Ollantaytambo or Urubamba: Which to choose before Machu Picchu?
Ollantaytambo (2,792 m.a.s.l.) and Urubamba (2,871 m.a.s.l.) are two of the most important towns in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, Peru. Both districts host major tourist attractions, such as the Ollantaytambo fortress or the impressive natural destinations in Urubamba. Additionally, due to their proximity to the Inca Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, many people choose to stay in these places instead of the city. Which one should you choose? Learn more about them and visit them during your trip to the world wonder.
- Ollantaytambo or Urubamba: Which to choose?
- Ollantaytambo: How to get there, what to do, weather, and more
- Urubamba: How to get there, what to do, weather, and more
- Machu Picchu, Pisac, Chinchero, and other tourist destinations
- Frequently asked questions
View of the Sacred Valley, where the towns of Ollantaytambo and Urubamba are located
Tourist tours in the Sacred Valley
Classic tours of the Sacred Valley include guided service, tourist transportation, and entrance fees to major tourist destinations, such as: Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Chinchero. Additionally, the experience includes a short stop in Urubamba for lunch. If you want to explore this place in-depth, you will need to travel independently.
Ollantaytambo or Urubamba: Which to choose?
Although Cusco is the preferred place to stay before the trip to Machu Picchu, many tourists choose to stay in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The main reasons why Ollantaytambo and Urubamba are ideal are their climate, scenic beauty, and proximity to the main train station. Here are some advantages of each:
Advantages of choosing Ollantaytambo:
- The main train station to Machu Picchu is in Ollantaytambo. It is the best option for people traveling early to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
- One of the main Inca archaeological sites is the Ollantaytambo fortress, just steps away from the main square where you can learn more about the historical legacy of this culture.
- The town maintains the original Inca architectural base, so walking through its streets is an experience in itself.
- The landscapes of Ollantaytambo are some of the best in the entire Sacred Valley, with mountains, agricultural fields, and rivers.
- There are also many high-quality tourist services in a smaller and more welcoming environment.
Advantages of choosing Urubamba:
- The town of Urubamba is known as the capital of the Sacred Valley, thanks to its size and its importance as the main commercial center.
- The biodiversity surrounding Urubamba is the most stunning, as you will be able to see mountains, snow-capped peaks, agricultural fields, rivers, and Andean forests.
- There are hotels with up to 5 stars and first-class tourist services.
- Only 25 kilometers separate Urubamba from the Ollantaytambo train station. By car, it takes about 30 minutes.
- The mild climate of Urubamba is ideal for resting and acclimating to the altitude of the area.
Ollantaytambo: How to get there, what to do, weather, and more
How to get there?
The city of Cusco and the town of Ollantaytambo are separated by 62 kilometers of road. From the ‘Imperial City’, you can reach it by minivan in about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The price for this service is 10 soles (3 dollars). The buses depart from Pavitos street, near the Historic Center. This route passes through incredible landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
What to do?
The main tourist attraction in this traditional town is the Ollantaytambo Fortress. This archaeological site features popular constructions like the Royal House of the Sun, the Temple of the Sun, the Ñusta Bath, agricultural terraces, and more. The town’s urban structure preserves its organization from Inca times. There are a great variety of hotels, restaurants, cafes, craft shops, and even a Site Museum. Walking through the town is one of the best attractions of the area.
Weather
The climate in ‘Ollanta’ is warm and temperate. The average temperature is around 14°C. There are two seasons throughout the year: the dry season and the rainy season. From November to March (rainy season), there is a higher chance of precipitation, though the days are warmer. From April to October (dry season), the days are colder, but with clear skies, ideal for fully appreciating the landscape.
How to get to Machu Picchu?
The main train station to Machu Picchu is in Ollantaytambo. There are two companies (PeruRail and Inca Rail), which transport visitors from this traditional site to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Upon arrival, you will only need to take a short bus ride to the entrance of the Inca Sanctuary.
Accommodation
There are many hotel options in the area. The quality of service varies from first-class options to shared services. Additionally, there are budget hostels and many Airbnb accommodations. The high tourist season (from April to August) is when the most visitors come to the town. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance if you plan to visit during these months.
| MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TOWN OF OLLANTAYTAMBO | |
|---|---|
| Aspect | Description |
| Location | Sacred Valley of the Incas, Cusco region, Peru |
| Altitude | Approximately 2,792 meters above sea level |
| Distance from Cusco | 62 kilometers, 1 hour and 45 minutes by car |
| Main attractions | Archaeological fortress, Inca infrastructure, natural landscapes |
| Weather | Temperate, with sunny days and cold nights |
| Accessibility | Main railway connection point to Machu Picchu |
| Current economic activity | Tourism, agriculture, and local commerce |
Agricultural terraces located in the Ollantaytambo fortress
Urubamba: How to get there, what to do, weather, and more
How to get there?
The city of Cusco and the town of Urubamba are separated by almost 60 kilometers of paved road. The easiest way to get there is by taking a minivan ride of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This public service costs 10 soles (3 dollars). The main pickup point is on Pavitos Street, very close to the Historic Center of Cusco. The route passes through the towns of Poroy and Chinchero in the Sacred Valley before arriving in Urubamba.
What to do?
Urubamba offers the widest range of tourist services in the entire Sacred Valley. One of the main activities is touring the town. Additionally, there are colonial buildings like the Martín Pio Concha House and the Church of Saint James the Apostle. Its beautiful Plaza de Armas is another of its most beautiful attractions. Highlighted in this area are the high-quality restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a wide variety of flavors and typical gastronomic fusion. Additionally, many adventure sports (rafting, hiking, cycling, paragliding, ATVs) can be done thanks to its geography.
Weather
The weather in Urubamba is temperate and warm, with temperatures ranging between 4°C and 21°C. There are two clearly differentiated seasons. The dry season lasts from April to October and is characterized by clear and comfortable days. In the rainy season (from November to March), however, rainfall occurs more frequently, although the days are warmer. The river and mountains surrounding this town create a microclimate, known as one of the most pleasant in Cusco.
How to get to Machu Picchu?
The easiest route to Machu Picchu begins with a trip to Ollantaytambo (30 minutes by car). In this town is the main railway station that travels to Aguas Calientes (2 hours of travel). Upon arrival in this town, you only need to take a bus (30 minutes) that will take you to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Inca city.
Accommodation
Urubamba offers all kinds of accommodation, from 5-star hotels to rustic or experiential lodgings. All tourist services are of high quality. During the high tourist season (from April to August), services must be booked in advance due to the higher influx of visitors.
| MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TOWN OF URUBAMBA | |
|---|---|
| Aspect | Description |
| Location | Urubamba Province, Cusco region, in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas |
| Altitude | Approximately 2,871 meters above sea level |
| Function | Administrative and commercial center of the Sacred Valley |
| Natural surroundings | Surrounded by Andean mountains, snow-capped peaks, and the Urubamba River |
| Economy | Tourism, agriculture, and commerce |
| Distance from Cusco | Approximately 60 kilometers, an hour and a half by car |
| Nearby attractions | Archaeological sites, rural communities, and geography for adventure sports |
| Weather | Temperate, dry, with sunny days and cold nights |
Town of Urubamba
Machu Picchu, Pisac, Chinchero, and other tourist destinations
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Town
Aguas Calientes is the base town to visit the Inca city of Machu Picchu. It offers first-class tourist services, as well as an impressive tropical biodiversity, surrounded by green mountains, forests, rivers, and floral fields. Its main attractions include thermo-medicinal baths, the artisan market, the Putucusi Mountain, the Mandor Waterfalls, and hikes through its vast nature. It is the best option for those who choose to visit the World Wonder in the early hours of the day.
Pisac
This town hosts the Pisac Archaeological Site, one of the most important tourist attractions in Cusco. Its popularity is also due to its artisan market, which showcases traditional and authentic products such as alpaca garments, gold and silver jewelry, handmade ceramics, and more. It is located just 35 kilometers from the city of Cusco (45 minutes by car) and is part of the classic tours of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Chinchero
This town still preserves Andean ancestral traditions that coexist with the local inhabitants. It is home to the Chinchero archaeological site and the ancient palace of Inca Tupac Yupanqui. Another of its main attractions is the textile centers, where garments are woven using traditional techniques. It is located 30 kilometers from the city of Cusco (1 hour by car) and is part of the classic tours of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Should I stay in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba before visiting Machu Picchu?
It depends on your itinerary and travel style. If you want to be closer to the main train station to Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo is the most practical option. If you prefer a larger hotel offering and more diverse services, Urubamba may be more convenient.
2) What is the best option if my train to Machu Picchu departs very early?
The ideal option would be to stay in Ollantaytambo, as it is where the main railway station is located. This will allow you to avoid additional transfers and travel more comfortably during early hours.
3) Is Urubamba far from the train station?
No, Urubamba is about 30 minutes by car from Ollantaytambo. It is a short and scenic journey.
4) Where can I find the best hotels?
In Urubamba, you will find a broader range of accommodations, including five-star hotels and more diverse experiences. In Ollantaytambo, on the other hand, boutique hotels and cozy options are predominant.
5) Which of the two towns has better weather for acclimatization?
Both have a pleasant temperate climate. However, Urubamba is known for its warmer and more stable microclimate, which promotes better rest and adaptation to the altitude.
6) What can I do if I stay in Ollantaytambo?
Besides walking through its streets with original Inca foundations and walls, you can visit the impressive archaeological fortress of the town and enjoy the privileged scenic surroundings in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
7) What activities can I do in Urubamba?
Urubamba offers cultural tours, excellent gastronomic offerings, and various adventure activities such as hiking, cycling, or rafting, thanks to its geography and natural surroundings.
8) Is it a good idea to stay in the Sacred Valley instead of Cusco?
Yes, especially if you’re looking for a quieter atmosphere, lower altitude, and closer proximity to the train route to Machu Picchu. Many travelers opt for this alternative to optimize their time while enjoying alternative experiences.
9) Can I easily visit other Sacred Valley destinations from Urubamba?
Yes, Urubamba is considered the center of the Sacred Valley and allows easy access to nearby attractions like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
10) Can I combine both destinations in my itinerary?
Yes, it’s a great option. You can visit Urubamba first to enjoy its natural surroundings and service offerings, then spend the night in Ollantaytambo before your trip to Machu Picchu, thus optimizing your Sacred Valley experience.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Aaron R.“Impressive Views“
“The views from Pinkuylluna are stunning, I am surprised that so few people visit this place. I stayed with my partner and enjoyed a peaceful day at the top, a highly recommended experience if you travel to Ollantaytambo.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, March 6, 2026