Ollantaytambo to Cusco tickets

About the ride from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

After visiting the magnificent Machu Picchu ruins, it’s time to continue your journey. The next stop on your list is the ancient Incan capital, Cusco. 

When traveling the 72 kilometer (45 mile) distance between Ollantaytambo and Cusco, you have 3 options to choose from:

• A shared minivan ride, which is the cheapest option available
• A private minivan ride for groups between 5 and 15 passengers
• A private car ride for groups of up to 3 people

The best time to visit Cusco is from June to September when there’s little to no rainfall. However, keep in mind that the period between June and August is the busiest time of year for tourism in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

If you’re traveling from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, then you’ve probably already adjusted to the high altitude. It’s still good to mention that there’s a slight elevation gain between Ollantaytambo and Cusco, and you should be prepared to notice some more changes in your body once you arrive in Cusco. Take some time to adjust to the altitude difference properly, so that you avoid getting sick on your trip.

What to see when traveling from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

When riding from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, you’ll be traveling through gorgeous views of the Peruvian Andes, countryside, and magnificent nature. The ride only takes 2 hours, and you’ll arrive in Cusco before you even blink.

Cusco has a very laid back atmosphere. There are numerous coffee shops and local pubs dotted all around the town. These places are perfect for grabbing some tasty local coffee or a beer after your Machu Picchu hike.

Cusco is way larger than Ollantaytambo, and you’ll have many more things to do and see while you stay here. For a taste of authentic local foods, smells, and atmosphere, pay a visit to the San Pedro market.

To really get to know the town, pay a visit to some of the top attractions, such as  Plaza de Armas, Koricancha, Inca Museum, and San Blas District.

A lot of major holidays and everyday life in Cusco revolves around the town’s plazas. If you want to soak in the city’s energy, these squares are the places to go. They’re usually filled with locals and travelers at all times of the day. One of the most popular squares is the Plaza De Armas, but Plaza San Francisco is a bit less crowded.

Cusco has several museums you can visit during your stay here. If you’re a culture buff, you can get a ticket called Boleto Turistica del Cusco. Many of the museum entrance fees are included in this ticket, and you can go on to explore  Museo Historico Regional, Museo de Arte Popular, Museo Municipal de Arte Contemporaneo, Museo de Sito de Korikancha, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, the Pachaquteq Monument, and so much more.

When it comes to other museums that are not included in this ticket, Museo Inka and Museo De Arte Precolombino are the spots you should visit if you’re interested to know more about the pre-Colombian times.

How to get from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

Taking a minivan

When traveling between Ollantaytambo and Cusco, you have the option to choose between private and shared minivan rides. All minivans are equipped with A/C cabins. The ride usually takes around 2 hours to arrive in Cusco. If you’re taking the private ride, you’ll also have the option to choose your departure time, as well as pick up and drop off locations.

Driving with a private car

For smaller groups of friends and family who need more privacy during their trip, there are also private cars available. This is for groups of up to 3 travelers. The driver will pick you at your hotel in Ollantaytambo or at the train station and drop you off at your hotel in Cusco or at the airport.