Ollantaytambo Travel Guide

Manco Inca used spears and stones to attack the Spanish who had planned to surprise the Inca. He and his army flooded the fields, trapping the would-be attackers in mud. This attack was to be one of the few significant Inca victories during the era of the Spanish Conquest.

Today, the train station to Machu Picchu is located here. Ollanta, as it is affectionately called, is also a starting point for the Inca Trail. Thousands pass through daily on their way to visit the ancient Inca fortress. But the town and its ruins are certainly worth a visit before boarding the train. Be sure to build in some time to explore this fascinating ancient village and its towering Inca fortress.

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Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley

Ollantaytambo is one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru's Sacred Valley, located northwest of Cusco along the Urubamba River. Unlike many archaeological sites in the region, its original Inca street plan, stone foundations, and water channels remain part of everyday life, while the archaeological complex rises directly above the town. Here, one can climb to the top of the Inca fortress and look down on the village below. The ruins themselves boast many features of interest, including old Inca stonework, steep stairways, fortified walls, lookouts, and storage rooms.

Below the ruins, in the old part of the village, one observes ancient cobblestoned streets and viable aqueducts. Open to foot traffic only, Qosco Ayllu is probably the most authentic old Inca neighborhood in existence anywhere. Some local homes maintain the architectural features of ancient days, with Inca stonework and arched stone doorways. A visit to a typical Inca residence is intriguing, with its adobe construction and cuy, or guinea pig room. This recessed room is typically built off the kitchen where the cuyes squeakily run about until selected for dinner.

Ollantaytambo, Peru: Overview & Highlights

Elevation & Altitude of Ollantaytambo (2,792 masl)

This town sits at an altitude of 9,160 fasl. This makes summiting the ruins a slight challenge, as one may be short of breath at this elevation. It’s a good idea to acclimate at a slightly lower elevation around the Sacred Valley to help prevent any symptoms. Good hydration is essential. Local remedies, such as coca tea, may be useful should symptoms appear.

Several mountains are visible from Ollantaytambo, including Ausangate, Veronica, and Wakay Willka, meaning “Sacred Tears” in Quechua. Several day hikes in and around the town lead to spectacular views. One of these is the hike to the Inca Quarries, with vistas of the Urubamba River, Ollantaytambo, and Mt. Veronica.

Acclimatization Tips & Best Time to Visit

Given Ollantaytambo’s altitude at 2,792 masl (9,160 fasl), taking time to acclimatize is important. Travelers coming directly from Lima or lower altitudes may want to spend a couple of nights in the Sacred Valley, at slightly lower elevations like Urubamba or Pisac, before tackling steep climbs at the fortress. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding heavy alcohol consumption are helpful measures. Coca tea and other local herbal infusions are commonly used remedies that may ease mild symptoms. If you feel unwell, take it slow and allow your body to adjust.

The best time to visit Ollantaytambo is during the dry season, from May to September. Days are generally sunny, skies are clear, and conditions are ideal for exploring the ruins and nearby hikes. This period also coincides with many Andean festivals, adding a cultural dimension to your visit. The rainy season (November to March) brings greener landscapes and fewer crowds, but expect occasional downpours and muddy trails. April and October are considered shoulder months, offering a balance of pleasant weather and smaller visitor numbers.

Weather & Climate

During the wet season, November to March, temperatures in this area fall between 50 to 65°F. From April to September, the climate will be drier and the days sunnier. Temperatures normally range from 40° F to 75°F. As is the norm at this altitude, there can be much variation between daytime and nighttime temperatures. Dressing in layers that can be shed and carrying a rain poncho are advisable.

Maps & Location

These helpful illustrations depict various features of the town’s layout and ruins. It should be a handy guide for your visit.

How to Get to Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is located about 72 km (45 miles) northwest of Cusco, in the Sacred Valley. The journey from Cusco typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road, depending on traffic and the type of transportation. Travelers can reach the town by colectivo, private transfer, or as part of an organized Sacred Valley tour.

• By bus: Shared vans and minibuses connect Cusco with Ollantaytambo and are one of the most affordable ways to make the journey. Services depart regularly throughout the day.

• By private transfer: A private vehicle offers more flexibility and can be particularly convenient for travelers planning stops elsewhere in the Sacred Valley along the way.

• By organized tour: Many Sacred Valley itineraries include Ollantaytambo alongside other archaeological sites and towns, allowing travelers to explore several destinations before continuing to Ollantaytambo or returning to Cusco.

Entrance Fee & Tickets

To visit the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, travelers need a Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco). Ollantaytambo is included in Circuit III, which covers several of the Sacred Valley's main archaeological sites.

International visitors can choose between the Full Tourist Ticket, which costs S/130 and is valid for 10 days, or the Partial Tourist Ticket – Circuit III, which costs S/70 and is valid for 2 days. The latter includes Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Chinchero, and Moray, making it a practical option for travelers focusing on the Sacred Valley.

What to See in Ollantaytambo - Archaeological Sites

The Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site is the town's main attraction, rising above the historic center and within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas. The complex includes agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial fountains, qolcas, and monumental stonework, as well as the site associated with Manco Inca's victory over Spanish forces in 1537.

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Temple of the Sun

Religious rituals were performed at this important Inca temple. It contains an enormous wall with six pinkish monolithic structures arranged side by side. The temple contains a trapezoidal window that is positioned to catch the sun’s rays at winter solstice. It is thought that only kings and priests were allowed entry to this portion of the fortress.

Enclosure of the 10 Niches

This wall with ten recesses, or niches, sheltered and preserved Inca mummies.

Terraces leading up to the archeological site

There are seventeen enormous agricultural terraces leading to the top of the ruins, reached by two hundred Inca stone steps.

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Ceremonial Baths and Water Temple

These functional fountains and baths were used for bathing by the Inca royalty. The Baño de la Ñusta was purely for the Inca princess’ use.

Qolcas

These ancient grain storage areas are located high up on the facing mountain. Because of the cooler temperatures at this height, grain stayed fresher for longer periods of time.

Set aside two to three hours to climb to the top of the fortress and explore its features.

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What to Do in Ollantaytambo

Beyond its main archaeological site, Ollantaytambo offers several walks and lesser-visited Inca sites in and around the town. Pinkuylluna can be reached on foot from the historic center, while places such as Pumamarca, Ñaupa Iglesia, Punku Punku, Inkapintay, and Qelloraqay allow travelers with more time to explore beyond the main visitor route.

Pinkuylluna

One rarely visited site is known as Pinkuylluna. It’s located at the other end of Ollantaytambo from the main archaeological site.Pinkuylluna is a short walk from the village and is reached by climbing a pathway of rough-hewn steps. It is believed that the structures here were used to store grain in ancient times. From Pinkuylluna, you can look across to the facing mountainside and observe the main fortress.

Chocana and Ñaupa Iglesia

These rarely visited ruins are a half-day hike from Ollantaytambo. Some sections of the walk to the ruins are along original Inca paths. The ruins are on a wall above the river. Another twenty minutes or so along the train tracks leads to Ñaupa Iglesia. These ruins are along a steep wall;you may have to scramble to reach them. They consist ofa vertical stone wall with recessed niches and a mysterious carved entryway that leads to nowhere.

Pumamarca

This is a day trip from Ollanta. A bit more remote, these ruins protected the northern end of the Sacred Valley. There is a minivan with service to a point from which you can climb to the ruins (one hour approximately.) Alpacas are often seen grazing in the fields in and around this small Inca fortress.

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Punku Punku

A short walk from the Plaza de Armas. There is an Inca wall along the pathway known as the Hundred-Niche Wall. Punku Punku itself consists of a twofold stone doorway that overlooks an aqueduct flowing below.

A few minutes from Punku Punku, passing through some idyllic rural scenery, you will find Inkapintay. This is an elevated ruin you can observe from below or climb for a closer view. It consists of a recess in a stone wall and ancient Inca water canals.

Qelloraqay

This small set of ruins is a short downhill walk from the Plaza de Armas. It is notable for its lovely setting near fertile farmlands with the Urubamba River flowing alongside. As you climb back up to the town, you can catch a glimpse of Mt. Veronica in the distance.

Other attractions in Ollantaytambo:

Have a drink and a meal at one of the restaurants off the Plaza de Armas. Some recommended restaurants are: Amanto-Cocina Sagrada, Chuncho, and El Albergue (at the train station).

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Visit the Casa de Cuyes (House of Guinea Pigs). It is like a guinea pig farm with miniature houses and tunnels for the guinea pigs to explore You can pet them and take pictures as desired. Keep in mind that cuyes are a meat animal in Peru. This place is also a restaurant that serves, well, guinea pig.

Visit the Cerveceria del Valle: aka the Sacred Valley Brewery. It’s a few minutes outside of town, so expect to take a taxi rather than walk. Taste the artisanal ales, craft beers, and IPA’s. The brewmaster is from the US but uses local Andean ingredients in his beers. There is a food menu as well as outdoor seating and a play area for the kiddos.

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How Much Time Do You Need in Ollantaytambo?

Most travelers should plan at least half a day to one full day in Ollantaytambo. A half-day is enough to explore the main archaeological site and walk through the historic center, while a full day allows time to add Pinkuylluna and discover more of the town at a comfortable pace.

Travelers with two days or more can explore some of the archaeological sites and hiking routes outside town, including Pumamarca, Ñaupa Iglesia, or the Inca Quarries. An overnight stay is also convenient for those continuing by train to Machu Picchu.

Suggested One-Day Ollantaytambo Itinerary

A full day in Ollantaytambo gives you enough time to explore the main archaeological site, walk through the historic streets, and visit Pinkuylluna without rushing. Most of the day's main stops can be reached on foot from the center of town.

• Morning: Start at the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, allowing two to three hours to explore its terraces, Temple of the Sun, ceremonial areas, and other structures. Afterwards, walk through Qosqo Ayllu and its narrow stone streets and original Inca water channels.

• Lunch: Return to the area around the Plaza de Armas for lunch at one of the town's restaurants.

• Afternoon: Cross to the opposite side of town and walk up to Pinkuylluna. From the hillside storehouses, you can look back across Ollantaytambo toward the main archaeological site and the surrounding valley.

Travelers staying an additional day can use it to explore sites farther from town, such as Pumamarca, Ñaupa Iglesia, or the Inca Quarries.

Visiting Ollantaytambo from Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Ollantaytambo can be visited on a day trip from Cusco or as part of a longer journey through the Sacred Valley. Many itineraries combine the town with other important sites in the valley, making it possible to explore several places in a single day before returning to Cusco or continuing toward Machu Picchu.

For travelers with more time, staying overnight in Ollantaytambo allows for a more relaxed visit and makes it easier to explore nearby sites and hiking routes. The town is also a convenient stop before taking the train to Machu Picchu or beginning trekking experiences in this part of the Andes.

Explorandes can incorporate Ollantaytambo into customized Sacred Valley itineraries, combining archaeological sites, local communities, outdoor activities, and onward travel to Machu Picchu according to each traveler's schedule and interests.

Where to Stay in Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley

Travelers can stay directly in Ollantaytambo or use another part of the Sacred Valley as a base. Staying in town is particularly convenient for exploring its historic streets and archaeological site, as well as for travelers taking an early train to Machu Picchu. Properties elsewhere in the valley offer easy access to Ollantaytambo while providing a quieter setting.

El Albergue Ollantaytambo is located by the town's train station, making it a convenient choice for travelers continuing to Machu Picchu. Beyond accommodation, the property has gardens and an organic farm and offers experiences centered on local food and ingredients, including a traditional pachamanca.

Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado is another option for travelers who prefer to stay within the wider Sacred Valley rather than in the center of Ollantaytambo. The hotel offers breakfast and Wi-Fi and can work well as a base for exploring different parts of the valley.

Willka T'ika is located near Urubamba, around 30 minutes by road from Ollantaytambo's train station. Designed as a wellness retreat, the property is surrounded by gardens and offers vegetarian dining, yoga spaces, and Andean spa treatments, making it better suited to travelers looking for a more wellness-focused stay in the Sacred Valley.

Explore Ollantaytambo with Explorandes

Take some time to explore Ollantaytambo on your way to or from Machu Picchu. With its Archaeological Park, surrounding ruins, and authentic Inca section, Ollantaytambo has much to offer. Set aside a half-day to visit the main ruins, or several days to explore this area more thoroughly. We at Explorandes will be delighted to assist in making your trip to Ollantaytambo a memorable one. Contact us for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the elevation of Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo sits at an elevation of 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) above sea level. This is lower than Cusco (3,400 m) but higher than Machu Picchu (2,430 m), making it a practical acclimatization stop before tackling higher altitudes. Mild altitude symptoms are possible — stay hydrated and take it slow on arrival.

How do I get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?

The most common way is by shared colectivo (minivan) from Pavitos Street in Cusco, costing around 10–15 soles and taking 1.5 to 2 hours. Private taxis and organized Sacred Valley day tours are also available. The paved road through Urubamba offers stunning Andean scenery along the way.

What is the entrance fee for Ollantaytambo ruins?

Entry to the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park requires a Boleto Turístico. The full pass costs 130 soles (valid 10 days, covers 16 sites), while the partial pass is 70 soles (valid for 2 days, covers 4 sites). Tickets can be purchased at the site entrance or at the Boleto Turístico office in Cusco.

How long should I spend in Ollantaytambo?

Allow at least half a day to visit the main fortress and explore the historic Qosqo Ayllu neighborhood. If you want to hike to Pinkuylluna, visit secondary ruins like Pumamarka, or simply enjoy the town's restaurants and ambiance, plan for one to three full days. Many travelers combine it with a Machu Picchu trip.

What is the best time to visit Ollantaytambo?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September. Days are sunny, skies are clear, and conditions are ideal for climbing the fortress terraces and nearby hikes. April and October offer a pleasant balance of good weather and smaller crowds. The rainy season (November to March) brings lush landscapes but occasional downpours.