Urubamba Province

Featured Lists

Public domain

Urubamba's Absolute Essentials

Urubamba serves as the primary gateway to the Sacred Valley and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This region features diverse archaeological sites, including the concentric agricultural terraces of Moray and the ancient salt-evaporation ponds of Maras. Visitors can explore the colonial village of Chinchero, known for its traditional weaving and Inca foundations, or climb Huayna Picchu for views of the Urubamba River. The area preserves significant examples of Inca engineering, from the Intihuatana ritual stone to the high-altitude mountain trails and bridges that connected the empire’s administrative centers.

10 places

McKay Savage / CC BY 2.0

Inca Archaeological Wonders

This collection highlights the architectural and engineering achievements of the Inca Empire within the Urubamba Province. It features the iconic 15th-century citadel of Machu Picchu alongside specialized sites like the circular agricultural terraces of Moray and the ceremonial Temple of the Moon on Huayna Picchu. The list also includes strategic defensive points like the Sun Gate and Sayacmarca, as well as the hillside ruins of Wiñay Wayna. These sites demonstrate the complex urban planning and religious significance of the Sacred Valley and its surrounding mountain ridges.

11 places

Patricio Mena Vásconez / Public domain

Peaks, Views & Natural Wonders

This collection explores the diverse topography of the Urubamba region, ranging from the 6,271-meter Nevado Salkantay to the subtropical cloud forests of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary. It features high-altitude landmarks like the 4,215-meter Warmi Wañusqa pass and the Intipata agricultural terraces. The selection also highlights several cascades, such as the 100-meter Perolniyoc Waterfall, and unique cliffside accommodations suspended 400 meters above the Sacred Valley floor.

18 places

Cultural Heritage Sites

This collection in the Urubamba province features significant Incan archaeological sites and monuments. It includes Inti Punku, a stone gateway overlooking the valley, and Choquequilla, an ancient shrine centered around a carved megalithic cave. The list also highlights the Pumamarca fortress, a military installation known for its well-preserved stone masonry and terracing, alongside the statue of Manco Ccapac, the legendary founder of the Inca Empire. These sites demonstrate the strategic engineering and spiritual practices of the Andean civilizations.

5 places

Urubamba Province — Map

Climate & when to visit

Best time to visit: April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November

Practical information

Tours & Activities