Some people often confuse “Urubamba” with “Urubamba Valley” and “Urubamba River”. To make it clear, Urubamba is the name of the largest town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas that is situated near the river that has the same name. Urubamba is also called “Peral of the Vilcanota”. Located at the foot of two great mountains, the Chicón and Pumahuanga, the town of Urubamba is often visited by tourists as they make their way to the famous Machu Picchu.
Urubamba itself is a home to some remarkable ancient ruins of the once powerful Inca Empire. Most visitors to Urubamba are coming from the nearby city of Cusco. As part of the Sacred Valley tour, they should pass through this rustic Andean town. The middle part of this Sacred Valley (also known as “El Valle Sagrado delos Incas”) belongs to the towns of Urubamba and Yucay. This mid-valley has the most number of lodges. Unlike the neighboring town of Pisac, Urubamba has dedicated its vast land to the native Andeans, thus preserving the rich culture of these people.
There are so many things to do while in Urubamba. This town is an ideal startup point for touring further to the Southern Andes. Visitors may opt to explore the ancient fortress in Ollantaytambo, as well as the ruins in Chinchero from here. By the way, Urubamba is one of the only two towns that have a train service to the Machu Picchu.
With several restaurants that can be found around the Urubamba town, visitors can have a taste of Andean cuisine. These restaurants serve real good food. Arroz con pollo and lomo saltado are best for starters. They also offer comfort foods such as burgers and ice creams.
Andean market is also an attraction in Urubamba. Although not as vibrant as the Sunday Pica market, visitors can still have a chance to buy some alpaca textile garments from the native vendors. Aside from alpaca garments, the town of Urubamba produces quality ceramics that are manufactured at the workshop that was built by Pablo Seminario. Hence, Urubamba has become an alternative place to look for local products.
Amidst the expanding tourism industry, Andean festivities are still preserved. One of the most celebrated events in Urubamba is the festival of El Señor de Torrechayoc.
These are just some of the colorful Urubama attractions that visitors may avail. This town does not only serve as a transit hub. Urabama is indeed a tourist destination at its own right.