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Explore the ancient agricultural and cultural heart of the Inca Empire with a variety of guided trips departing from Cusco. Discover iconic archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, or take an adventurous ATV ride through the Andean highlands.
Free Cancellation Explore the Sacred Valley’s key Inca sites and local markets with a flexible finish in Ollantaytambo or Cusco.
Free Cancellation Visit Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo in a small group of eight with extra time at every site.
Free Cancellation Ride ATVs through the Sacred Valley to visit the Maras salt flats and Moray ruins on a guided tour from Cusco.
Free Cancellation Explore the Sacred Valley’s ancient ruins, salt mines, and local markets on a full-day small-group trip from Cusco.
Free Cancellation Explore archaeological sites with licensed local guides on a flexible private tour designed to avoid the crowds.
Free Cancellation Visit the Sacred Valley's key ruins, markets, and textile centers on a full-day guided trip from the highlands.
Free Cancellation Explore the ancient ruins and local markets of Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Free Cancellation Soar between hills at the Racchi viewpoint in the Sacred Valley on a zipline adventure with certified safety gear.
Free Cancellation Explore the heart of the Inca Empire through the 60-kilometer stretch of Andean farmland and historic citadels.
Free Cancellation Explore the heart of the Inca Empire through the ruins of Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero on this full-day tour.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Sacred Valley — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A tour of the Sacred Valley takes you through the agricultural and spiritual heart of the ancient Inca Empire. Stretching between Pisac and Ollantaytambo, this 62-mile corridor features dramatic mountain landscapes, incredibly preserved archaeological sites, and vibrant local communities.
Explore massive agricultural terraces and ancient ceremonial baths perched high on a hillside. Afterward, descend to the famous artisan market to browse traditional textiles and crafts.
Climb the steep stone steps of this spectacular Inca fortress built into the mountainside. It remains a living testament to advanced Incan urban planning and was the site of a historic battle against the Spanish.
Walk along the observation areas of over 5,000 ancient salt-evaporation ponds terraced into the canyon. These striking pink and white pools have been manually harvested since pre-Inca times.
Marvel at these massive circular depressions carved into the earth. The Incas used these giant amphitheater-like structures as an agricultural laboratory to test crops in different microclimates.
Known as the birthplace of the rainbow, Chinchero features a beautiful colonial church built directly on Inca foundations and a vibrant market where local weavers demonstrate ancient textile techniques.
Many tours stop at local rescue centers like the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, where you can get up close with friendly llamas, alpacas, and watch massive Andean condors fly overhead.
Planning your Sacred Valley excursion requires a bit of logistical preparation, especially regarding entrance tickets and transportation. Here is what you need to know before securing your spot.
You can choose from standard full-day bus tours covering all major ruins, private excursions tailored to your pace, or adventurous options like ATV tours to Moray and Maras or high-altitude ziplining in Racchi.
Most tours do not include the required Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico). You will need to buy either the Full Ticket (S/. 130 for 10 days) or the Partial Circuit III Ticket (S/. 70 for 2 days) to access Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray.
The Maras Salt Mines are privately owned by the local community and are not included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket. You must bring 10 Soles in cash to pay the entrance fee directly at the gate.
If you are heading to Machu Picchu, many full-day tours allow you to end your trip in Ollantaytambo around 5:00 PM. You must notify the tour operator in advance so they can coordinate your drop-off near the train station.
Standard full-day guided tours typically include a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba (such as Puka Punku). However, shorter trips like the ATV or Zipline tours usually do not include food.
Most operators offer free pickup from hotels and hostels within Cusco's historic center. If you are staying in an Airbnb or outside the center, you will likely be asked to meet at a central point like Plaza Regocijos or the operator's office.
The Sacred Valley sits at roughly 9,000 feet, which is lower than Cusco (11,150 feet). Booking a tour here for your first few days is a smart way to acclimate to the altitude before tackling higher hikes.
The vast majority of Sacred Valley tours offer a standard 24-hour cancellation policy, allowing you to receive a full refund if your travel plans change or if you need to adjust for weather.
| Full-Day Group Tour | Private Sacred Valley Tour | ATV Adventure (Moray & Maras) | Sacred Valley Zipline | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10-12 hours | 10 hours | 6 hours | 1 hour (plus transit) |
| Group Size | Up to 15-20 people | Private (your group only) | Small group | Small group |
| Includes | Transport, guide, buffet lunch | Private transport, guide, custom pacing | ATV, equipment, guide, transport | Equipment, guide, photos |
| Price from | $41 - $55 | $85 - $120 | $33 | $61 |
Archaeological Sites: The major ruins in the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray) are generally open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Local Markets: The artisan markets in Pisac and Chinchero start setting up early. The best time to visit for atmospheric photography and authentic local commerce is between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM, before the large tourist buses arrive.
Tour Timings: Most full-day tours depart Cusco between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM to maximize daylight and beat the heaviest crowds, returning to Cusco around 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Guided Tours: The easiest way to explore is via a booked tour, which includes round-trip transport from Cusco. Pickups are usually restricted to the historic center.
Public Transport: Independent travelers can take shared vans (colectivos) from Av. Huayruropata in Cusco. The ride to valley towns like Urubamba takes about 2 hours and costs S/. 15 to S/. 20 (USD 4-6).
Private Taxis: Hiring a private driver for the day from Cusco to Ollantaytambo with stops at Moray and Maras typically costs around S/. 80.00 to S/. 100.00.
Train Travel: PeruRail and Inca Rail operate services through the valley. Note that the Poroy station near Cusco typically closes from January to April due to rainy weather, requiring departures from Ollantaytambo instead.
Dry Season (May to October): This is the optimal time to visit the Sacred Valley. You will experience mostly sunny days and minimal rainfall, perfect for exploring outdoor ruins and taking ATV tours. June, July, and August are the peak tourist months, so advance booking is highly recommended.
Rainy Season (November to April): Heavy rains are common, particularly from January to April. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities can be muddy, and train schedules are often disrupted (including the annual closure of the Poroy station).
Time of Day: Early mornings (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM) offer the best lighting for photography and allow you to explore the stone masonry without the midday crowds.
Wheelchair Users: The Sacred Valley is generally more accommodating than Cusco due to its flat valley floor. Sites like the Maras Salt Mines and the main viewpoint at Moray are highly accessible. However, hillside fortresses like Pisac and Ollantaytambo feature steep, uneven stone steps that are not wheelchair friendly.
Elderly & Children: The valley's lower altitude (9,000 ft) makes it an excellent starting point for families and older travelers to acclimate safely. While flat market areas are easy to navigate, climbing the ruins requires pacing and comfortable shoes.
Custom Tours: If mobility is a concern, booking a private tour is highly recommended so the guide can customize gentle routes and avoid the steepest climbs.
Food & Drink: Most full-day tours include a stop for a buffet lunch in the town of Urubamba. If you are traveling independently, look for roadside restaurants between Maras and Chinchero to try Manca chicharro, a local specialty of deep-fried pork and stuffed peppers.
Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available at the entrances of all major archaeological sites, usually costing 1 or 2 Soles to use. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Payment Methods: Cash is king in the Sacred Valley. You will need physical Peruvian Soles to buy the Tourist Ticket at the gates, pay the 10 Soles Maras entry fee, tip guides, and shop at the local artisan markets. Card payments for the Tourist Ticket incur a 3.15% fee.
Generally, no. Most tours cover transportation, a guide, and sometimes lunch, but you must purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket (S/. 130 full or S/. 70 partial) and the Maras Salt Mines entry (10 Soles) separately in cash.
The Boleto Turístico is the official pass required to enter major ruins like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray. You can buy it directly at the entrance of the first site you visit on your tour, preferably using cash (Soles).
Yes, many full-day tours allow you to detach from the group in Ollantaytambo around 5:00 PM. Just be sure to notify your tour operator when booking so they can coordinate your drop-off and ensure you don't leave luggage on the bus returning to Cusco.
The Sacred Valley sits at about 9,000 feet, which is over 2,000 feet lower than Cusco. Spending your first few days touring the valley actually helps your body acclimate gradually and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
No, drones and aerial flights are completely banned over all archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Unauthorized use will lead to immediate confiscation of your equipment and potential expulsion from the site.
Most operators offer free pickup from hotels and hostels located within Cusco's historic center. If your Airbnb is outside this zone or in a hard-to-reach alley, they will assign you a nearby meeting point, such as Plaza Regocijos.
Full-day group and private tours typically include a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba. Shorter half-day excursions, like the ATV or Zipline tours, usually do not include meals, so you should bring snacks.
The weather changes rapidly, so dress in layers. Mornings are chilly, but the midday sun is intense. Wear slip-resistant sports or hiking shoes for the steep stone stairs at the ruins, and bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Yes, carrying Peruvian Soles is essential. You will need cash to buy the Tourist Ticket, pay the separate 10 Soles entry fee for Maras, use public restrooms (usually 1-2 Soles), and buy souvenirs at the Pisac or Chinchero markets.
No, the Maras Salt Mines are privately managed by the local community. Access to the observation decks requires a separate, cash-only fee of 10 Soles paid directly at the entrance gate.
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This tour travels through the heart of the Sacred Valley, starting at the Pisac Archaeological Site. You will explore the extensive stone ruins and agricultural terraces before visiting the Pisac Artisan Market, where local vendors sell traditional textiles and crafts. For lunch, the group stops at a buffet restaurant in Urubamba to sample regional Peruvian dishes along the river. The afternoon is spent at Ollantaytambo, a massive Inca fortress and town that served as a final point of resistance against the Spanish. You will learn about the site's strategic importance and unique architecture. At the end of the tour, you can choose to be dropped off in Ollantaytambo to catch a train to Machu Picchu or return to your hotel in Cusco.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This full-day tour covers Chinchero, the Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and the Ollantaytambo fortress. We time our itinerary to reach these landmarks before the main crowds arrive, ensuring a quieter experience at each stop. Transportation is provided in a high-quality vehicle suited for small-group travel. Unlike standard tours that often rush through sites in 20 or 30 minutes, we provide 40 to 50 minutes at every location. This allows you to explore the ruins and salt pans at your own pace. With a maximum of eight people per group, the experience remains personal and allows for direct interaction with your guide.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This guided ATV tour takes you through the Andean highlands of the Sacred Valley. Departing daily from Cusco, the route covers the circular agricultural terraces of Moray and the ancient salt evaporation ponds at Maras. You will navigate mountain trails with views of the surrounding peaks, maintaining control of your own quad bike throughout the trip. The tour is structured for families and groups of friends looking for an active way to see the region's landmarks. If you have selected the zipline add-on, please allow for an additional one to two hours in your schedule, either before or after the ATV portion depending on your specific booking.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day small-group tour departs from Cusco to visit five of the most significant historical sites in the Sacred Valley. You will begin in Chinchero to see the Inca ruins, colonial plaza, and local market before heading to the circular agricultural terraces of Moray. The morning concludes at the Maras Salt Mines, where you can observe traditional salt harvesting techniques that have been used for centuries. Following a buffet lunch in the town of Urubamba, the tour continues to the Ollantaytambo Fortress and the Temple of the Sun. The final stop is Pisac, where you can walk through the cliffside temples, palaces, and agricultural terraces. Throughout the day, the itinerary includes visits to two artisan workshops where local craftspeople demonstrate traditional Andean weaving and artistry. Led by a professional guide, this tour focuses on providing historical context and cultural insight at a flexible pace. The small-group format allows for more personal interaction and easier navigation through the mountain landscapes. All transportation and logistics are managed to ensure a seamless experience between each site.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Our team consists of licensed guides who were born and raised in this area, bringing over three years of professional study and local knowledge to every trip. We operate with fully permitted vehicles and prioritize a schedule that avoids the largest crowds. While we aim for a peaceful experience at every site, we can adjust our start times to accommodate specific pickup and drop-off locations while still maximizing your time at each destination. Because these tours are private, the itinerary is flexible. You can stay at each site for as long as you like, though we must enter the final archaeological park before 4:00 PM to comply with local regulations. We pride ourselves on transparency and will never take you to tourist-trap shops unless you specifically ask to go. We provide honest recommendations for authentic local food and shopping throughout the day. For meals, you are welcome to bring your own snacks or we can stop at a restaurant for lunch. We are happy to suggest the best local spots based on your tastes, ensuring your time is spent enjoying the culture rather than sitting through unwanted sales pitches.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Italian, Spanish
This full-day tour travels from the highlands into the Sacred Valley, visiting the major archaeological sites and towns of Pisaq, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Once the agricultural heart of the Inca Empire, the valley remains a landscape of terraced farms set against the Andes. You will see the Urubamba River, visit traditional villages, and stop at farms to see native camelids like llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. The itinerary includes guided walks through the stone ruins of Ollantaytambo and the textile workshops of Chinchero, where local weavers demonstrate traditional methods. Between site visits, you will stop for a buffet lunch featuring regional Peruvian dishes. The tour is all-inclusive, covering transportation, entrance fees, a professional guide, and lunch, allowing you to focus on the history and local markets.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This tour visits the primary archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley, focusing on Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. You will begin at Pisac to see the hilltop terraces and the local market in the town square. The day includes a stop on the valley floor near Urubamba for a traditional lunch before continuing to the fortress at Ollantaytambo. At Ollantaytambo, you can explore the steep stone terraces and the Temple of the Sun, which remains one of the best examples of Inca urban planning and masonry. Throughout the trip, there are clear views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River, providing many opportunities for photography while learning about the engineering and daily life of the Inca Empire.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Experience the Sacred Valley from a new perspective at the Racchi viewpoint. This zipline tour takes you across the landscape, flying from hill to hill via a series of high-altitude cables. Between flights, you will navigate short trekking sections and balance obstacles to reach each launching platform, making the transition between lines an active part of the experience. Safety is our priority, with all routes validated by Civil Defense and local tourism authorities. We use professional equipment certified by Petzl to ensure a secure environment for all participants. Additionally, the tour includes health coverage for any unforeseen events, allowing you to focus entirely on the scenery and the flight.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
The Sacred Valley lies in the Andean highlands of Peru, serving as a 60-kilometer corridor between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Historically, this region was the agricultural and cultural center of the Inca Empire. Today, the landscape remains a mix of fertile farmland and high-altitude scenery. The tour visits Spanish colonial villages such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo. In Pisac, you can walk through the hilltop Incan citadel and visit the local handicraft market, which is particularly active on Sundays. These towns provide a look at both the ancient stonework of the Incas and the later architecture of the colonial era.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day tour covers the most significant sites in the Sacred Valley, an area that served as the agricultural and spiritual heart of the Inca Empire. You will visit the archaeological complexes of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, exploring both Inca and pre-Inca ruins while traveling through the valley's diverse landscapes. The route includes a stop in Urubamba and a visit to Chinchero to see its traditional ruins and colonial-era temple. Because the Sacred Valley sits at a lower elevation than Cusco, this tour is an effective way to help your body acclimatize to the altitude. For those planning to visit Machu Picchu next, the tour offers the flexibility to finish in Ollantaytambo, allowing you to catch a train directly to Aguas Calientes. The tour operates daily, all year round, from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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