Attraction
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo · PeruBest Season: :May to September (dry season) for clear skies; October to April is rainy but less crowdedSuggested Duration: :Half day to full day (2-3 hours for ruins, plus time to explore the town)
Introduction
Ollantaytambo is a well-preserved Inca town in the Sacred Valley of Peru, about 60 km northwest of Cusco. It serves as a major gateway to Machu Picchu. Famous for its impressive Inca ruins and massive stone walls, it showcases the extraordinary engineering skills of the Incas. The town still retains original Inca streets and irrigation systems. Visitors can stroll along cobblestone paths and climb to the Temple of the Sun for panoramic valley views. A must-visit not only as a transit point but also as a cultural treasure.
Opening Hours
Friday7:00-17:30
Monday7:00-17:30
Sunday7:00-17:30
Tuesday7:00-17:30
Saturday7:00-17:30
Thursday7:00-17:30
Wednesday7:00-17:30
Ruins area hours; town is accessible all day
Ticket Information
Free AdmissionFree for children under 6
Adult70 PEN (approx. USD 18)
Child40 PEN (approx. USD 10)
Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico) covers some sites.
Transportation
Bus
Buses from Cusco to Ollantaytambo take about 2 hours; several companies operate. Colectivos (shared vans) also available.
Driving/Parking
Drive from Cusco along Sacred Valley road ~1.5 hours; parking available outside town.
Note
Trains to Machu Picchu usually depart from Ollantaytambo station; book in advance.
Subway
No subway
Travel Tips
1Arrive early to avoid crowds and midday heat
2Wear comfortable hiking shoes for stone stairs
3Bring sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water
4Local craft markets in town; bargaining is acceptable
5If heading to Machu Picchu, buy train tickets from Ollantaytambo in advance
FAQ
QDo I need a ticket for Ollantaytambo?
A
Yes, entry to the Inca ruins requires a ticket purchased at the entrance; the town itself is free.
QHow to get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?
A
By bus (~2 hrs), shared van (colectivo), or driving (~1.5 hrs); tourist trains also available.
QWhat is the altitude? Will I get altitude sickness?
A
Altitude is ~2,800m, lower than Cusco (3,400m). Most visitors adapt well, but be cautious if new to high altitudes.
QHow long does it take to explore the ruins?
A
About 1.5-2 hours to cover the main area including the Temple of the Sun.
QCan I stay overnight in Ollantaytambo?
A
Yes, the town has many accommodations from hostels to boutique hotels, convenient for early Machu Picchu trips.
Quick Info
Best Season
May to September (dry season) for clear skies; October to April is rainy but less crowded
Duration
Half day to full day (2-3 hours for ruins, plus time to explore the town)
Category
Attraction