Things To Do
in Urubamba
Urubamba is a charming town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush green landscapes, it offers a peaceful retreat for travelers looking to explore the Andean culture and history. The town is known for its traditional market, where locals sell colorful textiles, handicrafts, and fresh produce.
Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring nearby Inca ruins.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sacred Valley Market, where you can find local handicrafts and fresh produce. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast at one of the nearby cafes.
Take a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo, which features impressive Inca architecture. Spend some time exploring the charming streets filled with shops and restaurants.
Relax at your accommodation and savor a delicious dinner featuring local cuisine. Consider stargazing in the clear skies of the Andes.
Embark on an early morning hike through the scenic trails surrounding Urubamba. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture breathtaking views of the valley.
Have a picnic lunch in a picturesque spot amidst nature. Continue your hike and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the landscape.
Return to town and unwind with a soothing herbal tea. Enjoy a quiet evening reflecting on your nature adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and breathtaking landscapes, including the Andes mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with proximity to Incan sites like Machu Picchu.
- Friendly local communities and opportunities to experience rural Peruvian culture.
- Diverse outdoor activities available, such as hiking, rafting, and exploring the Sacred Valley.
- Mild climate, making it suitable for year-round visits.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure compared to larger cities.
- Potential for altitude sickness due to the high elevation.
- Transportation can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming during peak season.
- Limited options for international cuisine and shopping; primarily local offerings.
Best Activities in Urubamba
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the stunning landscapes and ancient ruins as you hike the famous Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu.
Enjoy an adrenaline-filled adventure on the Urubamba River with rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley, visiting local markets, and ancient sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
Rent a bike and ride along scenic trails through the Sacred Valley, enjoying stunning views and local culture.
Discover the rich biodiversity of the Amaru Valley while birdwatching and observing unique species native to the region.
Take a guided horseback riding tour through the picturesque landscapes of Urubamba, combining adventure with stunning views.
Explore the fascinating salt mines of Maras and the unique agricultural terraces of Moray, both showcasing Inca ingenuity.
Experience the thrill of zip-lining and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley from above.
Engage with local communities to learn about traditional customs, agricultural practices, and artisan crafts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Urubamba with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Urubamba
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint located just outside Urubamba, offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding mountains, perfect for photography.
The Sacred Valley is filled with breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and charming villages, making it an ideal location for stunning nature and culture photography.
The terraces of salt pans are a unique sight, providing excellent photo opportunities with their striking white salt against the rugged landscape.
This unique archaeological site features circular agricultural terraces, offering a fascinating and picturesque backdrop for photos.
Located on top of a hill, the Pisaq ruins provide an incredible view over the Sacred Valley and the town of Pisaq, making it a great spot for photography.
This small town not only features beautiful traditional Inca architecture but also offers stunning views of the Andes and surrounding farmlands.
This impressive archaeological site offers both historical significance and breathtaking views of the valley, ideal for great landscape photography.
Food in Urubamba
Urubamba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Andean dish of roasted guinea pig, often served with potatoes and aji sauce. One of the best places to try cuy is at Picanteria La Paca, a local restaurant known for its authentic preparation.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish of marinated meats, potatoes, and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones. El Huacatay is a popular restaurant in Urubamba known for its delicious pachamanca.
Shredded chicken in a creamy yellow chili pepper sauce, typically served with rice and boiled potatoes. Visit Hacienda Huayoccari for a fantastic rendition of aji de gallina.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Urubamba better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The vibrant Urubamba Market offers an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional Andean ingredients. Visitors can sample street food like tamales, empanadas, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
In nearby Cusco, San Pedro Market is a treasure trove of street food stalls offering Peruvian delicacies such as anticuchos (grilled skewered meats), ceviche, and quinoa soup.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Urubamba, it's customary to greet with a warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends and family. Make sure to verbally greet people when entering a home or social setting to show respect.
When dining, wait for the host to begin the meal. It’s polite to try a little bit of everything offered to you. Always compliment the cook, and it's advisable to bring a small gift, such as fruit or sweets, if you’re invited to someone's home.
While Urubamba is a relatively casual town, when visiting churches or participating in cultural events, it's best to dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid overly revealing clothing, and opt for comfortable yet respectful attire, particularly in rural or indigenous areas.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Urubamba with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Urubamba
Ensure a smooth experience
In Urubamba, tipping is a common practice in the tourism and hospitality industry. It is customary to tip service providers such as guides, hotel staff, and restaurant servers. While not compulsory, a tip of around 10% is generally appreciated. Tourists are encouraged to give tips in cash, as this ensures that the full amount goes to the service provider.
Payment methods in Urubamba include cash (sole) and credit/debit cards. Many local markets and small vendors prefer cash transactions, while larger businesses such as hotels and restaurants often accept card payments. It is advisable for travelers to carry a mix of both cash and cards for convenience, especially in areas where card acceptance may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Urubamba.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Urubamba, as it offers clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures during the day. Expect pleasant weather for outdoor activities, such as hiking and visiting archaeological sites like Ollantaytambo.
During the wet season, Urubamba experiences heavy rainfall, especially from December to February. While the landscape is lush and vibrant, activities may be disrupted due to mudslides and rain. It’s a good time for travelers looking for fewer crowds and more authentic experiences, but be prepared for wet conditions.
These months serve as transitions between the dry and wet seasons. In April, you can enjoy the tail end of the dry season before the rains start, while November may present fewer crowds as visitors taper off. Both months balance reasonable weather conditions with delightful scenery.
Urubamba at Night
Hiking in Urubamba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A world-famous trek leading to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, offering stunning views and rich history.
An alternative route to Machu Picchu that promises less crowded trails and beautiful landscapes.
A challenging trek that includes breathtaking views of the Salcantay mountain and diverse ecosystems.
A less-traveled path that connects Cuzco to the ruins of Huchuy Qosqo, known for beautiful landscapes.
A cultural trek that offers insights into local Andean communities and stunning natural scenery.
While primarily an archaeological site, the surrounding hills provide excellent hiking opportunities.
A site with ancient terracing and archaeological remains, offering trails with impressive views over the Sacred Valley.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Urubamba through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Urubamba by plane.
The nearest international airport, located approximately 60 kilometers from Urubamba, serving the city of Cusco and connecting to various international destinations.
Located in Lima, approximately 600 kilometers from Urubamba, it is the busiest airport in Peru and serves as the main international gateway to the country.
Located in Arequipa, about 800 kilometers from Urubamba, it serves as an alternative international airport, mainly for domestic and a few international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region is home to various indigenous groups, including the Quechua people, who have a rich cultural heritage and language.
A significant portion of the population identifies as mestizo, a mix of Indigenous and European ancestry, influencing the cultural landscape.
This group typically descends from Spanish colonizers and is often involved in commercial and agricultural enterprises.
Includes recent migrants and expatriates from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Urubamba.
The Soul of Urubamba
Discover the essence of Urubamba through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Urubamba, with many local teams and community support.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers, with youth leagues and tournaments.
Volleyball is popular among both men and women, often played in local parks and schools.
Rugby is gaining popularity, particularly among younger athletes and is organized by local clubs.
Traditional sports such as 'Tinkuy' and 'Palta' are celebrated during local festivals and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Urubamba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Peruvian cuisine heavily features meats, many restaurants in Urubamba now offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for options like quinoa-stuffed avocado, vegetable ceviche, and mushroom stir-fry.
Several eateries in Urubamba cater to gluten-free diets, offering dishes made from inherently gluten-free ingredients like quinoa, corn, and potatoes. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Urubamba with these cultural adventures.
