Ollantaytambo Fortress

Ollantaytambo

A massive Incan military fortress above the town of Ollantaytambo featuring impressive stonework and offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. The site provides excellent hiking and represents one of the few places where Incas successfully resisted Spanish conquest.

Things to do

• Explore the Temple of the Sun — Climb to the upper terraces to see the precisely fitted stone temple featuring six massive granite monoliths, showcasing the finest Incan masonry.
• Hike to Inca Kallpa — Trek uphill beyond the main fortress ruins to reach this lesser-known stone platform offering views of the surrounding mountains and agricultural terraces.
• Walk the Agricultural Terraces — Stroll through the hundreds of steep stone-lined terraces that cascade down the mountainside, still used by local farmers today.
• Visit the Town Plaza and Market — Spend time in the main square of Ollantaytambo village below the fortress where local artisans sell textiles, ceramics, and handicrafts.
• Photograph Sunset from Upper Terraces — Position yourself on the highest accessible fortress levels at sunset to capture panoramic views of the Sacred Valley bathed in golden light.
• Visit the Ollantaytambo Museum — Explore the small museum in the town center displaying artifacts from the site, including ceramics and explanatory exhibits about Incan history.
• Hike to Pinka Ollantay — Trek to this archaeological site across the valley where the legendary Incan commander Ollantay allegedly took refuge from Pachacuti.

Food to try

• Ceviche — Fresh fish cured in citrus juice with red onions and cilantro, a Peruvian coastal dish widely served in Sacred Valley restaurants.
• Cuy al Horno — Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean delicacy seasoned with cumin and served with potatoes and corn in local eateries.
• Papa a la Huancaína — Boiled potatoes covered in a creamy yellow sauce made from local ají peppers and served at family-run restaurants throughout the town.
• Quinoa Soup — Hearty traditional soup made with quinoa, potatoes, and vegetables that provides warmth at the high altitude of the Sacred Valley.
• Fresh Trout from Local Rivers — Grilled or pan-fried trout caught from nearby mountain streams, often served with local herbs and vegetables at riverside establishments.
• Coca Leaf Tea — Traditional herbal infusion made from coca leaves, served complimentary at many restaurants to help visitors acclimatize to the altitude.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds — Tour groups typically arrive mid-morning, so visiting the fortress at dawn ensures a more serene experience and better photography opportunities.
• Respect Sacred Spaces — The fortress remains spiritually significant to local Quechua communities, so remove hats at temple sites and avoid loud behavior in ceremonial areas.
• Acclimatize to High Altitude — At 2,800 meters elevation, many visitors experience mild altitude sickness; drink coca tea, ascend slowly, and avoid strenuous activity on your first day.
• Learn Quechua Greetings — Locals appreciate visitors who attempt basic Quechua phrases like 'Allinllachu' (hello) and 'Sulpayki' (thank you), strengthening cultural connections.