Ollantaytambo is a beautiful town located in the Sacred Valley of Peru. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Ollantaytambo is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Ollantaytambo, how to get there, the top sights to see, and the delicious cuisine that you can enjoy while visiting this beautiful town.
History
Ollantaytambo has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the time of the Inca Empire. The town was built by the Inca Emperor Pachacuti in the 15th century and was used as a military, religious, and agricultural center. During the Spanish conquest of Peru in the 16th century, Ollantaytambo was one of the last strongholds of the Inca resistance.
Today, Ollantaytambo is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful Inca ruins, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
How to Get There
Ollantaytambo is easily accessible by train, bus, or car. The town is located about 60 miles from the city of Cusco, which is the main gateway to the Sacred Valley. The easiest way to get to Ollantaytambo is to take a train from Cusco or the nearby town of Urubamba. The train ride to Ollantaytambo takes about 1.5 hours and offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Sacred Valley.
Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from Cusco or hire a car and driver to take them to Ollantaytambo.
Sights
Ollantaytambo is a town full of beautiful Inca ruins, stunning architecture, and exciting attractions. Here are just a few of the top sights to see while visiting Ollantaytambo:
Ollantaytambo Ruins: These beautiful Inca ruins are located on a hill above the town and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Temple of the Sun: This beautiful Inca temple is located in the center of the town and features stunning stonework and intricate carvings.
Patacancha Valley: This beautiful valley is located near Ollantaytambo and offers visitors the opportunity to see traditional Andean communities and stunning natural scenery.
Inca Bridge: This ancient bridge is located near the Ollantaytambo Ruins and offers visitors a unique glimpse into Inca engineering.
Cuisine
Ollantaytambo is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, which blends traditional Andean flavors with influences from other parts of Peru and the world. Here are a few of the must-try dishes and drinks:
Cuy: This traditional Andean dish is made with roasted guinea pig and is a popular local delicacy.
Chicha: This traditional Andean drink is made from fermented corn and is usually served in a large earthenware jar.
Pisco Sour: This iconic Peruvian cocktail is made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg whites.
Quinoa Soup: This delicious soup is made with quinoa, potatoes, and other vegetables and is a popular local dish.
Conclusion
Ollantaytambo is a beautiful and fascinating town that offers visitors a unique blend of Inca history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the town’s beautiful ruins, learning about its rich history, or savoring the flavors of traditional Andean cuisine, there is something for everyone in Ollantaytambo. And with a variety of accommodations and activities to choose from, visitors can customize their experience to fit their interests and budget.