Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca town in Peru's Sacred Valley, sits at the foot of massive stone terraces and well-preserved ruins. This small settlement serves as a popular starting point for the Inca Trail and train journeys to Machu Picchu. In Ollantaytambo, you can climb the Temple of the Sun, walk along cobblestone streets lined with Inca-era buildings, and shop at the local market for handmade textiles and fresh produce.

Exploring the Inca Ruins

The main archaeological site in Ollantaytambo sits on a hill overlooking the town. You'll climb steep stone steps to reach the top, where you'll find the remains of the Temple of the Sun. This structure consists of six massive granite blocks, each weighing over 50 tons. From this vantage point, you can see the Urubamba Valley and the grid-like layout of the town below.

The terraces you pass on your way down once served agricultural purposes and acted as a defense system against invaders. At the base of the hill, you'll come across the Baño de la Ñusta, or "Bath of the Princess," a ceremonial fountain with well-preserved stone carvings.

The Living Inca Town

Ollantaytambo is unique because people still live in buildings constructed during Inca times. As you walk through the narrow streets, you'll notice the precise stonework at the base of many buildings, characterized by large, tightly-fitted stones. The town is divided into canchas, or blocks, each with a single entrance leading to an inner courtyard.

The main square, Plaza de Armas, is a central gathering place in the town. Here you'll find restaurants, shops, and a small market where locals sell handicrafts and textiles. You can sit on a bench and observe residents going about their daily routines, from shopping for groceries to chatting with neighbors.

Getting to Ollantaytambo

Most visitors reach Ollantaytambo from Cusco, a journey that takes about two hours by car or bus. You can take a taxi directly from Cusco for more flexibility, though it's more expensive. Alternatively, shared vans called colectivos leave regularly from Calle Pavitos in Cusco. These are cheaper but can get crowded.

If you're coming from other parts of the Sacred Valley, such as Urubamba or Pisac, you'll also find colectivos or taxis to Ollantaytambo. The town is well-connected due to its position as a transport hub for Machu Picchu.

Where to Stay and Eat

Ollantaytambo has accommodations for various budgets. Many family-run guesthouses have rooms arranged around a central courtyard, reflecting traditional Inca design.

Restaurants in town serve both Peruvian and international cuisine. Local dishes include cuy (guinea pig), a traditional Andean delicacy, and quinoa soup, which uses the protein-rich grain native to the region. For a quick bite, head to the local market where you can taste fresh fruits and local cheeses.

Tips for Your Visit

The dry season, from May to September, typically has the best weather for visiting Ollantaytambo. However, more tourists visit during this time, so book accommodations early. To enter the main archaeological site, you need to purchase the Boleto Turístico, a multi-site ticket that covers several attractions in the Sacred Valley.

Consider spending at least one night in Ollantaytambo before continuing to Machu Picchu. This gives you time to explore the town thoroughly and helps with acclimatization to the high altitude. Drink plenty of water and take it easy on your first day to avoid altitude sickness.