Outdoor sports Landmarks & monuments Tours Outdoor activities Nature & adventure Culture & history Archaeology National parks Hiking Educational activities Jungle tours

Discover the hidden Inca site of Pumamarka on a private hike from Ollantaytambo. Walk ancient paths, explore terraces, and connect with authentic local life away from the crowds.

Highlights

• Hike to the hidden Inca site of Pumamarka with a knowledgeable local guide.
• Hike to the hidden Inca site of Pumamarka with a knowledgeable local guide.
• Connect with local life through a traditional home and chichería visit.

Description

This guided hiking experience begins with a convenient pickup from selected locations in Ollantaytambo. The tour operates in small groups and offers a morning departure between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m., depending on the daily schedule, allowing for a comfortable and well-paced start to the day. From Ollantaytambo, you will travel by transport to the trailhead near the Pumamarka area. Before starting the hike, your local guide will provide a short briefing, explaining the route, safety guidelines, and the cultural and historical background of the area. The experience continues with a guided visit to the Inca archaeological site of Pumamarka, a lesser-known complex located on a hillside with sweeping views of the Sacred Valley. At a relaxed pace, you will learn about its function, architecture, and strategic importance, with time for photos and questions. After exploring Pumamarka, the hike continues along ancient paths traditionally used by local communities. The trail passes through agricultural terraces, irrigation channels, and farmlands that are still actively cultivated today. Along the way, your guide will explain how these systems supported Inca society and how Andean families continue to preserve traditional farming techniques. You will also learn about native plants and wildlife adapted to the highland environment. As the walk gradually leads back toward Ollantaytambo, the experience becomes more immersive. You will visit a traditional local home to gain insight into daily Andean life, followed by a stop at a local chichería, where you will learn about the preparation of traditional corn beer, local customs, and guinea pig farming—an important element of Andean culture. This guided experience is ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful cultural immersion combined with light hiking, authentic encounters, and a deeper connection to the living traditions of the Sacred Valley.

Includes

Hotel pickup in Ollantaytambo (8:00 am or 9:00 am) Transportation to the starting point of the hike Short pre-hike briefing and orientation Professional local guide (English / Spanish) Entrance ticket to Pumamarka archaeological site Guided exploration of the Pumamarka ruins Interpretation of Inca history, agriculture, and water systems Walk along ancient paths, terraces, and farmlands Visit to a traditional local home Visit to a local chichería with cultural explanation

Important Information

• This is a light to moderate hike on uneven terrain. A basic level of fitness is recommended. Pickup is available from hotels in Ollantaytambo at 8:00 am or 9:00 am. Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions, medical conditions, or mobility concerns.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund