Sacred Valley Peru Travel Guide: Discover Inca Treasures & Andean Beauty

Nestled between the Andean highlands and the jungle-covered slopes leading to Machu Picchu lies one of the most magical places in South America: the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Known in Spanish as Valle Sagrado, this fertile river valley was once the spiritual and agricultural heartland of the Inca Empire.
 

Stretching from Pisac to Ollantaytambo, and beyond to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley offers travelers a breathtaking mix of archaeological ruins, traditional villages, colorful markets, and spectacular landscapes.

Whether you’re drawn by history, adventure, or Andean culture, the Sacred Valley is a must-visit destination in Peru.

📍 Where Is the Sacred Valley?

The Sacred Valley is located in the Cusco Region of southeastern Peru, about 15–60 km (9–37 miles) north of Cusco city.

🌄 Elevation: Varies from 2,050 to 3,500 meters (6,700 to 11,500 ft)

🌊 Follows the Urubamba River, known to the Incas as Willkamayu, the “Sacred River”

🗺️ Top Attractions in the Sacred Valley

🏰 1. Ollantaytambo

A living Inca town with massive stone terraces and a temple fortress.

Ideal base for trains to Machu Picchu.

Explore the Temple of the Sun, Inca granaries, and quaint cobbled streets.

🏔️ 2. Pisac

Home to one of the best-preserved Inca citadels.

Hike through ancient terraces with panoramic views of the valley.

Don’t miss the Pisac Market for handicrafts and souvenirs.

🌾 3. Moray

Circular agricultural terraces that look like a natural amphitheater.

Believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory to test crops at different altitudes.

⛰️ 4. Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)

Thousands of salt evaporation ponds cascading down a hillside.

Harvested since pre-Inca times and still active today.

🏡 5. Chinchero

Traditional Andean village with a colonial church built on Inca foundations.

Known for its weaving cooperatives and vibrant Sunday market.

🧭 6. Urubamba

A central hub and great place to rest.

Features luxury hotels, organic farms, and adventure activities.

🏯 7. Yucay & Calca

Peaceful villages with Inca ruins and local life.

Great for escaping crowds and enjoying slow travel.

🧗‍♂️ Adventure Activities in the Sacred Valley

🚵 Mountain Biking

Popular routes include Moray to Maras and Ollantaytambo trails.

Ride through scenic farmland, Inca sites, and salt flats.

🧗 Rock Climbing & Via Ferrata

Try the vertical rock walls near Pachar.

Brave adventurers can even sleep in a hanging glass pod hotel.

🥾 Hiking

Many Sacred Valley trails offer alternatives to the classic Inca Trail.

Try day hikes to Pisac, Huchuy Qosqo, or the Lares Trek.

🛶 Rafting & Kayaking

The Urubamba River offers whitewater rafting, especially near Calca and Ollantaytambo.

Calm stretches are great for kayaking.

🛕 Cultural Experiences

🧺 Visit traditional markets in Pisac, Chinchero, and Urubamba

👩‍🎨 Join weaving workshops with local artisans in Chinchero

🌽 Taste Andean cuisine: quinoa soup, roasted cuy (guinea pig), and chicha corn beer

🎉 Time your visit with local festivals for music, dance, and parades

🗓️ Best Time to Visit the Sacred Valley

🌤️ May to September is ideal for hiking and photography.

🛌 Where to Stay in the Sacred Valley

Luxury

Tambo del Inka (Urubamba) – 5-star riverside resort with spa and private train station.

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba – Eco-luxury with stunning views.

Mid-Range

Hotel Pakaritampu (Ollantaytambo) – Colonial charm with gardens.

La Casa de Barro (Chinchero) – Cozy and family-run.

Budget

Hostal Iskay (Ollantaytambo) – Great value, near the ruins.

Hospedaje Kantu (Pisac) – Simple and scenic.

🍽️ What to Eat in the Sacred Valley

Trucha (trout) – Fresh from Andean rivers

Papa rellena – Stuffed potatoes with meat and vegetables

Choclo con queso – Giant corn with salty cheese

Cuy al horno – Roasted guinea pig, a regional delicacy

Quinoa soup – Hearty and warming at altitude

🧳 What to Pack

🧥 Warm layers (mornings and evenings are chilly)

👟 Hiking shoes

🧢 Hat and sunglasses (high UV at altitude)

🌧️ Rain jacket (especially Nov–April)

💧 Refillable water bottle

💊 Altitude sickness pills or coca leaves

🚌 How to Get to the Sacred Valley

From Cusco:

🚗 Private taxi (~1 hour to Pisac or Urubamba)

🚐 Shared colectivos (frequent and affordable)

🚆 Train from Cusco to Ollantaytambo for Machu Picchu

From Lima:

✈️ Fly to Cusco, then take road or train to Sacred Valley

📝 Pro Tip: Spend a night in the Sacred Valley before heading to Machu Picchu to acclimatize to the altitude gradually.

🧭 Sample 3-Day Sacred Valley Itinerary

Day 1 – Pisac & Chinchero

Morning: Pisac ruins and market

Afternoon: Visit Chinchero town and weaving center

Overnight in Urubamba

Day 2 – Moray, Maras & Salt Mines

Explore Moray circular terraces

Walk or bike to Maras Salt Pans

Optional: Visit a local farm

Overnight in Ollantaytambo

Day 3 – Ollantaytambo & Train to Machu Picchu

Visit Ollantaytambo fortress

Explore the old Inca town

Afternoon train to Aguas Calientes (or return to Cusco)

📜 Historical Importance of the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley was the breadbasket of the Inca Empire, thanks to its rich soil and favorable climate. The Inca built agricultural terraces, sophisticated irrigation systems, and key citadels here to protect access to Machu Picchu and the jungle routes beyond.

Even today, the valley feels deeply spiritual and connected to nature, with many locals maintaining traditional farming and weaving methods passed down for generations.

💬 FAQs

Is the Sacred Valley worth visiting?

Absolutely! It combines history, culture, nature, and adventure in one unforgettable destination.

How many days do I need?

You should plan for 2–4 days to fully enjoy its main sites before or after Machu Picchu.

Can I visit Sacred Valley without a tour?

Yes. Many towns are accessible by public transport, and independent travel is possible. However, tours offer deeper insights and efficient planning.

Do I need the Boleto Turístico?

Yes—for entry into many sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray, you’ll need the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Embrace the Spirit of the Andes

The Sacred Valley isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that connects you to Peru’s Inca past, Andean traditions, and natural wonders. Whether you’re wandering ancient ruins, biking through farmland, or sharing stories with locals over a warm meal, the Sacred Valley has a special way of staying with you.

If you're planning a journey to Machu Picchu, don’t skip the Sacred Valley—it's the soul of the Andes.