The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located in the Cusco region, is one of the most emblematic areas of Peru, known for its rich history, dazzling landscapes and spiritual connection to the Inca culture. This valley, located along the Urubamba River, was crucial to the Inca civilization, serving as its main agricultural, spiritual and political center. Today, it is a must-see destination for travelers from all over the world.
Main Attractions of the Sacred Valley
1. Pisac
Pisac is an impressive Inca archaeological complex located on the top of a mountain overlooking the Sacred Valley. It stands out for its perfectly designed agricultural terraces, which demonstrate the advanced engineering and agricultural knowledge of the Incas. The site includes temples, dwellings and ceremonial areas, with architecture that shows a deep link to astronomy and natural cycles. From Pisac, panoramic views of the Urubamba River and the surrounding area can be seen, making it a strategic cultural and military site during the Inca empire.
2. Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is an imposing Inca archaeological complex located in the heart of the Sacred Valley. This site served as a political, military and religious center during the Inca empire. It stands out for its majestic fortress, built on a hill overlooking the valley, with huge blocks of stone assembled with millimetric precision. Among its most notable structures is the Temple of the Sun, made with stones brought from the Cachicata quarry.
The town of Ollantaytambo is one of the few that still preserves its original urban layout, with cobblestone streets and functional water channels, making it a living example of Inca planning. It was also a key point of resistance against the Spanish forces, led by Manco Inca. Today, it is an obligatory stop for those on their way to Machu Picchu.
3. Chinchero
Chinchero is an Andean town located in the Sacred Valley. It stands out for its Inca agricultural terraces, its colonial church built on Inca foundations and its traditional weaving workshops, where ancestral dyeing and weaving techniques are preserved. It is a place full of history and breathtaking views of the mountains.
4. Moray
Moray is an Inca archaeological site known for its circular terraces, which functioned as an agricultural laboratory. Each level of the terraces reproduces different microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with crops in different conditions. This site reflects the deep knowledge they had about agriculture and environmental management.
5. Salt mines of Maras
The Salt Mines of Maras are a set of more than 3,000 salt ponds built on the slopes of a mountain. These pools have been used since Inca times for the extraction of salt through a natural system of evaporation of salt water from a subway spring. The landscape, unique and photogenic, is one of the most impressive in the Sacred Valley.
Sacred Valley Tours Options
Full Day Sacred Valley Tour
Explore the historical and cultural treasures of the Sacred Valley in a single day, visiting:
- Pisac: Archaeological complex and handicraft market.
- Maras: The impressive salt mines, with thousands of salt ponds used since Inca times.
- Moray: Circular terraces that were an Inca agricultural laboratory.
- Urubamba: Stop to enjoy a traditional buffet lunch.
- Ollantaytambo: Inca fortress and historic town.
- Chinchero: Colonial church, textile workshops and Inca terraces.
A complete tour ideal for those who want to know the main attractions of the Sacred Valley.
👉 Book your Full Day Tour Sacred Valley here
Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu Tour (2 Days and 1 Night)
Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the Sacred Valley and finish with an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.
- Day 1:
- Chinchero: Admire its colonial church, Inca terraces and traditional textile workshops.
- Maras: The impressive salt mines, with thousands of salt ponds used since Inca times.
- Moray: Fascinating circular terraces, an agricultural laboratory of the Incas.
- Urubamba: Enjoy a buffet lunch with local flavors.
- Ollantaytambo: Explore its majestic fortress and charming Inca village.
- Travel by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night.
- Day 2:
- Early departure to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the citadel, exploring its history and architecture.
- Return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco.
An ideal tour for those looking to combine culture, landscapes and the experience of visiting one of the seven wonders of the world.
👉 Book your Sacred Valley Tour + Machu Picchu here
ATV tour to Maras and Moray
Live an experience full of adventure and spectacular scenery while exploring two of the most iconic destinations in the Sacred Valley:
- Maras: Tour the impressive salt mines with thousands of salt ponds, a legacy dating back to Inca times.
- Moray: Discover the circular terraces used as an agricultural laboratory by the Incas, a fascinating place full of history.
This tour includes:
- Fully equipped ATVs and safety helmets.
- Transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the tour.
- Specialized guide during the whole route.
Perfect for adrenaline lovers who want to combine culture and adventure.
👉 Reserve your ATV Tour here
Considerations for Tours
1. Transportation
Most tours offer transportation in comfortable minibuses from Cusco, although it is also possible to hire private vehicles for greater comfort.
2. Tickets
- Cusco Tourist Ticket: Required for most of the archaeological sites. There are partial and full tickets depending on the destinations to visit.
- Additional entrance fees: Salineras de Maras has an additional cost that is not included in the tourist ticket.
3. Feeding
Many tours include buffet lunches at local restaurants, with options for vegetarians and vegans.
4. Tourist guides
Having a certified guide is crucial to understand the historical and cultural context of each site. Tours in English and Spanish are available.
Recommendations
1. Physical preparation
The Sacred Valley is located at altitudes ranging between 2,800 and 3,800 meters. It is advisable to acclimatize in Cusco before embarking on the tour.
2. Clothing and accessories
- Light clothing during the day and warm clothes for the night.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sun protection, hat and sunglasses.
