Urubamba Travel Guide

Explore the best of Urubamba with our in-depth travel guide. Find out what to see, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Urubamba, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is a quaint town in Southern Sierra, Peru. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, incredible natural landscapes, and breathtaking outdoor adventures. If you’re planning a trip to Urubamba, our comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best of this wonderful town.

Introduction to Urubamba

As one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Peru, Urubamba is steeped in rich cultural history. It is an ideal destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat. The climate is mild throughout the year, and the town is bustling with local markets, restaurants, and attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Urubamba

There are plenty of exciting places to visit in Urubamba. We’ve divided them into two categories:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pisac Ruins
  • Ollantaytambo Ruins
  • Moray Off-Road Adventure
  • Museo Inkariy
  • Q’enqo Chico

Natural Attractions of Urubamba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Salineras de Maras
  • Pumahuanca Hike and Trek
  • Huaypo Lake
  • Chinchero
  • Raqchi Archaeological Site

Hiking/Biking Routes of Urubamba

The surrounding area of Urubamba provides an abundance of spectacular hiking and biking trails. Here are some popular routes to explore:

  • Inca Jungle Trail
  • Salkantay Trek
  • Lares Trek
  • Patacancha Valley Trek
  • Pumahuanca Trek

Best Things to Do in Urubamba: Activities and Tours

Urubamba boasts a variety of exciting activities and tours that cater to every age and interest, from adrenaline-inducing adventures to relaxing cultural excursions. Here are a few must-try things to do:

  • ATV Tours
  • Balloons Ride Tour
  • Horseback Riding Tour
  • Marvellous Sacred Valley Tour
  • Peruvian Cooking Classes

Week-Long Itinerary for Urubamba

A week in Urubamba gives you ample time to explore the town and its surrounding areas. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Pisac Ruins.
2 Trekking to Salineras de Maras.
3 Take a relaxing day to soak in nearby hot springs
4 Experience the natural beauty of Huaypo Lake.
5 Explore Ollantaytambo Ruins.
6 Learn to create traditional Peruvian food in a cooking class.
7 Have a coffee in Chinchero before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Urubamba

Peru is home to a vibrant culinary scene, and Urubamba doesn’t disappoint. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuy (guinea pig)
  • Aji de Gallina (spicy chicken stew)
  • Lomo Saltado (beef stir-fry)
  • Rocoto Relleno (stuffed peppers)

Local Beverages

  • Chicha Morada (purple corn drink)
  • Pisco Sour (Peru’s national cocktail)
  • Inca Kola (bubble gum-flavored soda)

Where to Stay in Urubamba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Urubamba offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best options:

  • Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa
  • Hotel Pakaritampu
  • Willka T’ika
  • Hostal Willcamayu
  • Niños hotel Meloc

What to Buy in Urubamba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some popular souvenirs and local products to bring home from Urubamba include:

  • Alpaca wool products
  • Handcrafted pottery
  • Traditional textiles
  • Silver Jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Urubamba

Urubamba is a town that is deeply rooted in its cultural traditions. You can see that in the way the people dress, the food they eat, and their celebrations. Visitors should respect the local customs and be aware of the dress code in religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Urubamba

The best time to visit Urubamba is during the dry season between May and September. The weather is mild, the skies are clear, and there’s very little rainfall. However, the town is pleasant to visit year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Urubamba

Do:

  • Dress conservatively while visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Take cash with you, as credit cards are not widely accepted.
  • Carry an umbrella or raincoat during the rainy season.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • Drink tap water without boiling or purifying it first.

Safety and Health

Safety in Urubamba

Urubamba is relatively safe, but visitors should take the necessary precautions while visiting. Leave valuables at your accommodation, avoid walking alone at night, and carry a copy of your passport with you.

Health in Urubamba

Visitors should prioritize staying hydrated, use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites, and avoid street food to minimize the risk of food poisoning. It is recommended to consult your doctor to ensure that your vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Urubamba.

Getting to Urubamba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Urubamba has good road connections to other major cities in Peru and is easy to reach by bus. The closest airport to Urubamba is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, which is just 50 minutes away by car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Urubamba

  • Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (Cusco)

Bus Stations Near Urubamba

  • San Francisco Bus Station (Cusco)
  • Pavitos Bus Station (Cusco)

Other Options

  • Private taxi
  • Shared shuttle
  • Local bus

How to Get Around in Urubamba

The town of Urubamba is best explored on foot. However, if you want to venture further afield, you can find taxis or hire a car. Buses are a cheap option, but they tend to be very crowded.

Where to Go Next from Urubamba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Urubamba’s strategic location offers several interesting places to visit in the region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out:

  • Cusco
  • Machu Picchu
  • Rainbow Mountain
  • Tambomachay
  • Maras

Conclusion

Urubamba is a must-visit destination in Peru, offering something for everyone. With our comprehensive travel guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make the most of your trip. So start planning your next adventure to Urubamba today!

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