Location: Ollantaytambo
Top Things to do in Ollantaytambo
Top 10 Free Things to do in Ollantaytambo, Cusco Region
Ollantaytambo has some of the oldest continuously-occupied buildings in South America. Once a stronghold of Inca resistance to Spanish colonization, it's remarkably well-preserved. Many travelers visit Ollantaytambo because it's the beginning of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but don't rush through—the ruins are fascinating.
Restaurants in Ollantaytambo
1. ALQA - Gallery of Andean Expressions
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 43 reviews
ALQA is an art gallery focused on the conservation and dissemination of the traditional artistic expressions of the indigenous high andean communities. Our work not only represents an exquisite curation, but also a meticulous research that allows, through a considerable historical and social burden, to create a chain of relationships between all the pieces on exhibition, allowing the recontextualization and recovery of them in order to reinforce and place value on the cultural identity of the artists and their communities of origin.
Reviewed By Michaelfransa
You've got to check out ALQA Gallery if you're in Ollantaytambo! The staff there is so very friendly. The vibe is chill, no one is there to push any sales on you. They have beer on tap to sip while you explore the wide variety of artwork and hand made goods sourced from Andean towns and villages located throughout the Sacred Valley. They have one of a kind photographic prints, sculptures, beautifully made hats and much more!
2. Pinkuylluna Mountain Granaries
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 489 reviews
Reviewed By 233rebekahd - Ollantaytambo, Peru
Pinkuylluna is located on Lare Calle, just above APU Lodge in Ollantaytambo. It's a steep but scenically rewarding hike up and it's free. You can see the Ollantaytambo Ruins(Fortress) from up top as well. It can be challenging if you're not accustomed to the altitude, but also a good practice hike as it's maybe 30 minutes up. Since I'm living in Ollantaytambo, I have gone up there at least a half a dozen times. It's close to where I'm staying and a nice quick hike even just for some exercise. However, it's been closed since March 2020 and will hopefully open again soon, when restrictions are lifted.
3. Inca Quarries
4. Inka Pintay
5. Naupa Iglesia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 41 reviews
Reviewed By kirstine2013 - Albuquerque, United States
Situated a short drive from the town of Pachar, just outside of Ollantaytambo, this cave like sacred site is certainly worth the climb along the well marked path from the rail tracks. The main beautiful altar was damaged by dynamite in the past but still retains powerful energy where you can balance masculine and feminine energies to experience oneness in the central portal. The portal cut into the wall on the right has 2 levels: one for your physical body to pass through and one for your spirit to pass through. At the back of the cave, is said to be the main portal where spirits pass between the dimensions. Quieting all expectations,helped me to experience their presence. .
6. Perolniyoq Waterfall
7. Plazoleta Aracama
8. ChocoMuseo Ollantaytambo
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 383 reviews
Manufacturing and sale of organic artisanal chocolate from bean to bar. Coffee shop and an attractive selection of fresh homemade pastries. Unique information about the cacao obtention process. Free samples. Chocolate-manufacturing classes.
Reviewed By lilystine - Raleigh, United States
We were drawn in by the free samples outside (smart idea) I had the Mayan hot chocolate and my friend had the conquistador hot chocolate. My sister got the brownie. All were yummy and served as a great dessert. Oh and you can make th hot chocolate to your liking (more milk or more chocolate) I would recommend even just walking through and picking up a souvenir for a friend or family. Cocoa is one of peru's native crops so this a perfect gift to take home!
9. Mercado Artesanal
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 98 reviews
Reviewed By GrahamP113 - Witham, United Kingdom
For us having climbed the ruins how lovely to walk in the markets. Yes very samey with other Peruvian markets but clean plenty of room and beautiful location
