SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS
Discover the heart of the Sacred Valley on a full-day journey from Cusco. Visit the traditional village of Chinchero, explore the impressive archaeological complex of Pisac, enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba, and finish in Ollantaytambo, on... read complete
Itinerary
Sacred Valley of the Incas — Cusco / Chinchero / Pisac / Urubamba / Ollantaytambo / Cusco
- 7:00 am: Time to explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas! Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and begin the journey toward Chinchero, traveling through the highlands above the valley.
- 8:00 am: Arrive in Chinchero, a traditional Andean village known for its Inca terraces, archaeological remains and beautiful colonial church. Explore the site and learn about the local weaving traditions.
- 9:00 am: Continue toward Pisac, descending into the Sacred Valley and following the Vilcanota River through the surrounding mountains.
- 10:00 am: Arrive at the Pisac archaeological complex, built high above the valley. Explore its impressive terraces, temples and ancient settlements while enjoying panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
- 11:30 am: Descend to the town of Pisac and continue along the valley toward Urubamba.
- 12:15 pm: Arrive in Urubamba for a buffet lunch featuring traditional Peruvian and Andean dishes.
- 1:15 pm: Continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru.
- 1:45 pm: Explore the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex with your guide, including its massive terraces, ceremonial areas and impressive stonework. Discover the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana and the famous Inca terraces overlooking the valley.
- 3:15 pm: Begin the return journey toward Cusco, traveling through the Sacred Valley and back over the mountain road toward the city.
- 5:00 pm (approx.): Arrive back at your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your Sacred Valley of the Incas experience.
Distance: approx. 120 km / 75 mi round trip | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Highest point: Chinchero, approx. 3,760 m / 12,336 ft | Meals: Buffet lunch
Inclusions
What’s Included
Transportation
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
- Tourist transportation throughout the Sacred Valley tour.
Meals
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba featuring traditional Peruvian and Andean dishes.
Guiding
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) throughout the tour.
What’s Not Included
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco) — required for Chinchero, Pisac and Ollantaytambo and purchased separately.
- Tips for your guide and driver — always appreciated, entirely at your discretion.
- Personal expenses — souvenirs, bottled water, snacks, etc.
- Travel insurance — recommended, but arranged independently.
FAQS
How difficult is the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour?
It’s an easy to moderate day tour with walking at several archaeological sites. There is no strenuous hiking, but you’ll encounter stairs, uneven surfaces and high-altitude terrain.
How long is the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour?
The tour takes approximately 10 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to Cusco around 5:00 pm. This gives you enough time to explore the main sites without making the day excessively long.
What places will I visit on the Sacred Valley Tour?
You’ll visit Chinchero, Pisac, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo. The tour combines Inca archaeological sites, traditional Andean culture, local cuisine and spectacular mountain landscapes.
What is special about Chinchero?
Chinchero is known for its Inca terraces, archaeological remains and colonial church. It is also famous for its traditional textile culture, with local communities preserving ancestral weaving techniques.
What will I see in Pisac?
You’ll explore the impressive Pisac archaeological complex, built on the mountainside above the Sacred Valley. The site features agricultural terraces, ceremonial areas and spectacular views over the valley.
Where do we have lunch during the tour?
Lunch is served in Urubamba, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley. A buffet lunch featuring traditional Peruvian and Andean dishes is included.
What is special about Ollantaytambo?
Ollantaytambo is one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru. You’ll explore its impressive archaeological complex, massive terraces and sophisticated stonework while learning about its importance as a royal, religious and military center.
Are entrance tickets included?
No. The Cusco Tourist Ticket is not included and must be purchased separately. It provides access to several of the archaeological sites visited on the tour, including Chinchero, Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
What should I bring on the Sacred Valley Tour?
- Original passport or valid ID
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Small backpack
- Personal medication
- Water bottle
- Some cash for entrance fees and personal expenses
Can I do the Sacred Valley Tour if I have just arrived in Cusco?
Yes. The tour does not involve strenuous hiking, but the archaeological sites are located at high altitude. If you have just arrived in Cusco, take it easy, stay hydrated and avoid overexerting yourself.
Is the Sacred Valley Tour suitable for children?
Yes. The tour is suitable for families and children, although it is a full-day experience. Children should be comfortable walking around archaeological sites, climbing stairs and spending several hours traveling between destinations.
Can I do the Sacred Valley Tour without a guide?
You can visit the destinations independently, but a professional guide is recommended to understand the history and significance of each site. This tour includes a bilingual guide throughout the experience.
Why Choose Us Velflor Travel
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