Short answer: Ollantaytambo is about 72 km from Cusco, 1h45 to 2h by road. You can go by colectivo or shared van (cheapest), on a Sacred Valley tour, or by private transfer (most comfortable, from US$51 (S/ 180) per vehicle). There is no useful direct train from downtown Cusco: trains to Machu Picchu leave from Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
Cusco to Ollantaytambo distance and travel time
- Distance: about 72 km via Chinchero, a bit more via Pisac and Urubamba.
- Time: 1h45 to 2h depending on traffic and stops.
- From Cusco airport: about 75 km and 1h50.
Option 1: private transfer or taxi (recommended)
The easiest way if you carry luggage, are catching the train to Machu Picchu or travel as a group. We pick you up at your hotel or the airport and drop you at your lodging or the station with time to spare. You can stop at the Chinchero viewpoints or the Maras salt mines.
Option 2: colectivo or shared van
Colectivos and vans to Urubamba and Ollantaytambo leave from central Cusco (the Calle Pavitos area is the best known). It’s the cheapest option, but you leave when the vehicle is full, luggage space is limited and you are not always dropped at your hotel or the station. Confirm the fare before getting in.
Option 3: Sacred Valley tour
Some Sacred Valley tours end in Ollantaytambo. Good if you want to visit Pisac on the way, but schedules are fixed. To do it at your own pace, see our private Sacred Valley tour.
Option 4: the train
PeruRail and Inca Rail trains to Machu Picchu leave from Ollantaytambo and, depending on the season, from Poroy or stations in Cusco. To reach Ollantaytambo from Cusco almost everyone goes by road. Check your ticket for the departure station and book your Ollantaytambo station transfer or Poroy taxi.
Quick comparison
| Option | Time | Comfort | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viajes D’MARC private transfer | 1h45 – 2h | High, door to door | US$51 (S/ 180) per vehicle |
| Colectivo / shared van | About 2h | Low, leaves when full | Budget (per person) |
| Sacred Valley tour | Full day | Medium, fixed schedule | Varies by agency |
Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Coming back from Machu Picchu by train? We meet you at Ollantaytambo station and drive you to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Share your train number and arrival time when booking.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?
With Viajes D’MARC, from US$51 (S/ 180) per vehicle in a sedan (up to 3 travelers), fixed price, door to door.
How long does it take from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?
Between 1h45 and 2h by road, about 72 km.
Is there a train from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?
Trains run to Machu Picchu. To reach Ollantaytambo from Cusco almost everyone goes by road and boards the train there.
Can I go straight from Cusco airport to Ollantaytambo?
Yes. The private transfer from Cusco airport to Ollantaytambo starts at US$51 (S/ 180) per vehicle.