SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS
Group size
Minimum 2 people
Maximum altitude
3650 m.s.n.m
Type of service
Group/Private
Transportation
Bus
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
1 Day
Enjoy an unforgettable tour through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting two of the most important historical and cultural sites in the Cusco region: Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
In Pisac, we will explore its impressive archaeological site, renowned for its extensive agricultural terraces and one of the largest and oldest Inca cemeteries, located within the archaeological complex. From here, you will enjoy spectacular views of the valley and learn more about Inca engineering and worldview.
Next, we will stop in Urubamba to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, perfect for recharging your energy in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
In the afternoon, we will continue to the majestic Ollantaytambo Fortress, one of the last inhabited Inca towns that still remains alive today. Built on original Inca foundations, this fortress stands out for its impressive architecture, ceremonial temples, and advanced irrigation system, which is still in operation, with water channels running through the streets of the town.
This is a full-day tour with flexible options at the end of the journey: you may return to Cusco or stay in Ollantaytambo if you have a train to Machu Picchu or a hotel reservation scheduled for that same day.
Trip Details for the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour
SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS TOUR
Approximate schedule: 7:20 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. | Return: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most impressive and visited destinations in Peru. Because of its great historical, cultural, and scenic importance, we have designed this complete itinerary so you can enjoy the very best of the region in just one day.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is provided from your hotel in the city of Cusco. The exact time will depend on the location of your accommodation.
Visit to the Pisac Archaeological Site
Our first stop is the archaeological complex of Pisac, located high on a mountain. This site stands out for its impressive agricultural terraces, water channels, platforms, and ancient Inca tombs. From here, you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Sacred Valley.
Afterwards, we visit the traditional Pisac Market, an ideal place to shop for handicrafts, textiles, and local souvenirs.
Journey to Urubamba – Buffet Lunch
We continue the tour toward Urubamba, enjoying beautiful Andean landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, with vegetarian options available.
Visit to Ollantaytambo
After lunch, we head to the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, one of the most important archaeological complexes in the Sacred Valley. Its finely crafted stone structures reveal its religious, administrative, and military functions during Inca times.
Many travelers choose to stay in Ollantaytambo to board their train to Machu Picchu, since the station is very close to the archaeological site. (For those staying there, the tour ends at approximately 4:30 p.m.)
Visit to Chinchero
On the way back to Cusco, we make one final stop in the picturesque town of Chinchero, famous for its textile tradition. Here, you will learn about ancient Andean weaving techniques and have the opportunity to purchase handmade textiles.
Return to Cusco
We end the tour by returning to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 to 7:30 p.m., near Plaza Regocijo.
Conclusion
The Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour is an unmissable experience that combines history, archaeology, living culture, and spectacular landscapes. It is ideal for those who want to discover the very best of the Sacred Valley in a single day.
WHAT DOES THE TOUR INCLUDE?
Includes:
Tourist transportation: Travel in a comfortable and safe tourist bus, equipped to ensure a pleasant journey throughout the day.
Professional guide: Continuous assistance from a certified guide, who will provide detailed explanations about the history, culture, and significance of each site visited.
Buffet lunch: Buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba, with a varied selection of dishes and vegetarian options. An ideal moment to relax and enjoy the regional cuisine.
Does not include:
Tourist Ticket: Entrance to the archaeological sites is not included. The Tourist Ticket is mandatory and must be purchased separately to access the attractions of the Sacred Valley.
WHAT TO BRING
- Backpack for personal belongings
- Money in soles for entrance fees and other expenses (shopping, snacks, etc.)
- Comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear (mountain boots are recommended)
- Rain poncho (December to April)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water (1.5 liters per day)
- Sunglasses
- Scarf or hat to protect yourself from the intense sunlight
- Warm jacket for the afternoon or windy weather
Frequently Asked Questions – Sacred Valley of the Incas
What is the difference between the Sacred Valley Tour and the Sacred Valley Combo Tour?
The main difference is that the Sacred Valley Combo Tour includes more attractions in a single day, such as Maras and Moray, in addition to the classic sites. This tour is ideal for those who want to finish in Ollantaytambo and connect directly with the train to Machu Picchu, since it is the last stop on the itinerary.
The traditional Sacred Valley Tour, on the other hand, focuses on Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, and is perfect for travelers with more time who want to enjoy each place at a more relaxed pace.
Why is the Tourist Ticket not included?
The Tourist Ticket is a personal and individual pass that grants access to various archaeological sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. It is not included in the tour because each traveler may have different interests and choose only the places they wish to visit.
Can I stay in Ollantaytambo at the end of the tour?
Yes, absolutely. You only need to inform our team in advance. The tour ends at Ollantaytambo Main Square, located just a 10-minute walk from the train station.
If you have a hotel booking or a train departing from Ollantaytambo, we will coordinate to drop you off there without any inconvenience.
Important: On group tours, only small backpacks or bags are allowed. To transport large luggage, we recommend booking a private service.
I am already staying in the Sacred Valley. Can I start the tour from there?
Group tours depart exclusively from Cusco. If you wish to start the tour from your hotel in the Sacred Valley, you may choose a private tour or arrange transportation to Cusco in advance.
Cancellation and Rescheduling Flexibility
Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start of the tour will receive a 100% refund. If the cancellation is made within the 24 hours prior to the tour, a penalty of 100% of the tour cost will apply.
Regarding rescheduling, changes may be made up to 3 days before the travel date at no additional cost. This change policy is valid until December 31, 2026.
Please note that itineraries may be modified due to force majeure or operational reasons. If any changes occur, our agency will inform you in a timely manner and, whenever possible, offer suitable alternatives to ensure the best possible experience.
