Ollantaytambo, a historic town in the Sacred Valley of Peru, it is a must-see for travelers wanting to explore ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes, and gain insight into Inca history. Famous for its impressive Inca fortress and well-preserved streets, Ollantaytambo offers a unique combination of culture and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the ruins of Ollantaytambo or preparing for your trip to Machu Picchu, this town has something for everyone. Discover the top sights, practical travel tips, and insider information in our complete guide to Ollantaytambo. Ready for your adventure?
This Ultimate Ollantaytambo Guide covers everything you need:
- Weather
- Altitude
- Best time to visit
- How to get there
- Where to stay
- What to do
- Best tours
- Safety tips
- Transportation
- Practical travel advice
Introduction: Why Ollantaytambo is a Must-Visit Destination in Peru
Ollantaytambo often referred by locals to simply as “Ollanta”is more than just a beautiful Inca town. It is the best-preserved living Inca settlement in Peru, the starting point for the Classic Inca Trail, and a strategic base for visiting Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and authentic Andean communities.
Ollantaytambo Town in Peru
What is Ollantaytambo?
Ollantaytambo is a legendary Inca city in Peru’s Sacred Valley. What makes it special is that the locals still live in the original Inca houses and use the same narrow stone streets and water channels that were built more than 600 years ago.
The city was conceived by Emperor Pachacútec as the following:
- Royal country estate
- Religious and astronomical center
- Military fortress
Today, Ollantaytambo is one of Peru’s most important archaeological, cultural, and tourist destinations.
Why Visit Ollantaytambo? (Top Reasons)
There are a number of things that make Ollantaytambo a must-see for any tourist, such as its well-preserved streets, lively market, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or cultural discovery, Ollantaytambo has something to offer everyone. Let’s explore the top reasons why this town should be on your travel list.
1. The last living Inca city: The stone houses, trapezoidal doors, and water channels of Ollantaytambo make you feel as if you have been transported back to the time of the Incas.
2. The most impressive terraces in the Sacred Valley: The archaeological site includes huge terraces, temples, and hidden Inca rooms.
3. The gateway to Machu Picchu: Most travelers board the train to Aguas Calientes in Ollantaytambo.
4. Perfect altitude for acclimatization: At 2,800 meters above sea level, it is much more pleasant than Cusco for your first night in Peru.
5. Beautiful hiking trails: Less well-known hiking trails lead to Inca quarries, waterfalls, and remote villages.
6. Peaceful and safe: Much quieter than Cusco, with a more leisurely, local atmosphere.
If you want to learn more about what makes Ollantaytambo so special, read our detailed travel guide on why Ollantaytambo is worth a visit. In it, we explain the highlights and why most travelers regret not staying longer.
Geography & Altitude
- Altitude: 2,792 m (9,160 ft)
- Location: Sacred Valley, between Cusco and Machu Picchu
- Region: Cusco, Peru
- Population: 10,000
Weather in Ollantaytambo (Month by Month)
Ollantaytambo has two main seasons:
Dry season (May–October): Cold nights, sunny days, perfect hiking weather.
Rainy season (November–April): Warmer, greener, with afternoon showers.
Monthly weather overview
January – March (rainy season)
- Daytime temperature: 50–70 °F (10–21 °C)
- Expect: Rain, clouds, lush landscapes
- Advantages: Fewer tourists, lower prices
April – June (transitional period + start of dry season)
- Daytime temperature: 45–68 °F (7–20 °C)
- Expect: Clear skies, great trekking conditions
- Note: This is one of the best times to travel.
July – August (high season)
- Daytime temperature: 32–70 °F (0–21 °C)
- Cold nights, warm days
- Most popular for Machu Picchu
September – October (ideal weather)
- Daytime temperature: 45–72 °F (7–22 °C)
- Mild, fewer crowds, great photos
November – December
- Daytime temperature: 9–22 °C (48–72 °F)
- Rain in the afternoon, but beautiful in the morning
Best time to visit Ollantaytambo
If you are planning to stay in Ollantaytambo in 2026, choosing the right time to visit is essential to get the most out of your experience. The region’s climate varies throughout the year, and knowing the seasons will help you decide when is the best time to go.
Best months overall: April, May, September, October
Perfect balance between weather and fewer crowds.
Best time to visit Machu Picchu: May – August
Clear conditions for photography.
Best time to visit for budget-conscious travelers: January–March
Rainy season, but excellent prices.
Getting to Ollantaytambo
From Cusco:
- Private transfer (best and fastest): 1 hour 30 minutes
- Bus/Colectivo: 2 hours
- Taxi: 1.5 hours
Note: You can also travel to Olantaytambo through a private tour from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
From the airport:
Book a direct transfer to Ollantaytambo: This will help you avoid altitude problems in Cusco.
From Aguas Calientes:
- Train: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Several departures daily
Things to Do in Ollantaytambo
If you’re wondering what to do in Ollantaytambo, you’re in luck! This charming town offers a wide variety of activities for all types of travelers. Ollantaytambo has something fro you. From exploring ancient Inca ruins to hiking along picturesque trails, visiting lively markets, or discovering the surrounding villages, there is plenty to do.
Places of interest in Ollantaytambo:
1. Visit the ruins of Ollantaytambo (fortress and temple mountain)
One of Peru’s most impressive archaeological sites.
Highlights include:
- Sun Temple
- Pink granite monoliths
- Agricultural terraces
- The Temple of Sacred Water
➡ “Ruins of Ollantaytambo: Complete Visitor’s Guide”
2. Explore the Old Inca Town (Still Inhabited)
Explore the ancient Inca city (which is still inhabited)
Stroll through:
- Narrow cobblestone streets
- Original Inca canals
- Traditional family homes
This is one of the best-preserved Inca city grids.
3. Hike to Pinkuylluna (free hike)
A short but steep climb.
What you will see:
- Grain storehouses
- Beautiful views of the entire valley
- Breathtaking light at sunrise
4. Visit the Inca Quarry (Kachiqhata Trail)
A full-day hike to the ancient quarry where stones for the fortress were carved.
Perfect for adventure travelers.
5. Discover local communities
Visit weaving villages such as:
- Patacancha
- Willoc
Learn more about textiles, Quechua culture, and agriculture.
6. Visit the ruins of Pumamarca
A quiet alternative to crowded tourist attractions. Breathtaking views and original Inca walls.
Note: Looking for more things to do in Ollantaytambo? Discover more things to do in Ollantaytambo
and plan your perfect trip!
Best Tours from Ollantaytambo
If you are planning an excursion from Ollantaytambo, keep in mind that most excursions usually start in Cusco, no, in ollantaytambo. It is important to choose a reputable and licensed travel agency. In Ollantaytambo, you will find at the plaza unlicensed taxi drivers offering trips to places such as Maras or Moray, but be careful, as these can be dangerous and illegal. Only authorized travel agencies can operate these routes safely. If you are looking to explora the sites in the sacred Valley, as a certified agency, we offer private trips from Ollantaytambo with authorized transportation and professional, certified tour guides. Your can check our tours here:
- Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo
- Maras Moray Half Day Tour from Ollantaytambo
- Machu Picchu Tour from Ollantaytambo
If you are looking for more information about the best tours from Ollantaytambo, discover our carefully curated selection of options for tours from Ollantaytambo
Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo
Traveling to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo is a convenient option for many travelers. The town is an important stopover on the way to the famous Inca citadel. From Ollantaytambo, you can take the train to Aguas Calientes, with breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley along the way. Here we tell you why this is the best way to get to Machu Picchu:
Why?
- Short train ride
- Easier altitude
- More scenic
Train Options:
- PeruRail Expedition
- Vistadome
- Inca Rail Voyager
- First Class trains
Where to Stay in Ollantaytambo
Choosing the right accommodation in Ollantaytambo is crucial for a pleasant trip. Whether you prefer a cozy guesthouse or a luxury hotel, discover the best accommodations in Ollantaytambo:
Best Luxury Hotels
- El Albergue
- Las Qolqas Eco Resort
- Casa Andina Premium
Mid-Range
- Kuychi Rumi
- Intitambo Hotel
- Budget Options
- Mama Simona
- Ollantaytampu Hostels
Where to Eat in Ollantaytambo
Discover the best restaurants in Ollantaytambo to enhance your trip. From local Peruvian dishes to international cuisine, the city offers a wide variety of dining options. Here some of the ebst options for your trip to consider:
Top Restaurants
- Chuncho
- Apu Veronica
- Hearts Café
What to Eat:
- Alpaca steak
- Quinoa soup
- Trout ceviche
Safety Tips
Ollantaytambo is very safe.
Tips:
- Don’t walk Pinkuylluna at night
- Keep belongings secure near the train station
- Use licensed taxis
Wondering if Ollantaytambo is a safe place to travel? If you still have doubts, read our article for more information about if the town of Ollantaytambo is safe to travel, from local tips to travel recommendations.
Altitude Tips
Ollantaytambo is lower than Cusco, making it ideal for your first night.
Recommendations:
- Drink coca tea
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid heavy food on day one
Ollantaytambo is lower than Cusco, making it ideal for your first night. If you’re concerned about altitude sickness, if you are concerned about altitude sickness, this is a great place to acclimatize before heading to higher elevations. Learn more about altitude sickness in Ollantaytambo
and how to prevent it.
Final Thoughts: Why Ollantaytambo Should Be on Your Peru Itinerary
Ollantaytambo is more than just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu: it is the heart of the history and culture of the ancestors of the Peruvian people. Its well-preserved Inca trails, majestic terraces, traditional communities, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of Peru’s most rewarding destinations. Whether you come for history, hiking, photography, or to experience the local culture, Ollantaytambo has something to offer every traveler.
Continue Exploring Ollantaytambo (Recommended Guides)
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