Definitive guide to tour the Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley of the Incas It is one of the most impressive destinations in Peru. Located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, this valley is full of archaeological sites, charming towns and impressive landscapes. If you are planning to visit, here is the definitive guide to make the most of it.

1. How to get to the Sacred Valley?

The simplest, most comfortable and safest option is to hire a tour, whether private or with other tourists, it is one of the best options. The distance varies depending on the destination:

• Cusco to Pisac: 1 hour by car
• Cusco to Urubamba: 1 hour 30 minutes by car
• Cusco to Ollantaytambo: 2h by car

2. Main attractions of the Sacred Valley VIP

Pisac

• Known for his archaeological site with agricultural terraces and Inca temples.
• Visit his famous craft market, ideal for buying souvenirs.

Ollantaytambo

• An Inca town well preserved, with stone streets and water canals.
• Your inca fortress It was the scene of one of the few Inca victories against the Spanish.
• Trains to Machu Picchu leave from here.

Maras and Moray

• Maras salt mines: Salt mines that form an impressive landscape.
• Moray: An Inca agricultural laboratory with circular terraces.

Urubamba

• It is the heart of the Sacred Valley, with good hotels and restaurants.
• Ideal to rest before continuing exploring.

Chinchero

• A town with a colonial church and a craft market that is less touristy than the one in Pisac.
• Your textile centers They show the traditional production of Andean fabrics.

3. How much time do you need to travel it?

Depending on your availability, the tour lasts:

• 1 day: A quick tour to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Maras and Moray.
• Other tours are

4. Tips for your visit

Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which gives you access to several archaeological sites.
Wear comfortable, layered clothing, since the climate changes constantly.
Hydrate well and eat lightly to avoid altitude sickness.
If you want peace of mind, avoid weekends, when there are more tourists.
Take advantage of local cuisine and try dishes like grilled trout and pachamanca.

If you have your own group of people and are visiting Cusco you can always hire a private tour which is a good option.