Weather in Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is one of the few towns in Peru where Inca-era streets, water channels, and agricultural terraces remain in everyday use, its massive temple-fortress rising above the town at the edge of the Sacred Valley. As the starting point for many Inca Trail treks and the last stop before Machu Picchu by train, it's both a living link to Inca urban planning and a practical gateway for most visitors.

Best areas to stay in Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo old town

The original Inca grid of streets and canals, still inhabited, with the fortress terraces rising above.

Ollantaytambo fortress (Temple Hill)

The main archaeological site, a steep terraced complex with views over the Sacred Valley.

Train station area

The departure point for trains to Machu Picchu, with hotels and restaurants catering to travellers.

Sacred Valley villages

Nearby settlements like Urubamba and Pisac, easily combined with a visit to Ollantaytambo.

Getting to Ollantaytambo

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Flights

Fly into Cusco (CUZ), then travel by road around 1.5-2 hours to Ollantaytambo.

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From London

~16-18 hours from London via a US or Lima connection plus onward road travel.

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Getting around

The old town is walkable; trains depart for Machu Picchu, and colectivos connect to other Sacred Valley towns and Cusco.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Ollantaytambo?

May to September is the dry season and most popular for trekking and visiting the Sacred Valley.

How do I get to Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo is around 1.5-2 hours by road from Cusco, and is also the main train departure point for Machu Picchu.

What is the Ollantaytambo fortress?

A massive Inca complex of terraces and temple structures built into the hillside above town, among the best-preserved examples of Inca architecture.

Do Inca Trail treks start here?

Many classic Inca Trail itineraries begin near Ollantaytambo, and the town is a common last stop for supplies before trekkers set off.

Can I take the train to Machu Picchu from here?

Yes — Ollantaytambo is the main station for trains to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), the gateway to the ruins.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

Climbing the terraces of the fortress as the sun set over the valley was one of the best moments of our trip, even before we got to Machu Picchu the next day.

Nina P. · June 2024

★★★★★

Walking through the old town's original Inca streets and water channels, still in use after centuries, was fascinating. Great base before the train to Aguas Calientes.

Aaron D. · May 2023

★★★★☆

Started our Inca Trail trek from near here, the fortress views alone were worth the stop even if you're not hiking.

Renata K. · August 2024