Best Things to Do in Urubamba, Perú
Venture into an unforgettable journey through Urubamba, where ancestral marvels and natural beauty combine. Our detailed guide highlights the main attractions and activities that make Urubamba a must-see tourist destination in Perú. Prepare to be mesmerized by the charm of this extraordinary place. In this ultimate guide, we uncover the best things to do in Urubamba, ensuring an outstanding adventure for every traveler.
Urubamba offers a wealth of cultural and natural experiences for travelers, making it a must-visit destination in the Sacred Valley of Perú. There’s something for everyone in this charming town. Read on for a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Urubamba.
This enchanting town is located just a short distance from Ollantaytambo. Urubamba is an ideal base for exploring the wonders of the Sacred Valley. The town is surrounded by towering peaks and beutiful valleys, It offers a quiet respite from bustling urban life, allowing visitors to soak in the sheer splendor of nature. Urubamba is full of captivating ruins that pay homage to the ancient Inca civilization, such as the ancient ruins of Moray, Ollantaytambo or the famous Salt Mines of the town of Maras. Aside from its historical gems, Urubamba welcomes visitors with warm hospitality and a vibrant local culture.
Where is located Urubamba?
This charming town is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Urubamba is a charming town and is home to stunning natural scenery, ancient Inca ruins. The town of Urubamba is situated about 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of the city of Cusco. The town is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and is one of the best places to acclimate before heading to higher altitudes.
Urubamba Elevation
Urubamba is located at an altitude of approximately 2,871 meters (9,420 feet) above sea level.
In the town of Urubamba, you can take things slow and allow your body to gradually adjust to the altitude. There are plenty of opportunities for gentle walks, the town is super safe for tourists.
Is Urubamba worth visiting?
Yes, Urubamba is definitely worth visiting. We not only encourage you to visit it but also to stay in the village. It is possible to explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley from your hotel in Urubamba. Here are some reasons why Urubamba is worth a visit:
- It’s a good place to acclimate to altitude before heading to higher altitude destinations like Cusco, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay lake, the classic Inca trail, etc.
- There are Inca ruins nearby, such as Ollantaytambo and Moray that can be visited from Urubamba.
- Urubamba is home to a well known traditional market where you can buy fruits, typical food and souvenirs.
What to Expect in Urubamba?
This enchanting Peruvian town offers a fascinating variety of experiences that promise to leave you enriched and captivated. Here is a glimpse of what to expect in Urubamba:
- Immerse in Ancient Ruins: Urubamba is a place steeped in history, with impressive archaeological sites that display the brilliance of the Inca civilization. Explore the breathtaking ruins of Moray, where concentric terraced circles once served as an agricultural lab. Wonder at the imposing fortress of Ollantaytambo, an impressive fortress and living Inca city that offers a look into the past.
- Trek amidst Scenic Beauty: Embark on inspiring hikes through Urubamba’s breathtaking scenery. Alternatively, explore off the beaten path and discover lesser-known trails that reveal hidden waterfalls, lush valleys and stunning views at every turn.
- Connect with Local Culture: Urubamba offers a unique chance to dive into the authentic Andean culture. Get in touch with the warm-hearted locals and learn about their traditions, crafts and way of life. Visit the lively local markets, where artisans display their intricate weavings, handmade ceramics and vibrant artwork, offering the opportunity to take home a piece of the rich heritage of Urubamba.
- Indulge in Gastronomic Delights:A gastronomic adventure awaits you in Urubamba, famous for its delicious Andean cuisine. Savor traditional dishes made with local ingredients, such as succulent roasted guinea pig or tasty pachamanca, a quinoa soup. Delight your palate with a culinary journey that captures the heart of the local gastronomy.
Best Things to Do in Urubamba, Perú
While you may find the town small or far from the city, there are many things to see and do in Urubamba depending on your preferences. Learn more about what to do and see in Urubamba. Here are some of the best things to do, including captivating day trips that start directly from Urubamba:
Enjoy the Scenery
Urubamba town offers a breathtaking scenery of the Sacred Valley with rivers, ruins and the Andes mountain range. One of the best ways to enjoy this scenery is by taking a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town of Urubamba.
Visit the Bustling local Market in Urubamba
Urubamba is home to one of the most authentic markets you can visit in Peru. If you are in Urubamba and you have free time you could visit the local market. Whatever you are looking for, you can find it at this happening market. You can find a lot of things, from fresh fruits, vegetables, alpaca meat, typical food, fresh fruit juices and even clothes. Vendors come from the entire Sacred Valley area to sell their products.
Santiago Apostle Church
The San Pedro Apostle Temple has the shape of a Latin Cross, its façade has three bodies, where the central body is the wooden door ending in a semicircular arch.
In its interior the altarpiece or main altar is made of wood, gilded and polychrome, it is an altarpiece of three bodies and in the central body is the tabernacle lined with silver plates carved and decorated with motifs of the fauna and flora of the place. If you like colonial art and architecture you can visit the church, which can be reached on foot from your hotel.
Visit the Urubamba Plaza
The Plaza de Armas of Urubamba (Peru) is home to a charming church. The Plaza de Armas is located in the heart of Urubamba, making it an ideal starting point for exploring this popular town. The Plaza is surrounded by bustling restaurants and cafes making it an ideal spot for a break.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, the Plaza de Armas has something for everyone.
Colonial cemetery of Urubamba
Believe it or not, a visit to the cemetery is one of the best things to do in Urubamba. This cemetery is decorated with beautiful bouquets of freshly cut flowers and is surrounded by the lush green mountains. The Urubamba cemetery is one of the most beautiful burial places in all of Peru and is well worth a visit.
River Rafting
Experience the thrill of navigating through the rapids of the Urubamba River, as you admire the breathtaking views of the Andes mountainsides. Afterward, savor a delicious lunch by the Urubamba river. The popular rafting routes in the Sacred Valley are the Urubamba-Ollantaytambo and Vilcanota-Urubamba sections, that are ideal for first-time rafters and children.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking in Urubamba is an exciting way to explore the stunning scenery of the Urubamba Valley. You can choose from a variety of routes that offer different levels of difficulty, from leisurely rides to more demanding trails. Or you can also rent a bike and leisurely explore the streets. Some hotels offer bikes their guests for free.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in Urubamba is a wonderful way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley. This ourdoor activity is an unique and unforgettable way to explore this fascinating region.
Livestock Market
Visit the Livestock Market of Urubamba, you’ll have the chance to witness locals selling a wide range of guinea pigs, poultry, and fluffy little chicks. There are ducks quacking and bags violently jerking with massive roosters. You may even come across bunnies and kittens.
Visit the Artisan Shops
Urubamba is also well known for its skilled artisans who create beautiful handmade ceramics. Exploring the artisan shops in Urubamba town is a must for anyone interested in Peruvian art.
Ñaupa Iglesia
Ñaupa Iglesia is nestled between the authentic town of Urubamba and the charming town of Ollantaytambo, within Peru’s Sacred Valley. These mighty ruins are accessible by public transportation and mainly through a smooth hiking route. Despite its immense sacredness, this extraordinarily mystical place remains relatively undiscovered, offering an authentically immersive experience. The trip to Ñaupa Iglesia is well worth it. The archaeological site is ingeniously set within a cave, radiating a unique energy that is evident at every step inside.
Perolniyoc waterfall
Perched in Peru’s enchanting Sacred Valley, the Perolniyoc Waterfall, also referred to as Catarata Perolniyoc, awaits to be discovered. Although the waterfall itself is a breathtaking spectacle, this adventure is even more enchanting with the presence of Inca ruins along the route and at the top of the falls. The mix of natural splendor and historical intrigue adds an extra layer of wealth to this hiking experience.
