The Sacred Valley of the Incas, also known as the «Vilcanota Valley,» is one of the most breathtaking destinations to explore during your visit to Cusco. This full-day tour takes you through traditional archaeological sites and vibrant markets. You’ll discover the ancient ruins of Pisac and its lively artisan market, the impressive archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo, and the charming village of Chinchero with its traditional market.
Pisac, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero
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Our full-day tour begins with a visit to Pisac, located at the entrance of the Urubamba Valley. This fantastic village allows you to explore the ancient neighborhood (archaeological site) with its impressive Inca and pre-Inca remains. You’ll also have the chance to browse the traditional market, where you can find a variety of typical pottery and textile objects from the region. Admire the vibrant costumes worn by local people, many of whom come from different communities, and observe their ancestral marketing customs.
Continuing our journey to Urubamba, we will pass through the charming towns of Coya, Lamay, Calca, and Yucay. Enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna during the approximately 45-minute drive. Urubamba, nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, is a fertile and pleasant area, historically an important pre-Hispanic agricultural center. Here, we’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in a cozy restaurant.
In the afternoon, we’ll drive to the village of Ollantaytambo, also known as ‘Tambo Valley.’ This unique living Inca city stretches along the Vilcanota River and extends towards Machu Picchu. We’ll visit the famous fortress of Ollantaytambo and learn about the unforgettable love story of Inca Ollanta.
As we return to Cusco, our final stop will be the village of Chinchero and its small chapel. Similar to Pisac, Chinchero is renowned for its indigenous market, which, though smaller, is rich in tradition and offers a wider range of exquisite textiles.
Valid passport required for international visitors. Bring light clothing and comfortable shoes.
The Sacred Valley is generally at a lower altitude than Cusco, ranging from approximately 2,800m to 3,700m (with Chinchero being the highest point). While many visitors adapt easily, staying hydrated and taking it easy on your first day in Cusco can help. We recommend consulting your doctor for advice on altitude sickness medication if you are particularly prone to it.
The tour includes a buffet lunch in Urubamba, a town centrally located in the Sacred Valley. These buffets typically offer a variety of local and international dishes to cater to different tastes. Please inform your tour operator in advance if you have any specific dietary restrictions or allergies so they can make appropriate arrangements.
The ‘Tourist Ticket’ (Boleto Turístico del Cusco), which grants access to the archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley (such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo), is not included in the tour price. You can conveniently purchase this ticket upon your arrival in Cusco or directly at the first archaeological site you visit during the tour. Your guide can assist you with this.
This is a group tour, meaning you will share the experience with other travelers. While the exact maximum group size is not explicitly stated, these types of tours usually accommodate a comfortable number of participants, typically ranging from 15 to 25 people per bus, ensuring a sociable yet manageable experience.
We recommend wearing comfortable, light layers, as the weather in the Sacred Valley can change throughout the day. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the archaeological sites. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection, as well as a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings or evenings. A small backpack for water and personal items is also advisable.
Traveler Experiences
Recent comments
A very enriching experience, full of history and good coordination even with changing weather during the route.
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