Ollantaytambo is much more than a stop on the way to Machu Picchu. This living Inca town has become one of the best places to stay in the Sacred Valley thanks to its strategic location, peaceful atmosphere and proximity to some of the region’s top attractions.
If you are planning your trip and wondering where to stay in Ollantaytambo, this guide will help you choose the best area based on your interests, budget and available time.
Is It Worth Staying in Ollantaytambo?
Yes. Many travellers use Ollantaytambo solely as a gateway to Machu Picchu, but spending one or two nights here allows you to enjoy the town at a more relaxed pace, wander through its original Inca streets, sample local cuisine and explore other Sacred Valley destinations without the rush of a day trip.
Best Area to Stay: Historic Centre
Ideal for
- First-time visitors
- Couples
- Independent travellers
- Visitors who enjoy exploring on foot
Advantages
- Close to the Main Square
- Restaurants and cafés nearby
- Artisan market
- Historic atmosphere
- Easy access to major attractions
Staying Near Ollantaytambo Train Station
- Travellers continuing to Machu Picchu
- Families
- Visitors with limited time
- Fewer transfers
- Quick access to train services
- Convenient for luggage handling
- Reduced travel logistics
Accommodation with Sacred Valley Views
Ideal for
- Romantic getaways
- Photography enthusiasts
- Relaxing holidays
Many hotels and lodges located on the surrounding hillsides offer spectacular views of the mountains, agricultural terraces and the iconic landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
How Many Nights Should You Stay in Ollantaytambo?
1 Night
Ideal for
- Exploring the town
- Visiting the Archaeological Complex
- Continuing to Machu Picchu
2 Nights
Ideal for
- Maras
- Moray
- Chinchero
- Hiking excursions
- Gastronomic experiences
3 Nights or More
Perfect for travellers wishing to explore the Sacred Valley at a slower, more relaxed pace.
Is It Better to Stay in Cusco or Ollantaytambo?
Cusco
- Wider range of accommodation
- Nightlife
- More tourism services
Ollantaytambo
- Less traffic
- More peaceful atmosphere
- Lower altitude
- Better base for exploring the Sacred Valley
How to Get to Ollantaytambo from Cusco
One of the advantages of staying in Ollantaytambo is that you can now travel comfortably by direct train from Cusco. This scenic railway journey allows you to enjoy the landscapes of the Sacred Valley while travelling directly into the heart of the town, without the need for road transfers.
Cusco to Ollantaytambo Train Timetable
Cusco - Ollantaytambo route
|
Train
|
Service
|
Departure from Cusco
|
Intermediate Station
|
Arrival in Ollantaytambo
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
33*
|
Expedition
|
Wanchaq
05:40 |
Poroy
06:40 |
8:22
|
|
203
|
Expedition
|
San Pedro
07:30 |
Poroy
08:25 |
10:22
|
Ollantaytambo - Cusco route
|
Train
|
Service
|
Departure from Ollantaytambo
|
Arrival in Poroy
|
Arrival in San Pedro
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
604
|
Expedition
|
19:08
|
20:52
|
21:52
|
Travel Tip: If you plan to stay one or two nights in Ollantaytambo, booking your train in advance will give you greater flexibility to choose the schedule that best fits your itinerary and make the most of your stay.
Plan Your Sacred Valley Journey
Before booking your accommodation, discover how to travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by train and organise your Sacred Valley itinerary more efficiently.
FAQ
Yes. Ollantaytambo is considered one of the safest destinations in the Sacred Valley and welcomes visitors from around the world year-round. Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and it offers well-developed tourism infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and transport services.
Yes. Several accommodation options are located within walking distance of the station. This area is especially convenient for travellers continuing to Machu Picchu or returning early to Cusco.
It depends on the type of experience you are looking for. One night is often enough to explore the town and visit the Archaeological Complex. However, many visitors choose to stay two nights to discover nearby Sacred Valley destinations such as Maras, Moray and Chinchero.
Areas near the Historic Centre are usually the most convenient for families, providing easy access to restaurants, shops, public squares and visitor services.
Couples often prefer accommodation with Sacred Valley views or properties located in quieter areas around the town. Many hotels feature terraces, gardens and panoramic mountain views, creating the perfect setting for a romantic escape.
Yes. Many travellers find that spending a night in Ollantaytambo before visiting Machu Picchu reduces travel stress, shortens transfer times and allows for gradual acclimatisation to the altitude.
Yes. Both the town centre and the surrounding hillsides offer accommodation with outstanding views of the Sacred Valley, mountains and Inca terraces.
Both options have advantages. Cusco offers a greater variety of hotels, restaurants and nightlife, while Ollantaytambo stands out for its peaceful setting, lower altitude and strategic location for exploring the Sacred Valley and travelling to Machu Picchu.