Ollantaytambo - Goodrich Travel

South America | Peru | Ollantaytambo

Photo Credit: Felipe Lopez

Photo Credit: Photo by Meg von Haartman on Unsplash

Photo Credit: Photo by Ming Chen on Unsplash

Photo Credit: Photo by Letian Zhang on Unsplash

Photo Credit: Photo by Meina Yin on Unsplash

Photo Credit: Photo by Angela Márquez on Unsplash

Photo Credit: Photo by Adèle Beausoleil on Unsplash

Most commonly reached via travel from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is an Incan archaeological site in the Sacred Valley of southern Peru. The town dates from the late 15th century and is home to some of the oldest continuously-occupied dwellings in South America. Its primary attraction is the fortress ruins, and it's also a favorite starting point for the famous Inca Trail, a four-day, three-night hike to Machu Picchu.

Other Popular Destinations in Peru

Cusco

Cusco once served as the heart of the Inca Empire, and that legacy still shapes every corner of the city even as it serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Outside the historic center, the ruins of Sacsayhuamán overlook the city from a nearby hilltop. This ceremonial complex is best known for its massive zigzag stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons. During the Inti Raymi festival in June, thousands gather here to reenact ancient Andean rituals.

South America / Peru

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a story carved into stone, perched nearly 2,500 meters above sea level in the cloud forests of southern Peru. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, this Inca citadel was unknown to the outside world until 1911, when explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention. Today, it remains remarkably well-preserved, with more than 150 stone structures, terraced fields, ceremonial fountains, and temples aligned with astronomical events.

South America / Peru

View More Peru Destinations