How to Plan Your Tour in Ollantaytambo: Valle Sagrado and Short Inca Trail 4D/3N

Looking for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Andes? Look no further than the Valle Sagrado and Short Inca Trail 4D/3N tour! This incredible adventure starts in the historic city of Cusco, and takes you on a journey through some of the most important archaeological sites of the Inca Empire. You’ll admire breathtaking landscapes during your hike, and learn about history and archaeology from your knowledgeable guides. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your perfect tour in Ollantaytambo.

Experience

This tour offers an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking landscapes, history, and archaeology. You’ll visit the most important archaeological sites of the Inca Empire, including Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. You’ll also hike the Short Inca Trail, which offers some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the world. Along the way, you’ll learn about history and archaeology from your knowledgeable guides, who will share fascinating stories and insights into the culture and traditions of the Inca civilization.

Highlights

– Transport from your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll start your tour. – Private transportation to all archaeological sites and points of interest. – Expert, English-speaking guides who will explain the history and archaeology of each site. – A chance to hike the Short Inca Trail and experience the stunning beauty of the Andes. – A visit to the Pisac market, where you can buy traditional Andean handicrafts. – Lunch included on days one and two. – Accommodation included on nights two and three.

Full Description

Dia 1 City Tour

On the first day of your tour, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun, which was once the most important religious site of the Inca Empire. From there, you’ll head to Sacsayhuaman, an imposing example of Inca military architecture. Next, you’ll visit Qenqo, a ritual center built on a unique limestone outcropping. After that, you’ll visit Puca Pucara, which is thought to have been a military fortress, and Tambomachay, a series of aqueducts and canals that provided water to the city of Cusco. Finally, you’ll head back to the city, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel.

Dia 2 Valle Sagrado

On the second day of your tour, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to Pisac, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site. After that, you’ll visit the Pisac market, where you can buy traditional Andean handicrafts. From there, you’ll head to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll explore the ancient temple and fortress. Finally, you’ll check into your hotel in Ollantaytambo and enjoy a tasty lunch.

Dia 3 Short Inca Trail

On the third day of your tour, you’ll set out on the Short Inca Trail, which is one of the most popular hiking routes in the world. Along the way, you’ll see stunning mountain vistas, ancient Inca ruins, and diverse flora and fauna. You’ll spend the night at a comfortable campsite along the trail.

Dia 4 Machu Picchu

On the fourth and final day of your tour, you’ll reach Machu Picchu, the most famous Inca archaeological site in the world. Your guide will give you a guided tour of the site, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own. After that, you’ll take a train back to Cusco, where your tour will end.

Booking

Ready to book your tour in Ollantaytambo? Visit this link to book the tour and start planning your unforgettable adventure!

FAQ about Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is a small town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru. It has become a popular tourist destination due to its rich history and stunning architecture. Here are some frequently asked questions about Ollantaytambo:

1. What is the history of Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo was a strategic military, religious, and agricultural center during the time of the Inca Empire. It was built by Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui in the 15th century as a royal estate and later served as a fortress during the wars between the Incas and the Spanish Conquistadors. The ruins that still exist in Ollantaytambo today showcase the exceptional Inca architecture and provide a glimpse into the fascinating history of this ancient civilization.

2. What are the top attractions in Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo has several must-see attractions, including: – Ollantaytambo Ruins: The ruins of Ollantaytambo showcase the impressive Inca architecture and engineering. The highlight of the site is the Temple of the Sun, which features massive stone blocks that were transported from a quarry miles away. – Pinkuylluna: A lesser-known but equally fascinating site in Ollantaytambo is Pinkuylluna. It consists of several Inca-storehouses built into the hillside, offering stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains. – Plaza de Armas: The heart of Ollantaytambo is its main square, Plaza de Armas. It’s lined with many restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it an excellent spot for people-watching and enjoying local cuisine. – Pumamarca Ruins: A short hike from Ollantaytambo is the Pumamarca Ruins. They are not as famous as the Ollantaytambo Ruins but still hold incredible Inca architecture and distant views over the valley.

3. How do I get to Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo is about 60 kilometers northwest of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi or hiring a private driver. You can also take a shared minibus or a tour bus from Cusco. If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu, you can take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu.

4. What is the best time to visit Ollantaytambo?

The best time to visit Ollantaytambo is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. These months offer sunny and clear days, making it easy to explore the ruins and other attractions. However, keep in mind that this is also the high season, and the town can get crowded.

5. What should I pack for a trip to Ollantaytambo?

Pack warm clothes, comfortable hiking shoes, and sun protection. Ollantaytambo is at a high altitude, so the temperature fluctuates throughout the day. In the mornings and evenings, it can be chilly, so bring a warm jacket or sweater. During the day, it’s sunny and warm, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential.

6. Is Ollantaytambo safe for tourists?

Ollantaytambo is a safe destination for tourists. As with any travel destination, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

7. What are some popular restaurants in Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo has several excellent dining options, including: – Hearts Cafe: This restaurant offers delicious vegetarian and vegan meals while supporting a sustainable cause. The proceeds go towards various animal and environmental projects in the Sacred Valley. – El Albergue Restaurant: Located in a rustic-chic hotel, this restaurant serves delicious Peruvian cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. Try the Andean potato gnocchi or the trout ceviche. – Chuncho Restaurant: Specializing in Novoandean cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Its ingredients are locally sourced and cooked using traditional Peruvian techniques.

8. What are some tips for visiting Ollantaytambo?

– Bring cash: Most establishments in Ollantaytambo don’t accept credit cards, so bring enough cash for your expenses. – Buy a boleto turistico: This ticket gives you access to several archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, including the Ollantaytambo Ruins. – Stay hydrated: Ollantaytambo is at a high altitude, so drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness. – Respect the culture: Peru’s rich cultural heritage is on full display in Ollantaytambo. Respect the customs and traditions of the locals, including their dress and religious practices. In conclusion, Ollantaytambo is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire. Its well-preserved ruins, excellent dining options, and stunning scenery make it a must-visit destination in Peru.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ollantaytambo

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Peru, one of the destinations you should definitely put on your list is Ollantaytambo. This small town in the Sacred Valley has a lot of history and culture to offer, as well as natural beauty. In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Ollantaytambo.

Visit the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site

The Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to this town. The site is an ancient Inca fortress, and it’s one of the best-preserved examples of Inca architecture in Peru. The fortress is built on a steep hill, and it’s divided into different sectors. Some of the highlights of the site include the Temple of the Sun, the Princess Baths, and the Incahuatana stone. You can explore the site on your own, or you can hire a guide to learn more about its history and significance.

Take a Hike to Pinkuylluna or Pumamarka

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a hike to either Pinkuylluna or Pumamarka, two Inca storage complexes located on the cliffs above Ollantaytambo. The hike is challenging, but the views from the top are spectacular. Along the way, you’ll see breathtaking vistas of the town and the surrounding mountains, as well as Inca ruins that have been relatively untouched by tourism.

Explore the Town’s Narrow Streets and Lively Market

Ollantaytambo is a small town, and one of the best ways to experience its charm is to explore its narrow streets. The town is a living example of Inca urban planning, with streets and buildings that have been preserved since pre-Columbian times. Be sure to stop by the lively market, where you can find everything from handicrafts to fresh produce. The market is open every day, and it’s a great place to interact with the locals.

Take a Day Trip to the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Mines

If you have some extra time in Ollantaytambo, you can take a day trip to the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Mines. The Moray Terraces are Inca agricultural terraces that were used to grow crops at different elevations. The terraces form a series of concentric circles, and they’re a remarkable example of Inca engineering. The Maras Salt Mines, on the other hand, are ancient salt ponds that have been used since pre-Columbian times. The salt ponds are still active today, and you can watch the process of salt extraction.

Try Local Cuisine

No trip to Ollantaytambo is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. The town has a rich culinary tradition, and there are many restaurants that offer traditional Peruvian dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include guinea pig, alpaca meat, and quinoa soup. You can also try chicha, a fermented corn drink that’s a staple of Andean cuisine.

Book Your Tour Now

Ollantaytambo is a town full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring ancient Inca ruins to hiking to hidden storage complexes, there’s no shortage of things to do in this town. By following our guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Ollantaytambo and experience all that this fascinating destination has to offer.