Our Sacred Valley tour from Cusco begins in the historic city and then leads us to the storied Sacred Valley of the Incas.
We will embark on a captivating journey. Our sacred valley tour from Cusco begins in the historic city and then leads us to the storied Sacred Valley of the Incas. This is a premier tour proudly presented by Machu Picchu Tours.
This enchanting excursion transcends a typical tour. It is a passage through time. We will traverse the breathtaking landscapes of South America, where the Urubamba River carves its majestic path beneath the towering Andes.
Our Sacred Valley tour from Cusco will commence in the former heart of the Inca Empire, the city of Cusco. From here, we will ascend into the valley, where the robust foundations of the Inca ruins beckon. We will explore the town of Pisac, renowned for its bustling market and impressive archaeological site.
Our visit here will set a precedent for the many wonders we will encounter. As we delve deeper into the valley, the famed agricultural terraces will come into view. These terraces will unveil the advanced understanding the Incas had of their land.
On this trip to the Sacred Valley, we head out from Cusco and make our way north to the historic town of Ollantaytambo. As we explore, we’ll see the ancient ruins that have stood for centuries. The Inca stone walls are impressive, and you can’t help but feel the history around you. The people here still live much like their ancestors did, keeping the traditions alive. Walking through these ruins, it almost feels as if you’re stepping back in time.
Next, we head to Moray, a place that’s unlike anything else in the Sacred Valley. Moray is made up of a series of circular terraces, dug deep into the earth, and they form an almost perfect set of steps leading downward.
But this wasn’t built just for its look. There’s a fascinating reason behind it. Studies show that the temperature changes between the different levels of these terraces, creating a variety of microclimates.
The Incas probably used Moray as a giant agricultural lab. By planting different crops at different levels, they could experiment to see how the plants reacted to the varying temperatures. This helped them figure out what crops grew best at different altitudes, making farming even more efficient.
Moray is a great example of the Incas’ ability to understand nature and use it to their advantage. It’s not just a testament to their creativity, but also to their dedication to making sure their empire’s food supply was secure.
On our Sacred Valley day trip from Cusco, not far from Moray, we will find ourselves at the salt pans of Maras. This panoramic vista of glistening salt mines against a backdrop of emerald mountains is a sight to behold. We will learn how local workers have preserved salt extraction techniques through the ages, a testament to the harmony between the local people and their environment.
For an unforgettable experience in the Sacred Valley, timing is everything! To ensure you fully capture the region’s breathtaking beauty, we’ll steer clear of the rainy season, which typically runs from November to March. During this time, while the valley boasts a lush green landscape and vibrant wildflowers, frequent showers and potential cloud cover can sometimes obstruct the majestic views.
Opting for the dry season, from April to October, offers several advantages. Crystal-clear skies and minimal rain translate to unobstructed panoramas. Imagine gazing out at the Sacred Valley bathed in golden sunlight, the snow-capped peaks of the Andes standing guard in the distance. It’s a picture-perfect moment, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the grandeur of the landscape.
When you’re in the Sacred Valley, no trip is complete without trying the local food. We’ve carefully planned a special lunch that goes beyond the usual buffet. You’ll enjoy a variety of local dishes, each one made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Imagine digging into a plate of Lomo Saltado, with marinated beef, colorful vegetables, and a little vinegar to bring it all together. Or maybe you’ll try some freshly prepared trout, straight from the Urubamba River, seasoned with herbs that are unique to the Andes.
To make everything easy for you, we’ve already taken care of the entrance fees. This means you can just relax, enjoy the food, and really take in the unique flavors of Sacred Valley cuisine. Food here isn’t just about filling up it’s a window into the culture, and this meal will help you connect with it.
The Sacred Valley isn’t just about the views and the ancient sites. It’s a place alive with culture, where the past and present blend together. As we explore, you’ll have the chance to connect with the people and the traditions that are still thriving here.
You’ll meet artisans who weave beautiful textiles by hand, using techniques passed down through generations. You’ll also see how locals continue to farm the terraced fields, a practice that dates back to Inca times. And, if you’re interested, you might even pick up a few words in Quechua, the language of the Inca descendants, which will help you connect even more with the people here.
This isn’t just a tour; it’s an opportunity to truly experience the Sacred Valley. With Machu Picchu Tours as your guide, you’ll discover the region in a way that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
We will begin our Full Day Sacred Valley tour from Cusco with an early departure. Our journey starts from Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Our first stop will be the town of Chinchero. Here, we will witness the fascinating blend of Incan and Spanish colonial influences.
Next, we will journey to Moray. There, we will explore the remarkable circular agricultural terraces. These terraces illustrate the Incas’ ingenuity in farming. Here, we will observe the variations in microclimates and understand how the Incas used these for crop experimentation.
Our adventure continues as we visit the stunning salt mines of Maras. Amidst thousands of salt pans, we will stand and learn about the traditional salt extraction methods employed since pre-Inca times.
Moving forward, we will drive to the heart of the Sacred Valley, Urubamba. Here we will enjoy a nourishing lunch while surrounded by the magnificent Andean mountains.
After lunch, our tour will take us to Ollantaytambo. It is a town boasting an impressive archaeological site with terraces that climb the steep mountain sides. We will explore this area and gain insight into its past. This site held strategic military, agricultural, and religious significance during the Inca Empire.
We will then make our way to Pisac. Here, the extensive ruins will captivate us. Additionally, we will have the opportunity to interact with the modern-day Andean community.
At the Pisac Market, we will discover a myriad of handcrafted goods. These are perfect for taking a piece of the Sacred Valley back home with us.
Our tour will end with a scenic return to Cusco. We will reflect on a day filled with history and rich cultural experiences.
By choosing to embark on this journey, we will immerse ourselves in the heart of the Peru Sacred Valley. We will trace the steps of the Incas from Cusco to Sacred Valley and back. This will all take place within a day filled with adventure and discovery.
Departure & Return Location
Cusco Hotel Transfer
Departure Time
7:00 a.m.
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Usefull info
The Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco is one of the best ways to explore the breathtaking landscapes, ancient Incan sites, and vibrant local culture of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. If you're planning your trip, here are answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your experience.
The Sacred Valley tour is a full-day trip where you visit ancient Incan sites, small Andean villages, and beautiful landscapes. It usually includes stops at Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, offering a mix of history, culture, and amazing views.
You can get to the Sacred Valley from Cusco by bus, train, or car. Many people go with a guided tour to visit several places efficiently. If you're going to Machu Picchu, you can catch the train from Ollantaytambo after touring the Sacred Valley.
A Sacred Valley day trip usually lasts between 10 and 12 hours, starting in the morning and finishing by evening. Some travelers prefer to stay overnight in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba for a more relaxed experience.
Yes! Many travelers follow a Cusco to Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu itinerary, spending a day exploring the valley before taking the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This is one of the most scenic and efficient ways to reach Machu Picchu.
The best Sacred Valley tours from Cusco range from standard group tours to private, customized experiences. For adventure seekers, options like hiking, biking, or even paragliding in Cusco, Peru, offer a unique perspective of the valley.
Yes! A Sacred Valley tour from Cusco airport is ideal for travelers wanting to acclimate at a lower altitude before heading to Cusco. Private transfers from Cusco Airport to Sacred Valley are available, making for a smooth and hassle-free journey.
While most travelers take the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, there is also a Cusco to Sacred Valley train route that stops in Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, offering a scenic way to explore the region.
A Sacred Valley private tour from Cusco offers a personalized itinerary and a more flexible experience, while group tours are budget-friendly and provide a social atmosphere.
Absolutely! Paragliding in Cusco, Peru, offers breathtaking aerial views of the Sacred Valley and the Andes Mountains. It’s a thrilling way to enhance your Cusco and Sacred Valley itinerary.
Many travelers explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas before Cusco to gradually adjust to the altitude before heading to higher elevations. This itinerary helps with acclimatization and allows for a more comfortable experience in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
The Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco typically includes some of the most significant Inca sites and traditional villages. The tour often visits Pisac, known for its impressive archaeological site and vibrant artisan market; Ollantaytambo, a well-preserved Inca fortress with stunning terraces; Urubamba, a picturesque valley where visitors enjoy a traditional lunch; and sometimes Chinchero, famous for its colonial church and Andean weaving traditions. These locations played a crucial role in the Inca Empire’s economy, agriculture, and military strategy.
The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable, and there is little to no rain. However, from October to April, during the rainy season, the landscapes are lush and green, offering beautiful scenery. If traveling in the rainy season, it is advisable to bring waterproof clothing to stay comfortable during the tour.
Yes, the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco is family-friendly and ideal for travelers with children. The tour involves moderate walking without strenuous hikes, making it accessible for all ages. Kids can enjoy the stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and lively artisan markets. It’s recommended to bring snacks, water, and comfortable clothing to ensure a pleasant experience for young travelers.
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