Go back in time inside the Inca Village (Ollantaytambo)

Introduction:

Surrounded by majestic mountains and ancient ruins, there lies a picturesque town in the Sacred Valley. As you arrive, you can instantly hear the soothing melodies of the Peruvian flute. Meanwhile, the aroma of coca tea fills the air, blending beautifully with the comforting scent of fresh vegetable soup. All around, vibrant clothes sway gently on the washing lines, painting a vivid picture of daily life. This enchanting town is Ollantaytambo—often referred to as the high-altitude sickness retreat. Personally, it holds a very special place in my heart. After spending five difficult days feeling sick in Cusco, I eventually decided to head to Ollantaytambo. Fortunately, it turned out to be the best decision I could have made to regain my strength for the Machu Picchu expedition. In fact, did you know that Ollantaytambo is considered a sacred place? Its energy is unlike anywhere else in Peru, offering both healing and inspiration to travelers from all walks of life.

The gateway to Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo is a gateway to Machu Picchu. It’s a great starting point to relax, eat local Peruvian food, and prepare for your Machu Picchu adventure. From here, you can take a magical train to Aguas Calientes to finally start your trek to the Lost City of the Incas. I would recommend staying longer in this authentic Peruvian town.

Where to stay in Ollantaytambo?

You can choose from high-quality accommodation like the Skylodge, where you sleep on the edge of a cliff and need to climb up there. Furthermore, you have more luxury hotels to relax from your high-altitude sickness and homestays from where you can work remotely. You can also stay at hostels to connect with fellow backpackers and travel bloggers. I stayed at Hostal Valle Inca and had a cozy experience. The place has great WiFi, terrace chairs for sunbathing, and cinematic views of the mountains and ruins.

Put your hiking shoes on

To begin your journey, start by exploring the historic town of Ollantaytambo, where every corner tells a story. Stroll through the lively souvenir market, stop by the charming train station, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the main square. As you walk, you’ll feel the texture of ancient Inca stonework beneath your fingers and catch the mouthwatering aroma of homemade food wafting from street vendors. The cobbled streets, resembling a scene from a movie, make the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. Moreover, don’t miss Temple Hill, where the grand Inca terraces will leave you in awe. In addition, head to the Temple of the Sun to witness the precision-cut stones that showcase Inca engineering at its finest. Lastly, visit the Princess Baths—ancient ceremonial bathing pools that allow you to step back in time and imagine the rituals of the Inca elite.

Taste traditional Peruvian cuisine

Ollantaytambo offers a delightful variety of local dishes that will fuel your journey to Machu Picchu. Savor traditional meals like Lomo Saltado, Alpaca meat, hearty vegetable soup, and the classic Pisco Sour. In the early mornings, don’t miss the traditional market, where local mamas and abuelas serve up warm homemade breakfasts and freshly pressed juices. For an authentic culinary experience, head to Pachamanca Restaurant to enjoy classic Peruvian flavors. If you’re craving comfort food, Puka Rumi is a great spot for Italian-style pizza served in a cozy atmosphere. Moreover, vegetarians will appreciate Taway Restaurant, known for its plant-based menu and a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the majestic ruins and surrounding mountains.

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Conclusion

Tired of the traffic, crowds, and the dizzying altitude of Cusco? Escape to the peaceful charm of Ollantaytambo. Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, this hidden gem offers a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re recovering from high-altitude sickness or simply craving an authentic slice of Peru, Ollantaytambo is your perfect retreat. As a travel blogger, you’ll find endless inspiration here—from cobbled streets and ancient ruins to cozy cafés serving rich Peruvian coffee. It’s more than just a stop before Machu Picchu; it’s a story waiting to be told.

Check out the travel blog post about Ollantaytambo from Rob (aka Errant Odyssey), a member of the Travel Blogging Academy. Read it here: https://letsperuit.com/ollantaytambo to get more inspiration.

How would you deal with high altitude sickness?