About this experience
Discover the heart of the Inca Empire on a full-day Sacred Valley tour, exploring ancient ruins and vibrant local culture. Begin in Chinchero, where Inca stonework and artisan weaving come together. Marvel at the Maras Salt Mines' stunning terraces and the innovative Moray agricultural site. Walk through the historic fortress of Ollantaytambo, experiencing its rich military and religious significance. Enjoy a serene buffet lunch in Urubamba (own expense), followed by breathtaking views at Pisac Archaeological Park, offering insights into Inca urban planning. Perfect for heritage enthusiasts and those preparing for Machu Picchu.
At a glance
- Duration: 12 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
A Slow Sacred Valley Itinerary: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras and Moray
Skip the rushed day tour. This three-day route gives the Sacred Valley the time it deserves, with honest notes on transport, food, and where to sleep.
Sacred Valley Travel Guide From Cusco
Plan a Sacred Valley trip from Cusco with practical route choices, transport tradeoffs, overnight options, rail connections, budgeting advice, accessibility questions, and current 2026 travel cautions.
Sacred Valley With Kids Guide
Plan a calmer Sacred Valley family trip with practical advice on Cusco Tourist Tickets, child fares, flexible pacing, rail connections, packing, and accessibility questions.
What is included
- Professional Bilingual Guide: Certified expert guide in English and Spanish
- On-board First Aid: Including emergency oxygen tanks for altitude safety.
- Drop-off: Return transport to Cusco city center (near Regocijo or San Francisco Square).
- Lunch in Urubamba: We stop at the best restaurants in the valley to enjoy our buffet lunch.
- Experience in small groups: personalized attention
- Hotel Pickup: Door-to-door service from centrally located hotels in Cusco.
- Premium Transportation: Comfortable, modern vehicle with air conditioning and professional driver.
Not included
- Tourist Ticket: This is required to enter Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
- Maras Salt Mines Entrance Fee: This is a separate local fee not covered by the Tourist Ticket.
- Gratuities: Tips for the guide and driver (optional but greatly appreciated).
Itinerary and highlights
Visit the "Land of the Rainbow." Explore the colonial church built over Inca foundations and see the impressive agricultural terraces.
Witness the breathtaking mosaic of over 3,000 ancient salt ponds that are still harvested today by local families using traditional methods.
Marvel at the "Inca Laboratory." These circular sunken terraces were used as an agricultural research station to experiment with different microclimates.
Enjoy a break in the heart of the valley. This is the perfect time to enjoy a buffet lunch (not included) and recharge for the afternoon.
Explore the "Living Inca Town." Climb the monumental fortress and learn about the strategic military and religious importance of this site during the Spanish conquest.
Our final stop features some of the most impressive agricultural terracing in the Andes and a sprawling Inca cemetery with stunning views of the valley.
Meeting and pickup information
- Your guide will be waiting for you at the iconic central fountain in the Plaza de Armas, a popular gathering spot with water cascading from its ornate stone tiers.
- Pickup from your centrally located hotel or designated meeting point.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- YupiTravelCusco
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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