Must-See Historic Sites in Ollantaytambo

The town itself is a historical monument that dates back centuries. You can walk through narrow cobblestone streets with original stone walls. Water still flows through ancient stone channels right next to the sidewalks. This area served as a royal estate for the Emperor Pachacuti. Later, it became a major stronghold during the Spanish conquest. Many visitors find the local history as fascinating as Machu Picchu itself.

To see these sites, you usually need the Cusco Tourist Ticket. It is locally known as the Boleto Turistico. You can purchase this from the official COSITUC offices in Cusco or at the ruins gate. Spend time wandering through the living Inca village history by exploring the different sectors of the town. Each alley has its own story, from textile shops to traditional kitchens. Most of these sites are easy to access on foot from the main plaza.

1. Name: Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is a massive Inca fortress with incredible stone terraces. It features the unfinished Temple of the Sun with six giant monoliths.
   Best for: History buffs & photographers
   Where: Just west of the town square
   Time: 2–3 hours
   Cost: Included in the Boleto Turistico
   Getting there: Walk from any hotel in town
   Tip: Climb to the top for a view of the entire valley.
2. Name: Pinkuylluna Storehouses
   Type: activity
   Why go: These ancient granaries sit high on the mountain overlooking the town. The altitude kept the crops cool and preserved them longer.
   Best for: Active travelers seeking a free view
   Where: Mountain opposite the main ruins
   Time: 1–1.5 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Hike up the steep trail from Calle La Convención
   Tip: Best followed in the morning as it is shaded from the sun. Look for the "Inca's face" carved in the rock nearby.
3. Name: The Living Inca Village
   Type: experience
   Why go: This is the best-preserved layout of an Inca town. You can see how the original "kanchas" (courtyards) were designed.
   Best for: Walking tours & local culture
   Where: The narrow streets north of the main plaza
   Time: 1–2 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Simply walk outside your hotel
   Tip: Look for red plastic bags on sticks, which signal a house is selling fresh chicha.

Amazing Top Attractions Near Ollantaytambo for Hikers

If you enjoy the outdoors, you are in luck. The mountains surrounding this town offer world-class hiking trails. Many of these routes follow original Inca paths used for communication and trade. You will see changing ecosystems from dry scrub to lush high-altitude forests. These trails often lead to secluded ruins that few tourists ever visit. It is a great way to escape the crowds found at major landmarks.

Always carry plenty of water and wear sun protection. The high altitude makes the sun very strong, even on cloudy days. You might want to hire a local guide for the longer trails. Many paths are not well-marked and can be confusing. For those staying several days, these top attractions near Ollantaytambo provide a perfect physical challenge. Be sure to check weather patterns before starting a long mountain trek.

1. Name: Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
   Type: activity
   Why go: This is a high-altitude stone gate that frames Mount Veronica. It was a sacred site for observing the mountains.
   Best for: Advanced hikers
   Where: High above the Rio Vilcanota
   Time: 6–8 hours round trip
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Hike from the Inca Bridge area south of town
   Tip: Start very early to avoid the midday heat and afternoon clouds.
2. Name: Pumamarca Ruins
   Type: sight
   Why go: An ancient hilltop fortress that predates the Incas in some sections. It offers a unique look at pre-Inca architecture and extensive terraces.
   Best for: Hikers and solitude seekers
   Where: Roughly 6km north of town
   Time: 4–5 hours including the hike
   Cost: Small entrance fee (not in Boleto)
   Getting there: Take a motortaxi up and hike back down to town through the terraces
   Tip: The trail back down passes through some of the valley's most beautiful farming areas.
3. Name: Perolniyoc Waterfall
   Type: activity
   Why go: A spectacular 100-meter tall waterfall with ruins sitting right at the top. It is one of the most scenic day trips from Ollantaytambo for nature lovers.
   Best for: Nature lovers
   Where: Near the village of Socma
   Time: 5–6 hours
   Cost: Free or small local community fee
   Getting there: 30-minute taxi to Socma, then a 45-minute hike
   Tip: Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic by the base of the falls.

Day Trips and Cultural Experiences Nearby

Beyond the trails, there are incredible cultural sites within a short drive. The Sacred Valley is full of diverse experiences for all ages. You can visit traditional markets or see unique agricultural experiments. These spots are perfect for those who want to see the valley without heavy hiking. Many tours combine several of these locations into a single day trip. They offer a deeper look at the ingenuity of the Andean people.

Transportation is easy to arrange from the town center. You can find shared vans (colectivos) or private taxis near the market. Visiting the artisan craft market is a great way to support local families. Most vendors sell handmade textiles, pottery, and jewelry. Remember that bargaining is common but should always be respectful. These experiences often become the highlight of a trip to Peru.

1. Name: Maras Salt Mines
   Type: sight
   Why go: Over 3,000 ancient salt ponds that are still used today. The contrast of the white salt against the red mountains is stunning.
   Best for: Photography & souvenirs
   Where: 40 minutes south of town
   Time: 1 hour
   Cost: Small local entry fee (approx 10-15 Soles)
   Getting there: Take a taxi or join a Maras and Moray tour
   Tip: Buy a small bag of pink salt from the local shop for your kitchen.
2. Name: Moray Agricultural Terraces
   Type: sight
   Why go: Giant circular depressions that served as an agricultural laboratory. Each level has a different temperature, allowing the Incas to test crops.
   Best for: Science/history fans
   Where: Near the village of Maras
   Time: 1.5 hours
   Cost: Included in the Boleto Turistico
   Getting there: Usually visited along with the Maras salt mines
   Tip: Stay on the marked paths to protect the delicate structure of the terraces.
3. Name: The Ancient Inca Bridge
   Type: sight
   Why go: A historic crossing point over the Urubamba River with original masonry. It marks the start of several important hiking routes.
   Best for: A quick walk
   Where: Southern edge of the village near the train station
   Time: 30 minutes
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Five-minute walk from the main plaza
   Tip: This is a great spot to watch the powerful river flow by in the rainy season.
4. Name: Artisan Craft Market
   Type: experience
   Why go: A colorful hub where locals sell traditional Andean goods. You can find high-quality alpaca wool items here.
   Best for: Shopping & gifts
   Where: Right at the entrance to the main ruins
   Time: 45 minutes
   Cost: Free to browse
   Getting there: Walk to the archaeological park entrance
   Tip: Walk past the first few stalls for better prices and more unique items.
5. Name: Machu Picchu
   Type: sight
   Why go: The most famous landmark in South America. While not technically "in" Ollantaytambo, this town is the primary gateway to the park.
   Best for: Everyone
   Where: Waterside train ride away
   Time: Full day
   Cost: High (Varies by train and entry ticket)
   Getting there: Take a train from the Ollantaytambo train station
   Tip: Book your circuit tickets months in advance to avoid disappointment.

Logistics for Visiting the Sacred Valley in 2026

Planning your trip to the Sacred Valley in 2026 requires some preparation. Most attractions are open year-round, but weather impacts the experience. The dry season runs from May to September and offers clear blue skies. This is also the busiest time for tourism and ticket sales. The rainy season, from December to March, brings lush green landscapes but muddy trails. Many travelers find October and April to be the perfect balance.

For transport, you have several reliable options. PeruRail and Inca Rail offer frequent service to Aguas Calientes. The train station is a short walk or quick motortaxi ride from the plaza. If you are staying in the village, try a local food guide to find the best pachamanca. Respecting local customs, like asking before taking photos of people, goes a long way. Always carry some cash in Soles, as many small shops do not take cards.