Ollantaytambo is a town and Inca archaeological site in the Cusco region of southern Peru, located approximately 72 kilometers northwest of Cusco in the Sacred Valley at an elevation of 2,792 meters. The town is situated in the district of Ollantaytambo, in Urubamba province, at the westernmost point of the Sacred Valley. It functions as a living Inca town where residents maintain Inca traditions and original Inca structures remain remarkably intact alongside colonial buildings and cobblestone streets.
The site originated as an Aymara settlement called "Ullantawi" (meaning lookout point) before being conquered and fortified by Inca emperor Pachacuti in the mid-15th century, who built a town and ceremonial center there as his royal estate. During the Spanish conquest of Peru, Ollantaytambo served as the last stronghold for Manco Inca Yupanqui, leader of Inca resistance, beginning in January 1537, though Spanish reinforcements ultimately took control. The ruins include the Temple of the Sun, featuring six colossal stone blocks with a trapezoidal window and carved Inca crosses; the Temple of the Ten Niches at the site's summit; the Royal House of the Sun with 17 agricultural and fortress terraces; and Baño de la Ñusta, a baptismal font with three water spouts.
Ollantaytambo is now a major tourist destination and serves as the main train gateway to Machu Picchu and a key access point for the four-day Inca Trail hike. The town center features an artisan market selling handicrafts and textiles, along with restaurants and cafes in the Plaza de Armas. It is accessible from Cusco by carpool (approximately 2 hours) or through tour agencies that combine visits with nearby attractions such as the Maras salt mines and Moray terraces.