Complete Guide to Activities: What to Do in Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is situated approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Cusco, at an altitude of almost 2,792 meters above sea level. Surrounded by stunning mountains and crossed by the Urubamba River, this town offers spectacular views and a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling Cusco.

The most common way to get to Ollantaytambo from Cusco is by road. You can opt for a taxi service, which will take you directly to the town, or for minibuses and colectivos that regularly depart from Cusco. The latter is a more economical option and allows you to experience the journey like the locals do. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Ollantaytambo is also a key point for those traveling to Machu Picchu, as one of the main stations for taking the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu pueblo) is located here. There are different train services available, varying in price and comfort, including luxury options that offer a unique experience with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.

For adventurers, Ollantaytambo can be the starting or ending point of various hikes and trekking routes, including the famous Inca Trail. If you plan to hike, be sure to book in advance, especially for the Inca Trail, as spaces are limited and often fill up months in advance. Make sure to plan your Peru travel adventure ahead to secure your spot on these popular routes.

This market is a must-visit for those looking to take a piece of Ollantaytambo’s culture home with them. Here, local artisans display their works, ranging from handwoven textiles using ancestral techniques to jewelry inspired by Inca motifs. Each piece reflects the skill and passion of its creators, offering you the opportunity to acquire not just a souvenir but a story.

Ollantaytambo is also a place where local flavors come to life. The markets offer a variety of fresh produce, Andean herbs, and traditional dishes that will delight your palate. Be sure to try the choclo con queso, a local favorite, or the pisco sour, which will introduce you to the spirit of Peru.

Exploring Ollantaytambo’s markets allows you to interact directly with the locals, learning about their traditions and ways of life. It is an authentic experience that brings you closer to the essence of Ollantaytambo, allowing you to appreciate the community and its connection to its roots.

Celebrated every January, the Feast of the Three Kings is one of the most important celebrations in Ollantaytambo. This religious and cultural event attracts visitors and locals with its colorful processions, live music, and folk dances that fill the streets with energy and devotion.

February marks the beginning of Carnivals, a time filled with joy and color in Ollantaytambo. During this festival, it is common to see the community participating in traditional games, dances, and the characteristic Yunza, where participants dance around a tree adorned with gifts and try to cut it to the rhythm of the music.

Holy Week is celebrated with fervor in Ollantaytambo, presenting a unique blend of Catholic and indigenous traditions. Solemn processions and living representations of the Passion of Christ are central events that attract numerous faithful and tourists every year.

Although Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) is celebrated more prominently in Cusco, Ollantaytambo offers its own version of this ancient Inca festival in June. It is an exceptional opportunity to see performances that honor the sun, giving thanks for the harvests and asking for prosperity for the coming year.

The anniversary of the founding of Ollantaytambo, in June, is another significant moment filled with cultural activities, parades, and events that showcase the pride of its inhabitants in their rich history and traditions.