From US$127 per person.
Traditional Sacred Valley
- Pisac Monumental Complex: Explore impressive agricultural terraces, watchtowers, and imperial structures built into the mountainside, offering spectacular views of the Sacred Valley.
- Ancestral Textile Tradition: Witness a live demonstration of spinning, natural dyeing, and weaving alpaca wool using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
- Living Inca Town of Ollantaytambo: Walk along the cobblestone streets of one of the best-preserved Inca settlements, where the original urban layout has endured for centuries.
- Chinchero Archaeological Park: Discover beautiful Inca terraces overlooking the surrounding mountains and visit the historic colonial church, built over the former palace associated with Túpac Yupanqui.
Discover the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of Cusco’s most iconic destinations, where history, culture, and breathtaking Andean landscapes come together in an unforgettable experience. During this full-day journey, explore the impressive archaeological complexes of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, while also visiting the traditional Pisac Artisan Market, renowned for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, and vibrant local culture. Surrounded by towering mountains and the Urubamba River, the Sacred Valley was once one of the most important agricultural, religious, and administrative centers of the Inca Empire.
This full-day Sacred Valley tour is ideal for travelers who want to discover the highlights of Inca heritage before visiting Machu Picchu or complement their stay in Cusco with an enriching cultural experience. Enjoy comfortable tourist transportation, a professional bilingual guide in English and Spanish, a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, and ongoing assistance throughout the journey. Experience the perfect combination of archaeology, nature, Peruvian gastronomy, and living Andean traditions in the heart of the Andes.
At a glance
- Days: 1
- Highest point: 3762 m
- Price: From US$127 per person
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco Andean Communities Pisac Urubamba Ollantaytambo Chinchero Cusco
Altitude: 2792 a 3762 m · Meals: Buffet lunch · Overnight: Cusco (3400 m)
The tour begins with hotel pickup in Cusco between 07:00 and 07:30 a.m., heading toward the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop will be the Pisac Archaeological Park, where you will explore its impressive agricultural terraces, temples, and panoramic viewpoints, followed by a visit to the traditional Pisac artisan market. We will then continue to Urubamba, where you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with a varied selection of traditional Peruvian dishes.
In the afternoon, we will visit the imposing Fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the most important military, religious, and agricultural centers of the Inca Empire. Finally, we will discover the picturesque town of Chinchero, known for its Inca legacy, its historic colonial church, and its traditional textile centers, where ancestral weaving techniques are still preserved. The tour concludes with the return to Cusco, arriving approximately at 19:00 hours, after an unforgettable day steeped in history, culture, Andean traditions, and the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
What is included
- Tickets and permits Partial Tourist Ticket for ,Pisaq,Ollantaytambo,Chinchero.
- High-quality service and safety Professional bilingual guide expert in Inca history and local culture, first aid kit and 24/7 assistance.
- Meals Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba.
- Transportation Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco, tourist transportation throughout the tour.
What is not included
- Handicraft purchases Bring cash in soles if you wish to shop at the Pisac or Chinchero markets.
- Meals not included Breakfast and dinner.
- Personal Expenses, Tips & Travel Insurance Personal clothing and hiking equipment. Tips for guides, drivers, and service staff are optional but recommended.
- Possible Costs or Delays Beyond Our Control Landslides, adverse weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, strikes, or other unforeseen events.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Traditional Sacred Valley tour visit?
The tour covers the main sites of the Sacred Valley: the Pisac craft market and Inca ruins, the Ollantaytambo ruins (Inca fortress still in use), and the Chinchero textile market with its colonial church. All in a single day.
How much time is spent at each site?
Pisac (ruins + market): approx. 2 hours. Lunch in Urubamba: 1 hour. Ollantaytambo (ruins): approx. 1.5 hours. Chinchero (market + church): approx. 1 hour. The tour departs at 8:00 AM and returns to Cusco around 7:00 PM.
Is lunch included?
Yes. Buffet lunch at a Sacred Valley restaurant in Urubamba is included in the price. The menu includes typical Peruvian dishes and vegetarian options. Non-alcoholic beverages are also included.
Are archaeological entrance fees included in the price?
The Cusco Partial Tourist Ticket is required to enter Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero. This ticket is not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately. We will inform you of the current cost when booking.
What is the difference between the Traditional and VIP Sacred Valley?
The VIP Sacred Valley includes additional sites like the Maras Salt Mines, the Moray complex and the Raqchi pottery workshop, plus a higher-quality lunch and smaller groups. The Traditional covers the three main sites at a more accessible price.
Why is the Sacred Valley so important in Inca history?
The Sacred Valley was the agricultural heart of the Inca Empire. Its temperate climate (warmer than Cusco) and fertile lands made it the main producer of corn, the sacred food of the Incas. Furthermore, its proximity to Cusco made it strategically vital for territorial control. The ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo were administrative, religious and military centers.
Is the Traditional Sacred Valley suitable for families with children?
Yes. It is one of the most recommended tours for families: children enjoy the Pisac market, the animals (llamas, alpacas) in the area and the panoramic views of the ruins. The walks are short and the pace is relaxed. Ideal for children from age 5.
What is the best time to visit the Sacred Valley?
Year-round is possible. May, October (dry season) offers sunny days and perfect blue skies for photographs. November, April (rainy season) has brief afternoon rains but fields are very green and there are fewer tourists. June and July are the busiest months.
What is Ollantaytambo and why visit it?
Ollantaytambo is a 15th-century Inca citadel that served as a fortress, temple and royal residence. It is unique because it remains a living town: current residents live in houses built on 600-year-old Inca foundations. Its monumental terraces, Temple of the Sun and Inca hydraulic system make it one of the most impressive sites in the Sacred Valley.
Are Sacred Valley site entrance fees included?
The buffet lunch is included. The entries to Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero are part of the Cusco Partial Tourist Ticket, which can be purchased with the tour (additional cost approx. S/ 70 per person). When booking we will inform you of the updated price.
What is the difference between the Traditional Sacred Valley and the VIP Sacred Valley?
The Traditional Sacred Valley is a shared group tour covering Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero with a bilingual guide and buffet lunch: the most popular and accessible option. The VIP Sacred Valley adds the Maras salt pans and Moray circles, more personalized service, smaller groups and a higher-category restaurant. If it is your first time in the Sacred Valley and you want the classic itinerary at a good price, choose the Traditional. If you want the most complete and intimate experience, including Maras and Moray, choose the VIP.
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