Q3 to Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo: Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Ollantaytambo is a town in southern Peru, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It is a popular tourist destination, as it is the starting point for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo is also known for its well-preserved Inca ruins, including the Temple of the Sun and the Inca Bridge.

Language

The official language of Peru is Spanish, but Quechua is also widely spoken, especially in the rural areas. Ollantaytambo is no exception, and most people in the town speak both Spanish and Quechua.

Currency

The currency of Peru is the Peruvian sol (PEN). It is important to note that while the US dollar is widely accepted in tourist areas, it is not the official currency of Peru and you may not get the best exchange rate if you use it.

Distance

Ollantaytambo is located 72 kilometers (45 miles) from Cusco, the capital of the Cusco Region. The journey takes about 2 hours by bus or train.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Ollantaytambo from Cusco:

• By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Cusco and Ollantaytambo. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs around 20 PEN.
• By train: There are two train companies that operate between Cusco and Ollantaytambo: PeruRail and Inca Rail. The journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs around 100 PEN.

Expenses

The cost of living in Ollantaytambo is relatively low. A basic meal will cost around 10 PEN, and a night in a hostel will cost around 20 PEN. However, the cost of activities such as the Inca Trail can be quite high.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Ollantaytambo is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally mild and sunny, and there is less chance of rain.

What to Eat

Ollantaytambo is known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Cuy: Roasted guinea pig is a traditional Peruvian dish that is often served in Ollantaytambo.
• Alpaca: Alpaca is a type of camelid that is native to the Andes. Its meat is lean and flavorful, and it is often used in stews and roasts.
• Pachamanca: Pachamanca is a traditional Peruvian dish that is cooked in a pit in the ground. It consists of meat, vegetables, and potatoes that are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over hot stones.

Where to Go

In addition to the Inca ruins, there are several other places to visit in Ollantaytambo, including:

• The Ollantaytambo Market: The Ollantaytambo Market is a great place to buy souvenirs and local handicrafts.
• The Ollantaytambo Church: The Ollantaytambo Church is a beautiful colonial church that is worth a visit.
• The Pinkuylluna Archaeological Site: The Pinkuylluna Archaeological Site is a small Inca ruin that is located just outside of Ollantaytambo.

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Ollantaytambo:

• Is Ollantaytambo safe? Ollantaytambo is a safe town, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from theft.
• Do I need to speak Spanish to visit Ollantaytambo? While it is not necessary to speak Spanish to visit Ollantaytambo, it will be helpful if you know some basic phrases.
• What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo? The best way to get to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo is to take the Inca Trail. However, there are other options available, such as taking a train or a bus.