Ollantaytambo (2,800 meters, or 9,200 feet above sea level) is the name given both to the Inca ruin complex sculpted into the cliff side at the northern end of the Sacred Valley and to the town founded by the Incas. A private Ollantaytabmo tour can be arranged as part of a longer visit to the Sacred Valley, combined with other Incan sites of interest including Pisac, Chinchero and Moray. Ollantaytambo: A highlight of the Sacred Valley The town of Ollantaytambo is the best surviving example of Inca city planning. The original layout and structure, including canals, are still used by the town's inhabitants. The Incas divided the village into blocks called canchas, each with just one entrance leading into a courtyard. Residents entered their individual houses from the courtyard, rather than from the street. A collection of British charities financed the small Ethnographic Museum in town, opened in December 1997, that highlights the ancient customs and traditions of the peoples of this part of the Andes. There are displays of tools and garments of present-day indigenous populations in the highlands. The Incan Ruins of Ollantaytambo But the true highlight of an Ollantaytambo tour is visiting its ruins. The expansive, steep terraces guarding the Inca fortress are a sight to behold. The Incas likely saw Ollantaytambo as a temple rather than a military stronghold, but the Spanish conquistadors called it a fortress and it has been referred to as such ever since. Some of its walls were under construction at the time of the conquest and have never been completed. The stone used for these buildings was quarried from the mountainside 6 kilometers (4 miles) away high above the opposite bank of the Urubamba River. Transporting the huge stone blocks from the quarry to the site was a stupendous feat, employing thousands of native workers. Incan Battle Victory The complex is also a site of
Ollantaytambo (2,800 meters, or 9,200 feet above sea level) is the name given both to the Inca ruin complex sculpted into the cliff side at the northern end of the Sacred Valley and to the town founded by the Incas. A private Ollantaytabmo tour can be arranged as part of…
Tailormade trip Peru The Sacred Valley is replete with towns and villages influenced by both the ancient legacies and modern day life. Pisac, which sits about 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Cusco, is a popular place to visit as part of any private, tailormade trip Peru as it boasts a hybrid modern-colonial village lying on the riverbank with a souvenir and local market, and an Inca fortress on a mountain spur about 600 meters (1,970 feet) above. A tailormade Pisac tour is an enjoyable day trip through stunning landscapes, which can be easily combined with other nearby attractions: Chinchero, Maras salt Pans, Maray and Ollantaytambo ruins. Pisac Market For most of the week, the colonial town of Pisac is a quiet Andean village where locals relax in the plaza or enjoy fresh bread baked in an old-fashioned clay oven. Here there is a popular market for tourists where you can pick up an array of souvenirs. But the village comes alive on Sunday when the famous weekly market takes place. Pisac’s Sunday market attracts locals and international tourists alike.The main square gets crowded, especially after the mass, which is celebrated in Quechua. The congregation leaves the church in a colorful procession, led by the Mayor holding his silver staff of office. Pisac Ruins The Pisac Archaeological Site above the village is the largest fortress city of the Incas and one of the largest of ancient America. During a Pisac tour, walking the site in full with expert guiding in Peru takes one and a half hours approximately. For those seeking less adventure, it is also possible to visit the main entrance to the site and walk less, which still affords impressive views down into the green valley. Pisac's setting is postcard-worthy. Visitors can reach the site either by a 10-kilometer (6-mile) paved road up the Chongo Valley, or by a short
Tailormade trip Peru The Sacred Valley is replete with towns and villages influenced by both the ancient legacies and modern day life. Pisac, which sits about 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Cusco, is a popular place to visit as part of any private, tailormade trip Peru as it boasts a hybrid modern-colonial village…
With Valentine's Day fast approaching, romance is in the air. But there's a scent of something else as well -- pressure to choose the perfect Valentine's Day destination. In a land teeming with colourful adventure, it can be easy to forget that Peru is also an ideal choice for a relaxing and indulgent romantic getaway. Whether you're honeymooners or celebrating your 60th anniversary, the plush luxury accommodations combined with isolated natural splendor will surely make for a Valentine's Day to remember. We've compiled a list of our favorite romantic locales in Peru so you can plan the perfect getaway for you and your sweetheart for Valentine's Day in Peru. Where to spend Valentine's Day in Peru 1. Mancora - If a traditional, beach resort getaway is the ideal, then Peru’s 1300 miles of coastline, particularly on the tropical Northern Beaches, offer any newly weds a range of options. KiChic, a boutique retreat with a focus on wellness, is an especially luxe option that is perfect for couples. KiChic is the kind of place that has the comforts of a five star property, but without the pretensions. Plus, no kids allowed – perfect for uninterrupted peace and tranquility. 2. Lake Titicaca - Because of its sheer natural beauty, Lake Titicaca is a popular locale for romantic adventures. The vistas seem endless on a clear day, and the sunsets are unparalleled. Suasi Lodge is perfect for nature lovers looking for an isolated escape. The lodge, built with adobe and thatched with native high altitude grass calledichu, is rustic and charming, allowing guests to become more in tune with the environment that surrounds them. All rooms are equipped with skylights and balconies that offer a breathtaking view of the lake. 3. Sacred Valley - With its pristine mountain peaks, verdant fields, and natural tranquility, the Sacred Valley is also a great location for
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, romance is in the air. But there’s a scent of something else as well — pressure to choose the perfect Valentine’s Day destination. In a land teeming with colourful adventure, it can be easy to forget that Peru is also an ideal choice for a…