Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo Fortress

The Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo Fortress stand as enduring testaments to the ingenious engineering and cultural sophistication of the Inca Empire. Nestled in Peru’s picturesque Sacred Valley, these archaeological gems offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the past, revealing the Incas’ remarkable feats of architecture, agricultural prowess, and military strategy. From the intricate terraces of Pisac to the imposing stone structures of Ollantaytambo, these sites invite travelers to enjoy the rich heritage of a civilization that left an indelible mark on the Andean region. Unraveling the secrets behind these remarkable landmarks is a journey that promises to captivate the imagination and deepen one’s understanding of the Inca’s enduring legacy.

Key Points

• The Pisac Ruins showcase the Incas’ advanced urban planning and construction, with intricate terraces and architectural marvels.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress is a significant Inca stronghold that witnessed pivotal battles against the Spanish, featuring towering stone walls and terraced structures.
• The Sacred Valley tour offers an immersive exploration of ancient Incan temples, terraced fields, and fortresses, highlighting the civilization’s cultural and historical significance.
• The tour includes visits to the Taray viewpoint, Pisac archaeological site, and Ollantaytambo fortress, providing a comprehensive understanding of the Inca Empire’s legacy.
• The tour is priced from $285 per person and includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and a buffet lunch, making it a convenient and comprehensive cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers an opportunity to explore two significant ancient Incan sites in the Sacred Valley – Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo Fortress.

Priced from $285 per person, the 1-day excursion provides round-trip transportation, a professional bilingual guide, and a buffet lunch.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour highlights advanced Incan architecture, urban planning, and stunning landscapes.

Itinerary includes a visit to the Taray viewpoint, Pisac’s terraces and ruins, and Ollantaytambo’s Inca-Spanish battle site.

Tips and personal expenses aren’t included.

Experience Highlights

Explore ancient Incan temples, terraced fields, and majestic fortresses on this immersive tour.

You’ll visit two significant sites of the Andean empire – Pisac and Ollantaytambo. At Pisac, witness the advanced urban planning and construction skills of the Incas, with its intricate terraces and well-preserved ruins.

At Ollantaytambo, explore the site of a critical Inca-Spanish battle, marveling at the impressive stonework and strategic layout of the fortress.

Throughout the journey, you’ll be treated to stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley, providing a breathtaking backdrop to this cultural experience.

With a professional bilingual guide, you’ll gain in-depth insights into the history and significance of these remarkable Incan sites.

Itinerary

The itinerary begins with an 8:00 am hotel pickup to take visitors to the Taray viewpoint, where they can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Sacred Valley.

Next, they’ll tour the Pisac archaeological site, renowned for its terraces and urban planning.

At noon, a buffet lunch is served at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, the tour explores Ollantaytambo, the site of a significant Inca-Spanish battle.

The day concludes with a return to Cusco hotels around 4:00 pm.

Throughout the journey, a professional bilingual guide provides commentary in both English and Spanish.

Inclusions

According to the overview, the tour includes transportation to and from Cusco hotels as well as transportation to certain hotels in the Sacred Valley.

A professional bilingual guide (English, Spanish) is also provided. Guests will receive a Partial Tourist Ticket (BTC), which grants access to the archaeological sites.

Plus, a buffet lunch is included during the tour. The price covers these key inclusions, though tips and personal expenses such as food and drinks aren’t included.

Travelers should check availability for starting times and participant selection when booking this comprehensive tour of Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo Fortress.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Taray Viewpoint

As the tour begins, visitors are taken to the Taray viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the breathtaking Sacred Valley. This scenic overlook provides an ideal introduction to the region’s natural beauty and Incan heritage.

• The viewpoint showcases the lush, verdant valley carved by the Urubamba River, with towering peaks of the Andes mountains in the distance.

• Guests can admire the intricate agricultural terraces that dot the landscape, a testament to the Incas’ sophisticated land management techniques.

• Taray’s strategic location allows visitors to orient themselves and gain a deeper understanding of the geography before exploring the Pisac and Ollantaytambo sites.

• This initial stop sets the stage for the immersive cultural and historical experience that awaits throughout the day’s itinerary.

Pisac Archaeological Site

Leaving the sweeping vistas of the Taray viewpoint behind, visitors now set their sights on the renowned Pisac archaeological site.

Once the commercial hub of the Inca Empire, Pisac’s terraced fields and urban planning captivate visitors with their advanced engineering.

Wandering through the sprawling ruins, travelers can witness the Incas’ mastery of stonework and hydraulic systems.

The site’s ceremonial centers, residential areas, and agricultural terraces provide a glimpse into the daily life and practices of the ancient Andean civilization.

From the towering fortress to the meticulously-crafted stone structures, Pisac offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the legacy of the Inca Empire.

Ollantaytambo Fortress

Travelers continue their journey, arriving at the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, a significant Inca stronghold that witnessed a pivotal battle between the Spanish and the Incas.

This majestic archaeological site showcases the Incas’ advanced engineering prowess, with its towering stone walls, terraced structures, and intricate water systems.

Visitors can explore the ruins, which include:

• The Temple of the Sun, a partially reconstructed religious site
• The Intihuatana, a sacred astronomical instrument used by the Incas
• The Royal Baths, which feature expertly crafted stonework and water channels
• The Ceremonial Plaza, where important Inca rituals and events took place

Ollantaytambo’s strategic location and impressive architecture make it a must-see destination for those exploring the Sacred Valley’s rich Inca heritage.

Additional Information

Visitors to the Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo Fortress should take note of a few additional details.

Tips and personal expenses like food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price. It’s important to check availability for desired starting times and confirm participant selection.

Travelers should also be aware that the tour provides partial access to the Boleto Turístico del Cusco (BTC), the tourist ticket that grants entry to various sites in the Cusco region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Transportation Options From Cusco to the Tour Sites?

The tour includes transportation to and from the customer’s Cusco hotel, as well as transportation to certain hotels in the Sacred Valley during the tour. Participants are picked up from their Cusco hotel at the start of the tour.

Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific age or physical fitness requirements. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can join, though some moderate walking and climbing may be involved at the archaeological sites.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Needs?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special needs. The tour operator is flexible and willing to work with guests to ensure they can fully participate and enjoy the experience, within the tour’s capabilities.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified in the information provided. However, small group sizes are typically preferred for these types of cultural and historical excursions to ensure a personalized and immersive experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students, Seniors, or Families?

The tour provider doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts for students, seniors, or families. However, it’s best to inquire about any available offers when booking the tour, as some companies may provide special pricing for certain groups.

Recap

The Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo Fortress offer an unparalleled window into the Inca civilization‘s architectural prowess and strategic acumen. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of these historic sites, marveling at the engineering feats and cultural traditions that defined the Inca Empire. This tour provides an enriching experience, allowing travelers to gain a deeper understanding of Peru’s remarkable heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: