Urubamba

Urubamba is considered the gateway to the archaeological wonders of the Sacred Valley. Thanks to its lower altitude compared to Cusco, it is a good spot for acclimatization. Travelers appreciate its relaxed atmosphere, luxury resorts, and proximity to the Maras salt mines and the circular terraces of Moray. The region was once the agricultural heartland of the Inca Empire, which is still reflected in its fertile fields today. In the town itself, visitors will find a lively local market and world-class restaurants serving modern Andean cuisine. The surrounding nature features opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, when the skies are clear and bright blue. Arrival is typically by taxi or bus from Cusco, taking about 1.5 hours. Urubamba serves as a first-rate base for day trips to Machu Picchu, as the train station in nearby Ollantaytambo is easily accessible, allowing for a comfortable exploration of the entire valley.

Nearby cities

Arequipa

Known as the 'White City'.

Tacna

The "heroic city" of Tacna sits on Peru's southern border, rich in patriotic history and desert charm.

Puerto Maldonado

The capital of biodiversity in the southern Amazon basin and the gateway to the pristine Tambopata and Manu reserves.

Moquegua

An elegant colonial city nestled in a fertile valley, known for its world-class Piscos and sunny streets.

Chivay

A picturesque Andean town and the main gateway to the breathtaking Colca Canyon.

History & landmarks

Santa Catalina Monastery

A colorful, historical monastery in Arequipa that looks like a small city of its own with streets and plazas.

Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

The most important Catholic church in Arequipa, famous for its white facade made of volcanic sillar stone.

Nature

Cotahuasi River

The Cotahuasi River forms the Cotahuasi Canyon, considered the deepest canyon in the world, even deeper than the Colca Canyon.

More places

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Orcopampa Mine

An underground gold and silver mine located at high elevation in the Arequipa region.

Colca Canyon

One of the deepest canyons in the world, carved by the Colca River, and an ideal spot for observing the Andean condor.

Condor Cross (Cruz del Cóndor)

A spectacular viewpoint on the edge of the Colca Canyon, the best place to watch Andean condors in flight.

Sabancaya Volcano

An extremely active, heavily glaciated stratovolcano near the Colca Canyon, often emitting ash clouds.

Mount Ampato

A dormant, ice-capped volcano in the Andes where the famous Inca ice mummy 'Juanita' was discovered in 1995.

Nevado Mismi

A glaciated mountain peak whose meltwater ultimately flows into the Atlantic Ocean after a long journey through the Amazon.

Coropuna

The highest volcano in Peru and the third highest mountain in the country, crowned by a massive ice cap.

Pampa de La Joya

A desert plain in southern Peru, often used for space research due to its extreme aridity and Mars-like landscape.