Urubamba sits in the middle of the Sacred Valley at about 2,870 metres, lower and warmer than Cusco, and it makes the most comfortable base for exploring the whole corridor. The town centres on a leafy plaza with a church and a busy market, and the surrounding farmland grows the valley's famous large-kernel white corn. It is not a showpiece, but it is lively, practical and well supplied with restaurants, bakeries, small shops and ceramics studios. From here Pisac, Chinchero, Moray and Ollantaytambo are all reachable in a day, and several of the valley's best hotels sit a short drive from the plaza. Walking the lanes, visiting the market and enjoying a long lunch is a good way to spend a slow day between sights.
Altitude is the first reason to stay here. At roughly 2,870 metres, Urubamba is far gentler on the body than Cusco, and many visitors find they sleep better and acclimatise faster. Early on, take it easy, drink water and choose a short walk along the river or through the farmland rather than a big hike. The valley is dry and sunny for much of the year, with cold nights and warm days, so layers are the right answer.
The town is a working centre rather than a museum. A market sells vegetables, fruit, corn and breads, and shops in the streets nearby sell local ceramics and textiles. A good lunch of grilled trout, corn and fresh juices is easy to find. The surrounding villages and farms are good for walking, cycling or horse riding, and several lodges outside town offer activity programmes, spas and guided outings. Taxis and colectivos connect the valley's towns cheaply, and drivers wait at the plaza.
From November the rainy season begins and lasts until March, with afternoon showers and cloud on the peaks. The valley turns green and quieter, and prices at some lodges ease. Use mornings for outdoor plans, and keep a jacket in your bag. Urubamba is free to wander, so it makes a good rest day between ticketed sights like Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided stroll around the plaza, market and riverside lanes, with a long lunch and time for a short walk through farmland.
Best time
Mornings for the market and walking, with a relaxed lunch when the afternoon turns warm or showery.
How long
Half a day on its own, or as a base for several days in the valley.
Tips
Take it easy for the first day at altitude, carry soles for the market and keep a rain jacket from November to March.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a comfortable, lower-altitude base and a taste of everyday valley life.
- Families
- The plaza and farmland are easy going for children, and many lodges have gardens and animals.
- Couples
- Book a nice lodge outside town and use Urubamba for market mornings and long lunches.
- Pair with
- Pisac, Moray and Maras, or an ATV ride and a rafting day.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or a few nights as your valley base.
Good questions
Is Urubamba a good base for the Sacred Valley?+
Yes, it sits in the middle of the valley and is lower and warmer than Cusco. Pisac, Chinchero, Moray and Ollantaytambo are all within a short drive.
How high is Urubamba?+
It is about 2,870 metres, noticeably lower than Cusco. Many visitors find it easier for sleeping and acclimatising.
What is there to do in town?+
Visit the plaza and market, eat grilled trout and corn, browse ceramics and take short walks through the farmland. Lodges nearby offer horse riding, cycling and spas.
How do I get around the valley?+
Taxis and colectivos link the towns cheaply, and many hotels arrange private drivers. A day tour covers the headline sights without any driving.
What is the weather like in November?+
November is the start of the rainy season, which runs to March, with afternoon showers and green hills. Mornings are often bright and good for outdoor plans.
