Must-Do Activities in Ollantaytambo, Peru
Ollantaytambo, Peru is a beautiful and historic destination that offers a variety of activities for travelers. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, hiking scenic trails, or simply soaking up the local culture, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. If you are planning to stay in Ollantaytambo, here are the top 10 activities to do in Ollantaytambo.
Ollantaytambo Town
Ollantaytambo is a Inca town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru. It is a popular destination for tourists visiting the region due to its rich history and cultural significance, but it also has become the perfect shelter for those seeking acclimatization. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by towering mountains and lush green valleys.
The town of Ollantaytambo was originally inhabited by the Incas in the 15th century and was used as a strategic military, agricultural, and religious center.
The town has a charming historic center with cobblestone streets, traditional adobe houses, and colorful markets selling local handicrafts and produce, but surely you want to know what else there is to do in Ollantaytambo, read on to find out all the information you need to make your stay in Ollantaytambo more enjoyable.
How to Get to Ollantaytambo Perú
When planning a visit to Ollantaytambo, Peru, there are multiple transportation options available to adapt to your travel preferences. Either if you prefer the convenience of public transportation, the comfort of a taxi, or a personalized private tour experience, you can get to Ollantaytambo with ease.
Public Bus:
Taking a public bus is a popular and economical option to get to Ollantaytambo. From Cusco, to the Sacred Valley, you can take a direct bus to Ollantaytambo from Pavitos bus terminal. The drive takes about 1.5 hours and offers panoramic views of the Andean landscapes throughout the journey. Buses are frequent and depart throughout the day.
Taxi:
For a more comfortable and direct option, taxis are available in Cusco. Negotiate the fare with the driver since taxis in Cusco are not metered. This means of transportation is especially convenient if you are traveling in a group or with large suitcases.
Get to Ollantaytambo through a tour:
For those looking for a personalized and immersive experience, booking a private day trip from cusco to Ollantaytambo is an excellent option. Although not many tour operators offer this service, the Sacred Valley tour from Cusco to Ollantaytambo typically includes transportation, a local guide and the opportunity to visit the other attractions in the region. By taking a private tour, you can enjoy the flexibility to personalize your itinerary, stopping at additional points of interest throughout the journey.
Regardless of the transportation option you choose, the journey to Ollantaytambo is a wonderful experience. As you travel through the picturesque landscapes of the Sacred Valley, you will be fascinated by the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you.
Sacred Valley Full Day Tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: Exploring Ancient Wonders
From US $ 99.0010 Unique Things to Do in Ollantaytambo
Discover the hidden gems of Ollantaytambo: unforgettable experiences await you!
Looking for an exceptional adventure? Ollantaytambo is your perfect destination. This Quechua town offers a range of unforgettable experiences that will take your breath away. You will be immersed in the rich history, breathtaking scenery and stunning culture that make Ollantaytambo a must-see destination in Peru. Step back in time as you discover the magnificent ancient monuments of Peru’s Sacred Valley. Climb the steep stone terraces, marvel at the intricate stonework and enjoy the panoramic views. These ancient ruins hold the secrets of a long past age, just waiting to be discovered by intrepid adventurers like you.
For nature lovers, Ollantaytambo offers a wide variety of impressive outdoor activities. Lace up your boots and hike up the scenic trail to the Ollantaytambo quarry, where in addition to discovering the ancient techniques used in Inca times, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. Or embark on an exciting hike up the fascinating Pinkuylluna mountain, where hidden Inca storehouses speckle the landscape. Don’t miss the best things to do in Ollantaytambo. Pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey and create memories that will last a lifetime. Be seduced by the charm of Ollantaytambo and let your adventurous spirit guide you through this enchanting destination. here we have made a list of the top 10 things to do and see in Ollantaytambo that will help you to enjoy even more your stay in Ollantaytambo. If you have any questions feel free to contact us at info@comeseepetutours.com
1) Ollantaytambo Ruins
The Ollantaytambo ruins are a must that you should not miss if staying in Ollantaytambo. The ruins are a stunning example of Inca engineering and architecture, in the Sacred Valley of Peru. The ruins date back to the 15th century when they were built by the Incas.The temple of the Sun is the main attraction of the ruins, it is about a massive structure made of gigantic stones that were transported from a quarry located many miles away from the town of Ollantaytambo. This temple is aligned with the rising sun at winter solstice, its walls contain a series of carvings of pumas and sacred elements at that time
Another impressive feature of the Ollantaytambo ruins is the terraced agricultural fields, which were used for farming by the Incas The terraces were built on steep slopes and were designed to prevent erosion and to make the most efficient use of the available land.
The temple of the Sun is the main attraction of the ruins, it is about a massive structure made of gigantic stones that were transported from a quarry located many miles away from the town of Ollantaytambo. This temple is aligned with the rising sun at winter solstice, its walls contain a series of carvings of pumas and sacred elements at that time.
Another impressive feature of the Ollantaytambo ruins is the terraced agricultural fields, which were used for farming by the Incas The terraces were built on steep slopes and were designed to prevent erosion and to make the most efficient use of the available land.
While visiting the Ollantaytambo ruins you can also see a series of impressive storehouses and water channels. The storehouses were designed to keep food cool and dry, and the water channels were used to irrigate the farming area. Visiting the ruins of Ollantaytambo can take about 3 hours, the ruins are quite large although it may not seem like it if you explore it from side to side. To visit the ruins of Ollantaytambo is necessary to purchase the tourist ticket, which will allow you to visit 3 more sites, if you want to save time you can also opt for the Sacred Valley tour starting from Ollantaytambo. Contact us for more information.
Moray & Maras Salt Mines Tour From Ollantaytambo, Perú: Journey to the Heart of the Sacred Valley
From US $ 90.002) Ollantaytambo Market
The Ollantaytambo market is a vibrant and colorful marketplace located in the town of Ollantaytambo, Peru. This bustling market offers visitors a wide range of local products, including textiles, pottery, jewelry. This market is also a popular destination for tourists, as well as locals, seeking to experience the traditional culture of the Andean region.
3) The Pinkuylluna Incan Storehouses
The Pinkuylluna Incan Storehouses Ollantaytambo are located on the east side of the town and overlooks the Ollantaytambo ruins. The hike to the ruins of Pinkuylluna is considered a moderate to difficult trail that takes visitors up a steep path to the top of the mountain.
The hike can take anywhere from 20-35 minutes, depending on one’s fitness level and pace. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding valley and mountains.
At the summit of Pinkuyuna Mountain, visitors can reach the ancient Incan ruins that are scattered throughout the area. These ruins include a series of granaries. The granaries are made of stone and are built into the side of the mountain. The storehouses of Pinkuyuna were built at high altitude to preserve the food.
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and sunscreen. The opening hours to visit this place is from 7am to 4pm so hurry up! By the way, you don’t need to buy a ticket to visit the site, admission is free.
4) Cachicata Inca Quarry
Cachicata Quarry is an ancient Inca quarry located near Ollantaytambo, Peru. The quarry is situated on a mountainside and is known for its impressive Inca stonework, which was used to build many of the buildings and structures in Ollantaytambo.
Visitors can reach the Cachicata Quarry from the town of Ollantaytambo on a full day hike. This is a very interesting place to learn about the techniques and tools used by the Inca people to extract and shape the stone. The quarry is almost intact, and visitors can see how the Incas used traditional methods for cutting the stones. The hike to Inca quarry is a great warm-up trek and perfect for training for the Inca Trail. The Cachicata hike to the Inca Quarries begins in Ollantaytambo crossing the Urubamba River on the Inca-bridge.
Along the way it is possible to see the paths where the great stone blocks were slid down the hillside and hauled across the river to Ollantaytambo by the Incas.
The hike takes between 2 to 3 hours one way from the town of Ollantaytambo, if you are going to be sure to bring enough water and something to eat up there is not possible to find anything to eat.
5) Visit the Local Mercado
Located quite close to the Ollantaytambo plaza. The local market of Ollantaytambo is visited by locals and tourists because of the fresh fruits and vegetables. This place is very popular not only for locals but also for travelers looking for places where they can experience a more authentic experience. The market is also visited by those who will start the 4 day Inca Trail, as this place is the last stop to buy snacks, socks, backpacks, you will find everything here.
6) Sky Lodge Hanging Hotel in Peru
The Skylodge Adventure Suites in Ollantaytambo, Peru is a unique and thrilling accommodation experience. This eco-friendly lodge is suspended on a cliffside 400 meters above the Sacred Valley of Perú. It provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The hotel consists of three transparent capsules, each with a comfortable bed, a private bathroom, and an amazing view of the valley. The capsules are made of aerospace aluminum and polycarbonate, and they are attached to the cliff with steel cables for stability and safety. To reach the capsules, visitors must climb a 400-meter via ferrata.
The lodge offers various adventure activities such as hiking, rock climbing, via ferrata, and ziplining. If you are planning on staying in Ollantaytambo this is definitely a must not to be missed.
7) Perolniyoc Water Fall
Perolniyoc is located in the community of Socma, which is one of the districts of Ollantaytambo in Urubamba province. It is located approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Cusco, but it is very close from Ollantaytambo. This place is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit from Ollantaytambo.
The waterfall derives its name from the local inhabitants who refer to the place as Perolniyoc, which is also the name of the archaeological site located on top of the waterfall.
The Perolniyoc waterfall boasts a staggering drop of around 80 meters, with a current that is relatively shallow and can be reached by a short hike from the town of Ollantaytambo.
The hike to Perolniyoc Waterfall takes approximately 35 minutes. The trail is not too challenging. Along the way, visitors will pass through lush vegetation, with opportunities to spot native birds and other wildlife.If you prefer to do this trip with a travel agency, you can contact us at info@comeseeperutours.com.
8) Ñaupa Iglesia
Ñaupa Iglesia is an ancient temple located in Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley of Peru. The temple is believed to have been built during the Inca Empire, around the 15th and 16th centuries. It is a unique and significant archaeological site, with a rich history and a strong spiritual significance for locals.
The site can be visited from the town of Ollantaytambo which is quite close to the site. Although it is more advisable to visit it with a travel agency or guide who can also make sure you find the right way to get there.
9) Maras Salt Mines
The Salt Mines are located near the town of Maras in the Sacred Valley of Peru. These salt mines have been in use since pre-Incan times, and continue to be harvested by local families to this day.
The Salt Mines of Maras consist of over 6,000 salt pools, each about 5 square meters in size, which are filled with saltwater that comes from a nearby underground spring. The process of harvesting the salt has been passed down from generations to generations.
Visitors can visit the Maras Salt Mines on a guided tour from Ollantaytambo, and learn about the history and cultural significance of the salt mines. The view from the top of the salt pools is particularly impressive not to be missed.
10) The Ruins of Moray
The Moray Ruins, located near the town of Ollantaytambos in the Sacred Valley of Peru, are a fascinating and unique archaeological site that is popular among visitors staying in Ollantaytambo. The site consists of a series of circular terraces, which were likely used by the Inca people for farming and farming experimentation.
BEST Tours & Day Trips from Ollantaytambo (UPDATED – 2024)
From US $ 55.00Ollantaytambo Elevation
Ollantaytambo is located at an elevation of 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) above sea level. (Lower than Cusco), at this altitude, visitors do not experience symptoms of altitude sickness since the elevation is a big help to prevent it.
Is it Worth Staying in Ollantaytambo?
Yes, staying in Ollantaytambo is definitely worth it. This charming town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas offers a unique and authentic experience for travelers visiting Peru.
Staying in Ollantaytambo allows visitors to explore the impressive ruins, including the Temple of the Sun, without the crowds. Do not hesitate to stay in Ollantaytambo on your way to Machu Picchu.
Tours From Ollantaytambo
Unfortunately all tours to the Sacred Valley do not depart from Ollantaytambo but from Cusco, however, we organize tours from Ollantaytambo to any place and we take you back to your hotel in Ollantaytambo at the end of the trip or we transfer you to Cusco.
Find the best tours from Ollantaytambo at the best price. Contact us right away we have something for you. We are happy to make your stay in Ollantaytambo much more enjoyable and entertaining. Check out our tours from Ollantaytambo.
