The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most impressive destinations in Peru. Amidst Andean landscapes, living villages, and ancient temples, you will discover a place where history, nature, and traditions blend to create an unforgettable experience. Here you will understand what to see in the Sacred Valley and why it was so important to the Incas.
If you’re wondering how to get to the Sacred Valley from Cusco, don’t worry: on this tour, we take care of everything. We pick you up at your hotel, you travel accompanied by an expert guide, and at the end of the day, we return together to the city. A comfortable, safe, and authentic way to experience the Sacred Valley of the Incas tour and discover the true heart of ancient Peru.
Summary
The Sacred Valley of the Incas was one of the most important places in the ancient empire. Thanks to its mild climate, fertile lands, and strategic location, it became the agricultural and spiritual heart of the Incas. Today, exploring it means feeling that special energy that still lingers among the mountains, rivers, and living villages.
On this Sacred Valley tour, you will visit sites full of history and tradition: Chinchero, a town where locals keep their ancient weaving techniques alive, surrounded by Inca walls and colonial churches; Pisac, famous for its impressive terraces and colorful artisan market; and Ollantaytambo, the majestic fortress that was the scene of Inca resistance. If you’re wondering Pisac vs. Ollantaytambo, the answer is that both are astonishing: Pisac for its art and local life, and Ollantaytambo for its strength and history.
The Pisac Market is a perfect place to buy authentic souvenirs: textiles, jewelry, and local gastronomy. If you go on your own, bring cash, although some shops now accept cards. And if you want to make the most of your trip, you can choose the Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu 2-day package, an ideal option to discover the best of the Andes without wasting any time.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Tour Schedule: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
This day begins with pickup from your hotel at 7:40 AM. We’ll then head to the Pisac Archaeological Site, perched atop the highest mountain in the town of the same name. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour before exploring its vibrant artisan market.
Continuing our journey, we’ll travel to Urubamba, passing through charming traditional villages and landscapes of breathtaking natural beauty. We’ll arrive in Urubamba by midday for a lunch break.
Next, we’ll proceed to Ollantaytambo to visit its archaeological complex. Climb to the highest point, the Temple of the Sun, for a panoramic view of this picturesque town.
After this visit, we’ll head to the Chinchero Archaeological Site, renowned for its Inca-era agricultural terraces. We’ll also stop at a textile center, where local artisans will demonstrate the traditional weaving process—from washing to dyeing wool—with fascinating detail.
Finally, we’ll return to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:30 PM.
Includes
Includes
- Hotel pickup (central locations only)
- Tourist transportation
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
- Buffet lunch
Not Included
- Personal expenses
- Tips (gratuities)
- Travel insurance
- Partial or full Cusco Tourist Ticket (70 or 130 soles)
- Snacks and/or refreshing drinks
Important Information
- Hotel pickups are conducted in central locations near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
- If your hotel is far from the historic center, the meeting point will be at the fountain in Plaza de Armas.
- The exact pickup time will be confirmed one day before the tour.
- The tour ends at Plazoleta Regocijo, one block from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
Additionally, if you plan to take portraits with llamas or buy souvenirs, bring small coins for tips and gifts. And if you are a photography enthusiast, ask about the private photographic tour of the Sacred Valley, specifically designed to capture high-quality images.
Recommendations
Recommendations:
To make the most of your trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we recommend you bring:
- Comfortable shoes for walking on slightly inclined terrain
- A camera or phone with enough space for photos and videos
- Bottled water and sunscreen
- A valid ID or passport
- Extra cash for tips, artisan purchases, or snacks
- A light jacket for cool moments in the morning
If you’re wondering about the difference between the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, here’s a simple answer:
The Sacred Valley was the heart of the empire—where the Incas farmed, lived, traded, and celebrated. It’s more tranquil, with colorful villages, lively markets, and gentle landscapes. Perfect if you want to walk unhurriedly and feel the Andean life of today.
Machu Picchu is a sanctuary hidden in the mountains—more mystical, high up, and full of spiritual energy. Ideal if you’re looking for awe, epic photos, and sacred silence.
One teaches you how the Incas lived. The other, how they connected with the gods.
Traveling with parents, grandparents, or someone who walks slowly? Ask about our accessible tours for seniors. They are designed for everyone to enjoy: with comfortable vehicles, frequent stops, restrooms available at every point, and guides who go at your pace. No one gets left behind—and everyone has fun!
When is the best season to visit the Sacred Valley?
From May to October. The sky is clearer, it hardly ever rains, and the temperatures are ideal for walking. If you come in September, you’ll see wildflowers painting the hills yellow and purple—an extra gift from nature. Avoid January and February if you don’t like rain.
Learn More About Your Experience
This tour isn’t just about stones and ruins—it’s about people, flavors, and living traditions. You will meet communities that still weave on wooden looms, cook on clay stoves, and celebrate festivals as they did centuries ago. It’s the best way to understand the Inca world… before going to Machu Picchu or as a unique experience in itself.
Many guides (some born in the valley) will tell you fascinating stories about the history of the Sacred Valley of the Incas—how they governed, what they believed, why this place was so sacred. It’s not a boring lecture—it’s like listening to a real story, full of secrets and surprises.
And if you’re traveling in 2025, ask about the updated 2025 tour price. Prices can vary depending on the season, type of transportation (shared or private), and what’s included. Also, read reviews for tours with a buffet lunch in Urubamba—so you’ll know if the food is good, the place is nice, and if it’s worth paying a little extra for that experience.
Extra Tip: If you want to see everything stress-free, choose an all-inclusive package—with tickets, guide, lunch, and transportation. That way, you won’t have to take out your wallet even once.
FAQ
What is included in the Sacred Valley of the Incas tour?
The tour includes tourist transportation, a professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish), and visits to main archaeological sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Maras, and Moray (depending on the itinerary). Some packages also include entrance tickets and a buffet lunch in Urubamba.
Do I need the Tourist Ticket to enter the Sacred Valley?
Yes, to access most archaeological sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, you need the Cusco Tourist Ticket. We can help you manage it so you have no complications.
What is the best time to visit the Sacred Valley?
The Sacred Valley can be visited year-round. However, the best time is from April to October, during the dry season, with sunny days and clear skies. During the rainy season (November to March), the landscapes are greener, but there is a chance of precipitation.
What should I bring on the tour?
We recommend bringing: passport or ID, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, camera, and some cash for purchases in the artisan markets. It’s also important to bring a light jacket, as mornings are usually cold.
Is the tour physically demanding?
The Sacred Valley tour is suitable for all ages, as the visits are primarily by transportation with short walks. Only at some sites like Ollantaytambo will you find steep stairs, but you can proceed at your own pace.
Can the Sacred Valley be combined with Machu Picchu?
Yes. Many travelers choose to end the tour in Ollantaytambo and from there take the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). It’s a practical option to save time and make the most of your visit to Cusco.
Do you offer private tours in addition to group tours?
Yes, you can choose between shared group services or private tours with an exclusive guide and personalized transportation. This allows you to adapt the itinerary to your interests and schedule.
Map
Sacred Valley Map
