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Cusco to Ollantaytambo tickets

	Distance 43 km (26.9 miles)
	Price range US$ 13-US$ 143
	Ride Duration Range 1h 30m-4h
	Earliest Departure 05:00
	Latest Departure 23:00
	Most Popular Operator Chasky Express

Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.

Taking a minivan from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

Fastest minivan: 1h 30m

Cheapest minivan: US$ 13

The fastest: 1h 30m

The cheapest: US$ 13

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

Reclining Seats

English Speaking Staff

The fastest: 1h 30m

The cheapest: US$ 32

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

English Speaking Staff

About the ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

Machu Picchu via train? That sounds like a great adventure! But first, you’re going to have to get to Ollantaytambo, where the Machu Picchu train departs.

When traveling the 72 kilometer (45 mile) distance between Ollantaytambo and Cusco, you have three 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

When it comes to the time it takes to arrive in Ollantaytambo, there’s not much difference between these 3 options, and most of them take between an hour and a half and 2 hours to make the journey.

The best time to visit Ollantaytambo is between April and October when the chances of rainfall are at their lowest. 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 flying into Cusco, you should keep in mind that the town is 3.339 meters (11.152 feet) above sea level, and you will need some time to adjust to it and avoid feeling ill from the altitude. If you’re planning on taking a train to Machu Picchu as soon as you arrive in Ollantaytambo, consider staying in Cusco for a couple of days in order to get used to the high altitude.

Those who are traveling straight to Ollantaytambo from the airport should add in a couple of days, to rest in the town before they go on to explore Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo sits at 2.792 meters (9.160 ft), and it will definitely be easier to make the transition here than in Cusco.

What to see when traveling from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

When traveling between Cusco and Ollantaytambo, you’ll be able to enjoy the views of the Peruvian countryside, beautiful nature, and mountains that are surrounding the area. Once you arrive in Ollantaytambo, you’ll be dropped off right at the train station, or your accommodation in the town.

While many travelers go straight to Machu Picchu from here, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see in the town itself. Ollantaytambo is home to several Inca ruins you can explore during your stay.

Temple of the Sun was an impressive complex that is now almost completely destroyed. Today, only the western wall remains, but if you decide to go see it, you’ll notice that it was built with incredible accuracy. The next stop on your list should be the Royal House of the Sun, the fortress that also preserves the unique layout of Inca’s urban planning.

Even though these ruins tell an amazing story, the best part of visiting Ollantaytambo is the town itself. Have a walk around its streets, enjoy the landscapes, and hang out with the locals. The town’s main square is the meeting point for people coming from nearby communities. If you’re looking for some tasty local treats or souvenirs, the town’s market is your go-to place.

After you’ve explored the town and adjusted to the altitude, it’s time to visit Machu Picchu – a place you’ll never forget!

How to get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

Taking a minivan

Ollantaytambo is only 2 hours away from Cusco, and you can easily make the journey with a shared or a private minivan ride. All minivans are equipped with A/C cabins. If you’re traveling to Ollantaytambo to take the train to Machu Picchu, it’s recommended to choose a minivan ride that departs from Cusco at least 3 and a half hours before your train departure time.

Driving with a private car

If you’re traveling within a smaller group of friends or family that needs more privacy during their journey from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, you can choose to travel in a private car. The driver will pick you at your hotel or at the airport and drop you off at your hotel in Ollantaytambo or at the train station.