Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is a busy little Andean village situated at the northeastern end of the Sacred Valley. It’s famous for its Perurail train station (delivering visitors to Machu Picchu), traditional market and impressive Incan ruins.
During the Inca Empire, Emperor Pachacuti conquered Ollantaytambo and the surrounding region, and built the town to be his royal estate, complete with impressive constructions, extensive terracing, an irrigation system, and a ceremonial center. At the time of the Spanish conquest, it served as a stronghold for Manco Inca Yupanqui, leader of the Inca resistance.
The town is a grid of cobblestone streets, a product of Inca city planning, dating back to the 1200s. The adobe walls and canals, still carrying water from the mountains, display the Incas' advanced engineering abilities.
Ollantaytambo has some of the oldest still-occupied dwellings in South America, immediately recognizable as Inca from their tall walls and oversized doors. Over the years, the layout of the town and its buildings has been altered with the additions of colonial buildings and a charming central plaza.
Nowadays, Ollantaytambo is a popular destination not only for its Inca heritage but also as a common starting point for trekkers on the Inca Trail, a hike that concludes 27 miles (43 km) later at Machu Picchu. Some visitors stop in the town to catch a train to and from Aguas Calientes, the nearest village to Machu Picchu.
Boasting spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and Inca ruins, as well as cafes, bars and restaurants, and a market selling local handicrafts, Ollantaytambo is a delightful one- or two-day stop.
Ollantaytambo itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Ollantaytambo itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Family Expedition Across Peru
Elisa and her Greek family explored Peru’s diverse landscapes on a memorable 20 day adventure. They journeyed from the Paracas desert and Huacachina dunes to the high Andes of Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and Machu Picchu. Friendly local guides shared traditions and stories, letting the family feel Peru’s warm hospitality and leaving them with a deeper appreciation for its vibrant heritage.
Andean Peaks to Lake Titicaca
The Anywhere team was planning and helping us thru out the process. Right from picking us up from the airport to dropping us back to the hotel. They created a WhatsApp group to communicate with us every day and answered our questions within a few minutes. Thanks to Lisbeth and Jose in Cusco. Eduardo in Machu Pichu, Anna Maria in Puno and Sara and Samuel in Lima. They are worked like a team to ensure our trip was well planned and executed. Big thanks to Cesar for the great planning and suggestions along the way.
Peru for Two on a Budget
Embark on a vibrant Peruvian adventure where bustling city life meets ancient Andean wonders, contrasting modern Lima’s coastal energy with the mystique of the Sacred Valley. You'll wander Lima’s historic streets, then soar to Cusco’s high-altitude charm before trekking to the misty ruins of Machu Picchu and the colorful heights of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you'll taste traditional cuisine, hear Andean legends, and leave with a deeper connection to Peru’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Inca, Lake, & Culture Family Adventure
We were blown away by the beauty of the country—from the highland Lake Titicaca to the cultural experiences at Arequipa. We were so impressed with the Machu Picchu experience...we have to come back and explore more of Peru!
Culinary Delight and Family Adventure
I learned so much of it's history and have such respect for it's culture.
Our Machu Picchu Getaway
Absolutely, your services are impeccable, reliable, well organized and executed.
First Class Family Adventure in The Andes
Without doubt!!! Thank you for making our vacation perfect! We are truly grateful
Romantic Journey to Machu Picchu
Peru is a beautiful country and we’re blown away by all the things we’ve seen. We were caught completely by surprise by the breathtaking coastline views.
Experiences in Ollantaytambo
Explore hand-picked Ollantaytambo tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Escape to Machu Picchu (departure from Ollantaytambo train station)
Half Day River Rafting Urubamba-Ollantaytambo
Vistadome Train - Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Horseback Riding - Surroundings Hacienda Chalan
Horseback Riding - Inca Salt Pans of Maras
Chinchero, Maras and Moray Tour
Humantay Lagoon Full Day Hiking
Sacred Valley Excursion
Where to stay in Ollantaytambo
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Ollantaytambo accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Tunupa Lodge Hotel
Tunupa Lodge offers especially beautiful grounds right outside of Ollantaytambo. You’ll have views of the mountain and enjoy landscaping that blends in with dramatic surroundings. It’s a convenient distance from here to the highlights of the Sacred Valley.
Hotel Pakaritampu
Hotel Pakaritampu is located in Peru’s Sacred Valley in the town of Ollantaytambo. The hotel has well equipped rooms and has beautiful gardens.
Insider-led Peru Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Peru Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
