Ollantaytambo, my charming little town, has plenty to offer both within its limits and in the surrounding areas. If you choose Ollanta as your base, here are my top recommendations for day-trip activities, with some price details (as it is a tourist town).
- Stroll through the Market at Plaza de Ruinas (Free): This bustling market is a must-visit, with five rows of stalls brimming with statues, clothing, and various souvenirs. The cost here depends on your bargaining skills. If you have enough time, you might even meet some artisans selling their wares directly to the stores. For example, I purchased lovely purses for s/.10 each from the woman who crafted them. However, if you buy from a stall, it might be hard to get a price lower than s/.20. If you’re interested in common items like hats or statues, compare prices from different stalls to ensure you get the best deal. Just make sure the stalls you negotiate with are not next to each other, to avoid everyone quoting the same price. Note that the market does not offer edible items, so if you’re looking for coca powder, teas, or traditional snacks, you’ll need to find a woman with a basket of snacks or head to the main food market.
- Embrace the Natural Beauty (Free): Explore the mountains surrounding Ollantaytambo or simply take a leisurely walk around the town, basking in the breathtaking Peruvian landscape. Witness the enchanting sunset or sunrise over the mountains—a truly captivating experience.
- Visit the Strawberry Fields (Free): Discover a hidden gem in town by visiting a working strawberry farm. Despite the altitude, Ollantaytambo is capable of cultivating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. One such crop is strawberries, which are grown on vines planted in rows and placed on tarps for easy spotting. The friendly family that operates the farm will likely allow you to handpick your own berries if you wish. While the farm probably produces berries year-round due to the altitude and proximity to the equator, the peak season is from October to February during Peruvian summer. To find the farm and its delightful strawberries, follow a path parallel to the one leading to the train station. Take the road to the left of the main archaeological park until it curves right. Instead of following the curve, continue straight on a separate dirt path. After a gentle downhill slope, the path will level out, and you’ll keep going straight. After half a kilometer, the path almost ends, but you’ll spot a wooden door on your left with the sign “Se Vende Fresas” meaning “Strawberries Sold Here.” Behind those doors awaits a treat—fresh, juicy strawberries for s/.9 per kilo. Enjoy!
Ollantaytambo offers a delightful array of experiences for visitors, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich culture, natural wonders, and vibrant markets.