The international magazine Time has compiled a list of the 50 extraordinary places to visit in 2023, and a destination in Peru could not be missing. This is why the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park in Cusco, one of the country’s tourist gems, was included. The publication highlights, among its different qualities, that this attractive, mystical and ancient place has an endless number of activities that surprise its visitors.
“This is no longer just a stopover on the way to Machu Picchu, this vibrant town in the Sacred Valley is a destination in its own right,” reads the Time magazine publication, emphasizing the fortress or ceremonial center, the sustainable accommodations, the gastronomy and its local ingredients, as well as the beautiful landscapes that can be appreciated from different points.
One of the most visited and surprising attractions is the Ñusta Fountain, made from a single stone and decorated in the shape of a portal.One of the most visited and surprising attractions is the Ñusta Fountain, made from a single stone and decorated in the shape of a portal.In addition to the accessibility of hotels and restaurants, Time magazine also details the coexistence between nature and visitors in this sacred valley. For example, it explains the balance between the walks that tourists take to different destinations, such as Pumamarca, and how at each step you can observe the local fauna.
This is a new recognition for the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park. In 2022, the prestigious publication Condé Nast Traveller included this Peruvian destination in the list of the best places in the world to visit in 2023.
Historical value
According to various researchers, the origins of this destination date back to the Aymara culture, and the meaning of its name corresponds to “looking down” or “viewpoint”. Later, with the predominance of the Quechua language in the area, it was given the name “Ullantay”. At this stage, when a tambo or lodge was built on the esplanade of the place, the name was adapted to Ullantay Tampu.
Its construction took place 3,500 years ago, and it is believed that this place served as a fortress against the arrival of the Incas. One of the most visited and surprising attractions is the Ñusta Fountain, made from a single stone and decorated in the shape of a portal.
