How Many Days Are Enough to Stay in Ollantaytambo?
Are you planning a visit to Ollantaytambo? You probably have many questions about this charming town, and one of the most common is how long you should stay. While a day may be enough to see the main sights, not long is enough to acclimatize to the altitude, the ideal length really depends on what you want to do. For acclimatization we recommend at least 2 days In Ollantaytambo. However Ollantaytambo offers endless activities and experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying the local culture. In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about what to do in Ollantaytambo and how many days are enough to fully appreciate its beauty before returning to Cusco. Scroll down for more information.
Why Stay in Ollantaytambo?
Historical importance
Ollantaytambo is an ancient Inca city in the Sacred Valley, it is one of the best preserved examples of Inca architecture. The city itself is built on the original Inca foundations, and its narrow cobblestone streets offer a glimpse into the past.
Lower altitude
Ollantaytambo is located at an altitude of (9,160 feet) 2,792 meters above sea level, lower than Cusco (11,152 feet) 3,399 meters. This lower altitude facilitates acclimatization for many travelers, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and providing a more comfortable stay.
Gateway to Machu Picchu
Ollantaytambo is a popular stop for travelers heading to Machu Picchu. The train station in Ollantaytambo provides direct access to the famous archaeological site, making it a convenient and strategic place to stay.
Cultural Experience
Staying in Ollantaytambo allows you to dive into the Andean culture. The city is known as a unique living Inca city in Peru, as well as a favorite for its lively markets, local handicrafts and traditional festivals.
Recommended Length of Stay in Ollantaytambo
One day: A quick visit
If you are short on time, a one-day visit can be satisfactory. You can explore the main attractions of the Sacred Valley from Cusco to Ollantaytambo:
Must-see attractions in one day
Ollantaytambo Ruins: Spend a few hours exploring these impressive ruins, including the Temple of the Sun and the terraces.
Moray Ruins: You can also visit the enigmatic ruins of Moray, the ruins are located 30 minutes from the town of Ollantaytambo.
Salt Mines: Almost very close to the ruins of Moray is the Salt Mines, an ancient salt production site that is still in operation.
Plaza de Armas: Stroll through the town’s main square, where you can enjoy local food and shop for souvenirs.
Two days: A deeper dive
A two-day stay allows you to explore more deeply and from the comfort of your hotel in Ollantaytambo:
Day One
Tour the Sacred Valley starting from Ollantaytambo and ending in Ollantaytambo. Your tour should include visits to the Salt Mines, the ruins of Moray and the Alpaca farm, you can also visit the ruins of Ollantaytambo if you have not visited it yet.
Day 2
Pinkuyuna Mountain: Take a half-day hike to the Pinkuyuna ruins for breathtaking views and a more tranquil experience.
Cultural experience: Spend the afternoon visiting local markets and interacting with artisans.
Three or more days: Total immersion
A stay of three or more days will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the area on the wayy back to Cusco:
Day Three
Pisac, Pisac market and Alpaca farm: We recommend on your last day in Ollantaytambo to explore the Pisac ruins and market and cap off your trip with a visit to a charming alpaca farm. You can take a tour that will take you to all these places and drop you off at your hotel in Cusco at the end of the tour.
Additional Activities:
- Horseback riding
- Hiking
- Rafting
- Canopy tour
- Experiential tourism
Conclusion
The ideal length of stay in Ollantaytambo depends on your interests and travel schedule. While a single day can cover the highlights, staying two to three days or more allows for a fuller and more relaxed experience. Whether you are interested in history, culture or natural beauty, Ollantaytambo offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the Sacred Valley. Plan your visit to make the most of this charming town.
