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Ollantaytambo
A typical Inca community located 21 km from Urubamba at 2,800 masl,
named in honour of the chief Ollanta, who was famous for courting an
Inca princess, daughter of Pachacútec. One of its best-preserved areas,
known as Hanan Huacaypata lies north of the main square and contains 15
estates built with elegantly crafted stone walls. Ollantaytambo also
features an extensive archaeological site located on the imposing
hillside overlooking the town, containing structures such as the Temple
of the Sun, and the Mañacaray or Royal Hall, the Incahuatana and the
Baños de la Princesa. It also has hotels, restaurants and horses and
mountain bikes for hire. A branch road leading from Ollantaytambo to the
Málaga mountain pass (4,200 masl), goes through towns such as
picturesque Huílloc, home to the renowned wayruros (porters). |
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