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The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Cusco. Also known as the “Vilcanota Valley,” it is one of the most stunning places in Peru, where you can see an incredible variety of plants and the world’s best corn: the large, white corn known as “maíz blanco amiláceo”. In addition, you’ll enjoy beautiful natural landscapes and the fabulous arrangement of rivers that flow through this valley.
Our tour includes visits to the most traditional archaeological sites, such as the Pisac Archaeological Complex, which spans almost an entire mountain and is known for its typical Andean market. We will also explore the great Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, a living Inca city with its own artisan market. We will conclude our tour with a visit to the Chinchero Archaeological Site and its beautiful colonial church, before returning to Cusco, captivated by the magic and history found in every place we’ve visited.
From 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, transportation will pick you up from your respective hotels (in the city center) to begin the cultural tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here are the places you will visit:
Pisac: At the entrance to the Urubamba Valley lies Pisac, a magnificent mixed-heritage town where you can distinguish the old quarter (an archaeological site) from the modern part, which features colonial characteristics. The main attraction in Pisac is the traditional indigenous market, where you can find a wide variety of typical regional items made of textiles or ceramics. You can also admire the traditional clothing of the region, which is very colorful and worn by the local inhabitants. Optionally, during your free time, you can visit the old colonial church of Pisac, where Quechua Masses are still celebrated on Sundays, attended by local residents and “varayocs” (local authorities from different towns). The visit to Pisac concludes with a look at the fascinating irrigation system for the crop fields and the fabulous astronomical observatory dating back to Inca times.
Urubamba: To reach Urubamba, you will pass through the towns of Coya, Lamay, Calca, and Yucay, observing beautiful flora and fauna during a 45-minute journey. At the end of the trip, you will arrive in the town of Urubamba, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, in a very comfortable and fertile area that was an important pre-Hispanic agricultural center. Take advantage of this pleasant environment to enjoy lunch in a cozy, typical restaurant.
Ollantaytambo: In the afternoon, the excursion continues to the region of Ollantaytambo, also known as the “Valley of Tambo.” This is the only “living” Inca city, meaning it is still inhabited, and it stretches along the Vilcanota River, all the way to Machu Picchu. We will visit the famous fortress of Ollantaytambo, which stands out in the valley, where you will see some of the most impressive constructions of the Inca Empire.
Chinchero: On the way back to Cusco, we will make a stop to visit Chinchero and its small chapel. This town, like Pisac, is known for its traditional market; however, the market in Chinchero, though smaller, is richer in tradition and offers a wider variety of textiles. Finally, we will return to the city of Cusco and drop you off at your respective hotel.
OPTIONAL
A group tour means that it is open for other hikers to join.
2 Travelers: $ 0 per person
3 Travelers: $ 0 per person
4 Travelers: $ 0 per person
5 Travelers: $ 0 per person
6 Travelers: $ 0 per person
7 Travelers: $ 0 per person
8 more Travelers: $ 0 per person
Private tours are available and the price depends on the size of the group.
The tour takes whole day, approximately 9 to 10 hours.
The archaeological sites of Pisac, the town of Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, its traditional market, and its landscapes.
Altitudes vary between 2,800 and 3,800 meters above sea level, depending on the site visited. The highest point in the Sacred Valley is the town of Chinchero, which is at an altitude of 3,770 m.a.s.l
Yes, lunch is included and it is buffet or self-service, it has several food options including vegetarian food.
Yes, the tour is suitable for everyone, but please note that some sections involve walking at high altitudes.
Children up to 9 years of age do not pay, from 10 to 17 years old have the right to purchase a student ticket only with the presentation of their ID or Passport.
NO, the Cusco Tourist Ticket only has a promotional rate for Peruvian tourists.
Yes, there are usually stops at handicraft markets, especially in Pisac and Chinchero.
The best time is during the dry season, from April to November, when there is less rain and the days are sunnier.
Comfortable clothing, light walking shoes, a sun hat and sunscreen.
We are Inca Perú Travel certified tour operator, we offer tours to different destinations in Peru, as well as cultural experiences, adventure tours, gastronomic tourism and our most recent experiential and community tourism tours.
