Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo offers a straightforward, comfortable way to start your journey into the Sacred Valley. For just $40 per person, you get a private ride from your hotel in Cusco to the charming town of Ollantaytambo, known for its Inca ruins and vibrant market scene. The journey lasts roughly 90 minutes, winding through scenic landscapes that set the tone for the adventures ahead.

What we particularly like about this transfer is the timeliness and comfort—the drivers are praised for punctuality and professionalism, making it a stress-free start or end to your day. Another highlight is the flexibility; if your flight is delayed, the service claims to adapt and get you to your train on time, which is a huge plus for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

One aspect to consider is that cancellation is non-refundable, so if your plans change last minute, this might not be the best choice. Still, for most travelers, especially those catching a train or heading to Machu Picchu, this transfer offers good value, reliability, and peace of mind. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a smooth, hassle-free start to their trip and want to avoid confusing shared shuttles or unreliable taxis.

Key Points

• Comfortable and Reliable: The service consistently earns praise for punctuality and friendly drivers.
• Flexible for delayed flights: Drivers are prepared to wait if your flight is delayed.
• Private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized ride.
• Great value at $40: For the convenience and comfort, this price is competitive.
• Scenic views en route: The drive offers lovely landscapes typical of the Sacred Valley.
• Booking in advance: Most travelers book about 42 days ahead, indicating good planning benefits.

A Detailed Look at the Transfer Experience

Traveling from Cusco to Ollantaytambo might seem simple on paper—just a car ride—but in practice, it’s an opportunity to ease into your Peruvian adventure. This transfer is designed for travelers who want a smooth start or finish without the hassle of hailing taxis or navigating public transportation after a long flight.

The Pickup and Timing

The service includes hotel pickup, which means your driver will come directly to your accommodation in Cusco. This is especially helpful if you’re tired after a flight or unfamiliar with local transport options. You’ll need to specify your preferred pickup time and provide your hotel or Airbnb address—simple enough, and the driver is known for being punctual and professional.

If you’re arriving at the Cusco airport, it’s essential to notify the provider ahead of time, including your airline, flight number, and arrival time. This ensures you’re met at the right moment, whether you’re on an early morning flight or arriving late at night. Several reviews confirm drivers are waiting promptly, even when flights are delayed, which is a major relief.

The Journey through Sacred Landscapes

Once in the vehicle, the drive takes about an hour and a half, covering scenic stretches of the Sacred Valley. The landscape is filled with terraced fields, traditional villages, and distant mountains—an excellent introduction to the region’s natural beauty. Many travelers appreciate the comfortable vehicles—from small cars to larger vans depending on group size—allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the views.

One reviewer noted that the drive, though about two hours, was “relaxing and pleasant,” with the driver not rushing and making the experience enjoyable. Another mentioned the “amazing views,” which is a common sentiment, as the route provides a gentle preview of the Inca heartland.

The Vehicle and Service Quality

The driver is central to this experience. Reviews consistently praise their professionalism, friendliness, and readiness to help with luggage—“helped us load the bags and find our luggage storage,” one reviewer said. The vehicles are described as “lovely,” and many travelers mention feeling safe and cared for during the ride.

Since this is a private transfer, only your group is involved, offering a more personalized experience. It removes the unpredictability of shared shuttles and allows you to set your own pace and stops if needed.

Any Drawbacks?

The main consideration is the non-refundable policy. If your travel plans unexpectedly change, you won’t be able to cancel or get a refund. For most, however, the reliability and comfort outweigh this inflexibility. Also, while the price is quite reasonable for a private service, some travelers might compare it to shared options—though, in terms of convenience and peace of mind, few alternatives match this service’s quality.

Who Will Love This Transfer?

This service is best for travelers who value punctuality, comfort, and a hassle-free start. It’s ideal if you’re arriving by plane and want to avoid the chaos of last-minute transportation decisions. It’s also perfect for those catching the train to Machu Picchu, as many reviews mention it getting guests to Ollantaytambo just in time for their connections.

Why This Transfer Stands Out

Beyond the basics, what makes this transfer worth considering is the combination of reliability and scenery. The drivers are praised repeatedly for their professionalism and friendly attitude, making what could be a mundane drive into a pleasant part of your trip. The scenery along the route, with views of the Sacred Valley’s terraced hillsides, provides a visual taste of what’s to come in your Peruvian adventure.

Another highlight is the ability to book in advance—most travelers plan about 42 days ahead—ensuring peace of mind, especially during busy seasons. With the added benefit of meeting at your hotel or airport, there’s no stress about finding your transport in a foreign city.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a dependable, comfortable, and straightforward way to travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, this transfer ticks many boxes. It offers excellent value at $40, especially considering the door-to-door service and scenic views. The professional drivers and flexible booking options make this a great choice for first-timers or seasoned travelers alike.

If your priority is reliability, comfort, and avoiding transportation headaches, this service is hard to beat. It’s particularly suited for those arriving by air, catching a train, or simply wanting to start their Sacred Valley journey in style. While the non-refundable policy requires some planning, most reviews suggest that the peace of mind and quality of service make it a worthwhile investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this transfer private?
Yes, it’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I book this transfer last minute?
Yes, although most travelers book about 42 days in advance, last-minute bookings are possible, especially if you notify the provider of your flight details.

What if my flight is delayed?
Drivers are praised for waiting if flights are late, making this a reliable option even with unpredictable schedules.

What is included in the price?
The transfer includes pickup from your hotel or airport, plus the driver and vehicle. No additional services like travel insurance are included.

How long does the trip take?
The journey should take around 90 minutes, depending on traffic and your pickup location.

What type of vehicle will I have?
The size of the vehicle depends on the number of passengers—smaller cars for 1-2 travelers, larger vans for bigger groups.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
No, the $40 fee per person covers the transfer. However, if you need luggage storage or other services, those are not included.

Is this transfer suitable for airport pickups?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight how drivers are waiting promptly at airports, even during delays, offering peace of mind.

To sum it up, this transfer service offers a dependable, scenic start or end to your Sacred Valley adventure. Its combination of professionalism, comfort, and flexibility makes it a smart choice for travelers who want a smooth ride into one of Peru’s most beautiful regions.