Essential Trip Resources: Ollantaytambo

Digital Tools for Explorers

Navigation & Communication

Google Maps
Offline maps assist navigation.
Google Translate
Download Spanish for conversations.
WhatsApp
Standard communication for services.
PeruRail App / Inca Rail App
Manage your train journey digitally.
Local Connectivity
Consider a local SIM card.

Planning & Insights

PromPeru Website
Official Peruvian tourism information.
Peruvian Ministry of Culture
Purchase Machu Picchu tickets here.
COSITUC Website
Details on the Boleto Turístico.
Social Media Channels
Follow official tourism accounts.
Travel Podcasts
Listen to Peruvian history and culture.

Physical Guides & Reads

Comprehensive Guidebooks

Insight Guides Peru for broad coverage.

Find on Amazon

Informative Reads

"Turn Right at Machu Picchu" for humor and history.

Search on Amazon

Historical Narratives

"The Last Days of the Incas" for deep context.

Explore on Amazon

Contact Information

Emergency Services

Police: 105
Fire Department: 116
Ambulance: 107
Tourist Police: +51 84 249633 (Cusco)

Healthcare & Documents

Local Clinics: Centro de Salud Ollantaytambo
Cusco Hospitals: Clinica Peruano Suiza
Lost Documents: Police report is needed.
Embassy/Consulate: Keep contacts ready (e.g., US Embassy Lima).

Broaden Your Horizons

Visual Exploration

Documentaries on Inca Civilization
National Geographic or PBS productions
Visual context for sites

Aural & Artistic Journey

Andean folk music
Traditional instruments: zampoña, charango
Peruvian textiles and ceramics

Language Learning

Apps like Duolingo assist with basic phrases
Babbel for phrase learning
Consider a local Spanish school in Cusco

Travel Essentials Checklist

Important Preparations

Document Verification

Passport validity for six months
Visa requirements confirmation
Photocopies and digital backups
Emergency contact details

Health & Safety Kit

Prescription medications
Altitude sickness remedies
Basic first aid supplies
Hand sanitizer and masks

Financial Readiness

Notify banks of travel dates
Carry diverse payment methods
Emergency cash fund
Exchange rate awareness

Arrival Guide

First Hours in Peru

Immigration and customs clear.
Baggage claim verification.
Currency exchange or ATM use.

Initial Orientation

Acclimatize slowly to altitude.
Locate your accommodation.
Gentle walk around immediate area.

Departure Guide

Pre-Flight Logistics

Souvenir weight consideration.
VAT refund procedures if applicable.
Timely airport/train station arrival.

Re-packing & Check-out

Confirm all belongings accounted for.
Settle outstanding bills.
Home preparations are complete.

Planning Timeline

Months Before Travel

Book international and domestic flights.
Secure Machu Picchu and train tickets.
Obtain Inca Trail permits if trekking.
Book accommodations in advance.
Verify passport validity for six months.

Weeks Before Travel

Purchase travel insurance.
Confirm all bookings: flights, hotels, tours.
Arrange airport transfers.
Pack appropriate clothing and gear.
Download offline maps and apps.

Upon Arrival

Immigration Process

Have documents ready for swift entry.

Local Currency

Obtain Peruvian Sol for immediate use.

Stay Connected

Consider a local SIM card at the airport.

Essential Document Guide

Keep passport, visa, and reservations accessible. Digital and physical copies are recommended.

Cultural Connections

Profound Interactions

Inca Legacy Alive

Witness Enduring Civilization
See how Inca engineering and town planning survive.
Observe Sophisticated Engineering
Marvel at precision stonework and water systems.
Experience Stunning Andean Beauty
Dramatic mountains and fertile valleys await.

Cultural Understanding

Grasp Andean Resilience
Observe ancient traditions and modern life adaptation.
Appreciate Cultural Ties
See culture, agriculture, and spirituality intertwine.
Personal Growth Through Treks
Overcoming physical challenges builds confidence.

Conscious Travel Commitments

Local Economy Support

Directly support local businesses and artisans.

Environmental Care

Minimize waste and conserve resources.

Cultural Sensitivity

Ask permission for photos. Dress modestly.

Beyond Ollantaytambo

Further Inca Exploration

Machu Picchu if not visited yet.
Choquequirao for a challenging site.
Arequipa: "The White City."
Lake Titicaca for unique cultures.

Amazonian & Beyond

Puerto Maldonado for Amazonian wildlife.
Combine trip with Bolivia.
Extend journey to Ecuador.
Return for a major festival.

Responsible Engagement

Ethical Tourism

Choose tour operators with fair labor practices.
Support local conservation efforts.
Be mindful of photography etiquette.
Proper waste disposal.

Future Adventures

Visit during the wet season for lush landscapes.
Attend a local festival like Lord of Choquekillka.
Explore multi-day treks like Salkantay.
Discover other South American gems.

Continue Your Learning

Consider Skillshare for photography or cultural courses, enriching your travel insights.

Essential Trip Resources