Journey into the Sacred Valley city of Urubamba when visiting the Peruvian Andes mountains. Due to its central location, the city is a popular base camp for many visitors coming to explore the nearby salt mines, tropical rainforest, Inca ruins, and famous Machu Picchu citadel.
A tour of this village demonstrates traditional life in the Andes and facilitates sustainable social and economic development in the region.
These stone depressions are believed to be an agricultural experiment carried out during the Inca Civilization.
Visit Peru's most iconic citadel nestled atop a mountainous ridge, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Horseback through the Andes mountains and along the Urubamba River for an unforgettable Peruvian experience.
Take a hike outside of the city to visit the thousands of salt pools nestled in the Sacred Valley of southeastern Peru.
The dry season from May-September is the best time to visit and hike around the Andes mountain range.
The nearest and most popular airport is located in Peru's capital of Cusco, 35 miles south of Urubamba. From there you can connect by train or private taxi to Urubamba.
There is no direct train to Urubamba, however you can take a train from Cusco to nearby Ollantaytambo and then make a transfer by bus. Tickets cost S/2,300.
From Cusco, take route 3S to reach Urubamba in a little over one hour.
Take a local bus from Cusco bus station to Urubamba for S/3.50.
Aranwa Sacred Valley is an 18th-century hacienda, offering rooms starting at S/800 a night. Tambo del Inka is another luxury resort and spa with beautiful views and all of the modern ammenities.
Ollantaytambo - many guided tours are based out of this nearby city along the Urubamba River. The central train station of Sacred Valley is also located here.
Pisac - visit this area to pick up some handicrafts and explore the ancient temples of Pisac Archaeological Park.
Central Urubamba - this transportation hub is popular for its connections throughout the Sacred Valley region and for many outdoor sports activities including hang gliding, paragliding, and rafting along the Urubamba River.
Buses and colectivos (shared taxis) are common within Urubamba and around the Sacred Valley region. A standard fare costs S/10.
Due to its location, taxis are often pre-arranged for intercity travel. A trip from Urubamba to Cusco or Machu Picchu will cost S/100.
Daily rental car prices start at S/150 PEN and vehicles can be picked up from the airport or other downtown locations in nearby Cusco.
Most shopping is done at small markets within the city. Cerámicas Seminario is a great place to shop for local souvenirs, such as alpaca clothing.
Mercado de Urubamba and Frank's Market are the two main food shopping markets. A dozen eggs costs S/5.
Alhambra Hacienda Restaurant serves traditional Peruvian food from thatched gazebos alongside roaming llamas and macaws. A typical meal costs around S/60 for two people.