Best Things to Do in Peru’s Sacred Valley
Introduction:
Situated between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a spectacular region filled with history, culture and natural beauty. From ancient archaeological sites to bustling local markets, the Sacred Valley offers a range of unforgettable experiences for all travelers. Read on to discover the best things to do in Peru’s Sacred Valley and make the most of your visit to this magical destination.
Journey Through Peru’s Sacred Valley
Peru’s Sacred Valley, which stretches between the historic city of Cusco and the emblematic ruins of Machu Picchu, is a destination that encapsulates the heart and soul of Andean culture. The Sacred Valley is a must-see for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Peru’s past and present.
The Sacred Valley’s charm begins with its impressive scenery. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, the valley is a mosaic of lush green fields, dramatic terraced hillsides and rushing rivers. The Urubamba River, snaking through the valley, adds to the picturesque scenery and offers opportunities for thrilling rafting activities. The Sacred Valley is also home to some of Peru’s most important archaeological sites. such as Ollantaytambo ruins, Pisac, Moray ruins and the ruins of Chinchero. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins by opting the Classic Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Many of the towns in the Sacred Valley still retains much of its original Inca layout, with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional houses. In short, Peru’s Sacred Valley is a destination that offers a variety of activities to do not to be missed. From its breathtaking scenery and ancient ruins to its fascinating culture and outdoor adventures. Whether you are a history buff, an adventurer or someone looking to immerse yourself in local traditions, the Sacred Valley has something to offer.
Is the Sacred Valley Worth Visiting?
The Sacred Valley is certainly worth visiting for many reasons. It is rich in history and archaeological interest, and offers a glimpse into the advanced engineering and culture of the Inca civilization. The historical importance of the Sacred Valley and its role as the gateway to Machu Picchu make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Peru. All in all, it promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.
In addition, using the Sacred Valley as a starting point for exploration is a smart choice for travelers looking to avoid altitude sickness in Cusco. Since it is located at a lower altitude than Cusco, the Sacred Valley offers a more gradual acclimatization process, which helps minimize the risk of altitude sickness. This convenient location allows you to gradually adapt to the altitude before heading to the higher elevations of Cusco and beyond.
15 Best Thing to Do in The Sacred Valley in Cusco
Things to Do and See in The Sacred Valley:
Discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley with our guide to the best things to do and see in this enchanting region in Cusco, Peru, below, we have compiled a comprehensive list of all the amazing things to do in the Sacred Valley. We hope you find this guide useful as you plan your adventure in Peru:
1) Pisac
The ruins of Pisac, a remarkable testimony to Inca engineering and culture, are perched atop a hill in the Sacred Valley. This ancient site, dating back to the 15th century, has an impressive array of temples, ceremonial structures and agricultural terraces. You can explore the ruins by yourself from Cusco, just need a taxi to Pisac town, find here how to find from Cusco to Pisac town, Close by, is the Pisac market, here you will find a wide variety of colorful textiles, handicrafts and fresh produce. The market is famous for its traditional weavings, pottery and jewelry, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region, making it a great place to sample authentic Andean cuisine and interact with local vendors.
2) Ollantaytambo
The village of Ollantaytambo may seem small and boring but if you explore it well it could become your favorite place, if you are in Ollantaytambo you can explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo and learn a little more about the history of this beautiful living Inca village. If you want to do it on your own we recommend you to explore the place as early as possible and get the best pictures or you could do it after 4 pm when most of the crowd has already left, the places to visit in the ruins of Ollantaytambo are: the temple of the sun, the temple of the condor, the temple of water, and the agricultural sector this visit could take you from 2 to 3 hours, the town of Ollantaytambo is quite quiet and safe the nights are a bit cold but the temperature during the day is quite warm. Do not forget also that the train station is only 10 minutes from the village of Ollantaytambo.
3) Salt Mines in Maras
To visit the salt mines of Maras it is necessary to arrive at the town of Maras, the town of Maras is one of the districts of the province of Urubamba you can also explore the ruins Moray and have lunch in the restaurant Mama Mecha which has an impressive view towards the Valley of Maras, they offer menu and also dishes a la carte. Doubtless it could be your best option if you are hosted in the Urubamba Valley, unlike Pisac and Ollantaytambo the Salineras de Maras and the Inca site of Moray are a very short distance from each other. Here we highly recommend that you visit it with a guide, you will learn about the ancient techniques of collecting salt and buy high quality pink salt, which makes it a unique cultural and scenic experience.
4) Chinchero Weaving Demonstration
If you like art then Chinchero could be a good option, the town of Chinchero is a picturesque town with plenty of history, if you are looking to connect with the local people and learn a little more about the lifestyle of this Inca town then we recommend you to visit one of the local families and learn the art that has been inherited ancestrally from ancient generations, here you can observe and learn how the people of this town still weave and dye their textiles with colors of natural pigments obtained from plants and insects. You can also buy some of their work at a good price.
5) Skylodge
If you like the adrenaline then this option could enchant you, if you have heard of floating hotels in the Sacred Valley then you are in the right place as these hotels are 10 minutes from the town of Ollantaytambo and 10 minutes from the Urubamba Valley by car, for this you have to make your reservation in advance. The stopover to the capsules takes 1 hour and a half to 2 hours via ferrata and you descend zipline.
6) Taste Peru Guinea Pig
Surely you have heard that here in Peru the guinea pig is eaten and the guinea pig has become the typical dish in almost all cities after the Spanish invasion and Cusco is not the exception, if you like the bizarre then we recommend you travel to the town of Lamay where you will see many restaurants offering the guinea pig to the stick, no doubt this could be one of your best experiences.
7) Alpaca Farm
If you love llamas and alpacas then visit the alpacas farm in Pisac, the best place for now is Awanacancha where you can find everything from alpacas, llamas, to vicuñas, the wonderful thing about this place is that you can feed the llamas and alpacas and take many pictures with them, but you should also know that there is an alpaca shop which has only private collections so it is not allowed to take pictures, you should also know that prices are quite high because most alpaca products are handmade.
8) Kayak in Piuray Lake
Kayak the calm waters of Lake Piuray, located just an hour driving from Cusco, on the road to Urubamba. The charming town of Urubamba, nestled in the Sacred Valley, offers a unique experience with its water activities. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on Lake Piuray are the main attractions. There are a couple of tour operators that offer this activity, they will make sure you feel comfortable on the water and will provide you with information about the scenic beauty of the lake and its tranquil surroundings.
9) Moray Ruins
The ruins of Moray, located in the Sacred Valley, approximately 50 kilometers northwest of the city of Cusco, are an extraordinary archaeological site known for its unique circular terraces. This site has a series of concentric circular terraces built in a natural depression. It is believed that the design of these terraces was used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with different crops. Moray is best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. For exploring the site comfortable shoes are recommended. A guided tour can provide valuable information about the historical and agricultural importance of the site, enhancing your experience of this fascinating places.
10) Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake, situated about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from the Sacred Valley, is a spectacular destination accessible by a scenic drive from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. From the Sacred Valley, you can visit Humantay Lake on your own or through a private tour that will take care of all the details for you. For more information on this excursion, follow the link provided. We recommend that you start your tour to Humantay Lake in the Sacred Valley and conclude the tour in Cusco for a seamless travel experience.
11) Visi Misminay Community
If you are looking to immerse yourself in the rich local culture of the Sacred Valley and get an in-depth understanding of local life, Misminay is the ideal destination. Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, near the picturesque town of Maras, this charming Andean community offers a unique blend of rural and experiential tourism. Here you can interact directly with local residents and learn more about their daily routines and traditions. Misminay offers visitors the opportunity to participate in different agricultural activities, such as growing and harvesting. This hands-on experience allows you to appreciate the hardd work and dedication required for its sustainable agricultural practices. In addition, you can try cooking traditional dishes with local families, learning ancestral recipes and techniques passed down from generation to generation.
12) Mountain View Lodge
This charming hotel is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, comfort and connection with nature. Mountain View Experience hotel is located in the Sacred Valley, in Maras, a 1:15 hour drive from the city of Cusco. It is about 10 minutes from the Salt Mines of Maras. It is located at 3,380 m above sea level, you will enjoy picturesque views of the Andes and the surrounding valleys.
The hotel features six eco-sustainable A-frame tipis, a charming restaurant with picturesque views and a variety of on-site activities, as well as the presence of Andean animals. Upon arrival at the Mountain View Experience, you will be greeted by the sight of llamas and alpacas roaming freely. The interior of the main lodge features a minimalist design that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
13) ATVS in Maras
Experience the thrill of exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley on an ATV adventure in the town of Maras. This exciting activity combines the thrill of off-road driving with short visits to Peru’s ancient Inca sites and breathtaking natural landscapes. Your quad tour in Maras will take you through a variety of terrains, such as dirt roads, rugged trails and open fields with the most beautiful views. Along the way, you will visit some of the region’s most emblematic attractions, such as the ancient terraces of Moray, known for its unique circular terraces. As you cruise through the picturesque Andean countryside, you will encounter Quechua villages, extensive farmland and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, and offers a unique way to experience the cultural and natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.
14) Horse Back Riding
Exploring the Sacred Valley on horseback is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of this enchanting place. Situated in the heart of the Andes, the Sacred Valley offers a stunning horseback adventure, with its lush landscapes, ancient ruins and traditional villages. Horseback riding excursions in Urubamba usually begin at a local ranch or hacienda, where you will be assigned a well-trained horse suited to your riding experience, whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced rider. You will be accompanied by expert guides who will explain the history, flora and fauna of the region. The route often includes picturesque trails along the banks of the Vilcanota River, surrounded by willow, eucalyptus and broom trees.
15) Zip Line in Chinchero
Located 35 kilometers from the city of Cusco, with an estimated one-hour drive, the Zipline base is located in the picturesque village of Racchi. Surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, visitors can enjoy views of the charming town of Chinchero, the dramatic Pacchayoc Canyon, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the snow-capped peaks of Chicon and Pitusiray. This activity has four different cables: the first, 300 meters, is designed for participants to gain confidence and become familiar with the activity. The second, 400 meters, is the fastest and offers an exhilarating sensation of flight. The third cable, the longest at 700 meters, allows for extreme maneuvers and dynamic positions. The fourth cable, 550 meters, is the deepest and offers breathtaking views of the canyon, the Sacred Valley and the surrounding mountains.
How to Get to the Sacred Valley
The most common way for travelers heading to the Sacred Valley is from Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. From Cuzco, you have a number of options to get to the Sacred Valley:
By taxi: The fastest and most comfortable way is by taxi from Cusco. The drive from the city of Cusco to the Sacred Valley takes about an hour and a half and offers breathtaking views along the way.
By public bus: Public buses depart frequently from the city of Cusco to Urubamba or Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. This option is affordable and offers the opportunity to experience local transportation.
By guided tour: Choosing a guided tour is one of the most comfortable and informative ways to get to the Sacred Valley. With experienced guides providing insider information and visiting the main attractions, a guided tour guarantees an enriching and hassle-free experience.
Best Time to Visit the Sacred Valley
The best time to visit the Sacred Valley depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do in the Sacred Valley. These are the main seasons:
Dry season (May to September)
Weather: The dry season offers clear skies and sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring archaeological sites.
Advantages: This is high tourist season, with enjoyable weather and numerous festivals. However, it can be crowded, and prices for lodging and excursions can be higher.
Highlights: Inti Raymi (the Feast of the Sun) in June, vibrant markets and excellent hiking conditionss.
Wet season (October to April)
Weather: The wet season is characterized by frequent rains, especially from December to February. The landscape is green and lush, but trails can be muddy.
Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices and the valley’s flora is at its best.
Highlights: Fewer crowds at popular sites and opportunities to witness traditional agricultural practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the Sacred Valley of Peru?
The Sacred Valley is a region of the Andean highlands of Peru, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, known for its rich history, breathtaking scenery and well-preserved Inca ruins.
2) What are the main attractions of the Sacred Valley of Peru?
The main attractions are the archaeological sites of Ollantaytambo, Pisac and Moray, as well as the salt Mines of Maras and the traditional local markets.
3) How can I get to the Sacred Valley from Cusco?
You can get to the Sacred Valley from Cusco by taxi or by public buses. Guided tours are also a popular and convenient option.
4) What is the altitude of the Sacred Valley?
The altitude of the Sacred Valley ranges approximately between (9,186 feet) 2,800 meters in Urubamba and (11,154 feet) 3,400 meters in Pisac.
5) Are there problems with altitude sickness in the Sacred Valley?
Although the Sacred Valley is at a lower altitude than Cusco, some visitors may suffer from mild altitude sickness although the chances are quite low.
6) Can I visit Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley?
Of course, many travelers use the Sacred Valley as a base to visit Machu Picchu. Trains from Ollantaytambo offer a direct route to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
7) How many days do you need in the Sacred Valley?
To fully enjoy the Sacred Valley, we recommend spending at least two or three days. This way you can visit the main archaeological sites, explore the local markets and enjoy outdoor activities without rushing.
