How to get from
Cusco to Ollantaytambo
The most comfortable way to travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is by direct train with PeruRail. There are also road transport options available, such as taxis, private cars, shared services, or buses. Depending on your chosen mode of transport, the journey typically takes between one and two hours.
Options for travelling from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and is one of the most visited destinations in the region. There are several ways to get there from Cusco, each offering different features depending on your budget, available time, and the type of experience you are seeking.
- Direct PeruRail train
- Shared service (colectivo)
- Private taxi
- Bus
If you prioritise comfort, set timetables, and a more relaxed experience during the journey, the train is generally one of the most highly rated options by travellers.
Transport comparison: Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Integrate our railway routes into your itineraries for Machu Picchu, Cusco, Puno, and other strategic destinations in southern Peru.
|
|
Approximate Duration
|
Travel Experience
|
Ideal For
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
PeruRail Train
|
2hr 40min
|
Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, direct and relaxing journey, onboard service.
|
Those seeking comfort, views of the Sacred Valley, and a more comprehensive travel experience.
|
|
Taxi or Private Car
|
1 hr to 1 hr 30 min approx.
|
Private and direct journey, with the freedom to make stops. Views depend on the chosen route.
|
Families, small groups, or travellers with specific schedules.
|
|
Shared Service
|
1 hr 20 min to 2 hr approx.
|
Functional option focused solely on the transfer. May involve waiting times and less personal space.
|
Travellers on a tight budget.
|
|
Bus
|
2 hr a 2 hr 10 min approx.
|
Economical alternative focused on the transfer, generally with stops and less emphasis on the tourist experience.
|
Travellers who prioritise cost over comfort.
|
Travelling by train from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
For many travellers, the journey itself is a crucial part of the experience. Travelling by train allows you to take in the Andean landscapes and the Sacred Valley as you make your way towards one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru.
A traffic-free journey
Unlike road alternatives, the train journey is not subject to vehicular traffic or potential route delays.
Views of the Sacred Valley
During the trip, you will be able to observe mountains, agricultural fields, and the characteristic landscapes of the Sacred Valley from a unique perspective.
Scheduled timetables
Railway services operate on fixed timetables, facilitating better travel planning.
Direct arrival in Ollantaytambo
The Ollantaytambo station provides easy access to the town centre, allowing you to seamlessly continue your Sacred Valley itinerary.
A more comfortable travel experience
The train journey offers a peaceful and continuous experience, ideal for those wishing to make the most of their time at the destination.
Timetables and fares for the Cusco to Ollantaytambo train
Check the available timetables for travelling between Cusco and Ollantaytambo with PeruRail. Choose the departure that best suits your itinerary and enjoy a comfortable, scenic journey to the Sacred Valley.
Route Cusco - Ollantaytambo
|
Train
|
Service
|
Departure from Cusco
|
Intermediate Station
|
Arrival in Ollantaytambo
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
33*
|
Expedition and Vistadome Observatory
|
Wanchaq
05:40 |
Poroy
06:40 |
8:22
|
|
203
|
Expedition and Vistadome Observatory
|
San Pedro
07:30 |
Poroy
08:25 |
10:22
|
Route Ollantaytambo - Cusco
|
Train
|
Service
|
Departure from Ollantaytambo
|
Arrival at Poroy
|
Arrival at San Pedro
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
604
|
Expedition and Vistadome Observatory
|
19:08
|
20:52
|
21:52
|
* For services departing from Wanchaq, the first leg is completed by bus to the indicated intermediate station. From there, the journey continues by train to Ollantaytambo.
Book your train from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Can I visit Ollantaytambo and return to Cusco on the same day?
Yes. Ollantaytambo is one of the most accessible destinations for a day trip from Cusco.
Many travellers choose to depart in the morning, explore the town, and return in the afternoon or evening. This option allows you to see some of its main attractions without the need for an overnight stay.
Example of a one-day itinerary:
|
Train
|
Activity
|
|---|---|
|
08:00
|
Departure from Cusco
|
|
09:30
|
Arrival in Ollantaytambo
|
|
10:00
|
Visit to the Archaeological Complex
|
|
12:00
|
Tour of the Plaza de Armas and traditional streets
|
|
13:30
|
Lunch in the town
|
|
15:00
|
Free time to explore the historic centre
|
|
17:00
|
Return to Cusco
|
If you wish to learn more about the attractions, restaurants, and experiences available at the destination, consult our guide on What to do in Ollantaytambo
Tips for planning your trip from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Book in advance
If you are travelling during peak season or holidays, it is highly recommended to secure your transport beforehand.
- Check timetables before travelling
Timetables and frequencies may vary depending on the season.
- Arrive with ample time
Aim to arrive at the departure point well in advance to avoid any setbacks.
- Consider the travel season
- Define the type of experience you are seeking
The most suitable transport will depend on your priorities: comfort, budget, flexibility, or the travel experience itself.
FAQ
The most comfortable way to travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is by train. It avoids road traffic, provides scheduled timetables, and offers a much more relaxing journey through the Sacred Valley. Furthermore, during the trip, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Andean landscapes without worrying about driving or road conditions.
Yes. PeruRail operates regular services between Cusco and Ollantaytambo. Frequency and timetables may vary according to the season or current operational conditions, so we recommend checking availability before planning your trip.
By road, the time usually varies between approximately one and two hours. By train, the duration depends on the selected service, but it typically takes 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Yes. Ollantaytambo is one of the most accessible destinations in the Sacred Valley for a day trip. Many travellers depart from Cusco in the morning, explore the town, visit the Archaeological Complex, and return in the afternoon or evening.
Yes. Ollantaytambo is considered one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru. In addition to its impressive archaeological complex, it retains Inca-laid streets that remain inhabited to this day. Its strategic location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the Sacred Valley or continuing onwards to Machu Picchu.
It depends on the type of trip you are planning. Cusco offers a wider variety of services, hotels, and urban activities. Ollantaytambo, on the other hand, provides a more tranquil atmosphere, lower altitude, and a strategic location for visiting the Sacred Valley and continuing to Machu Picchu.
The Ollantaytambo station is a 15-minute walk from the town centre. From there, you can easily access hotels, restaurants, the Plaza de Armas, and other tourist services.
Ollantaytambo can be visited all year round. The dry season, between April and September, usually offers clearer skies and ideal conditions for walking and exploring the Sacred Valley. During the rainy season, between October and March, the landscapes tend to be greener and more lush.
Ollantaytambo is located at a lower altitude than Cusco, which is why many travellers consider it a good starting point for exploring the region. If you have already spent a day or two in Cusco, it is unlikely that the altitude will be an issue. However, it is always recommended to stay hydrated and avoid excessive physical exertion during the first few hours of your trip.