times. It’s a unique spot for photos and learning about traditional salt extraction.
Moray Circular Terraces: An enigmatic Inca site believed to have been an agricultural experimentation center, featuring concentric circular terraces that created different microclimates.
Chinchero: A picturesque Andean village known for its Inca ruins, a colonial church, and especially for its vibrant demonstrations of traditional Andean weaving. Here, you can learn about the natural dyeing process of wool and textile production.
Absolute Sacred Valley Tour (Bestseller!)
Price: $120 per person.
Destinations:
Ollantaytambo Ruins: (Same as previous tours).
Maras Salt Mines: (Same as the “Best Tour”).
Moray Circular Terraces: (Same as the “Best Tour”).
Pisac Ruins: (Same as the “Classic Tour”).
Maike L
2024-11-01
Verified
Highly recommanded!
I went on 2 trips with Illapa together with my sister and we really like the agency because we traveled in small groups and had time to explore the areas without rush. Communication was very good! We highly recommand the hike through the red valley to the rainbow mountain. The landscape is very special (more than the pictures can show) and you arrive at the rainbow mointain when most of the people had left already.
Morgane R
2024-10-26
Verified
Great!
I had a really good experience with this agency, I definitely recommand it. The guide was super nice and the views we got were totally worth it!
Nab N
2024-02-28
Verified
Red valley trip
Wonderful walk in the red valley with Joël... An unforgettable day... Great breakfast and meals included"Comerrrrrr Alpagaaaaaaaaaa"
BeijingAsh
2024-01-15
Verified
Inca Trail trip was a great value
We used this company to book a four-day Inca Trail trip and a trip to Rainbow Mountain. The Inca Trail trip was better than expected. It was far cheaper than the prices of other operators so I was a bit nervous. However, everything was provided as agreed. The cook and porters and guide were freelancers, but they all knew each other and worked well together. The food was decent and plentiful, the porters did their jobs, and the guide was enjoyable. The last day (in Machu Picchu) was a bit hectic, with the cook not giving proper breakfast and the guide leaving us on our own to find the train back. However these were not deal breakers. On the plus side, Joel gave extra personal attention (such as rides) at times to make sure we were fully taken care of. A week later, we used them for a day trip to Rainbow Mountain. This second trip was more average for the money, not better or worse.
Clem G
2023-12-09
Verified
Great tour and travel agency
Good tour and travel agency. They can fulfill any of your request : standard tour, private tour, transport booking. They will find what you request. They have their own guides for private tour and thoses are great. They speak good english, are really nice and give good explanations for the tour. We were really happy with their services and really enjoyed the Inca trail with Joel.
Tobias B
2023-10-19
Verified
Red Valley Trek
A friend and I did the Red Valley Trip.1. Booking: As we were not sure what tour to do we decided the night before (20:00) that we want to do this trip the next morning. The booking and communication was really fast, easy and uncomplicated.2. Pick-up: Pick-up was at 4:30 am from the two different hostels in a privat car. It was just the two of us with a privat guide called Joel.3. Guide Joel: Joel as good as a guide can be! He speaks good english, explains a lot during the tour if you want to and is even still enthusiastic about the views as he also takes pictures himself.4. Tour: At around 6:30 am we reached our breakfast spot where other tourists were already eating. The breakfast contained pancakes, fruits, yoghourt, omletts and of course tea and coffee. At around 8:00 am we reached the red valley. There breathtaking views awaited us. We got trekking poles from Joel and started the ~7km hike to the rainbow mountains through a lonely part of the red valley. The views were stunning and the colors so bright under the blue sky!The best part was that we were the only ones (!!!) in the whole valley. After 5km we reached the official touristy red valley viewpoint from where you can‘t the the mlre beautiful party of the red valley. We then took the classical trek to the rainbow mountains. We were there at around 11 am and after a short break most of the day tourists were already gone and we were almost alone again at the normally really crowded rainbow mountains!Afterwards we went back on a short cut and endes the trek after a total of 10km and passing the 5000m above sea level mark for 5 times.This made it somehow exhausting at the end and the trek is challenging. We then went back to the place we got breakfast and had a late lunch at 3:00 pm. We were dropped of at the hostels at around 5:30pmIt was a challenging day with the changes of the altitude. This challenge is worth every minute as it might be the only trek with those views and no other (!) tourists. The planning and execution was perfect even on that very short notice. Joel was great and we had a great time.This one is a real recommendation!
Benjamin C
2023-08-24
Verified
Great experience
Perfect Joel was super nice and professional. We had a great experience. We recommend to go with this agency. Zip line is real fun for all family
Fabian L
2023-04-07
Verified
Outstanding experience and help
We had an outstanding experience with Illapa. Joel made the impossible possible and organized us an Inka Trail Experience for the next day. What helps is that Joel is a guide himself and maybe you are lucky having him as a guide. Illapa helped us with our special requests and equipped us with everything we needed for the trail. I totally recommend Illapa and the Inca Trail. See you next time, Joel!
Sheryl F
2023-03-28
Verified
Best agency!!!
Best agency!! They’ve connected with me immediately and knew exactly my preferences and which tour to indicate me. And they were right!! Best trip ever with best price!!
PoroshatD
2023-03-05
Verified
Safe and reliable private transport
We decided to arrange a private transportation instead of booking a tour for rainbow mountain and that was the best decision. Tours pick up at 4 am. Instead we arranged our own timing, 7 am. We communicated and confirmed everything via whatsapp and our driver was there to pick us up on time. It was a very comfortable and safe ride to Rainbow Mountain. When we arrived, tours were finished so we got the place to ourselves. Our driver waited for us until we returned. He spoke excellent English and answered our questions to help us learn about Peru. I highly recommend the private service.
Faqs
What is an Ollantaytambo tour?
An Ollantaytambo tour typically includes a guided visit to the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, exploring its terraces, temples, and historical significance. It often encompasses the town of Ollantaytambo itself.
What should I wear for an Ollantaytambo tour?
For an Ollantaytambo tour, wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and stairs. Dress in layers, as temperatures can change throughout the day. Include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.
How long does an Ollantaytambo tour last?
The duration of an Ollantaytambo tour can vary, but a comprehensive visit to the archaeological site and town usually takes a half-day to a full day, often as part of a larger Sacred Valley itinerary.
Is altitude sickness a concern for Ollantaytambo tours?
While Ollantaytambo is at a lower elevation than Cusco, altitude sickness can still be a minor concern. Acclimatizing in Cusco for a day or two before your Ollantaytambo tour is advisable. Stay hydrated.
What are the main attractions seen on an Ollantaytambo tour?
The primary attraction on an Ollantaytambo tour is the Ollantaytambo Fortress and Ruins, an extensive Inca site. The charm of the Ollantaytambo town and the Pinkuylluna granaries are also points of interest.
Do Ollantaytambo tours include meals?
Some Ollantaytambo tours, particularly full-day Sacred Valley tours, may include lunch. Shorter tours or independent visits to Ollantaytambo typically don’t include meals, but there are many restaurants in the town.
What transportation is used during an Ollantaytambo tour?
Transportation for an Ollantaytambo tour usually involves a private vehicle, taxi, or shared van (colectivo) to reach the site. Walking is the primary mode of transport within the Ollantaytambo archaeological park and town.
Are guides provided for Ollantaytambo tours?
Most organized Ollantaytambo tours include a professional guide who provides historical and cultural context for the ruins and the area. Hiring a local guide at the entrance to Ollantaytambo is also an option.
What documents do I need for an Ollantaytambo tour?
For an Ollantaytambo tour, you’ll need your original passport and a valid Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket) for entry to the archaeological site.
Can I combine an Ollantaytambo tour with other destinations?
Yes, an Ollantaytambo tour is frequently combined with other Sacred Valley destinations like Pisac, Urubamba, Moray, and Maras, making it a popular stop on multi-day itineraries before heading to Machu Picchu.
Travel Guide
Ollantaytambo is a significant location within the Sacred Valley, offering notable Inca historical sites and local cultural experiences. This guide provides information for planning a trip to Ollantaytambo.
Getting to Ollantaytambo
Travel to Ollantaytambo from Cusco is most commonly by taxi or shared van (colectivo). This journey typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours. Ollantaytambo also features a train station, serving primarily as a connection point for travel to Machu Picchu. For those coming from Urubamba, taxis and colectivos are readily available for the shorter route to Ollantaytambo.
Recommended Season for Ollantaytambo
The dry season, spanning from May to October, is generally considered the optimal period to visit Ollantaytambo. During this time, the weather is more stable with reduced rainfall, which is advantageous for exploring the ruins and surrounding areas of Ollantaytambo.
Physical Preparation for Ollantaytambo
The archaeological site at Ollantaytambo involves walking and ascending stairs. While not comparable to extensive high-altitude treks, a moderate level of physical fitness will facilitate exploration. Light exercise in the weeks preceding your visit can enhance your experience in Ollantaytambo.
Health Recommendations for Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is at a lower elevation than Cusco, but altitude sickness can still affect some individuals. It is advisable to acclimatize in Cusco for one to two days before traveling to Ollantaytambo. Consistent hydration is important; carry bottled water when exploring the sites of Ollantaytambo.
Attire for an Ollantaytambo Tour
Dress in layers as temperatures in Ollantaytambo can fluctuate throughout the day. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the archaeological sites. Additionally, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket are recommended, as rainfall can occur even during the dry season.
Required Documentation for Ollantaytambo
Original passport and a copy
Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket) for entry to the Ollantaytambo ruins and other Sacred Valley sites.
Local Transportation in Ollantaytambo
Within the town of Ollantaytambo, most attractions are accessible by walking.
For longer distances or travel to nearby towns, taxis and mototaxis (tuk-tuks) are common and affordable.
Shared vans (colectivos) provide a cost-effective option for inter-town transit around Ollantaytambo.
Primary Attractions in Ollantaytambo
The Ollantaytambo Fortress and Ruins, an extensive Inca archaeological site comprising terraces, temples, and storage structures.
The town of Ollantaytambo itself, with its narrow cobblestone streets and Inca water channels.
The Pinkuylluna granaries, visible on the hillside opposite the main ruins.
Dining in Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo offers a variety of local Peruvian dishes. Options include:
Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef)
Aji de Gallina (creamy chicken stew)
Various potato dishes
Both establishments catering to tourists and those frequented by locals are available in Ollantaytambo.
Local Markets in Ollantaytambo
While Ollantaytambo has smaller local markets for produce and daily goods, more extensive handicraft markets are typically found in nearby towns such as Pisac or Chinchero. However, vendors selling various crafts are present near the ruins and in the main square of Ollantaytambo.
Safety Guidelines for Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is generally considered a safe destination for visitors. However, maintaining situational awareness, especially during evening hours, is advised. Keep personal belongings secure, avoid displaying valuable items openly, and utilize reputable taxi services.
Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo 1 Day
Internet Access in Ollantaytambo
Most hotels and many restaurants in Ollantaytambo provide Wi-Fi access.
Mobile phone coverage is generally reliable within the main town area.
Coverage may be inconsistent in more remote sections of the ruins or surrounding valleys. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more consistent data access during your stay in Ollantaytambo.
Your dedicated local travel specialist in Cusco, crafting authentic, unforgettable Peruvian experiences with deep Andean roots and unparalleled expertise
At Cusco Tours, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. Nestled in the heart of Peru, we specialize in curating unforgettable experiences that blend ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
