10 Epic Things to Do in Urubamba (Sacred Valley)

Urubamba: The 10 Best Places to Visit (+ Tips)

Urubamba was once a major agricultural hub during the height of the Inca Empire.

Today, it serves as a key transit point between Cusco and Ollantaytambo, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the Sacred Valley.

While it may not have the same historical charm as some of its neighbors, Urubamba has its own appeal—think great restaurants, high-end hotels, and peaceful spots for spiritual retreats.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need: things to do in Urubamba, my favorite restaurants, and hotel recommendations for every budget.

So, what can you see and do in Urubamba? Let’s take a look!

1. Ceramic Workshop Pablo Seminario

Pablo Seminario is a renowned artist who opened his studio over 30 years ago in Urubamba with his wife, Marilú Behar.

An architect passionate about Peruvian cultures, he dedicated himself to learning various pre-Columbian ceramic techniques in order to preserve this ancestral art.

Today, his unique creations are recognized internationally, and his pieces are sold all over the world.

The studio offers a small guided tour, including a presentation of the artworks and a video explaining the manufacturing process.

It’s also a great place to buy a high-quality souvenir and enjoy a relaxing break in the beautiful courtyard adorned with a fountain, cactus, and colorful flowers.

• Address: 405 Berriozábal Avenue, Urubamba; open daily from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm; Tel: (51) 84 201 086

2. The Urubamba Market

In Peru, the market is the heart of the community, and this is especially true of the Urubamba market, which remains much more authentic and less touristy than others, such as the Pisac market.

It’s a large covered market where the caseritas (vendors) sell fresh fruits, vegetables, potatoes, meats, cereals, and offer delicious fresh fruit juices.

If you enjoy immersing yourself in local life and discovering an incredible variety of produce, this is definitely a must-visit place in Urubamba.

• Address: Two blocks from the Plaza (Jirón Comercio, Urubamba)

3. Explore Maras and Moray

About 6 miles from Urubamba are the Salinas de Maras, a set of more than 3000 salt water wells.

It is a must-see in the Sacred Valley, and a magical place to take pictures!

You can even visit the salt pans with a local community that offers a complete experience with different workshops to discover their traditions, taste chicha morada and cuy (guinea pig).

4 miles from Maras are the agricultural terraces of Moray, where the Incas managed to simulate 20 different microclimates to grow plants from all over the empire.

• You can also read: How to Visit the Salt Mines of Maras and Moray

4. Hiking around Urubamba

There are several hikes you can do directly from Urubamba.

One of the easiest is the Mirador Tantanmarka hike, which rewards you with a magnificent view after about a 45-minute climb. There’s also another viewpoint located a little further along the trail.

For a more challenging adventure, you can head to Nevado Chicón, a 5,530-meter peak in the Cordillera de Urubamba. While it’s possible to go on your own, it’s recommended to hire a guide. Along the way, you’ll encounter rivers, lush green landscapes, and the beautiful Juchuycocha Lagoon.

5. Relax at the Spa of Hotel Tambo del Inka

Tambo del Inka is one of the most luxurious hotels in Peru, renowned for its prestigious spa.

The spa offers a wide range of treatments and massages, as well as access to a Jacuzzi and both indoor and outdoor pools.

The outdoor pool area offers a beautiful view of the gardens and the river — a perfect setting to unwind.

• Prices: massages start at 162 soles, other treatments start at 176 soles. You can also use the pool, gym, and sauna for $20.
• Address: Avenida Ferrocarril, Urubamba. Open daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm. Reservations are highly recommended, especially in high season: thespaaturubamba@libertador.com.pe

6. The town of Yucay

Yucay is a very nice and quiet village where you can walk between the corn fields and the mountains.

Enchanted by its pleasant climate and fertile land, Huayna Capac decided to settle in the village, built palaces and agricultural terraces with an irrigation system.

The place was considered a great example of hydraulic technology and agricultural production, and the aqueducts are still functioning today!

Walking around you will see a mixture of Inca architecture (the Ñusta Palace and the Palace of the Inca Sayri Túpac, which is next to one of the town squares) and colonial architecture (Church of Santiago Apóstol).

Staying in Yucay

Due to its proximity to Urubamba and its country charm, several hotels have opened in and around the town.

Fortunately, Yucay has not become “too touristy”, as travelers staying there make excursions to other places during the day.

• Yucay Plaza Inn: located right in front of the church of Santiago Apostle, is the hotel that offers the best value for money in Yucay in its category with a rather simple building, but with clean rooms, a good welcome and a terrace that offers a beautiful view of the mountains. From only 19 euros per night.
• Hotel La Casona de Yucay: located in a large house dating back to 1810 where Simon Bolivar Simon Bolivar who fought for the Peruvian Wwar of Independence during his trip through the Andes. The building was transformed into a hotel about twenty years ago, and today has gardens and an organic orchard. The hotel has the Tika restaurant and the Apus bar that prepares very good pisco cocktails. From 83 euros per night
• Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay: is a hotel located in a magnificent 18th century monastery that has been completely renovated. It has preserved a rustic side with its beautiful balconies, stone paths and gardens with alpacas. It also has a chapel, a library, as well as two restaurants and a cafe. From 113 euros per night.

Where to eat in Yucay?

As the Urubamba region has high-end hotels, they also opened restaurants of the same level to satisfy travelers.

• La Placita del Café: located in the Sonesta Hotel, it is the place to have a good coffee or herbal tea, ice cream and other desserts, as well as some savory options such as sandwiches and empanadas, in a pleasant atmosphere with its small colonial patio full of flowers.
• Pizzeria La Dispensa: another restaurant of the Sonesta Hotel, it is the perfect place to eat pizza or homemade pasta while enjoying the gardens. You can try the typical piteado tea (spiked tea), perfect for cool nights, and a good tiramisu.

How to get to Yucay?

To go to Yucay from Urubamba, it takes about 30 minutes on foot, 15 minutes by bicycle or 10 minutes by cab.

The best option is to go by combi for 0.70 soles (in the direction of Calca, tell the driver that you get off in Yucay).

7. Perolniyoc Waterfall

The Perolniyoc Waterfall is an impressive 330-foot cascade surrounded by lush vegetation.

To reach it, you first need to pass through the community of Socma, where the hiking trail begins.

It’s a less touristy spot that’s definitely worth visiting if you have some extra time in Urubamba.

The entire trail is stunning, and the access is completely free!

How to get to the Perolniyoc Waterfall?

• On your own: Take the Pachar–Huarocondo road to the community of Socma (about 2 hours from Cusco).
• With a tour from Cusco: Includes hotel pick-up in Cusco, the hike to Perolniyoc Waterfall, a lunch with local products, and a stop at the Inca site of Ñaupa Iglesia.

You can book it here:

8. Kaia EcoShop

Kaia EcoShop is a small store where you can find a wide variety of natural products from the region.

While there is also a small “esoteric” section, it’s above all an excellent place to buy high-quality coffee, honey, essential oils, craft beers, and other artisanal products.

• Address: Avenida Berriozábal 111, Urubamba. Facebook Page

9. Inkariy Museum

The Inkariy Museum is considered the best museum in the Sacred Valley!

It showcases the civilizations of Caral, Chavín, Paracas, Mochica, Nasca, Wari, Lambayeque, and Chimú-Inca through costumes and recreations of daily life scenes.

• Learn more about the Inkariy Museum in my article here!
• Address: Km 53 on the road between Urubamba and Pisac. Open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Entrance fee: 35 soles. Website

10. Participate in the Feast of the Lord of Torrechayoc

The Lord of Torrechayoc is the patron saint of Urubamba.

His feast is a major event celebrated in mid-May (usually on the second Saturday of the month), with a full program of activities including mass, a religious procession, traditional dances with colorful costumes, and fireworks to close the festivities.

If you’re lucky enough to be in the Sacred Valley during this time, don’t miss it — popular festivals in Peru are always spectacular, and this one promises an unforgettable experience!

11. Yoga and meditation session

Several places like Kinsapacha, Casa de Voz, Willka T’ika Essential Wellness or Samadhi offer healing, wellness and sustainable lifestyle workshops: Kundalini yoga with breathing exercises, Mantra, meditation or gong.

Where to stay in Urubamba?

• Mama Green Eco Lodge: a relaxing eco-stay surrounded by gardens, with a shared lounge and a sunny terrace. Daily breakfast with vegetarian and vegan options. Located near the bus station. From $24 USD per night.

• Casa Andina Private Collection Valle Sagrado: a high-end hotel with mountain views, large gardens, gym, sauna, spa, and the Alma Viva restaurant. There’s even a small planetarium! Buffet breakfast included, from $152 USD per night.

• Tambo del Inka, Luxury Collection Resort & Spa: one of the most luxurious hotels in Peru, set along the Urubamba River. Indoor and outdoor heated pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Exclusive private train station to Machu Picchu (departure 6:50 a.m., return 6:43 p.m.). From $490 USD per night.

Where to stay in Cuzco?

• Backpacker La Bo’M: One of the best hostels in Cusco. Founded by Sarah, a French expat, it includes a delicious crêperie next door. Perfectly located in the charming neighborhood of San Blas, it offers good Wi-Fi, a cozy vibe, and of course, amazing crêpes to start your day! Dorms from only $13 USD and private rooms from $33 USD.

• La Casona Real Cusco: For those looking for more comfort, this charming traditional-style guesthouse is located on a quiet street just steps from the Plaza de Armas. Impeccably clean, with hot water, great Wi-Fi, and a warm welcome. Breakfast included, all from just $76 USD per night!

• Hotel Tierra Viva Cusco San Blas: In the lovely San Blas neighborhood, this upscale hotel offers spacious rooms with very comfortable beds. Its modern décor with local touches and peaceful interior courtyard make for a relaxing stay. Buffet breakfast included. From $98 USD per night!

• Antigua Casona San Blas: A chic and intimate 4-star hotel in San Blas. It features very comfortable rooms, a warm atmosphere, and a tasteful blend of modern and traditional décor. Don’t miss their Piedra & Sal restaurant, one of Cusco’s best. Excellent breakfast included. From $250 USD per night.

• Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel: For a romantic stay in Cusco, this 5-star gem is housed in a spectacular colonial building across from Coricancha, with roots dating back to Inca times. Enjoy the indoor pool, gym, spa, bar, and restaurant. Delicious breakfast included. From $325 USD per night.

How to Get to Urubamba

From Cusco (1 hour)

• By colectivo: The cheapest way to get to Urubamba from Cusco is by colectivo, departing from Pavitos Street. The fare is around 6–7 soles per person.
• By taxi: The most comfortable option is taking a taxi, with fares between 80 and 100 soles for the trip from Cusco to Urubamba.

From Pisac (45 minutes)

• By bus: Buses depart near the hospital on Avenida Amazonas. The ticket costs 2.50 soles.
• By taxi: Taxis are also available on Avenida Amazonas in Pisac. The fare is about 50 soles.

From Ollantaytambo (30 minutes)

• By bus: Buses to Urubamba leave from the bus terminal. The fare is between 1.5 and 2 soles.
• By taxi: Taxis are available at the bus terminal, and the fare is around 25 soles.

Where to Eat in Urubamba

Urubamba offers a good variety of restaurants, cafés, and bars to suit all budgets.

Here are some recommended places to eat in Urubamba:

• Willkamayu Brewery: A small biergarten hidden behind a family house (unusual, but very charming) where you can taste their four craft beers: IPA, Pilsener, Malt, and Brown Ale.
  Address: Jirón Comercio 116, Urubamba. Open from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
• El Huacatay: One of the best restaurants in Urubamba, offering Peruvian fusion cuisine, delicious desserts, and a lovely garden setting. Expect to pay around 30–40 soles for a main course.
  Address: Jirón Arica 620, Urubamba.

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• One day in Cusco: The Perfect Itinerary (1st time visit)
• 2 or 3 Days in Cusco: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• 19 Free Things to Do in Cusco + My Best Tips
• How to Get to Cusco: Best Transport Options Compared

• Sacred Valley: 23 Best Places to Visit (+Where to Stay)
• Ollantaytambo: 15 Epic Things to Do in the Heart of the Sacred Valley
• Pisac: The 12 Best Places to Visit (+ Tips)
• Maras and Moray: How to Get There, Entrance Fees, and Tips
• Laguna Humantay (Cusco): How to Get There, What to Expect, and Tips

• Machu Picchu: Tickets, Circuits, and Top Tips to Plan Your Visit
• Huayna Picchu vs. Machu Picchu Mountain: Which Hike is Best?
• Inca Trail: The Definitive Guide to the Classic Trek to Machu Picchu
• Salkantay Trek: A Complete Guide to the Best Inca Trail Alternative
• Inca Jungle Trail (Machu Picchu): What to Expect + My Experience

• Itinerary: 5-6 days in Peru – Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
• Itinerary: 7-8 days in Peru – See the maximum in one week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Peru – The ideal itinerary for a short stay in Peru
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Peru – The classic route
• Itinerary: 15 days in Peru – An itinerary that includes northern Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru + Bolivia – The best itinerary for visiting both countries
• Itinerary: 1 month in Peru – What to see and do in 30-31 days

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