Attractions and Places To See in Urubamba - Top 15

Urubamba and its surroundings are rich in historical sites. You can explore the ancient Maras Salt Mines, the impressive Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, and the unique Moray Agricultural Terraces. Don't miss the Pinkuylluna Inca Granaries visible from Ollantaytambo, or the free-to-enter Palace of Inca Huayna Cápac just outside Urubamba town.

Yes, the Urubamba Valley offers stunning natural beauty. The 100-meter high Perolniyoc Waterfall is a major draw for adventurous visitors. The Urubamba River (also known as Vilcanota River) flows through the entire Sacred Valley, providing splendid landscapes and opportunities for adventure sports. The valley is also enveloped by tall Andean peaks like Chicón, Pumahuanca, Salkantay, and Verónica, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

To immerse yourself in local culture, visit the Urubamba Market for a wide variety of local produce and goods. The Pablo Seminario Pottery Workshop offers a chance to see pre-Columbian ceramic techniques and purchase high-quality souvenirs. You can also explore the Inkariy Museum, which exhibits the history of various pre-Inca cultures.

Absolutely. The Urubamba River is popular for river rafting, with sections suitable for beginners. The region also offers extensive opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and quad biking. For mountain biking, you can find routes like the 'Maras Salt Mines – Querocancha Archaeological Zone loop' or 'Descent to Maras Salt Mines loop'. More details on these and other MTB trails can be found in the MTB Trails in Urubamba guide.

The Maras Salt Mines are an ancient complex of over 3,000 salt-water wells that have been in operation since pre-Inca times. It's considered the highest salt farm in the world, where salt is obtained by evaporating salty water from a subterranean stream. The terraced salt pans create a visually striking and historically significant landscape.

The Moray Agricultural Terraces are unique circular depressions designed by the Incas to simulate 20 different microclimates. This allowed them to experiment with various crops from across their empire, effectively serving as an agricultural experiment station for domestication, acclimatization, and hybridization of plant species.

While many historical sites are engaging for families, the Urubamba River offers gentle rafting sections suitable for beginners, which can be a fun family adventure. Exploring the local Urubamba Market provides a vibrant cultural experience. The Pablo Seminario Pottery Workshop can also be an interesting visit for children to see traditional crafts being made.

The dry season, typically from May to October, is generally considered the best time to visit Urubamba. During these months, you can expect sunny days and less rainfall, which is ideal for hiking, exploring archaeological sites, and enjoying outdoor activities. The region's beautiful microclimate makes it pleasant year-round, but the dry season offers the most reliable weather for extensive exploration.

Yes, Urubamba is known for its tranquil environment, making it suitable for relaxation and wellness. Many high-end hotels in the area offer spa treatments, and there are options for yoga and meditation sessions amidst the stunning Andean scenery.

The Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site was a royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti and later served as a stronghold for Inca resistance. Visitors can explore impressive Inca architecture, including large stone walls, residential spaces, and terraces. From the site, you also get a great view of the village of Ollantaytambo and the fertile Urubamba Valley.

Yes, visitors can enjoy craft beer at local establishments such as the Valle Sagrado Brewery and Willkamayu Brewery, offering a taste of the region's burgeoning craft beer scene.