Ollantaytambo: what to see, ruins, market and how to get there

Many travelers visiting Cusco pass through Ollantaytambo on their way to Machu Picchu, but they don’t always realize everything this Inca town has to offer. The good news is that here you’ll find history, stunning landscapes, and living culture. In this guide, you’ll discover what to see, how to get there, prices, and tips to make the most of your visit.

🧭 What is Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo is one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

It was an important military, agricultural, and religious center of the Inca Empire, and today it still preserves its original urban layout, with stone streets and water channels that have been functioning for more than 500 years.

It is also known as the gateway to Machu Picchu, since most trains to the citadel depart from here.

🗺️ What to See in Ollantaytambo

⛰️ Ollantaytambo Fortress

The Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo is the town’s main attraction.

Here you can see:

• Massive Inca agricultural terraces
• The Temple of the Sun, built with enormous stone blocks
• Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley

This site was also the scene of a historic battle between the Incas and the Spanish conquistadors.

🏘️ The Inca Town of Ollantaytambo

One of the most fascinating aspects of Ollantaytambo is that it is still inhabited and preserves its original urban design.

While walking through the town you will see:

• Inca stone streets
• Ancient water canals
• Houses built on original Inca foundations

It is one of the few places in the Americas where the ancient city is still alive.

🛍️ Ollantaytambo Artisan Market

Near the main square you will find a small artisan market where travelers can buy:

• Andean textiles
• Local handicrafts
• Handmade souvenirs

It’s a great place to experience local culture and support artisans.

🚉 Train Station to Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo is the main train departure point to Machu Picchu.

From here operate trains by:

• PeruRail
• Inca Rail

Many travelers spend the night in the town before continuing their journey to the citadel.

🚐 How to Get to Ollantaytambo from Cusco

There are several ways to travel from Cusco.

Transportation options

• Private taxi
• Travel time: 1.5 hours
• Approximate price: $40 – $60 USD

Shared transport (colectivo)

• Travel time: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Price: $10 – $15 USD

Sacred Valley tour

Includes stops in Pisac and other archaeological sites.

📊 Key Facts About Ollantaytambo

💰 Costs of Visiting Ollantaytambo

Approximate costs

• Cusco Tourist Ticket: $20 – $40 USD
• Transportation from Cusco: $10 – $60 USD
• Train to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo: $70 – $200 USD

✅ What a Tour Usually Includes

• Tourist transportation
• Professional guide
• Stops at archaeological sites
• In some cases buffet lunch

❌ What Is NOT Included

• Cusco Tourist Ticket (in some tours)
• Train to Machu Picchu
• Tips
• Additional drinks

🎒 Pro Tips for Travelers

1. It’s a great place to acclimatize

Ollantaytambo is located at a lower altitude than Cusco, making it an excellent place to adjust before visiting Machu Picchu.

2. Wear comfortable clothing

To visit the ruins you will need to climb many Inca stone steps.

Recommended:

• Comfortable shoes
• Sunscreen
• Hat or cap
• Water

3. Visit early or at sunset

The best photos of the archaeological site are taken:

• Early in the morning
• Late in the afternoon

You will also find fewer tourists.

4. Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket

Entrance to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which allows access to several sites in the Sacred Valley.

Ollantaytambo is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Sacred Valley. Its combination of Inca history, impressive landscapes, and living culture makes it a must-see stop for any traveler visiting Cusco.