Here’s updated information for 2024 about the best options to get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo! Ollantaytambo is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Sacred Valley. And the common question is: How do you get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?

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What you need to know about getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo:

• There are public transportation options to Ollantaytambo, such as colectivos and buses.
• It’s recommended to book a tour if you want to combine Ollantaytambo with other stops in the Sacred Valley.
• The town is a gateway to Machu Picchu, so many tours and trains leave from here.
• Distance from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: 72 kilometers (45 miles) – about 1.5 hours by car.

Even though it’s not far, many visitors choose to take a tour, especially if they plan to visit other places in the Sacred Valley. Tours often include stops at Pisac or Chinchero, so you can make the most of the day. But you can also travel on your own by taking a colectivo or bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.

Public Transport Options

There are frequent colectivos (shared vans) that leave from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. These depart from Pavitos Street in Cusco and are an affordable option. Buses also run from the bus terminal near Santiago Street. Either option will take you directly to Ollantaytambo, with travel times around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Train to Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo is the main departure point for the train to Machu Picchu, which makes it a key stop for many travelers. If you plan to take the train, you’ll want to be in Ollantaytambo at least a few hours before your departure time to explore the town and its famous ruins.

Tour vs. Going on Your Own

If you prefer a more structured experience and want to see other places in the Sacred Valley, booking a tour is a good option. Tours often combine Ollantaytambo with Pisac, Chinchero, or Moray, giving you a full day of sightseeing. However, if you enjoy flexibility and exploring at your own pace, public transportation works well, especially if Ollantaytambo is your only stop that day.