From Cusco: Ollantaytambo Fortress Half-Day Private Tour

Tucked away in the heart of the Sacred Valley, the Ollantaytambo Fortress stands as a testament to the engineering prowess and cultural legacy of the Inca Empire. This half-day private tour from Cusco invites you to explore this remarkable archaeological site, guiding you through the intricate architecture and breathtaking vistas that have captivated visitors for centuries. From the iconic Temple of the Sun to the Terrace of the Ten Niches, each step reveals a deeper understanding of the Inca’s ingenious feats and the profound connection between their civilization and the land they called home. Prepare to be immersed in a world where history and natural beauty converge, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Ollantaytambo.

Key Points

• Explore the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, located 80 km from Cusco, on a 5-hour private guided tour.
• Visit the impressive Temple of the Sun and Terrace of the Ten Niches, showcasing the Inca’s engineering and architectural prowess.
• Witness the cobblestone streets and traditional Inca buildings, enjoying the rich cultural heritage of the site.
• Discover the strategic military, religious, and agricultural significance of Ollantaytambo during the Inca Empire.
• Enjoy round-trip transportation from Cusco’s historic center and a professional bilingual guide, with admission to the Cusco Tourist Ticket included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The half-day private tour of the Ollantaytambo Fortress is priced from $116.00 per person.

The tour lasts 5 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour highlights the site’s significant Inca architecture, including the Temple of the Sun and the Terrace of the Ten Niches.

Pickup from Cusco’s historic center is included, along with a professional bilingual guide and the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

However, personal expenses and gratuities aren’t covered. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.

Tour Details and Experience

During the guided exploration of Ollantaytambo, a significant Inca site, visitors will encounter the impressive Temple of the Sun and the captivating Terrace of the Ten Niches.

They’ll wander through the town’s cobblestone streets, admiring the agricultural terraces and traditional Inca architecture.

Ollantaytambo was a crucial military, religious, and agricultural center for the Inca Empire, playing a pivotal role in their resistance against the Spanish forces.

Guests will gain a deeper understanding of the site’s historical significance and marvel at the engineering feats of the Inca people, who built this remarkable fortress high in the Andes mountains.

Logistics and Inclusions

This tour includes pickup from hotels in the Cusco Historic Center, though private residences aren’t covered.

A professional bilingual guide, fluent in both English and Spanish, will lead the exploration. Admission to the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) is also included, providing access to the Ollantaytambo site.

However, personal expenses and gratuities aren’t part of the tour price. Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing, as the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed. The tour rate excludes sales taxes for Peruvians or foreign passengers staying over 60 days.

Important Information

As the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, essential items to bring include comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing.

Pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed on the tour. Rates exclude sales taxes for Peruvians or foreign passengers staying over 60 days in Peru.

It’s important to keep in mind these important details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Ollantaytambo Fortress.

Adhering to the provided information will help make the most of the guided exploration of this significant Inca site, with its cobblestone streets, agricultural terraces, and traditional architecture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Location and Cultural Significance

Located 80 km from Cusco and 40 km from the iconic Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo is a town that exemplifies the Inca’s remarkable urban planning.

The name derives from the Quechua word ‘Ulla-nta-wi’, meaning "place to see down". This ancient site was a significant military, religious, and agricultural center that played a pivotal role in the Inca’s resistance against the Spanish forces.

Today, the town’s narrow streets and shared courtyards remain inhabited since the Inca era, providing visitors a unique glimpse into the past.

Exploring Ollantaytambo offers a chance to discover the architectural marvels and cultural richness that defined the Inca civilization.

Exploring the Inca Fortress

The guided tour of Ollantaytambo Fortress offers visitors a captivating exploration into the remarkable engineering and architectural feats of the Inca civilization.

The highlight of the tour is the Temple of the Sun, a massive stone structure that showcases the Incas’ mastery of stonework. Nearby, the Terrace of the Ten Niches impresses with its perfectly aligned and carved niches.

As visitors wander the site’s cobblestone streets and agricultural terraces, they’ll gain insights into Ollantaytambo’s role as a military, religious, and administrative center.

The town’s traditional Inca architecture and layout provide a unique glimpse into the Incas’ advanced urban planning capabilities, which have endured for centuries.

Highlights of the Tour

One of the tour’s standout features is the imposing Temple of the Sun, an awe-inspiring stone structure that showcases the Incas’ exceptional mastery of stonework.

Visitors will also admire the Terrace of the Ten Niches, a remarkable architectural feature that highlights the Incas’ advanced understanding of engineering.

Exploring the cobblestone streets and traditional Inca buildings provides a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Plus, the tour includes:

• Marveling at the agricultural terraces that once served as the Incas’ farming hubs
• Discovering the pivotal role Ollantaytambo played in the Inca resistance against the Spanish
• Learning about the town’s Quechua-derived name, which means "place to see down"
• Appreciating the well-preserved, still-inhabited Inca urban planning and architecture.

Preparing for Your Visit

Visiting Ollantaytambo requires some preparation to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes as the site involves walking on uneven terrain. Bring sun protection, such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as the high-altitude sun can be intense. Pack a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature can change quickly. Stay hydrated by bringing water, and consider packing a snack to refuel during the tour. Finally, familiarize yourself with the site’s history and significance to enhance your appreciation of this Inca marvel.

Item	Recommendation
Footwear	Comfortable, sturdy shoes
Sun Protection	Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Clothing	Light jacket or sweater
Hydration	Water
Snack	Light, energy-boosting snack

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the Ollantaytambo Fortress Half-Day Private Tour. The tour operator explicitly states that pets and unaccompanied minors are not permitted to join the tour for safety and logistical reasons.

Is Food and Water Provided During the Tour?

No, food and water are not provided during the tour. The tour includes guided exploration of the Ollantaytambo site, transportation from Cusco hotels, and entrance fees, but personal expenses like food and water are not included.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?

There is no specified maximum group size for the private Ollantaytambo Fortress tour. The tour is designed for a private group, allowing flexibility in the number of participants and a more personalized experience.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. As a private tour, the experience is tailored to the client’s interests and preferences, allowing them to focus on the aspects of Ollantaytambo they find most fascinating.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour company does offer discounts for students and seniors, typically ranging from 10-20% off the regular tour price. Specific discount amounts may vary, so interested customers should inquire about current promotion details when booking.

Recap

This half-day private tour from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo Fortress offers an immersive journey into the heart of Inca history and engineering. With a professional bilingual guide, visitors can explore the remarkable Temple of the Sun, the Terrace of the Ten Niches, and other iconic structures, all while soaking in the breathtaking views that have captivated visitors for centuries. It’s an enriching experience not to be missed.

You can check if your dates are available here: