Cuzco And The Sacred Valley, Peru
The Sacred Valley offers hiking options for various fitness levels, alongside other adventure sports.
Walk around Ollantaytambo town, explore cobblestone streets, or hike to the Pinkuylluna granaries for excellent views.
Pumamarca Hike: A half-day hike to another Inca site above Ollantaytambo. Short Inca Trail sections also exist, requiring permits.
Multi-day treks like Lares or Salkantay lead towards Machu Picchu. The Classic Inca Trail needs permits booked months in advance.
High-altitude activities need caution. Pace yourself and allow for acclimatization before strenuous treks or sports.
Engage with the rich Andean culture through various experiences.
Communities in the Patacancha Valley (Huilloc, Patacancha) offer homestays and cultural experiences focused on weaving, farming, and daily life. Seek responsible tour operators.
Spanish language schools are prevalent in Cusco. Ollantaytambo does not have dedicated language schools.
Ollantaytambo hosts local festivals, often tied to Catholic saints' days, which incorporate Andean traditions (e.g., Lord of Choquekillka in May/June).
Support initiatives that directly benefit local communities and preserve cultural heritage.
Discover intricate traditional textiles and the age-old art of Andean weaving in local workshops.
Engage with locals, learn about their daily lives, and experience authentic Andean hospitality.
Find moments of calm and rejuvenation amidst your travels.
Live music venues are limited. Some restaurants may have occasional live Andean music. A few small, cozy bars exist near the main plaza.
Nightclubs, dancing establishments, and specific theater or performance spaces are not available in Ollantaytambo.
Late-night entertainment is limited. Ollantaytambo is a quiet town in the evenings, with most businesses closing by 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM.
Mercado de Abastos de Ollantaytambo is the local produce market. Artisan stalls around the main plaza and archaeological site sell souvenirs.
Look for alpaca wool products, hand-woven textiles, ceramics, pottery, and silver jewelry.
Alpaca wool items (confirm authenticity), colorful hand-woven textiles, ceramic replicas, and coca leaves/candies.
Support local artisans and ensure ethical practices when purchasing souvenirs.
Shipping items internationally from Peru can be expensive and take time. Research costs and procedures before large purchases.
Check customs regulations for your home country regarding agricultural products, animal products, or historical artifacts to avoid issues.
Luxury and boutique shopping options are very limited in Ollantaytambo. More choices for higher-end goods exist in Cusco.
By choosing local guides, shops, and restaurants, you directly contribute to the well-being of the Ollantaytambo community.
