Ollantaytambo

Poll visitors for their favorite Sacred Valley community and the answer will likely be Ollantaytambo—endearingly nicknamed Olly—which lies at the valley's northwestern entrance. Ollantaytambo's traditional air has not been stifled by the invasion of tourists. Ask around for the local mercado, situated just off the Plaza de Armas, close to the pick up point for collectivos and taxis. This busy marketplace quietly evades tourism's grasp and offers a behind-the-scenes peak at life beyond the ruins. The juice stations on the second floor, towards the back, might just be the town's best kept secret.