As dawn breaks over Cusco, prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley. This full-day tour will immerse you in the stunning beauty and rich history of the once-great Inca Empire, as you explore vibrant markets, ancient ruins, and local traditions. The Sacred Valley is not just a place of breathtaking landscapes, but a living connection to the past.
Our adventure begins as we leave Cusco and head toward the lively town of Pisac. Famous for its bustling local market, you’ll have the chance to wander among the colorful displays of handcrafted goods. Here, you can engage with local artisans, browse traditional textiles, and purchase unique souvenirs to bring home a piece of Peruvian culture.
After exploring the market, we move on to the Pisac archaeological site, perched high above the valley. This impressive site showcases ancient Inca terraces, temples, and stone structures, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity of Inca architecture and agricultural practices. The sweeping views from Pisac make it one of the highlights of the valley.
As we continue our tour, we’ll travel along the winding roads of the Sacred Valley, guided by the gentle flow of the Urubamba River. Known as the “Willkamayu” by the Incas, this river was sacred and symbolized the flow of life.
Our next stop is the town of Urubamba, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a variety of delicious Peruvian dishes. This nourishing meal will prepare us for the rest of our adventure as we relax and savor the local flavors of the region.
After lunch, we head to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. This ancient Inca fortress is famous for its massive stone terraces built into the mountainside. As you stand among these historic ruins, you’ll be transported back in time, walking in the footsteps of Inca warriors and farmers. The Ollantaytambo terraces are a stunning example of Inca engineering and offer a unique insight into how the Incas shaped the land to suit their agricultural needs while defending their empire.
The town itself still retains its Inca urban planning, with narrow streets and traditional homes built atop ancient Inca foundations, giving you a true sense of how the Incas lived.
Our final stop takes us to the charming town of Chinchero, located high in the Andes at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet). Chinchero is celebrated for its vibrant weaving traditions and its blend of Inca and colonial architecture. You’ll visit a traditional weaving cooperative, where local artisans demonstrate ancient weaving techniques, creating intricate textiles with natural dyes, as they have for centuries.
We will also visit the Colonial Church of Chinchero, which was built on the foundations of an Inca palace. The church is renowned for its stunning murals and serves as a testament to the fusion of Inca and Spanish cultures after the conquest.
As the day draws to a close, we return to Cusco, reflecting on the extraordinary sights, history, and experiences that filled the day. From the bustling markets of Pisac to the towering fortress of Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley tour offers a unique opportunity to walk through the heart of the Inca Empire and witness the legacy of this powerful civilization firsthand.
Throughout the tour, you’ll be fully guided by local experts, ensuring a comfortable, safe, and enriching experience as you uncover the mysteries and cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley.
Here’s a concise breakdown of the Full Day Sacred Valley Tour, highlighting the key stops and experiences during your adventure.
Departure from Cusco:
Pisac:
Urubamba:
Ollantaytambo:
Chinchero:
Return to Cusco:
Tour Stats:
Traveling from Cusco to the Sacred Valley is relatively straightforward. Most tours, including the Full Day Sacred Valley Tour, provide a convenient pickup service from your hotel in Cusco. The trip begins with a scenic drive through the Andes, taking you to key sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. If traveling independently, you can take a shared van (known locally as a “colectivo”) or hire a private taxi to reach towns in the valley like Pisac, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. The journey from Cusco to the Sacred Valley typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
The Full Day Sacred Valley Tour lasts about 8 to 10 hours, depending on the number of stops and time spent at each location. The tour typically starts early in the morning, around 7:00 AM, with a return to Cusco by late afternoon or early evening. Key highlights include visiting Pisac, Urubamba (for lunch), Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Each site offers unique insights into Inca history and local culture, making it a comprehensive and enriching day trip.
Absolutely! The Sacred Valley Tour is one of the most rewarding experiences in the region. It provides an in-depth look at the heart of the Inca Empire, blending stunning natural landscapes with rich historical and cultural insights. You’ll explore ancient Inca ruins, lively local markets, and traditional Andean villages, all while being immersed in the breathtaking beauty of the Andes Mountains. For those interested in Peruvian history, culture, and beautiful scenery, this tour is a must.
The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. These months offer pleasant weather with clear skies, making it perfect for exploring the archaeological sites and enjoying the natural beauty of the valley. While the rainy season (November to March) can bring heavier rainfall and muddy conditions, it also brings fewer tourists and more lush, green landscapes. Both seasons offer unique experiences, but the dry season is generally recommended for ideal weather conditions.
The tour was well-paced, allowing me to soak in the beauty of the Sacred Valley without feeling rushed. The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and added a rich layer of history to the experience. From Pisac to Ollantaytambo, every stop was a captivating journey through Inca history. I highly recommend Xplor Machu Picchu for a well-orchestrated and culturally enriching Sacred Valley tour!
