Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo is at the northern end of the valley and is the closest you can get to Machu Picchu without jumping on the train or setting out on the world famous Inca Trail. Ollantas narrow cobbled streets and nearby ruins are worth visiting as you pass through to Machu Picchu.

Travelling to Machu Picchu from Cusco drops you down to 2600m and out of the highlands as you transition to the rainforest of the Amazon basin. The ruins are serviced by the distinctly modern and hastily constructed concrete and rebar township of Aquas Caliente (hot water) where there are a range of variable accommodation options and mediocre restaurants. As most people will stop here once on their way to the ruins, there’s no expectation for repeat business. Bus services link the town to the ruins from 5am and expect a rush for the early buses to catch the sunrise from the ruins. Walking up takes at least an hour and down a lot quicker and whether or not you walk up, expect to be thoroughly exhausted by the end of your visit as you explore the fascinating nooks and crannies of the ruins, there are a lot of steps!