The Sacred Valley is a breathtaking region in the Andes of Peru, once the heart of the Inca Empire. Home to picturesque villages, ancient ruins, and stunning landscapes, it offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. Explore iconic sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray, marvel at terraced fields, vibrant markets, and Inca temples, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Andean communities. Whether for adventure, history, or breathtaking views, the Sacred Valley is a must-visit destination before reaching Machu Picchu.
- Tour Location: The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located between Pisac and Ollantaytambo towns, along the Vilcanota Riverside, and can be reached from
- Cusco city. Tour Type: Full-day Tour
- Starting Time / Ending Time: Pickup at 8:00 a.m. from your hotel’s lobby, and come back around 5 p.m.
- Consideration: Remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothing due to there will be a lot of walking.
- Highlights: Pisac Market, Pisac Archaeological Complex, and the fortress of Ollantaytambo.
Itinerary to the Sacred Valley
Half Day Itinerary
The Machu Picchu Sacred Valley Tour begins at 8 a.m. with a hotel pickup in Cusco. We’ll drive north through the Andean mountains, stopping at El Mirador de Taray for stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. From this viewpoint, you’ll admire the valley’s agricultural terraces, the Urubamba River, and the towering Andes. Your guide will also share insights into the Sacred Valley’s importance to the Inca Empire.
The Sacred Valley, also known as the Valley of the Incas, is renowned for its fertile lands, which allowed the Incas to thrive and expand their empire. This valley’s abundance of natural resources, particularly its agricultural potential, made it one of the most important areas for the Inca civilization. The Incas built an elaborate network of terraces and irrigation channels, some of which are still in use today. These agricultural marvels not only demonstrate the Inca’s advanced knowledge of farming but also their deep respect for nature and sustainability.
After visiting El Mirador de Taray, we’ll head to the Pisac ruins, one of the Sacred Valley’s most significant Inca sites. Perched above the town, the ruins offer stunning valley views and intricate stonework. Explore terraces, ritual altars, and water channels, highlighting the Incas’ advanced agricultural and ceremonial techniques. Your guide will explain how the site served as both a religious center and fortified settlement.
After exploring the Pisac ruins, we’ll descend to the town of Pisac, where you’ll have time to visit the local craft market. This bustling market is famous for its colorful handmade textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry, which are all crafted by Andean artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Wander through the stalls, interact with the friendly locals, and pick up unique souvenirs as a memento of your Sacred Valley experience.
Following our visit to the Pisac market, we’ll make our way to Urubamba town, where we’ll enjoy a traditional Andean lunch at a local restaurant. Here, you’ll have the chance to savor authentic Peruvian dishes, such as cuy (guinea pig), potatoes, and quinoa, all of which are staples in the Andean diet. The food is fresh, flavorful, and prepared with locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to experience the region’s rich culinary traditions.
After lunch, we’ll continue along the Urubamba River towards Ollantaytambo, one of the most important Inca settlements in the Sacred Valley. There, we’ll explore the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins, featuring terraces, temples, and a ritual plaza. Built on a mountainside, the site holds both defensive and astrological significance. As you explore, you’ll also see rock formations representing Wiracocha, the Inca god, showcasing the Incas’ deep spiritual connection to the land.
At the end of the Sacred Valley of the Incas tour, we’ll head back to Cusco. The scenic drive will give you time to reflect on the incredible sights and stories you’ve encountered throughout the day. Upon reaching Cusco, your guide will drop you off at your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re eager to learn more about the Inca Empire or simply enjoy the beauty of the Sacred Valley, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for all who join.
