The Sacred Valley full day tour from Cusco takes you to the heart of the Peruvian Andes. It will immerse you in a journey through time and nature’s splendor. The Sacred Valley of the Incas, stretching over 100 kilometers (62 miles), is home to ancient ruins.
It is also home to some charming villages and breathtaking landscapes that we will explore in this adventure. Once the agricultural, spiritual, and political hub of the Inca Empire, this region retains its mystical charm. It draws visitors to its terraced hillsides, bustling markets, and centuries-old traditions.
On our Sacred Valley Trip, we will start our journey in Cusco, where the early morning light paints the surrounding peaks in gold. As we descend into the valley, you will feel the change in altitude. We will be moving from the crisp air of Cusco’s 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) to the valley’s more temperate climate. It is at around 2,900 meters (9,514 feet).
Along the way, we will have the opportunity to visit key Inca archaeological sites. We will see sites like the iconic fortress of Ollantaytambo and the agricultural terraces of Pisac. These sites showcase the Incas’ ingenuity and harmony with their natural surroundings.
The tour will also offer glimpses into the lives of the local Quechua communities. We will stop by vibrant markets where traditional crafts, colorful textiles, and local produce will be on display. The Sacred Valley is not just a landscape but a living, breathing testament to a culture that has thrived for centuries. As we journey through its villages and ancient ruins, we will connect with the spirit of the land and its people.
With Luan Travel Peru, the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco will be more than a visit; it will be a cultural immersion. We will marvel at the Inca’s masterful stonework. Tasting traditional Andean cuisine will deepen our appreciation of Peru’s rich heritage.
Sacred Valley Tour Includes
Sacred Valley Tour Excludes
We will begin our full-day Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour with a hotel pickup in Cusco around 8:45 am. After boarding our private bus, we will head to the valley, a journey that will take us through stunning Andean landscapes.
The first stop, after a scenic 30-minute drive, will be the Qorao Market. This market, bustling with local artisans, offers a colorful array of handmade crafts. You will have time to browse for souvenirs. You can also capture photographs of Andean camelids like llamas and alpacas, unique to this region.
Continuing our journey, we will make a brief stop at the Sacred Valley viewpoint. Here, you can soak in the natural beauty of the valley and the surrounding Andes, a truly unforgettable sight. Next, we will arrive in the town of Pisac.
This picturesque village is popular for its traditional market. Here you will see local artisans showcasing their beautiful handicrafts. We will also visit a typical Andean oven in the village. This will be offering you a taste of freshly baked bread, pizza, and other local treats.
After exploring the market, our tour guide will lead us to the Pisac archaeological site. The site is renowned for its impressive Inca architecture, including agricultural terraces that cascade down the mountainside. We will have ample time to explore this magnificent archaeological site and learn about its historical significance.
Following Pisac, we will journey through the course of the Urubamba River deeper into the valley towards Ollantaytambo. This ancient town of Ollantaytambo still retains the layout and charm of Inca times. We will explore its massive archeological site, marveling at the intricately carved stonework and towering terraces.
The town itself serves as a living museum, showcasing how the Incas ingeniously blended religious, cultural, and military structures. The mysteries of its construction continue to intrigue historians and visitors alike.
On our return to Cusco, we will make a final stop at the village of Chinchero. This small town, perched high in the valley, was once the retreat of Inca emperor Tupac Yupanqui. We will explore the main square. Here you will see well-preserved Inca walls and a colonial-era church built over an ancient Inca palace.
Our tour guide will provide insights into the site’s rich history. This will make this stop highly recommended for history enthusiasts.
After about nine hours of exploring, we will return to Cusco. We will be arriving at Regocijo Square near the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) around 6:30 pm. From there, we will transfer you back to your hotel. This day trip is best experienced during the dry season for clearer views and a comfortable climate.
An entrance ticket to the archaeological sites is essential. We will ensure you get the most out of your visit in a small group setting. This private tour promises an intimate encounter with the Sacred Valley’s awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural heritage.
The Sacred Valley, also known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is a region in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco. It was an important area for the Inca Empire, serving as an agricultural, spiritual, and political hub. The valley is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and well-preserved archaeological sites, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
The valley was considered sacred by the Incas because of its fertile land and proximity to key Inca cities, including Cusco and Machu Picchu. The Urubamba River, which flows through the valley, was also believed to be a representation of the Milky Way, adding to its spiritual significance.
The Sacred Valley is home to several important Inca archaeological sites, such as the Pisac ruins, Ollantaytambo fortress, and Chinchero village. It also features vibrant traditional markets, picturesque Andean landscapes, and charming local villages where you can experience authentic Peruvian culture.
The Sacred Valley is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Cusco. Depending on your destination within the valley, the drive can take between 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Visitors to the Sacred Valley can explore ancient Inca ruins, walk along agricultural terraces, and visit traditional markets. You can also engage with local Quechua communities, enjoy stunning mountain scenery, and taste traditional Andean cuisine. Adventure activities like hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting are also popular in the valley.
Yes, the Sacred Valley is highly recommended for its historical and cultural significance, as well as its breathtaking natural beauty. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about Inca civilization, explore picturesque landscapes, and interact with local communities. It’s also a great place to acclimate to the altitude before heading to higher elevations like Machu Picchu.
The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, the weather is mild, and the skies are generally clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the valley’s archaeological sites.
A full-day tour from Cusco is a great way to experience the highlights of the Sacred Valley. However, spending two or more days allows you to explore the valley’s attractions at a more relaxed pace and discover lesser-known spots.
Yes, the Sacred Valley tour is suitable for all ages. It involves some walking at archaeological sites, but the pace can be adjusted according to your comfort. Many tours offer private or small group options to cater to different needs.
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EXCELLENT Based on 116 reviews Sebastian K2024-09-20Verified Perfection! Highly recommended!!! We did two tours with Luan Travel Peru.The first was a private tour to different places without guide. The driver was friendly, punctuak and drove save. The car was clean and spacious. 5/5 stars!The second tour was to Pallay Punchu. The driver arrived in time at 4:00 am. Both the driver and the guide were very nice and real gentlemen! The car was well maintained, clean and spacious. The driver drove save and secure. The guide was very cool and provided loads of interesting info. All we could hope for! Food that was provided was nice and the lunch was really cool in the middle of this amazing landscape! 6/5 stars!Thank you so much! Definitely highly recommended!!! We ll surely come back!Best regards,Lu and Sebastian Said I2024-02-09Verified Eventful short stay went to Cusco with limited time(3 days). Juan helped us a lot. First day atv tour second day machu picchu (Bus, Train and entry ticket included) at a great price. Daniella F2023-11-17Verified Rainbow Mountain Luan Travel Peru organized a spectacular Rainbow Mountain tour. Their guides were attentive and informartive, providing great insight into the area´s significance. The journey was a colourful as the destination, with top notch service from start to finish. Truly a memorable experience! Marc S2023-11-09Verified Rainbow Mountain Tour I had an amazing time on the Rainbow Mountain Trek with Luan Travel Peru! The natural beauty was beyond words, and our guides enthusiasm and expertise made the challenging hike incredibly rewarding. The team´s support and the well organised itinerary added to the unforgettable experience. Highly recommended. Eklavya P2023-10-31Verified Unmissable Breathtaking and unforgettable! The Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan Travel Peru was spectacular. Professional guides, stunning landscapes, and a well planned journey. An absolute must-do! Sameera A2023-10-19Verified Rainbow Mountain magic with Luan Embarked on a full day Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan Travel Peru. The sights, service, and expertise were unparalleled. A day to remember! Melissa B2023-10-18Verified Rainbow Mountain with Luan Travel Peru Undertook the Rainbow Mountain tour with Luan Travel Peru and it was a sheer delight! The natural splendor of the mountain was amplified by the meticulous planning and insightful knowledge of the team, Our guide was passionate and made the experience memorable with fascinating local tales and ensuring everyone´s comfort. Highly recommend Luan Travel peru for a seamless and unforgettable journey! Saul R2023-10-17Verified Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan Took the Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan travel and it was exceptional. Stunning vistas and top tier guidance made this a memorable journey. Two thumbs up. josh2023-10-14Verified Experience of a lifetime Our group embarked on the Choquequirao Trek with Luan Travel Peru and it was an expertice of a lifetime. The stunning landscapes, rich history, and the challenges of the trek were made even more memorable with the unparalleled guidance and support from the agency. For anyone looking to dive deep into the wonders of Peru, I really recommend this tour and travel agency. PrinceFredd2023-10-13Verified Magical 2-Day Inca Trail An enchanting 2-day Inca Trail journey to Machu Picchu with Luan Travel Peru. Compact, insightful, and utterly mesmerizing!