Ollantaytambo, situated approximately 75 kilometers northwest of the historical Cusco city, is located very close to the major archaeological sites of Peru. Ollantaytambo played an important role in the ceremonies held during the Inca Empire period and it is possible to see some remains of that time in the city. The city, founded in the region known as the "Sacred Valley", is nearly paradise for the visitors interested in South American history.
You can climb up the historical steps that are inherited from the Incan civilization to reach the hill and enjoy the pleasure of watching the magnificent view that appears from here. It is also possible to see the traces of Spanish rule while strolling around. You can see the examples of the works of Spanish people, who dominated the region in economic and cultural terms for a long time. The temple dedicated to the sun god and located near the old fort is one another of the historical heritage sites worth seeing. The hills used as food storage by the Incan people can be listed among the other attention-grabbing details of the region.
There are many ideal areas in Ollantaytambo for those who like to go for a walk. Wear comfortable walking shoes and leave yourself on an adventure that will let you be alone with nature and history. Moreover, cycling through the trail starting from the lower parts up to Pumamarca is at least as enjoyable as walking it. The visitors expecting more adventures can take rafting by boat on the river. The best time for mountain biking, hiking and rafting is the period between May and October, known as the dry season. If you are not familiar with the hiking trails, you can consider joining a 3 or 4-day comprehensive tour.
Another activity waiting for the tourists who especially like traveling on train in the region is the Susco and Machu Picchu railway route. You can experience unique experiences that will literally be engraved in your memory when you travel through the hills offering almost every shade of green.
If you want to take a closer look at the ongoing local life in the area, you can go to the nearby mountain villages by crossing the river and waterfalls. The villages are quite small and so it doesn't take much time to travel. Besides, a completely different atmosphere will be waiting there for you.
If you can overcome your fear of heights, you should include the Inca Bridge, which you will notice that your heart beats speed up, in your list of places to see. Ollantaytambo also satisfies those who want to taste delicious dishes. The delightful delicacies prepared with fresh fruit and vegetables in the farms, which have recently become the favorite of the tourists as well as the locals in the region are very popular. You are also recommended to taste some of the delicious wines in addition to the special tastes of the Peruvian cuisine in farms and at the restaurants.