CATCCO Museum Ollantaytambo
Experience the last living Inca city, where ancient foundations meet vibrant daily life. Explore historic streets and meet friendly guinea pigs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tour groups thin out
CATCCO Museum Ollantaytambo
Best Time
Tour groups thin out
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the last living Inca city, where ancient foundations meet vibrant daily life. Explore historic streets and meet friendly guinea pigs.
"The most authentic spontaneous experience in Ollantaytambo. Was invited into their home that is well kept original how it was."
🤝 Authentic Home Visits
Be open to spontaneous invitations into local homes for a genuine cultural exchange.
🐹 Feed the Guinea Pigs
Enjoy interacting with the many guinea pigs; it's a memorable and fun experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Inca Walls & Homes
Throughout Ollantaytambo town
Walk streets and see homes built on 500-year-old Inca foundations, still inhabited today. A truly living historical site.
CATCCO Museum
Within the town
Discover a restored Inca house showcasing traditional lifestyle, artifacts, and a multitude of friendly guinea pigs.
Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
Above the town
Explore impressive Inca terraces, temples, and fortresses offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Living Inca City
Guinea Pig Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Authentic Home Visits
Be open to spontaneous invitations into local homes for a genuine cultural exchange.
🐹 Feed the Guinea Pigs
Enjoy interacting with the many guinea pigs; it's a memorable and fun experience.
🛍️ Hand-made Alpaca Goods
Look for authentic, hand-made alpaca items sold at reasonable prices by locals.
🚶♀️ Explore the Town
Wander the cobblestone streets and admire the ancient Inca architecture still in use.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Authentic Home Visits
Be open to spontaneous invitations into local homes for a genuine cultural exchange.
🐹 Feed the Guinea Pigs
Enjoy interacting with the many guinea pigs; it's a memorable and fun experience.
🛍️ Hand-made Alpaca Goods
Look for authentic, hand-made alpaca items sold at reasonable prices by locals.
🚶♀️ Explore the Town
Wander the cobblestone streets and admire the ancient Inca architecture still in use.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ollantaytambo's authentic, living Inca city atmosphere and the warm hospitality of its residents. The CATCCO Museum, with its historical insights and numerous guinea pigs, is a standout experience. While some may find the sheer number of guinea pigs surprising, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the unique cultural immersion and genuine interactions. +1
"The most authentic spontanious experince in Ollantaytambo. Was invited into their home that is well kept original how it was. Their ancestors where still there (their head scelletons) Lots of ancient original antique natural souvenirs and you can feed guinea pigs as well. So cool, so happy the owner invited me in from the street"
Juliette Wessel Leroy
"This place is a must stop if you are visiting Ollantaytambo! It has a lot of traditional Inkan architecture as well as lots of history. Nati, who was an amazing host, told me that she as well as her ancestors had lived there for many many years. Also, she sells many real Alpaca goods that are hand-made and are at very reasonable prices as well. There is a lot to explore there and without a doubt, Nati will provide a very welcoming atmosphere.
I stopped by this place by chance, but definitely want to come back when I'm in Ollantaytambo. Lastly, she is a guide for Machu Pichu and the local area as well. This is Peruvian hospitality and kindness at its best!"
Samil Tabani
"Here you can learn a little about the lifestyle of the people living here. It is a house restored among the original Inca walls. Inside you find a huge amount of guinea pigs (called Cuy in Peru.) They are adorable and known to be among the most sociable animals, as they don't fight each other. However, here they don't live many years as they are slaughtered and eaten. It's a delicacy in Peru."
Marc Remus
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a taxi, a colectivo (shared van), or a tour bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. The journey typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Colectivos are the most budget-friendly option. +1
Yes, the town of Ollantaytambo is very walkable. Its charm lies in exploring its narrow cobblestone streets on foot.
Absolutely! Ollantaytambo is a popular stop on the Sacred Valley tours and can be visited as a day trip from Cusco.
The best way is to simply wander through its ancient streets, admire the original Inca architecture, and soak in the atmosphere. +1
Yes, many local guides offer tours of the archaeological site and the town. Some locals, like Nati, also offer insights into their homes and history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the town itself is free to explore. However, you will need a 'Boleto Turistico' (Tourist Ticket) to enter the main Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site.
You can purchase the Boleto Turistico at the entrance of the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site or at the main tourist office in Cusco.
The Boleto Turistico grants access to the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site and several other attractions in the Sacred Valley.
Exploring the town's streets and seeing the living Inca houses is free. Some local homes, like the CATCCO Museum, may have a small entrance fee or donation. +1
The archaeological site is typically open from around 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's best to check current hours before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The CATCCO Museum is a restored traditional Inca house where you can learn about the local lifestyle, see ancient artifacts, and interact with many guinea pigs.
Guinea pigs (cuy) are a significant part of Andean culture, often raised for food. In places like the CATCCO Museum, they are also a charming attraction.
Yes, you can find many local crafts, including hand-made alpaca goods, at reasonable prices throughout the town.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be on cobblestone streets and potentially climbing terraces. Layers are recommended due to changing weather.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring the town, seeing the guinea pigs, and visiting the archaeological site. The living history aspect is engaging for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the living Inca streets, the impressive terraces of the archaeological site, and the charming interactions with locals and guinea pigs. +1
Always ask for permission before taking photos inside private homes or small museums. Some may have restrictions or small fees.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the town's atmosphere and the archaeological site.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but professional shoots or drone usage may require special permits.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for the archaeological site, while a wide-angle lens can capture the narrow streets. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The CATCCO Museum is a must-visit for families. The sheer number of guinea pigs is a huge draw, and kids will love interacting with them. It's a fun and educational way to learn about local culture and traditions. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved, and consider bringing snacks and water for little ones.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While the main archaeological site requires a tourist ticket, exploring the town's streets and visiting places like the CATCCO Museum (which may have a small donation) are very affordable ways to experience the local culture. Look for local markets for reasonably priced souvenirs and food options.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the main site, delve into the living history of the town. Visiting restored Inca homes like the CATCCO Museum provides a tangible connection to the past, illustrating daily life and cultural practices that have endured for centuries. Engaging with local guides or residents can offer deeper insights into the historical significance of this remarkable place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Living Inca City of Ollantaytambo
Walking through Ollantaytambo feels like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets, the stone houses, and the intricate water systems are all testaments to Inca engineering and urban planning. Locals continue to live their daily lives within these ancient structures, offering a rare glimpse into a culture that has preserved its heritage. This living aspect is what sets Ollantaytambo apart from many other historical sites in Peru.
When visiting, be respectful of the residents. While many are welcoming and open to sharing their heritage, remember it is their home. Spontaneous invitations into homes, like those experienced at the CATCCO Museum, offer the most authentic encounters. These interactions provide invaluable insights into the enduring Inca way of life.
Experiencing the CATCCO Museum and its Guinea Pigs
A major highlight of the CATCCO Museum, and indeed a unique aspect of Ollantaytambo, is the presence of numerous guinea pigs, known locally as 'cuy.' These animals are not just pets; they are an integral part of Andean culture, historically raised for food and sometimes for ceremonial purposes. Visitors often have the opportunity to interact with and even feed these sociable creatures, making for a memorable and often humorous experience.
Beyond the guinea pigs, the museum and its hosts often provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Travelers have reported being invited into homes, sharing stories, and learning about local traditions directly from residents. This personal touch, combined with the historical context and the charming guinea pigs, makes the CATCCO Museum a highly recommended stop for an authentic Ollantaytambo experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit