If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu, you probably already know that Ollantaytambo is a key stop before Machu Picchu. But a common question among travelers is: how do I get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo easily, quickly and economically? Don’t worry, in this article we explain all the available options, from the cheapest to the most comfortable, so you can choose the one that best suits your travel style.
Read on and discover the best tips, routes, prices, recommendations and tours for your transfer to be part of the charm of your adventure in the Sacred Valley.
Cusco to Ollantaytambo: How to Get to Ollantaytambo
Cusco to Ollantaytambo: Traveling from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is easier than it seems. There are different ways to get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, and each one has its pros and cons. Here we present you all the options so you can compare and decide the best one according to your time, budget and travel style.
1. By colectivo or public bus (the cheapest option)
This option is ideal if you don’t have a lot of luggage and you are looking to interact with locals and learn more about them. Although it is not one of the safest ways to travel as the public transport has many stops along the way picking people up and people getting off. The trip is longer and a bit uncomfortable.
- Duration: 1h 45 min – 2h
- Average cost: S/ 15 (about 4 – 6 USD)
- Where to take it: Pavitos Street (Cusco center)
- Frequency: They leave every 20-30 minutes
Tip: We advise you to arrive early if you want a seat, especially in high season. This is the preferred means of transport for backpackers and locals
2. By taxi or private transportation (more comfortable)
This might be one of the best ways to go to Ollantaytambo from Cusco, taking a taxi makes your travel experience more intimate and offers flexibility. If you are late for your train from Ollantaytambo taking a taxi in cusco can save your trip.
- Duration: 1h 20 min
- Average cost: S/ 100 – 150 (25 – 40 USD)
- Advantages: Comfort, time flexibility, ideal if you travel with luggage.
Tip: Negotiate the price before getting on. You can also use apps like InDriver, Uber or coordinate with your hotel.
3. Sacred Valley Tour ending in Ollantaytambo
If you are short of time in Cusco and want to get the most out of it this is the best way to travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. This option combines transfer and cultural experience in one day. You can start the tour from Cusco in the morning and finish in Ollantaytambo in the afternoon, allowing you to take the train to Aguas Calientes after the tour.
- Duration: Full day (6 to 7 hours)
- Cost: From USD 99 per person in private tour
- Includes: Stops in Pisac, Urubamba, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero.
Tip: Opt for a private tour if you want more flexibility of schedules, more time at each archaeological site and to avoid the crowds. Also, you can coordinate with the tour operator to drop you off directly at the Ollantaytambo train station.
Tips for your trip from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Avoid traveling at night if you travel by taxi and you dont know the route
- Carry cash in soles, taxis and public transports do not accept credit cards.
- Hydrate well, Cusco is over 3,000 meters above sea level and the change in altitude can be felt.
- Plan ahead if you have a train to Machu Picchu the same day
You may also be interested in:
- Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Tours from Ollantaytambo
- From Cusco airport to Ollantaytambo
- Is Ollantaytambo safe?
- Altitude sickness in Ollantaytambo
Conclusions:
In conclusion, getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is not only easy, but can also become an enriching experience if you choose the right option for your transfer from Cusco. From economical alternatives such as collective public transportation, to more comfortable options such as a private taxi or a private Sacred Valley tour from Cusco to Ollantaytambo there are routes for all tastes and budgets. Remember to always keep in mind the schedule of your train to Machu Picchu and consider spending the night in Ollantaytambo to travel more calmly.
