If you’re traveling to Peru, you may be interested in visiting the Sacred Valley, a region in the highlands of the Andes. The region is home to Spanish colonial villages and was the heart of the Inca Empire. You can take a tour of a llama farm, visit the Salineras de Maras salt mines, or trek to the top of Ollantaytambo fortress.
Ollantaytambo fortress
Ollantaytambo, also called Olly, is a small town in Peru. It is located 95 kilometers north of Cuzco. It is a town with a history that stretches back to the 15th century. It is a popular tourist destination. It was the last stronghold of the Incas in Peru.
The town’s name, Ollantaytambo, comes from the Incan warrior, Ollantay. He fell in love with the daughter of Pachacutec Inca, who was the Incan emperor at the time. She gave birth to Imaq Sumaq, an Incan prince. The marriage was not approved by Pachacutec.
After the conquest of Cusco, the rebel leader, Manco Inca, took over Ollantaytambo. He built a fortress here and used it as a base of operations. When the Spanish conquerors arrived, he forced them to retreat. He then retreated to his village of Vilcabamba.
Salineras de Maras salt mines
Maras Salt Mines are one of the most unique attractions in Peru. In the Sacred Valley, near Urubamba, you can explore the process of harvesting salt. The salt ponds were created more than 500 years ago, and are still in operation.
The mines are owned by local families, and are passed down through the generations. You can visit the Maras mines as a part of a private tour, or independently. Visiting during the rainy season will increase your chances of seeing the pools refilled with water.
You can learn how the evaporation of brine produces salt by taking a tour. The tour guides can explain the history of the site. They will also show you different stages of the salt production process.
Trekking tour for llamas
A llama trek is a great way to experience nature in Cusco Peru. You’ll learn about the history of the llama, and you’ll meet friendly, curious animals. Llamas are the native inhabitants of South America, and are part of the Camelidae family.
A llama trek is also a great opportunity to see the culture of the Andes. You’ll meet people from high-altitude villages, and you’ll get to experience thousand-year-old customs. You’ll get to sample traditional food, and you’ll get to take in spectacular mountain views.
Llamas are sociable, curious, and intelligent animals. They are great pack animals and can carry up to 25% of their own weight. They are also low-maintenance. They can live in very high altitudes because of their hemoglobin. Their feet are soft and padded, giving them an advantage on steep, rocky paths.
Restaurants in the Sacred Valley
In addition to visiting some of the most famous Inca archaeological sites, you can also enjoy some of the best restaurants in the Sacred Valley. Peru’s culinary scene has improved considerably in recent years, resulting in more locally produced, high quality ingredients. Some of the top restaurants include Yanahuara, Paca Paca, MIL, Tunupa, and El Huerto.
The Sacred Valley Tour of the Incas, including Ollantaytambo, Moray, Pisac, and Chinchero, is home to many ancient archaeological sites. These ruins are a must-see, but visitors are also eager to try the food.
Yanahuara Restaurant, located in the town of Yanahuara S/N, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, offers a buffet lunch or dinner. You can enjoy grilled native potatoes, alpaca meat, picarones, and salads. This restaurant also features a beautiful garden, musical shows, and a stage.
Transportation to and from the Sacred Valley
The Peru Sacred Valley has a variety of transportation options to and from the area. You can take a taxi, collectivo or bus. This is a great way to see the area.
There is a lot to do in the Sacred Valley. From hiking to mountain biking, you can have a great adventure. There are also a number of hotels, hostels and guesthouses. These places provide top-notch service and offer endless views of the Andes.
A number of popular destinations are accessible by public transportation from Urubamba. Some of these include Ollantaytambo, Moray and Maras. You can visit these destinations without a guide. The buses are fast and safe. They run from the main terminal in Urubamba.
Urubamba has a number of hotels, including boutique resorts and budget hostels. The town is a convenient base for exploring the Sacred Valley. It has a large market with vendors and fresh produce. It is a great place to buy souvenirs and Andean crafts.
