There are so many things to do in Cusco that it could be sort of overwhelming to put the perfect itinerary together. However, not many of us have the time to see it all and this blog will help you decide whether Ollantaytambo is worth visiting or not.
This special spot is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region that overflows in history, culture, and most importantly, mysticism. As you may know, it is the main attraction between Cusco and Machu Picchu thanks to its awe-inspiring landscapes, impressive archeological sites, and ancient traditions.
If you’d like to take a break, learn more about the Inca civilization, or simply enjoy the vast cultural expression of Cusco’s countryside, the town of Ollantaytambo might be the perfect destination for you.
Now, before getting into why you should visit Ollantaytambo, you should know about the importance of this part of the Sacred Valley during pre-Columbian times, so let’s get to it!
Ollantaytambo History
Not many of you know this, but the Inca civilization didn’t originate in the Cusco region. The territory was already occupied by different cultures, some of them older and larger than the Incas. The Ollantaytambo area was already occupied when the Incas arrived, but Pachacutec ordered the destruction of the village and incorporated them into their empire.
According to historians and archeologists, this settlement originated 400 years before the famous Quechua civilization, and the oldest archeological findings were traced back to the Huari society (100 – 1200 AD). Therefore, evidence points to Ollantaytambo as the oldest pre-Columbian settlement in the Sacred Valley.
So, experts assume that the Incas might have built on top of the remaining structures and expanded a pre-existing city. Once the Incas finally established themselves on these lands, built agricultural terraces that allowed them to grow different types of plants.
They also created a permanent irrigation system that is derived from the Patacancha River and is currently in use by locals. Likewise, the Ollantaytambo Ceremonial Fortress is the most impressive of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where some of its lithic pieces can weigh over 100 tons.
This archeological site is the largest in the region and comprises agricultural and defensive terraces, temples, and administrative areas. This outstanding wonder of Inca architecture was their last resistance point during the war with the Spanish colonizers, which they successfully won but took advantage of their victory and fled to the Jungle.
Now that you know this…
Ollantaytambo is not just another small town near Cusco, it is a live museum, an ancient city full of history and a living legacy that has lived on for centuries, represented by its Inca urbanistic distribution, which was maintained by the Spanish when they took over the lands.
This lost-in-time town might be small, but it definitely holds a significant part of the history of our ancestors, a vivid cultural expression, and a natural landscape like no other. If you’re looking for a quiet and beautiful place to spend a day or a few, this can be your best option.
Ollantaytambo will give you an authentic travel experience, allowing you to know more about our historical and cultural heritage, while also helping you unwind your mind to the energy of the Andes mountains.
Things to Do in Ollantaytambo
If we have got you interested, you might want to know what is there to do, so here we have listed the most popular activities in the city:
Ollantaytambo Archeological Site
This massive structure is located right at the heart of the town, it is one of the most imposing constructions of the Sacred Valley. The site served as an administrative and ceremonial center, which turned into a fortress during the colonization process.
The ruins are surprisingly well preserved though they suffered some damage during the Ollantaytambo war in 1537 and when the Spaniards gained control of the land. Nowadays, it is one of the most important pre-Columbian settlements in Peru. If you wish to visit the Ollantaytambo Archeological Site, you must purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket.
Pinkuylluna Storehouse
If you’ve been looking at the pictures from above the Ollantaytambo ruins, you surely have noticed a particular construction built on the cliffside of a mountain. Well, this ancient structure was also built by the Incas to help the conservation the crops cultivated in the nearby terraces.
The site was presumably constructed during the Pachacutec reign, about the same time as the city was being rebuilt. The storehouses are strategically positioned at a high altitude to preserve and protect the food.
It is free to visit this archeological site though we must highlight that the hike could be quite difficult if you’re not used to the altitude or don’t have a good physical condition since the trail is very steep.
Ollantaytambo Town
As we mentioned before, the town itself is a live museum where colonial architecture merges perfectly with the Inca structures used as their foundations. Ollantaytambo is surrounded by a flourishing scenery and offers a relaxing experience in every corner.
If you’re looking for an authentic experience during your trip to Peru and Cusco, make sure to add the Sacred Valley to your travel itinerary. Take your time to explore each town and make the most of your stay!
So… Should you visit Ollantaytambo?
In our opinion, it is a must-stop on the way to Machu Picchu and the best place to connect with nature, culture, and history. So yes! You should definitely give this town a space in your tour itinerary, whether it is for a day, on a tour, or an overnight stay, it will surely get you all captivated.
Also, for those planning to take a train ride from Machu Picchu, you can easily do it in this small town! That way you can enjoy Ollantaytambo’s attractions on the way to this wonder of the world.
Getting to Ollantaytambo
As you already know, Ollantaytambo is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, at 2,792 m.a.s.l. and only 60.6 km from the former imperial capital, Cusco. Most travelers choose to head down to the valley upon arrival in Cusco due to the lower altitude, allowing themselves to get used to it quickly.
Whether you’d like to come to Ollantaytambo from Cusco at once or later, it is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or tour. Here are some recommendations for you!:
If you would like to get there on your own, you should know that it isn’t so complicated as long as you know basic Spanish. For those looking to get there directly, you can get a bus ride for 10-15 soles from Pavitos Street in Cusco without stopping on the way.
Keep in mind that locals tend to overcharge their prices to tourists, so don’t be afraid to bargain when you get caught in the middle of these situations, especially when you already know what the regular bus fare is.
Likewise, you can ask your travel agent or hotel to arrange a taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo for a reasonable price. This would be the best option if you’re looking to avoid long lines at the bus stop and crowded buses.
If you rather take a tour, it will be the best option to get to Ollantaytambo since you’d get to visit different towns and archeological sites on the way before arriving at this famous village. Besides, it will only take around 4-6 hours to complete the circuit, allowing you to have more time to explore Ollantaytambo and rest before continuing your adventure.
There are two options for this experience, Whether you’d like to join a group tour or a private excursion to the Sacred Valley, we have both alternatives. Make sure to contact our team so we can organize the perfect itinerary for you!
Make your way through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and uncover all its mysteries and fantastic history. We want you to experience Cusco to its fullest, so here’s some travel inspiration for your next vacation trip!
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