The Sacred Valley’s central transportation hub, this lively town has a well-functioning tourist infrastructure and makes an ideal base for exploring the region.
Urubamba is the economic and geographic centre of the Sacred Valley, known for easy access to the Machu Picchu rail service. Urubamba is home to a number of interesting attractions and lovely countryside scenery.
Explore the town’s main square, Plaza de Armas, where you’ll find a number of traditional Peruvian restaurants. Look inside Museo Inkariy, a museum dedicated to the Incan civilisation. Browse the interesting collection of jewellery, textiles, gold work and pottery and be sure to see the museum’s intriguing Incan mummies.
Don’t miss the Cerámica Seminario, a workshop owned by husband-and-wife duo Pablo Seminario and Marilú Bejar. This famous workshop specializes in modern ceramic works inspired by pre-Columbian techniques and motifs. If you’re lucky, you’ll have a chance to speak with Pablo Seminario and watch him create pieces using red clay sourced from the valley. Explore the small zoo located on this interesting property to see falcons, parrots, llamas and other exotic animals.
A large market often sets up just across the street from the workshop. Geared toward locals, this traditional market has been largely unchanged by increased tourism in the city. Many locals come to buy their everyday supplies, from fruits and vegetables to household items. Chat with the market vendors, who are typically happy to explain how to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes using their ingredients.
Take a trip south of Urubamba to the village of Yucay. This lovely little village has pretty adobe and stucco buildings, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit Urubamba Station, located near the grounds of the Libertador Hotel, and book tickets to the base of Machu Picchu. Keep in mind that seating is limited on trains leaving from this location, so it’s best to reserve your tickets a few days beforehand.
Urubamba is located about an hour away from Cusco. It can be easily reached by bus, colectivo (shared van) or taxi.
