Home » Sacred Valley Tours » Sacred Valley Full Day Tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: Exploring Ancient Wonders
Start your Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo, a perfect base at moderate altitude that helps your body acclimate comfortably. You will explore impressive Inca sites like Pisac and Moray, the stunning Salt terraces of Maras, and visit colorful local markets. Enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes while immersing yourself in rich cultural traditions. Ollantaytambo’s location makes it easier to adjust before venturing into higher elevations, ensuring a more enjoyable and memorable experience throughout the journey in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
If you'd like to customize this trip, our travel specialists will create the perfect tour for you.
You’re in Ollantaytambo, looking for tours to the iconic sites of the Sacred Valley? You’re in the right place! Starting your tour here means less time on the road and more time discovering stunning Inca ruins with unforgettable views. From Ollantaytambo, you can easily visit must-see places like Pisac, Moray, and the Maras salt mines or Chinchero. Skip the long drives from Cusco and enjoy more time at the ruins. You’ll experience facinating landscapes, rich history, and even meet friendly alpacas and llamas. This is the perfect tour for travelers staying in Ollantaytambo!
Tour of the Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo to Cusco – We have carefully designed this tour to offer you the best experience on a much less crowded option. Guided by expert English-speaking guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the hidden gems of the Sacred Valley.
Our exclusive Sacred Valley full day tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco starts either at Ollantaytambo train station, Ollantaytambo town or Urubamba Valley. Alternatively, we can start the tour from a location of your choice, ensuring flexibility and convenience. Concluding at your hotel in Cusco or at the Cusco airport, we adapt the tour to your preferences. This full day Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco is also an excellent option for travelers wanting to visit the iconic Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley afte their trip to Machu Picchu, or for visitors who are using the town of Ollantaytambo as a base for exploring the ruins in the Sacred Valley.
By joining us on this adventure, you will not only be able to explore remarkable sites such as the ruins of Ollantaytambo, Moray, the enchanting Maras Salt Flats, Pisac and Chinchero, but also you submerge yourself in the local culture through exciting activities such as: chicha making classes, wool dyeing, weaving demonstrations, a visit to an alpaca farm and captivating stops at viewpoints and local markets.
Join us on an extraordinary journey through the Sacred Valley, starting right from the historic town of Ollantaytambo in Perú. Unlike most Sacred Valley tours that depart from the city of Cusco our tours from Ollantaytambo are exclusively private. Our exclusive Sacred Valley Tour offers a personalized and enriching experience, designed for those already staying in Ollantaytambo. Since these tours are private, you can tailor the departure time and activities to your preferences and interests, without the constraints of a fixed group itinerary.
IMPORTANT: Tours departing from Ollantaytambo are offered exclusively as private services. Group tours are not available from this location due to the limited availability and popularity of tours departing from Ollantaytambo.
Our tours from Ollantaytambo offer a variety of routes to suit your preferences and budget. Below are the four most popular and preferred options for our travelers. Take a look and select the one that best suits you. To see detailed itineraries, click on itinerary tab:
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
1) The Salt Mines
2) The ruins of Moray
3) Chicha tasting
4) Salt demonstration
NOTE: This experience includes a visit to the alpaca farm, but this is only included if the tour concludes in Cusco. Also, please note that the price of the tour may vary depending on whether it starts and ends in Ollantaytambo or Cusco.
Duration: Approximately 4 -5 hours
1) Ollantaytambo ruins
2) The Salt Mines
3) Chicha tasting
4) Salt demonstration
5) The ruins of Moray
NOTE: Highly recommended if you return to Cusco. Pricing may vary based on starting and ending locations.
Duration: Approximately 8 – 9 hours
1) Ollantaytambo ruins
2) The Salt Mines
3) Chicha tasting
4) Salt demonstration
5) The ruins of Moray
6) Pisac ruins
7) Pisac market
8) Alpaca farm
NOTE: Highly recommended if you return to Cusco. Pricing may vary based on starting and ending locations.
Duration: Approximately 8 – 9 hours
1) Ollantaytambo ruins
2) The Salt Mines
3) Chicha tasting
4) Salt demonstration
5) The ruins of Moray
6) Chinchero ruins
7) Chinchero weaving demonstration
8) Alpaca farm
NOTE: Highly recommended if you return to Cusco. Pricing may vary based on starting and ending locations.
Learn the traditional weaving process
Discover the Inca history with an expert guide.
Visit the local markets in Pisac or Chinchero.
Visit a charming alpaca farm.
Flexible cancellation policy.
Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Explore key Inca ruins.
Learn about the local culture.
Comfortable and private travel.
Custom itineraries to fit your schedule.
Enjoy a gentle walk at Moray..
Taste the Inca beer (Chicha).
The places you will visit on our day trip to the Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo depend on the chosen route. Not all routes cover all the ruins, however we can do that for you as the itinerary is tailored to your preferences. Take a look at the places offered on this tour and decide on the route that fits your interests and desired destinations.
OLLANTAYTAMBO RUINS: The ruins of Ollantaytambo, carved into the steep mountainside, offer visitors a glimpse into the past, featuring well-preserved structures and captivating stories etched into every stone. As you stroll along the imposing terraces and sinuous pathways, you will be transported back in time to an era when this incredible fortress was a vital stronghold for the Inca people.
MORAY RUINS: Unlike many other Incan ruins, the ruins of Moray are a testament to the Inca’s advanced knowledge of agriculture and crop cultivation. Discover the breathtaking spectacle of not one, but three groups of circular terraces, each with 12 magnificent levels.
This captivating journey through the ruins of Moray is an unforgettable experience and one of the most fascinating man-made sites in the world.
MARAS SALT MINES: Embark on a journey to witness the breathtaking Salineras de Maras or Maras Salt Mines, a stunning patchwork of salt ponds that scale the steep hillside, located in the town of Maras. For centuries, the local community has been harvesting salt from the mineral-rich stream, dating back to the pre-Inca era.
The Salt Mines are undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions during your tour of the Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo.
PISAC RUINS: Experience the captivating ruins of Pisac, a Peruvian gem that boasts both historical significance and cultural. But that’s not all, the Pisac market is a must-see destination that offers an authentic insight into the traditional way of life.
When booking your tour to the Sacred Valley be sure to add this place to your tour, you won’t regret it!
CHINCHERO RUINS: A visit to Chinchero is an absolute must for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable Peruvian experience.
We will not only visit the amazing ruins, but also visit a local family where they will provide us with a demonstration of alpaca wool weaving.
ALPACA FARM: While exploring the ruins, you will also have the opportunity to see alpacas and llamas up close. No doubt your tour with us will be unforgettable.
Discover the wonders that await you on the Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo. Explore our carefully curated itinerary and get a look at the unforgettable experiences that lie in store for you. Please note that this itinerary summary is just one of four exciting options we offer. Each option promises an unforgettable and unique adventure, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your preferences and interests.
Our Sacred Valley tour begins with pick-up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo at 8:00 AM. If you prefer to visit the sites without the crowds, we recommend starting at 7:30 AM.
Depending on the route you choose, you will either visit the Maras Salt Mines or the Ollantaytambo archaeological site. You should know that we offer four different routes, each offering unique destinations. Our half-day tour includes a visit to the Maras Salt Mines, a fascinating site rich in history where salt has been harvested by local families for centuries using traditional methods. The pools, filled with naturally salty spring water, coming from a nearby mountain create a stunning white landscape unlike anything else in the Sacred Valley. It’s a unique cultural and photographic experience you won’t want to miss.
Our next stop during the Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo is the impressive archaeological site of Moray. This unique location consists of a series of circular agricultural terraces that were used by the Incas as a kind of open-air laboratory. Each level has its own microclimate, allowing them to experiment with different plants and growing conditions. The site offers a glimpse into the advanced agricultural techniques of the Inca civilization. Surrounded by beautiful Andean scenery, Moray is not only historically important but also visually stunning an ideal spot to learn more about Inca innovation and take memorable photos of your trip.
As part of the tour, we also offer an optional stop to taste the traditional chicha. Chicha is a fermented corn drink that dates back to long before Inca times and is still enjoyed by locals today. Made from yellow corn, this drink was historically used in ceremonies and community gatherings. During the tasting, you will visit a local chichería, where you can learn how it is prepared and try a glass yourself. This cultural experience offers a deeper insight into local traditions and daily life, adding a unique and authentic touch to your trip. Alongside the chicha, you’ll also have the chance to sample different types of Maras salt, including unique blends like salt with chocolate, coca, or chili. This is a cultural experience not to miss.
A visit to the alpaca farm in Chinchero is included during your Sacred Valley Day Trip only if you plan to return to Cusco after the tour, as it is located on the way back. If you return to Ollantaytambo, this stop is not available unless arranged with an additional cost. The alpaca farm is a local home where you’ll see alpacas and llamas, feed them, and take plenty of photos with them. You’ll also enjoy a live demonstration of traditional weaving and natural dyeing techniques, presented by local women using ancestral methods. Note: buying textiles is completely optional, we don’t include shopping stops; our focus is on authentic cultural exploration.
Our extraordinary tour culminates around 2 pm in the historic city of Cusco, exactly as you requested. However, if you prefer to be dropped off in Ollantaytambo, we will be happy to accommodate your choice. Please note that the visit to Chinchero is only available if you opt to be dropped off in Cusco.
Please note that the schedule provided depends on the specific route chosen for your Sacred Valley Tour. We offer four distinct routes, each offering a unique combination of experiences and attractions. However, if you would like to visit all of the sites during your Sacred Valley Day Trip departing from Ollantaytambo, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team will be happy to provide you with a personalized quote tailored to your preferences and interests.
8:00 AM – Hotel Pick-up in Ollantaytambo
Begin your day with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, guided by an local expert guide and stunning landscapes along the way.
8:45 AM – Maras Salt Mines
Visit the incredible salt terraces in Maras town, where salt has been harvested by hand since pre Inca times. Enjoy stunning views and a guided explanation (approx. 1 hour).
10:00 AM – Chicha & Salt Tasting (Optional)
Visit a local chichería to taste traditional chicha (corn beer) and sample Maras salt, such as chocolate, coca, and many other varieties. A cultural and flavorful experience.
10:00 AM – Drive to Moray
After our first stop we will travel through the countryside and the village of Maras on your way to the Moray ruins (30-minute drive).
10:45 AM – Moray Archaeological Site
Next, we explore the circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory used to study crop adaptation to microclimates. We will have a guided visit of about 1 hour.
12:30 PM – Alpaca Farm & Weaving Demo in Chinchero (Only if returning to Cusco)
Feed alpacas, take photos, and watch a demonstration of ancestral wool dyeing and weaving by local women. (This stop is not included if returning to Ollantaytambo unless booked with an extra fee).
2:00 PM – Arrival in Cusco
Drop-off at your hotel in Cusco. End of the tour.
For our Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco we offer you 4 distinct options to explore the highlights of Peru’s Sacred Valley. Choose the route that best suits your interests and preferences, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. If you have any questions about the following options, please do not hesitate to let us know, we are here to help you:
Embark on a unforgettable tour of the Sacred Valley departing from Ollantaytambo and finishing in Cusco. The day begins with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation in Ollantaytambo around 8:00 AM. From there, you will travel by our private vehicle to explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley.
Our first stop is at the impressive ruins of Moray, where you will discover the unique system of circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation. After exploring the ruins of Moray, you will head to the Maras Salt Flats. Here, you will observe the traditional methods of salt extraction and enjoy a “salt tasting” experience to appreciate the local craftsmanship.
The day also includes a Chicha tasting, where you will taste this traditional Andean drink made from corn and learn about its cultural significance.
Then we will stop at a local family in Chinchero, where you will attend a demonstration of Andean weaving techniques. Also we will visit an alpaca farm. This visit offers the opportunity to interact with the alpacas and learn about their role in Andean culture.
At 2:00 PM you will arrive in Cusco, where you will conclude your excursion with a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
The price is per person
NOTE: This tour does not include: Entrance tickets to the sites to be visited.
Easy / Beginner
6 Hours
2,792 m (9,160 ft).
3,762 m (12,343 ft).
Yes (before 72)
Begin the day with an early departure from your hotel in Ollantaytambo, embarking on a journey through the impressive Sacred Valley.
Our first stop is the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, where you will explore the ancient Inca terraces, the Water temple and ceremonial center. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural brilliance of this enigmatic site.
Next, drive to the Salt Mines of Maras, a captivating place where you will witness traditional salt extraction techniques. Marvel at the intricate network of terraced ponds that have been used for centuries by the Incas.
After your visit to the Salt Mines, enjoy a local cultural experience with a tasting of chicha, a traditional Inca drink made from fermented corn. This refreshing drink offers a tasty insight into local customs and traditions.
After the chicha tasting, join a salt demonstration, where you will learn about the meticulous process of salt collection and processing, as well as you will have the opportunity to taste the different types of salt.
Our final destination is the fascinating ruins of Moray, here you will explore the concentric agricultural terraces used by the Incas to experiment with growing crops in different microclimates. The unique design of these terraces reflects the advanced agricultural techniques of the Inca civilization.
Conclude the day with a panoramic drive to the city of Cusco, this tour also offers stops along the way.
You will be dropped off at your hotel in Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
We will be back to Cusco about 5 pm
The price is per person:
The price for the Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo is reduced according to the number of people in the group.
NOTE: Lunch: Lunch can be added to the cost of the tour.
However, if you prefer to have lunch at the end of the tour on your own, the tour can end earlier.
Easy / Beginner
8 Hours
2,792 m (9,160 ft).
3,762 m (12,343 ft).
Yes, (before 72 hours).
Commence your adventure with an early pick up from Ollantaytambo town exploring the remarkable ruins of Ollantaytambo with our local guides.
From Ollantaytambo, we will be driving you to the Salt Mines of Maras. Once there you will witness the traditional salt extraction process as you observe the vast network of terraced ponds filled with mineral-rich spring water.
Next, enjoy a chicha tasting at a local Chicheria house. Savor this traditional Andean drink made from fermented corn and learn about its historical and social importance in the local culture.
After the chicha tasting, participate in a salt demonstration, try the different types of salt.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the ruins of Moray. Marvel at the concentric agricultural terraces that the Incas used to experiment with various crops at different temperatures, showcasing their advanced agricultural knowledge.
Next, head to the ruins of Pisac, an impressive archaeological site also located in the Sacred Valley that offers a fascinating insight into Inca urban planning and ceremonial practices. Stroll through the extensive ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, also you will have the chance to visit its bustling market.
Finish your day with a visit to an alpaca farm as you make your way to Cusco. Learn about these fascinating animals. Observe the alpacas and llamas up close, and gain insights into the traditional weaving practices that use their soft and versatile wool.
Your day culminates in Cusco.
The price is per person:
Easy / Beginner
6 Hours
2,792 m (9,160 ft).
3,762 m (12,343 ft).
Yes, (before 72 hours).
Our adventure begins with a 7:30AM pick-up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo to visit the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo. Explore this ancient Inca fortress, famous for its grandiose terraces and ceremonial structures.
After visiting Ollantaytambo, journey to the fascinating salt mines of Maras. Here you will see the traditional salt extraction process in action. Marvel at the more than 5000 terraced ponds that have been used for centuries to extract salt. Our guide will provide you with important facts about the place.
Next, enjoy a cultural experience with a chicha tasting. Savor this traditional Andean drink made with fermented corn and learn about its cultural and historical importance in the local society. After the chicha tasting, try the different kinds of salt, such as the “flor del sal”, the “pink salt” and the “the medicinal salt”, this will be a great experience that you must not to miss.
Our tour continues to the ruins of Moray, an extraordinary archaeological site known for its concentric agricultural terraces. These terraces were used by the Incas to experiment with different crops in various levels with different elevations, showcasing their advanced agricultural techniques.
Next, visit the ruins of Chinchero, another captivating Inca site located in the charming town of Chinchero. This town is the highest point during the tour. Here you will explore the remains of this important ceremonial center and enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
After exploring Chinchero, attend a traditional weaving demonstration. You will witness the intricate techniques used to create beautiful alpaca wool weavings and learn about the importance of these crafts in Andean culture.
Conclude the day with a visit to an alpaca farm. Our tour will done around 4:30pm in Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
The price is per person:
Easy / Beginner
8 hours
2,792 m (9,160 ft).
3,762 m (12,343 ft).
Yes, (before 72 hours)
Our itinerary varies depending on the route you choose to take, we recommend taking the one that includes 3 places as this allows you to visit the sites with plenty of time and without rushing. Our Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo can also end at the Cusco airport for more information please contact our team.
We want to make your trip unforgettable, so here we provide you with information on everything you should bring to your tour of the Sacred Valley from Ollanataytambo.
Our Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco is only offered in private service as it is not a very common tour.
The price is per person, the total cost of the tour is based on the size of the group, the more participants the price will be reduced.
Each route offers a different price depending on the places to visit, the price in the price table is for the half day tour of Maras Salt Mines and Moray ruins from Ollantaytambo.
To reserve the tour you must make a deposit of $50 through PayPal and pay the remaining balance in cash on the day of the tour. PayPal is the most secure payment method for our customers, and charges a 7% commission which must be paid by the customer. Once you have made the deposit you will receive a confirmation email with the details of the tour.
To learn more about our prices you can also contact us at info@comeseeperutours.com
Will was our guide and he was wonderful! The tour was everything we hoped for. The day was filled with so much and Will made sure we were having the best time we could. Ask for Will- he was wonderful!
My sister and I were referred to Come See Peru from a friend, and we are so grateful for the referral. We did the Sacred Valley Cultural Experience. Carlos (our guide) and Michael (our driver) were knowledgeable, flexible, and fun!
Here are a few specific aspects that I would like to mention:
1. Flexible. We really appreciated the flexibility that we were afforded. We did our half day Sacred Valley trip in between accommodation switches. So we were picked up in Ollantaytambo and dropped off in Cusco. Additionally, we had to be picked up a bit later than the original start time, and Carlos and Michael were happy to accommodate.
2. Informative. Carlos expertly led us around the three sites we visited (Ollantaytambo ruins, The Salt Mines, The ruins of Moray). He actually took us in an order that allowed for there to be less tourists when we were present, which was really nice. He provided us with historical context and answered all of our questions.
3. Patient. Carlos and Michael gave us time to sit in the beauty that is these amazing locations. Carlos is a wonderful photographer as well and offered to take our picture at some really neat places in each location. When we did the Chicha tasting and salt demonstration, they waited while we shopped. We never felt rushed, which we appreciated.
4. Fun! Overall, we had a really good time with Carlos and Michael. We chatted and laughed about all sorts of things. We appreciated the private tour aspect so we could really go at our own flow and connect and just enjoy.
Thank you Carlos and Michael for a lovely exploration of the Sacred Valley! You will be at the top of our list when we return to see Pisac and Chinchero!
Wow! I booked a customizable 2-day tour to include all of the main Sacred Valley sights because I wanted to start the first day in Cusco and end in Ollantaytambo and use the tour as transportation as well. Come See Peru was so easy to work with, communicating extremely quickly via WhatsApp to design my perfect itinerary. They also suggested some stops that I did not know about.
Our guide Ruben was positively incredible and really made this tour amazing. He presented the history, culture, geography, & food information in such a compelling way! We learned SO MUCH because he is an incredible storyteller. None of the main sites (moray, maras, ollantaytambo, etc) have much signage and we wouldn’t have been able to appreciate them half as well without Ruben. He was also an amazing photographer, always choosing the best locations to take photos of my husband and I.
The vehicle was a comfortable van, which was private, and we had a driver who dropped off and picked up whenever we needed and also stayed with our luggage the day that it was in the car.
Overall, the price was fair for the value received and I would definitely recommend reaching out to Come See Peru to build a customized tour for your trip to the Sacred Valley!
My wife, and I actually took three tours in three dayswith Come See Peru. This were for Machu Picchu, Pisac / Llama farm and the half-day tour on the outskirts of Cusco. The company provided excellent tour guides and took care of every detail, so that our tours were totally stressed free.
Come See Peru is a Local Operator based in Cusco city, located in Av. San Sebastian, Calle Independencia – B-4 Peru. Please email us at info@comeseeperutours.com or call our team at +9696760991
Legal name: COMESEEPERUTOURS E.I.R.L
RUC: 20608161156
Tour Reservation: You can reserve this tour with a deposit of just $10 USD of the total cost for the whole group. The remaining balance must be paid in cash on the day of the tour, as you got picked up from your hotel before departure.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations of our day tours are allowed up to 72 hours before the tour starts without any penalty.
If you cancel within 72 hours of the tour, a cancellation fee will be charged. This is because all logistics and services will have already been arranged for your travel date, and last-minute cancellations affect our team, who had set aside the day to serve you. In such cases, we must compensate our staff for their time and availability.
No-Show Policy:
Failure to show up on the day of the tour without prior notice will result in the full charge of the tour, and no refunds will be issued.
By booking this tour, you agree to the terms stated above. If you have any questions or need to make changes to your reservation, please contact us via WhatsApp.
Do you have questions about our Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo? Would you like to know more about the weather, altitude, etc? Here are the most frequently asked questions from our clients who have already taken the tour.
The tour generally starts with pick up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo around 8:00 AM. In some cases, we recommend starting at 7:30 AM to avoid the crowds at the sites.
The duration of the tour is approximately 6 to 7 hours, this depends on the route you choose when booking the tour and if the tour ends in Ollantaytambo or Cusco.
The most common places include the salt mines of Maras, Moray, the chicha tasting, the alpaca farm in Chinchero and, depending on the route, you can also visit Ollantaytambo or Pisac.
Yes, we offer pick up directly at your hotel in Ollantaytambo to start the tour comfortably from there.
Yes, in most of our routes we include an optional stop to taste the traditional Andean chicha and different types of Maras salt.
Yes, but this stop is only available if your tour ends in Cusco. If you return to Ollantaytambo, this visit is not included unless you pay an additional cost.
The tour is moderate and accessible for most people. Most of the hikes are short and over easy terrain, but it is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk a bit.
Yes, the price of the tour includes private transportation and a professional guide who explains the history and culture of each site.
We recommend comfortable clothing, layers to adapt to the changing weather, hat, sunscreen and appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
We offer several routes with different destinations, and in some cases we can adapt the tour according to your interests and time available.
Unfortunately not, we offer private tours from Ollantaytambo only, no group tours as this tour is not common in Ollantaytambo. We need minimum 2 persons.
Normally the tour does not include meals, but it can be added for $20 per person for a buffet lunch in Urubamba. You can bring snacks or ask for lunch options during the tour.
In addition to the famous archaeological ruins, you can tour its charming village with original Inca streets, visit the local market, hike to viewpoints such as Pinkuylluna mountain.
A complete visit to Ollantaytambo can take between 3 hours, depending on whether you visit only the ruins or also explore the town, the market, and take a short hike.
You can get to Ollantaytambo from Cusco by taxi from Cusco, public bus or colectivo. The trip takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, and it is a very popular route for those heading to Machu Picchu.
Yes, many travelers choose to sleep in Ollantaytambo for its tranquility and proximity to Machu Picchu. It is also an excellent option to acclimatize.
Ollantaytambo is more than just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu. This Inca town offers living history, local culture, spectacular scenery and an ideal gateway to the Sacred Valley. Here’s everything you’ll want to know if you’re planning your trip.
Ollantaytambo is one of the best-preserved Inca cities in peru, located at 2,792 meters (9,160 ft), this town is till inhabited today. Its original stone streets, flowing water canals, and ancient agricultural terraces make it a fascinating place to explore.
Strategic location: It’s the perfect base to explore the Sacred Valley or catch the train to Machu Picchu. Also its lower elevation is perfect for those looking to adjust to the altitude.
The town is less crowded than Cusco or Aguas Calientes, Ollantaytambo is deal if you want an authentic, quiet place to stay before or after your adventure.
Altitude: 2,792 meters above sea level
In feet: 9,160 feet above sea level
This altitude is lower than that of Cusco (3,399 m), which makes Ollantaytambo an excellent place to acclimatize if you are arriving from a sea level place.
Even though Ollantaytambo is lower than Cusco, altitude can still affect some travelers coming from sea level area.
How to prepare:
Note: Worried about the altitude in Ollantaytambo? Find out if altitude sickness is a concern in Ollantaytambo and how to prevent it.
The climate is temperate throughout the year, with sunny days, cool nights and seasonal rains.
Average temperatures:
Seasons:
Dry season: April to October (ideal for visiting)
Rainy season: November to March (more vegetation, but slippery roads)
Whether you are looking for local specialties or healthy options, there is something for every traveler.
Must-try dishes:
Recommended places:
Note: For more details on where to eat, don’t miss our article on the best restaurants in Ollantaytambo.
Ollantaytambo is the perfect starting point for a full day adventure in the Sacred Valley.
Most popular stops:
Moray – Fascinating circular terraces believed to have been Inca agricultural laboratories.
Salinas de Maras – Thousands of salt pools perched on the side of a mountain.
Pisac – A beautiful archaeological site that also offers a famous handicraft market.
Chinchero – A colorful town known for its traditional weavings, alpaca farms and ancient ruins
Excursions usually include transportation, bilingual guides and a stop for lunch in Urubamba.
If you are traveling to Machu Picchu, do not skip Ollantaytambo. It is not just a connecting point to Machu Picchu, it is a destination full of culture and history. Starting your Sacred Valley tour here will allow you to enjoy the scenery with less crowds and at a more relaxed pace.
Tip: Spend at least 2 nights in the city to fully enjoy the atmosphere, get a good rest before your Inca Trail or activities at higher elevations, immerse yourself in local Andean life.
Come See Peru has earned TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for consistently receiving 5-star reviews of our tours in Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tours. This recognition highlights our exceptional service and dedicated attention to our clients.
Heather R2025-04-29Verified Stunning Sacred Valley We had an outstanding time in our private tour with Carlos and Michael. Better than expected. Beautiful county and they took great care of us! Sacred Valley is a must! Teri G2025-04-27Verified Sacred Valley Lovely Day Will was our guide and he was wonderful! The tour was everything we hoped for. The day was filled with so much and Will made sure we were having the best time we could. Ask for Will- he was wonderful! Jaydina B2025-04-21Verified Been on many tours, would have to say this tour was one of best tours that we’ve been on for the last 25 years This company was quick to respond on setting up our tour to sacred valley from Ollantaytambo. The expert guide Carlos who accompanied us was outstanding informative, and entertaining. He knew his history and answered all of our questions on the ruins we visited. He brought us to the perfect spots for taking pictures and making our videos. The itinerary was very well thought out. Their attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting an educational and fun tour. they will deliver! I would also like to add that I forgot my camera in the tours car. They found it and returned it back to me at my hotel. Marcelo C2025-04-15Verified Great Day Tour of Sacred Valley Scheduling the tour on-line was very easy. Communication from tour coordinator was excellent, he helped us plan an extended tour for the day out of Cusco. Our driver and tour guide were great. We had a wonderful day touring around, seeing the sites, learning the history of the area and stopping to get a local drink and purchase some nice souvenirs. I will recommend this tour group to my friends and family. Ginette P2025-04-07Verified Wonderful half-day tour from Ollantaytambo! Our half-day tour of the Moray Ruins & Salt Flats was amazing. From the time of booking to the completion of our tour, the communication was great. We were picked up at our hotel punctually as discussed (and dropped off afterwards within the timeframe). From there, Carlos our guide provided us with a lot of interesting information and was always willing to take pictures of us or even make extra stops so that we can capture the beautiful landscapes around us. Enough time was allowed at every stop which was much appreciated. Our driver Christobal also assured that we were safe with his great driving skills. But the thing we appreciated the most was that the tour was available from Ollantaytambo (shorter drive than from Cusco) and that we were able to only have our small family group of 4 people for the tour. We would definitely recommend this tour to others.Ginette Sun-Woong K2025-04-01Verified Get Carlos and Rene! Great experience Carlos was an exceptional tour guide with great insight, great English, and very accommodating. Also gave us tips for our other destinations. Tour was informative, not intense walk, and facts were fun. He recommended a great restaurant too which we all enjoyed. Would definitely recommend. Rene was the driver, ride was smooth, efficient, and he was very helpful with luggage. Dubaigateways2025-03-24Verified Excellent Pisac guide and tour. A very entertaining and comprehensive tour ( from Cusco to Pisac to Ollantaytambo) excellently delivered by our guide Carlos. A fabulous day, and we cannot recommend him more highly! Judy H2025-02-05Verified Outstanding tour. Don't miss learning more about Sacred Valley with a pro guide/driver This was our second half-day tour with our guide Carlos and his sidekick (driver) Rene, who was an expert navigator through some very narrow roadways and along mountain trails. On this day we visited the ruins of Olantaytambo, Pisac, and the Pisac market. As we were passing through Calca, the town famous for cuy, Carlos allowed us to detour so that we could taste it in the most local restaurants where it is made traditionally. We were so grateful to have this experience, which for sure you would miss on a group tour. We are staying in Ollantaytambo, and while we could possibly have visited these ruins on our own, we would have missed so many nuances and history that only a seasoned guide like Carlos could give us. We were thrilled for everything we learned and saw here. I almost felt like nothing could have been better, but the Pisac ruins also are outstanding. Carlos taught us about the architecture and is a great storyteller about so many things we would have glossed over. He pointed out so much valuable information to us that we would have lost with a group tour or self-exploration. Also, you have to do a bit of climbing, and it was helpful to have Carlos's steady hand a time or two during the descent. HIGHLY recommend Come See Peru Tours if you really want to understand about these historic places, the culture of the people, and so much more. We are so glad we added these stops in Sacred Valley to our itinerary. We know they will enhance our time when we get to Machu Picchu. Judy H2025-02-05Verified Do this tour with Come See Peru Tours! Such a worthwhile experience! Our tour was from Ollantaytambo, not Urubamba, but Carlos (guide) and Rene (driver) provided an outstanding experience. We highly recommend you spend a few days acclimating in Sacred Valley and include the Moray ruins and salt flats on your itinerary. Carlos's English was impeccable and his knowledge of the ruins, the salt flats, and all the areas we were driving through—and more—is vast. We had two smaller stops throughout the day including for some local chocolate and vanilla bread, which was very delicious and also a visit to sample chicha and also learn all about how it is made, we tasted some delicious Peruvian chocolates that were enhanced with salt from Maras along with a few other salted seasoning mixes, which was actually a fun and interesting experience. There is so much more to Peru than Machu Picchu (although we certainly are including that in our trip). But understanding Sacred Valley really is enhancing our trip, and visiting from Ollantaytambo also means that we also were the first to arrive at the salt mines before all the visitors arriving from Cusco, which made our picture taking experience much better! We highly recommend Come See Peru if you are looking for an excellent and rich experience. Jason S2025-02-04Verified Exceeded Expectations The entire team exceeded our expectations from start to finish. Julio, Renee, Rose, and Rebecca are the best. Detail orientedFriendlyAccommodating ProfessionalThere are many controls in place to keep Machu Picchu special. This team navigated us through them with ease. The tour itself was amazing, and we learned a lot about the Inca civilization. It was truly a once in a lifetime experience. Thank you team. -Jason Sheffey-United StatesVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
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