Ollantaytambo: A Hidden Gem in Peru

Introduction

Welcome to Ollantaytambo, a magical place in Peru where you can step back in time and experience the wonders of the Inca Empire. This small town is filled with history, beauty, and adventure. Let’s explore why Ollantaytambo is such a special place to visit!

What is Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo is a town in Peru, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s about 45 minutes from the famous city of Cusco. Ollantaytambo is known for its incredible ruins, charming streets, and rich history. It’s a place where the past and present come together.

The History of Ollantaytambo

Inca Resistance

Ollantaytambo played a big role in the Inca resistance against the Spanish conquest of Peru. The town was an important stronghold for the Incas, who fought bravely to protect their land.

Manco Inca and Hernando Pizarro

In January 1537, Manco Inca, one of the leaders of the Inca resistance, fought against the Spanish conquistadors led by Hernando Pizarro. The Incas built strong defenses and managed to hold off the Spanish for a while. This battle is an important part of Ollantaytambo’s history.

Inca Nobility and Construction

Ollantaytambo was also a special place for Inca nobility. The Incas built impressive structures here, including temples, terraces, and fortresses. These buildings show the incredible skills and knowledge of the Inca builders.

Exploring the Ollantaytambo Ruins

The Ollantaytambo Ruins

One of the main attractions in Ollantaytambo is the ruins. These ancient structures are a testament to the greatness of the Inca Empire. You can walk through the ruins and imagine what life was like for the Incas.

Baño de la Ñusta

A special part of the Ollantaytambo ruins is the Baño de la Ñusta, which means “Bath of the Princess.” This beautiful stone structure was used for ceremonial purposes and is a great example of Inca engineering.

Las Colcas and Las Portadas

While exploring the ruins, you’ll come across Las Colcas, which were used for storing food, and Las Portadas, which are the impressive gateways to the city. These structures highlight the Incas’ advanced architectural skills.

Visiting Ollantaytambo

How to Get to Ollantaytambo

By Train

Getting to Ollantaytambo is easy. You can take a train from Cusco, which takes about 45 minutes. The train station in Ollantaytambo is conveniently located, making it a great starting point for your adventure.

By Bus or Taxi

If you prefer, you can also take a bus or taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. The distance from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is about 60 kilometers (37 miles), and the journey offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley.

From Urubamba to Ollantaytambo

To get from Urubamba to Ollantaytambo, you can take a taxi or a local bus. The taxi ride is quick and convenient, allowing you to enjoy the scenic route.

Train to Machu Picchu

Many visitors use Ollantaytambo as a base to visit Machu Picchu. You can take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town closest to Machu Picchu. The train schedule is frequent, making it easy to plan your trip.

The Town of Ollantaytambo

The town of Ollantaytambo is charming and full of life. As you walk through its cobblestone streets, you’ll see traditional houses and shops. The town has a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Tourist Attractions

Besides the ruins, there are many other things to see and do in Ollantaytambo. You can visit local markets, enjoy delicious Peruvian food, and explore the beautiful surroundings of the Sacred Valley.

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning area that surrounds Ollantaytambo. It’s filled with breathtaking landscapes, rivers, and mountains. It’s a perfect place for hiking and enjoying nature.

Ollantaytambo vs. Pisac

Both Ollantaytambo and Pisac are amazing destinations in the Sacred Valley. While Pisac is known for its impressive agricultural terraces and market, Ollantaytambo offers a more immersive experience with its well-preserved ruins and historic town. Each has its unique charm and is worth visiting.

Things to Do in Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site

The archaeological site in Ollantaytambo is a must-see. Here, you can explore the ancient ruins and learn about the history of the Inca Empire. The site is well-preserved and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.

Hot Springs

After a day of exploring, you can relax in the nearby hot springs. These natural baths are perfect for unwinding and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Best Hotels

1. El Albergue Ollantaytambo

Description: This charming hotel is located right next to the train station, making it a convenient choice for travelers heading to Machu Picchu. El Albergue offers beautiful rooms, an organic farm, a sauna, and a renowned farm-to-table restaurant. Amenities: Organic farm, On-site restaurant, Sauna, Beautiful gardens

2. Pakaritampu Hotel

Description: Pakaritampu Hotel provides a comfortable and elegant stay with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel is set in beautifully landscaped gardens and offers spacious rooms with modern amenities. Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, On-site restaurant, Beautiful gardens, Lounge area

3. Sol Natura Hotel

Description: This hotel offers a peaceful and cozy stay in Ollantaytambo. Sol Natura is known for its friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and excellent location close to the main square and the ruins. Amenities: Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Garden, Terrace

4. Hotel Samanapaq

Description: Hotel Samanapaq is set in a beautiful garden and offers a tranquil atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the hotel provides a cozy lounge with a fireplace, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Amenities: Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Garden, Lounge with fireplace

5. Casa Andina Standard Ollantaytambo

Description: Part of the well-known Casa Andina chain, this hotel offers reliable service and comfortable accommodations. It’s located close to the train station, making it an excellent choice for travelers heading to Machu Picchu. Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Free breakfast, 24-hour front desk, Garden

Best Restaurants

Ollantaytambo has some fantastic restaurants where you can try traditional Peruvian cuisine. Some of the best restaurants in town offer dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, providing a delightful culinary experience.

1. El Albergue Restaurant

Located within the charming El Albergue Hotel, this restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience. The ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, with many coming from the restaurant’s own organic farm. You can enjoy traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist.

Specialties: Quinoa salad, Alpaca steak, Fresh trout

2. Apu Veronica Restaurant

Apu Veronica is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes and some international options. The service is friendly, and the views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular.

Specialties: Lomo saltado, Ceviche, Pisco sours

3. Café Mayu

Located next to the train station, Café Mayu is perfect for a quick meal or a relaxing coffee. The café offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and homemade desserts. It’s a great spot to sit back and watch the trains go by.

Specialties: Sandwiches, Empanadas, Coffee and pastries

4. Hearts Café

Hearts Café is a social enterprise that supports local communities. The café offers healthy and delicious meals, with many vegetarian and vegan options. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among visitors.

Specialties: Vegan burgers, Smoothies, Soups and salads

5. Blue Magic

Blue Magic is a popular spot in Ollantaytambo, known for its generous portions and tasty food. The menu includes a variety of Peruvian and international dishes, and the prices are very reasonable.

Specialties: Pollo a la brasa (rotisserie chicken), Pasta dishes, Fresh juices

6. La Esquina

La Esquina offers a fusion of Peruvian and Italian cuisine. The restaurant is cozy, with a welcoming atmosphere and great service. It’s a perfect place for a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring.

Specialties: Pizzas, Pastas, Risottos

7. Il Piccolo Forno

This charming little restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta. The ingredients are high-quality, and the pizzas are made to order. It’s a great spot for a casual and delicious meal.

Specialties: Wood-fired pizzas, Fresh pasta, Salads

8. Tawa Restaurant

Tawa Restaurant offers a mix of traditional Peruvian dishes and modern cuisine. The restaurant has a lovely ambiance, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The food is well-prepared and beautifully presented.

Specialties: Causa rellena, Grilled meats, Desserts

9. Puka Rumi

Puka Rumi is a family-owned restaurant that serves traditional Andean cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the food is cooked with love and care. It’s a great place to try local dishes.

Specialties: Pachamanca (traditional Peruvian dish cooked in the earth), Stuffed peppers, Quinoa soup

10. Chuncho

Chuncho offers an authentic Andean dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The restaurant has a rustic charm and offers a variety of dishes that highlight the flavors of the Sacred Valley.

Specialties: Andean stews, Local meats, Traditional desserts

These restaurants offer a wide range of options, from traditional Peruvian cuisine to international dishes, ensuring that you can find something to suit your taste while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Ollantaytambo.

Tickets and Boleto Turístico

To visit the archaeological sites in Ollantaytambo and other attractions in the Sacred Valley, you can purchase a Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket). This ticket gives you access to multiple sites and is a convenient way to explore the area.

Weather in Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. The weather is usually mild, with cooler temperatures at night. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is sunny and perfect for exploring.

Fun Facts About Ollantaytambo

• Inca Resistance: Ollantaytambo was one of the last strongholds of the Inca resistance against the Spanish.
• Ancient Architecture: The town has some of the oldest continuously inhabited buildings in South America.
• Strategic Location: Ollantaytambo’s location in the Sacred Valley made it an important agricultural and military site for the Incas.
• Symbolic Structures: Many of the structures in Ollantaytambo were built to align with celestial events, showing the Incas’ advanced understanding of astronomy.
• Elevation: Ollantaytambo sits at an elevation of about 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) above sea level, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Getting From Cusco to Ollantaytambo

By Train

The train ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is scenic and comfortable. It takes about 45 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.

By Bus

Buses are another popular option for getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, and buses run regularly throughout the day.

By Taxi

For a more direct route, you can take a taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. This option is faster and more convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Day Trips from Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is a great base for exploring other parts of the Sacred Valley. You can take day trips to nearby attractions such as Pisac, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines. Each of these sites offers unique experiences and insights into the Inca culture.

Conclusion

Ollantaytambo is a hidden gem in Peru that offers a rich history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, learning about the Inca Empire, or starting your adventure on the Inca Trail, Ollantaytambo has something for everyone.

So pack your bags, hop on a train, and get ready to discover the magic of Ollantaytambo! This beautiful town in the Sacred Valley is waiting to share its secrets with you. Visit Ollantaytambo and create memories that will last a lifetime.