Ollantaytambo Travel Guide 2025- Secrets of the Sacred Valley

Ollantaytambo is a small town in the Sacred Valley of Peru, located about 60 kilometers from Cusco. It is best known for its impressive Inca ruins, which are some of the best-preserved in the country. The town is also a popular base for hiking and trekking in the Sacred Valley.
Getting to Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is easily accessible by bus or train from Cusco. The bus journey takes about 1.5 hours, while the train journey takes about 2 hours. There are also a number of tour operators that offer day trips to Ollantaytambo from Cusco.
Things to do in Ollantaytambo
The main attraction in Ollantaytambo is the Inca ruins. The ruins are spread over a large area and include a fortress, a temple, and a number of terraces. The ruins are open to the public and can be visited from 7am to 5pm.
In addition to the Inca ruins, there are a number of other things to do in Ollantaytambo. These include:
- Hiking and trekking in the Sacred Valley
- Visiting the Cachiccata hacienda, where you can see the abandoned quarries from where the stones for the Inca ruins were extracted
- Climbing Pinkuylluna hill, which offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley
- Shopping for souvenirs in the town’s market
Where to stay in Ollantaytambo
There are a number of hotels and hostels to choose from in Ollantaytambo. The prices vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose.
Where to eat in Ollantaytambo
There are a number of restaurants to choose from in Ollantaytambo. The restaurants serve a variety of Peruvian and international cuisine.
When to visit Ollantaytambo
The best time to visit Ollantaytambo is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The weather is warm and sunny during this time, and the days are long.
Tips for visiting
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can be strong in the Sacred Valley.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
Ollantaytambo is a beautiful and historic town that is well worth a visit. With its impressive Inca ruins, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture, Ollantaytambo has something to offer everyone.
Here are some additional details about the things to do in Ollantaytambo:
Inca Ruins
The Inca ruins are the main attraction in Ollantaytambo. The ruins are spread over a large area and include a fortress, a temple, and a number of terraces. The fortress is particularly impressive, and it is thought to have been used as a base by the Incas during their wars with the Spanish. The temple is also well-preserved, and it is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies. The terraces were used for farming, and they are still used today by local farmers.
Hiking and Trekking in the Sacred Valley
Ollantaytambo is a great base for hiking and trekking in the Sacred Valley. There are a number of trails that lead to different Inca ruins and viewpoints. The most popular trail is the Inca Trail, which leads to Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail is a challenging hike, but it is well worth the effort for the stunning views.
Cachiccata Hacienda
The Cachiccata hacienda is located about 10 kilometers from Ollantaytambo. The hacienda is home to a number of abandoned quarries, where the stones for the Inca ruins were extracted. The quarries are a fascinating place to visit, and they offer a glimpse into the engineering skills of the Incas.
Pinkuylluna Hill
Pinkuylluna Hill is located about 2 kilometers from Ollantaytambo. The hill offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley. The hill is also home to a number of Inca ruins, including a temple and a water reservoir.
Market

The market in Ollantaytambo is a great place to experience the local culture and to buy souvenirs. The market is open every day, but it is busiest on Saturdays and Sundays.
The market is located in the main square of Ollantaytambo. It is a large market, and it is divided into different sections. There are sections for fruits and vegetables, meat and fish, textiles, and handicrafts.
The fruits and vegetables in the market are fresh and delicious. The meat and fish are also fresh, and they are a great way to try traditional Peruvian cuisine. The textiles in the market are beautiful, and they make great souvenirs. The handicrafts in the market are also beautiful, and they make great gifts for friends and family.
The prices in the market are very reasonable. You can find a variety of souvenirs for a good price. Be sure to bargain with the vendors to get the best price.
Ollantaytambo is a beautiful and historic town that is well worth a visit. With its impressive Inca ruins, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture
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