Urubamba
Gemmes de la vallée sacrée
Lieu et adresse
Urubamba is a town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, situated in southeastern Peru. It lies approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Cusco, along the Urubamba River. The town itself serves as a gateway to various archaeological sites and natural attractions in the region.
Comment s'y rendre
From Cusco, Urubamba is accessible by road, with several transportation options:
- By Bus: Frequent colectivos (shared minivans) and buses depart from Cusco's Santiago or Pavitos stations, taking about 1.5 hours.
- By Taxi: Private taxis can be arranged for a more direct route, with a travel time of roughly 1 hour.
- By Tour: Many Sacred Valley tours include Urubamba as a stop, often combined with visits to nearby ruins like Ollantaytambo or Pisac.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
As Urubamba is a town, it does not have specific opening hours or entrance fees. However, individual attractions within or near the town (e.g., archaeological sites, markets) may have their own schedules and fees. Check locally for details.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The dry season (April to October) is ideal for exploring Urubamba and the Sacred Valley, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Early mornings or late afternoons are preferable to avoid midday crowds at popular sites.
Durée de la visite
A visit to Urubamba can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on whether you explore the town itself or use it as a base for nearby excursions.
Activités
Urubamba offers a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences:
- Stroll through the town’s picturesque streets and visit the local market.
- Explore nearby Inca ruins, such as Moray or Chinchero.
- Enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding or cycling in the surrounding countryside.
- Sample traditional Peruvian cuisine at local restaurants.
Installations
Urubamba has basic amenities for visitors:
- Restaurants and cafes serving local and international dishes.
- Small shops and markets for souvenirs and essentials.
- Public restrooms are available in restaurants and some public areas.
- Limited accessibility features; uneven terrain may pose challenges for mobility-impaired visitors.
Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets and uneven paths.
- Layered clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection against strong Andean sun.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Règles et règlements
While Urubamba is an open town, respect local customs and etiquette:
- Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in markets or rural areas.
- Dispose of waste properly to preserve the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.
- Follow guidelines at specific attractions, such as archaeological sites, where touching or climbing on ruins may be prohibited.