Ollantaytambo is one of Peru’s most impressive and well-preserved archaeological sites. Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this complex not only offers a fascinating glimpse into Inca engineering and architecture but continues to be a living town with more than 500 years of continuous history. Below is all the General Information of the Ollantaytambo you need to know about this extraordinary place.
Location and How to Get There
Ollantaytambo is located approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Cusco city, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, at an altitude of 2,792 meters above sea level. This strategic location makes it a must-stop for visitors to the region.
How to get there:
- From Cusco: The most common way is to take a shared taxi or tourist bus from Cusco, with an approximate travel time of 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Public transportation: There are frequent combis (minibuses) that depart from Avenida Grau in Cusco.
- Organized tours: Many travel agencies offer day tours to the Sacred Valley that include Ollantaytambo.
- Train: Ollantaytambo is also the main departure point for trains to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley.
History of Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo was built approximately in the mid-15th century during the rule of Inca Pachacutec, who ordered the conquest of the area and the creation of a royal complex. The site served as a royal residence, administrative center, and defensive fortress.
In 1536, it became the scene of one of the few battles where the Incas achieved a significant victory against the Spanish conquistadors. Manco Inca, leading a resistance against the Spanish, used the Ollantaytambo fortress to repel an attack led by Hernando Pizarro.
The name “Ollantaytambo” derives from “Ollantay” (name of an Inca captain who, according to legend, fell in love with an Inca princess) and “tambo” (resting or storage place in Quechua).
Architecture and Design
The archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo is an impressive testament to advanced Inca architecture and engineering:
Fortress (Religious Zone)
- Monumental terraces: Huge stone terraces that ascend the mountainside.
- Temple of the Sun: An unfinished building with six gigantic perfectly assembled monoliths.
- Ceremonial Baths: A complex of fountains and water channels.
- The Intihuatana: A sundial used to determine solstices and equinoxes.
The Town (Urban Zone)
- Ollantaytambo is one of the few places where the original Inca urban planning is preserved.
- The town is organized in canchas (rectangular blocks) where several dwellings share a central courtyard.
- The narrow, cobblestone streets still maintain their original layout from Inca times.
- Original Inca walls serve as foundations for current houses.
Hydraulic System
- A sophisticated system of channels that continues to function after more than 500 years.
- These channels transport water from nearby mountain snowmelt through the town.
Archaeological Importance
Ollantaytambo has several elements that make it archaeologically unique:
- Cachicata Quarry: Located across the valley, it was the source of many of the enormous stones used in construction. Stone blocks abandoned along the way can be observed, offering clues about Inca transport techniques.
- Construction technique: The main structures were built with the famous “polished stone” technique, where the blocks fit together perfectly without the need for mortar.
- Qollqas: Storehouses built on ventilated mountainsides to preserve food.
- Manque Puqio rock paintings: Located near the complex, they show pre-Hispanic hunting scenes.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Ollantaytambo was not just a military fortress but also an important religious center:
- Astronomical alignment: Many structures are aligned with specific astronomical events such as solstices.
- Huaca: The complex houses several sacred places or “huacas” that had religious significance for the Incas.
- Relationship with the landscape: The location and orientation of the complex demonstrates the sacred relationship of the Incas with the mountains (Apus) and the Urubamba River (considered a manifestation of the Willcamayu divinity).
Practical Information for Visitors
Hours and Tickets
- Visiting hours: Generally from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day.
- Ticket: The Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) is required, which also includes access to other archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. There is also a partial ticket option.
Recommendations for the Visit
- Recommended time: Minimum 2-3 hours to properly appreciate the complex.
- Best time to visit: The dry season (May to September) offers clear skies, while the rainy season (October to April) presents greener landscapes but possible unpredictable weather.
- Guides: It is recommended to hire a local guide to fully appreciate the history and details of the site.
- Acclimatization: Although it is at a lower altitude than Cusco, it is still at considerable height. It is advisable to be acclimatized to the altitude before performing demanding physical activities.
What to Bring
- Sun protection (the Andean sun is intense even on cloudy days)
- Water
- Comfortable footwear for walking on uneven terrain
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary considerably during the day)
- Camera
Surroundings of Ollantaytambo
The area surrounding Ollantaytambo also offers numerous attractions:
- Pinkuylluna: Inca storage structures on the mountain opposite the main fortress, offering spectacular views of the valley.
- CATCCO Museum: A small but interesting museum exhibiting local artifacts.
- Local market: An authentic market where locals sell agricultural products and crafts.
- Hiking routes: Several trails start from Ollantaytambo to less visited sites such as Pumamarca, another Inca fortress, or the Patacancha Valley, home to traditional Quechua communities.
Ollantaytambo Today
Unlike many archaeological sites, Ollantaytambo continues to be a vibrant town where ancient traditions and modern life coexist:
- Current residents are largely direct descendants of the Incas.
- Many families maintain ancestral traditions, such as traditional weaving and agricultural ceremonies.
- The town has evolved to accommodate tourism while maintaining its cultural authenticity.
- It is one of the main points to access Machu Picchu, which has transformed its economy.
