Sacred Valley in Peru
Situated between the bustling city of Cusco and the famous wonder of Machu Picchu, is the tranquil paradise known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It offers an ideal escape for travelers to relax amidst its beutiful landscapes.
It would not be a bad idea to spend a night or two in one of its picturesque villages, Urubamba or the town of Ollantaytambo. Whether it is its lower altitude compared to Cusco, the imposing presence of towering peaks or the echoes of the rich history, the Sacred Valley offers the best place to relax and explore. Delve into the rich tapestry of Inca culture by discovering meaning in the taste of a traditional clay oven meal or embark on a journey through ancient ruins scattered across the landscape. These experiences not only offer a glimpse into the past, but also the opportunity to connect with the real Peru. Whether you explore ancient archaeological sites, interact with local artisans or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the Sacred Valley offers a captivating journey full of cultural richness and natural beauty, all amidst the majestic Andean landscape.
Sacred Valley Elevation
The Sacred Valley is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, at an altitude of about (9,200 feet) 2,800 meters above sea level. However, the elevation of the Sacred Valley varies depending on the town you visit. Contrary to popular belief, not all the towns in the Sacred Valley are located at a lower altitude than Cusco; in fact, some are even higher. Here are the different altitudes of the main towns in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru:
- Chinchero Elevation: Chinchero town is the highest town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It is located at 3,754 meters above sea level (12,316 feet).
- Maras Elevation: The altitude of the Maras town is about 3,400 meters above sea level (about 11,155 feet), similar to Cusco. Although the Salt Mines are at a lower altitude (3000m. – 9840ft).
- Urubamba Elevation: The town of Urubamba is located at 9,420 ft (2,870 m) above sea level, Urubamba is one of the lowest towns in the Sacred Valley.
- Ollantaytambo Elevation: Ollantaytambo is located at an altitude of 2,792 m (9,160 ft) above sea level, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba are the best places to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Pisac Elevation: Although this village is at a lower level, it is not recommended to stay there if you wish to explore the Sacred Valley from Pisac.
Weather in the Sacred Valley of Peru
The weather in Peru’s Sacred Valley is generally mild and temperate, and is characterized by two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The weather in Peru’s Sacred Valley is generally mild and temperate, and is characterized by two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
Dry Season:
During the dry season, which usually lasts from May to October, visitors can expect clear skies, lots of sunshine and minimal rainfall. This period is generally considered the best time to visit the Sacred Valley in Peru, as the weather is usually pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring archaeological sites and enjoying panoramic views of the Andean landscape.
Wet Season:
In contrast, the rainy season, which usually runs from November to April, increases rainfall in the region. Although showers are frequent at this time, they are usually short-lived and are followed by periods of sunshine. Despite occasional showers, the rainy season has its own charm: the landscape comes alive in vibrant shades of green and the rivers flow with renewed vigor.
Whatever the season, the Sacred Valley experiences relatively mild temperatures throughout the year, with daytime highs ranging between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius) and nighttime lows between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius). However, it is important to keep in mind that temperatures can vary depending on factors such as altitude and proximity to the Andes Mountains.
What is the Best Season to Visit the Sacred Valley in Peru?
The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is from April to October. During these months, the weather is enjoyable, making it ideal for tourism and outdoor activities. This period also coincides with the agricultural season, allowing visitors to contemplate the vibrant landscape of growing crops. Temperatures are pleasant, which enhances the overall travel experience.
In contrast, the months of November through March mark the rainy season in Peru. However, the Sacred Valley in comparison to Cusco offers a temperate climate all year round, even during the rainy season is a good time to visit.
5 Must-See Sites in The Sacred Valley
When planning your trip to the Sacred Valley, don’t forget to include these destinations in your itinerary. We strongly recommend that you dedicate at least two days to explore these places and discover their hidden treasures:
Ollantaytambo Ruins:
Located in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo is a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Inca civilization. A must-see destination for travelers, Ollantaytambo offers a captivating blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Explore the extraordinary stone masonry, the farming terraces and the Sun temple of Ollantaytambo.
For an unforgettable exploration, join a tour led by expert local guides. providing a better understanding of Ollantaytambo’s role in the Inca Empire. In addition, adventurous travelers can opt for hiking excursions that lead to nearby ruins and panoramic viewpoints, such as Pinkuyuna Mountain, the Sun Gate and many others offering a unique perspective of this ancient Andean fortress.
Moray Ruins:
Located in Peru’s Sacred Valley, the enigmatic ruins of Moray draw travelers with their intriguing mysteries and ancient charm. A visit to Moray is a must see for those who wish to delve deeper into the region’s rich Inca heritage. Here, amidst the Andes hills, you will discover a series of concentric agricultural terraces that form a captivating amphitheater-like structure. To fully appreciate the importance of Moray, you can opt for a private tour with a local travel agency. The tour to the ruins of Moray is usually offered from Cusco, however if you wish to start the tour from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba you can contact us. The Moray complex offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A visit to Moray promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a new appreciation for Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
The Salt Mines of Maras:
The salt mines of Maras offer a captivating glimpse into ancient salt production methods, dating back to pre-Inca times. Located near the town of Maras in the province of Urubamba, this network of terraced salt pans cascades down the mountainside, creating a striking mosaic of white on the rugged terrain. You can explore the intricate network of salt pools, learn about the history and significance of salt production in the region. The mines offer a unique and immersive cultural experience amidst the facinanting landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Pisac Ruins:
Located in Peru’s Sacred Valley, the archaeological site of Pisac and its market offer a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant culture. The Pisac ruins, located high on a hill overlooking the valley, feature an extensive complex of terraces, temples and ceremonial platforms, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Inca civilization.
Visitors can stroll through the labyrinthine paths, marvel at the precision stonework and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Guided tours offer a fascinating insight into the history of the site, including its strategic importance and role in Inca society.
Alpaca Farm:
Exploring the Sacred Valley would not be complete without a visit to an alpaca and llama farm, an experience that promises to delight alpaca lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Located in the charming village of Chinchero or along the route to Pisac, these farms offer an intimate encounter with these endearing creatures. At the alpaca farm, you will be able to interact with these gentle creatures, pet them, feed them, and capture memorable moments with them through photographs. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the importance of alpacas in Andean culture, from their role in traditional weaving to their significance in local livelihoods.
Where to Stay in Peru’s Sacred Valley
If you are looking for accommodation in the Sacred Valley, you will find a wide variety of hotels adapted to different budgets and preferences. For a comfortable overnight stay before heading to Machu Picchu, we recommend Ollantaytambo for its proximity to both the train station and Machu Picchu, which minimizes travel time. On the other hand, if you are looking for a luxurious retreat for an extended stay, Urubamba presents a tempting option. Located just a 30-minute drive from Ollantaytambo, Urubamba offers an elevated level of luxury with its selection of luxury accommodations. The decision of where to stay in the Sacred Valley ultimately depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here are some hotels in Urubamba and Ollantaytambo:
Urubamba:
Tambo del Inka
If you are looking for a luxury hotel with all the comfort for you and your group then Tambo del Inka hotel is perfect, Tambo del Inka is located on the main road of Urubamba and is the only hotel in Urubamba that has a private train station with connections to Machu Picchu. The property has a swimming pool and spa. The rooms are elegant and feature a typical design of the area with regional fabrics. All rooms have a private balcony with views of the natural surroundings, LCD TV and a private marble bathroom.
Rio Sagrado Hotel
This hotel has an ideal location in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, between green fields, mountains and the Urubamba River. It offers luxurious, well-equipped rooms with views of the river. The Rio Sagrado Hotel is built with natural materials in the image of a village. The elegant accommodations of this 5-star hotel combine regional and European influences and feature wooden floor heating, panoramic terrace and Swiss shower overlooking the river. Hotel Rio Sagrado organizes numerous activities, such as horseback and bicycle tours, rafting and fishing. Cultural activities and cooking classes are also offered.
Life Hotel
Life Hotel Valle Sagrado is located in Urubamba in Yanahuara village, 1 km from Ollantaytambo Train Station, from where you can take a train to Machu Picchu, and offers a fitness center and a garden. The rooms include a desk. Some rooms at Life Hotel Valle Sagrado have a seating area. All rooms include a flat-screen satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. The hotel serves a buffet breakfast. The hotel’s restaurant serves a variety of international, European and Peruvian dishes, as well as vegan, dairy-free and vegetarian options.
Ollantaytambo:
El Albergue Hotel
Just 30 km from Machu Picchu, and it offers rooms with impeccable rustic décor and garden views, Spanish-style terraced verandas with red tiles and views of the surrounding landscape. Free WiFi is available. Albergue Hotel offers massage service and sauna facilities. Guests can rent a bicycle to explore the Ollantaytambo archaeological site or the Inca village, both located just 800 meters away. Rooms at El Albergue are decorated with rustic, dark wood beams, works by local artists and natural fabrics. All have heating and en-suite bathrooms with showers.
Hotel Pakaritampu
Hotel Pakaritampu is located in Ollantaytambo, 600 meters from the spectacular ruins and the main square. The train station is 50 meters away, you can walk to the train station from the hotel. The rooms have private bathrooms with hot water and toiletries, a digital safe, cable TV, tea and coffee making facilities, Wi-Fi, telephone and mountain or garden views. A heater is also available upon request. Hotel Pakaritampu has a 24-hour front desk, garden, luggage storage and laundry service.
Apu Lodge
Apu Lodge is a great choice for travelers staying in Ollantaytambo town, offering a family-friendly atmosphere and numerous amenities designed to enhance your stay. Guests have access to luggage storage space during their stay at the hotel. In addition, Apu Lodge offers breakfast included, which will make your trip to Ollantaytambo even more rewarding.
