What’s Included
- Shared tourist transportation throughout the entire tour.
- Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish).
- Buffet lunch in the town of Urubamba.
- Drop-off return to Cusco Historic Center.
- Permanent assistance and coordination.
Sacred Valley of the Incas
Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour
The Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour is one of the most comprehensive and fascinating journeys for travelers wishing to discover the best of the Inca legacy in a single day. Traveling through the lush green valleys and mountains surrounding the Urubamba River, you will uncover ancient ceremonial centers, agricultural terraces, traditional communities, and fortresses that defined the grandeur of the Inca Empire.
This tour seamlessly blends nature, living culture, and archaeology—an ideal experience for those seeking to connect with the deep history of Cusco while taking in unforgettable landscapes. Perfect for travelers looking to learn, explore, and immerse themselves in the authentic essence of the Peruvian Andes.
Itinerary Summary
- Pick-up in Cusco and transfer to the town of Chinchero.
- Exploration of the Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray.
- Visit to the ancient Maras Salt Mines.
- Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba.
- Tour of the imposing living fortress of Ollantaytambo.
- Visit to the archaeological site and traditional market of Pisac, followed by the return to Cusco.
Places You Will Visit
- Chinchero: Land of the rainbow, famous for its archaeological complex and Andean weavers who preserve ancestral textile techniques.
- Moray: An enigmatic Inca agricultural laboratory composed of concentric circular terraces that create varied microclimates.
- Maras Salt Mines: Over 5,000 salt ponds harvested since pre-Inca times. An unforgettable postcard view!
- Ollantaytambo: The only living Inca town. A strategic fortress featuring monumental stone walls and steep terraces.
- Pisac: Renowned for its ancient ceremonial center perched atop the mountain and its vibrant artisan market.
Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour Itinerary
Sacred Valley Tour Route
Departure Times
Full Day: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
7:00 AM
Pick-up and Departure from Cusco
We begin the day with pick-up from your accommodation (Historic Center). Your guide will welcome you and provide a brief introduction to our journey through the historic Sacred Valley of the Incas.
2
Chinchero
Living Culture & Ancestral Textiles
Our first destination is Chinchero, a picturesque Andean town renowned for its textile heritage. Here you will learn about traditional weaving artistry, watch live natural dyeing demonstrations, and visit its archaeological site featuring Inca stone walls and a colonial church built upon ancient foundations.
3
Moray
Inca Agricultural Laboratory
We continue to Moray, a fascinating archaeological complex featuring circular agricultural terraces that functioned as an open-air laboratory. Your guide will explain how the Incas harnessed diverse microclimates to experiment with essential crops.
4
Maras
Maras Salt Mines – Ancient Salt Pans
We will visit the breathtaking Maras Salt Mines, comprising over 5,000 terraced salt ponds fed by a natural subterranean saltwater spring. The scenery is truly extraordinary, with ample time for panoramic photos.
5
1:00 PM
Buffet Lunch in Urubamba
We will pause in Urubamba to enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a wide selection of traditional Peruvian dishes alongside international options. This break is ideal for recharging your energy before continuing the tour.
6
Ollantaytambo
Strategic Inca Fortress
Following lunch, we visit the monumental fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the most impressive Inca architectural works. We will walk through its stone terraces, temples, and megalithic walls while enjoying panoramic valley vistas. This site served as a vital military and religious stronghold for the Inca Empire.
7
Pisac
Archaeological Complex & Artisan Market
Our final destination is Pisac, where we will explore its magnificent archaeological site, famous for agricultural terraces, ancient burial sites, and ceremonial quarters. Afterward, you will enjoy free time to browse the vibrant artisan market—perfect for authentic souvenirs and local handicrafts.
6:30 PM
Return to Cusco – Tour End
We begin the return drive to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:30 PM. The service concludes with drop-off at your accommodation or at a central point in the city.
What is Included and Not Included in the Sacred Valley Tour
Not Included
- Entrance tickets to archaeological sites (Tourist Ticket).
- Entrance fee to the Maras Salt Mines.
- Additional cold beverages during lunch.
- Personal expenses and tips (optional).
Additional Details
Recommendations
- Acclimatization: Make sure you spend at least 1 full day in Cusco before the tour to acclimatize properly to the altitude.
- Cash: Carry cash in Peruvian soles (PEN / S/), as local markets and certain access points do not accept card payments.
- Health: Consider taking Sorojchi Pills (altitude sickness medication) to prevent altitude-related headaches.
What to Bring
- Personal identification documents (original passport or ID).
- Warm jacket and comfortable walking attire.
- Sun hat or cap, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket (especially from November to April).
- Camera or smartphone with plenty of battery life.
- Personal items and essential personal medications.
Weather in the Sacred Valley
- The Sacred Valley is slightly warmer than Cusco city, but weather conditions can still change rapidly throughout the day.
- Dry Season: (April to October) Very sunny and pleasant daytime temperatures, with colder evenings.
- Rainy Season: (November to March) Frequent showers, though the valley turns into a spectacular lush green landscape.
Accessibility & Safety
- Archaeological complexes such as Ollantaytambo and Pisac require climbing steep, uneven stone stairways.
- Walk cautiously along the borders of the Maras Salt Mines, as pathways can be narrow.
- Always stay with your group and follow your tour guide’s instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour
Find answers to the most common questions regarding prices, itineraries, included services, and recommendations for your visit.
What is included in the Sacred Valley tour?
The tour includes tourist transportation, a professional bilingual guide (Spanish – English), a buffet lunch in Urubamba, and visits to the main archaeological sites: Chinchero, Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
What is the average price of the tour?
Prices may vary depending on the type of service booked:
- Group tour: between US$ 35 and US$ 45 per person.
- Private service: from US$ 90, depending on group size.
- Tourist Ticket: S/ 70 (partial), mandatory to enter the archaeological sites.
What is the best season to take this tour?
The best time to take the tour is between April and October, Cusco’s dry season. Days are typically clearer, with lower chances of rain and roads in optimal condition.
How long is this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours. It usually starts around 7:00 AM and finishes near 6:30 PM.
What kind of clothing is recommended?
We recommend wearing comfortable, lightweight yet warm clothing. The essentials to bring are:
- Windbreaker jacket
- Cap and sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A small bottle of water
Is it necessary to purchase a Tourist Ticket?
Yes, the Cusco Tourist Ticket is mandatory to enter the archaeological sites. There are two options:
- Partial: S/ 70 (valid for the Sacred Valley for 2 days).
- Full Circuit: S/ 130 (access to multiple sites over 10 days).
Is it suitable for seniors or families with children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all types of travelers. Although some sites feature stairways or inclined paths, they can be explored at a leisurely pace, allowing seniors and children to enjoy the experience without difficulty.
What makes the Sacred Valley so special?
The Sacred Valley stands out for its profound historical and spiritual significance in Inca culture. Its landscapes, agricultural terraces, temples, and traditional villages reflect the Incas’ deep harmony with nature and farming. It is a place brimming with energy, culture, and natural beauty.
Exactly how long does the Sacred Valley of the Incas tour take?
The full journey takes between 10 and 11 hours, depending on traffic and visiting time at each site. It is a highly rewarding day that lets you explore multiple iconic destinations in a single itinerary.
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