Discover the richness of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in a one-day experience that brings together history, culture, and the most impressive Andean landscapes. Explore ancient archeological sites and visit traditional towns that keep the customs and expressions of Andean culture alive.
Why choose this experience with us?
Small groups and guaranteed departures: The trip is organized in groups of a maximum of 18 people, so you can enjoy a more authentic experience throughout the journey. Additionally, departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, giving you the flexibility to plan your adventure with complete confidence.
Buffet lunch included: A complete gastronomic stop in Urubamba, in the heart of the valley, for a more comfortable experience.
Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pick-up at your hotel to the end of the experience, you will have the continuous support of our professional guide. He will be able to address each of your questions, as well as provide you with information and security throughout the entire journey.
Enjoy each destination without haste: Our itinerary is designed to explore each attraction along the route at a leisurely pace, appreciating the natural landscapes and the cultural richness of the destination in detail.
Itinerary Summary:
Full day | Cusco – Taray Viewpoint – Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Chinchero - Cusco The Sacred Valley of the Incas tour is a full-day program that combines stunning Andean landscapes, archeological sites, and living culture. The tour includes the Taray Viewpoint, with its panoramic view of the valley; the Pisac archeological complex and its traditional market; the Ollantaytambo archeological site, which still preserves the urban planning of the time; and Chinchero, where traditional textile art can be appreciated, a living legacy of Andean culture.
Technical data
Duration:
Full day (approx. 12 hours)
Schedule:
Departure 7:00 a.m. / Return 07:30 p.m.
Maximum altitude:
Chinchero — 3,762 m a.s.l. / 12,343 feet
Minimum altitude:
Ollantaytambo — 2,792 meters above sea level / 9,160 feet
Difficulty level:
Easy
Temperature:
Minimum 2 °C / Maximum 25 °C
Highlighted places
Taray Viewpoint (3,200 m / 10,489 ft): It offers an impressive panoramic view of the Sacred Valley, surrounded by fertile agricultural fields and the majestic Vilcanota mountain range, one of the most spectacular landscapes in the region.
Pisac (2,972 m.a.s.l. / 9,751 ft): Impressive archeological complex in the shape of a bird, from which it gets its name. It stands out for its ancient tombs in the mountains, extensive agricultural terraces, and the combination of simple constructions with fine stonework.
Pisac Market (2,972 m / 9,751 ft): One of the most traditional markets in the Sacred Valley, where artisans and residents of Andean communities offer textiles, silver jewelry, and local products in an atmosphere full of color and tradition.
Urubamba (2,871 m / 9,419 ft): The heart of the Sacred Valley, famous for its pleasant climate, fertile agricultural lands, and beautiful landscapes surrounded by mountains.
Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft): Considered one of the last living Inca towns, it preserves its stone streets, water channels, and an impressive fortress that was the scene of important events in Inca history.
Chinchero (3,762 m / 12,343 ft): Important Inca agricultural and cultural center, known for its terraces, colonial church, and the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains surrounding the Sacred Valley.
Chinchero Textile Center (3,762 m / 12,343 ft): Space where Andean women preserve ancient weaving and natural dyeing techniques, a tradition passed down from generation to generation since ancient times.
FULL DAY | CUSCO – TARAY VIEWPOINT – PISAC – URUBAMBA – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CHINCHERO - CUSCO
The adventure of the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour begins with pickup from your hotel between 07:00 and 07:30 in the morning, to travel toward the Taray Viewpoint, in a journey of approximately 35 minutes.
From this privileged viewpoint, the guide will explain the historical and agricultural importance of the Sacred Valley, while the group enjoys the impressive landscapes of the Vilcanota mountain range and the extensive farming areas that still sustain the Andean communities.
After taking photographs and admiring the landscape, the tour continues for about 20 minutes until reaching the Pisac Archeological Complex. The name of this Inca citadel comes from "pisaca," a characteristic bird of the area, whose shape can be seen in the mountain where this site was built. During the visit, the urban area, the agricultural terraces, and the famous Inca cemetery, considered one of the largest in South America, are explored. Ceremonial fountains and the impressive terraces surrounding the complex are also observed. The visit lasts between 40 and 50 minutes, including the guided explanation and time for photographs.
Subsequently, the group will descend to the traditional Pisac Artisan Market, where they will have 25 to 30 minutes to explore its colorful stalls of crafts, textiles, and local products.
Continuing with the tour in tourist transportation, the group will travel for an hour until reaching the town of Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley, where they will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with a wide variety of typical Andean dishes, fresh salads, and exquisite regional desserts.
With renewed energy, the group will head to the majestic Ollantaytambo Archeological Complex, a 45-minute journey. This important Inca center served military, agricultural, religious, and administrative functions, in addition to controlling access to the Sacred Valley. During the visit, you can observe its monumental terraces, temples, and the famous water fountains carved in stone with designs related to the Andean chakana.
Finally, after visiting Ollantaytambo, you will travel for an hour to reach Chinchero, known as the "land of the rainbow." This village was one of the resting residences of the nobility during the reign of Túpac Inca Yupanqui and an important checkpoint between Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
As part of the tour, a textile center is also visited where local artisans demonstrate the ancestral process of natural dyeing using plants, minerals, and insects. You also learn about traditional weaving techniques and how to recognize authentic garments made with baby alpaca fiber.
After this enriching cultural experience, the group will begin the return to Cusco, thus concluding the unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley around 7:30 in the evening.
Technical details
Duration:
Full day (approx. 12 hours)
Schedule:
Departure 7:00 a.m. / Return 07:30 p.m.
Maximum altitude:
Chinchero — 3,762 m a.s.l. / 12,343 feet
Minimum altitude:
Ollantaytambo — 2,792 meters above sea level / 9,160 feet
Difficulty level:
Easy
Temperature:
Minimum 2 °C / Maximum 25 °C
Accompaniment and security
Virtual assistance before the tour: Before the start, the team provides virtual assistance to resolve all the traveler's questions and doubts about the program, so they can enjoy their trip without worries.
Bilingual professional guide (Spanish and English): An excellent staff of professional guides, highly trained in history, culture, and tourist information, accompanies the entire tour to provide a safe, informative, and memorable experience.
First aid kit and oxygen tank: Sakura Expedition prioritizes safety during every tour. Therefore, the guides receive constant training in first aid, ensuring timely assistance and a safe journey for all passengers.
24/7 Customer Service: The team is available to address the traveler's inquiries from start to finish, with an emergency phone number they can call whenever needed.
Food
Buffet lunch in Urubamba: Experience that combines the richness of Andean cuisine with a selection of delicious desserts, offering an authentic gastronomic experience of the Sacred Valley.
Tourist Transfers
Pick-up in tourist service from your hotel in Cusco.
Tourist transportation throughout the entire tour.
What is not included?
General Tourist Ticket (BTG) or Partial Ticket (BTP): It is necessary to purchase it to enter the archeological sites of the City Tour, the Sacred Valley, the South Valley, Moray, and some museums in the city of Cusco. You can also purchase just the partial ticket for a single visit, paying directly in soles.
Partial Ticket: 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD
General Ticket: 130.00 soles / approximately 40.00 USD
Meals not mentioned: breakfast and dinner.
Note: the amounts in dollars are for reference and are subject to the current exchange rate. The payment is made in soles.
Enhance your experience
Lunch at a premium restaurant - 15.00 USD extra per person. Options such as Tunupa Valle Sagrado, Don Ángel, or Inka Casona Restaurant, renowned for their quality of service, gastronomic variety, and infrastructure. It is recommended to request it in advance to coordinate availability.
Take the first step toward your adventure. Check availability with our sales executive and receive a personalized quote.
Mandatory documents
Original valid passport or ID card (mandatory).
Valid physical student card (if booked with student fare).
Recommended luggage
Lightweight backpack or handbag (20 to 30 liters) for the essentials.
Water bottle and snacks.
Cash for shopping and souvenirs during the tour.
Clothing and footwear
Comfortable shoes with a good non-slip sole.
Light and breathable clothing.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
Warm clothing for the morning and evening.
Hat or cap for the sun.
Sunglasses.
A special set to capture unforgettable photographs in Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
Personal items
Sunscreen.
Personal medication.
Basic personal first aid kit.
Wet wipes or toilet paper.
Hand sanitizer.
Equipment and extras
Camera or cell phone.
Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs, or tips.
Important considerations
It is an ideal tour to acclimate in Cusco before taking tours that include hikes.
Avoid heavy luggage to better enjoy the experience.
Always keep your documents and valuables with you.
How long does the Sacred Valley of the Incas tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours. It starts between 07:00 and 07:30 in the morning and ends around 07:30 in the evening in the city of Cusco.
Does the tour include pickup from the hotel? Where does it end?
Yes, it includes pickup from hotels located within the historic center of Cusco. For hotels outside that area, a nearby meeting point is arranged in advance. On the return, the traveler is dropped off very close to the Plaza de Armas, on Plateros Street.
Does the tour include breakfast? Will there be a stop to buy food?
No, breakfast is not included. Due to the departure schedule and the itinerary development, it is not always possible to make a stop for breakfast. It is recommended to coordinate with the hotel to prepare a box breakfast or to acquire light snacks the night before.
Is the Tourist Ticket required to visit the Sacred Valley?
Yes. It is mandatory to enter the archeological complexes of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. You can purchase the Partial Tourist Ticket (BTP) or the General Tourist Ticket (BTG).
Partial Ticket (foreign adult): 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD.
General Ticket (foreign adult): 130.00 soles / approximately 40.00 USD.
How much does the Tourist Ticket cost for students and children?
Foreign student or child aged 10 to 16: 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD, with original passport.
Foreign student aged 17 to 22: 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD. Conditions: original physical university ID, which includes a photograph, full name, university, and expiration date.
Children up to 9 years old do not pay admission.
How is the payment for the entrance tickets made? Can you pay with a card or dollars?
It is recommended to carry cash in Peruvian soles to expedite entry to archeological sites. Some locations accept credit or debit cards, with an approximate surcharge of 5% and subject to signal availability. Dollars are also accepted, although change is not always available.
Should I buy the tickets in advance or can I get them on the same day?
It is possible to purchase them on the same day of the tour. However, if you have time in Cusco, it is recommended to buy them in advance to avoid delays.
Is lunch included?
Yes. The program includes a buffet lunch in Urubamba with a varied selection of typical Andean dishes, fresh salads, vegetarian options, and regional desserts. For those who wish to have a more exclusive dining experience, there is the option to choose higher-category restaurants for an additional cost of 15.00 USD.
Do children from 3 years old pay for a seat?
Yes. It is recommended that children have their own seat for greater comfort. Additionally, for safety reasons and in accordance with current transportation regulations, passengers aged 3 and above must have a seat, especially on full-day trips.
Is the Sacred Valley recommended for acclimatization?
Yes. It is one of the most recommended tours for the first days in Cusco, as it allows you to see important attractions while your body gradually adapts to the altitude.
What is the difficulty level of the tour?
The level is easy to moderate. Most of the tour is conducted using tourist transportation, combined with short walks within the archeological complexes.
Can children and seniors participate?
Yes. It is an ideal route for families, couples, and travelers of all ages; it is recommended from the age of 5. For adults, there is no age limit, as long as they can move independently and walk short distances comfortably; many travelers over 75 enjoy it without any issues. As it is a shared service, the group follows a general pace; those who want more time or additional breaks can opt for the private service.
At what altitude is the tour conducted?
The altitude of the Sacred Valley tour varies between 2,792 meters above sea level in Ollantaytambo and 3,762 meters above sea level in Chinchero, the highest point of the tour.
What clothes should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, shoes with good soles, a hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, a jacket for the cold, and a rain poncho during the wet season.
Does the tour operate during the rainy season?
Yes, it operates all year round. Between November and March, it is recommended to wear a raincoat or poncho.
In which languages is the guided service provided?
The guided tour in the Sacred Valley of the Incas is provided in Spanish and English throughout the entire journey.
How much time is spent at each attraction?
The times may vary slightly depending on the pace of the group:
Taray Viewpoint: 10 to 15 minutes.
Pisac Archeological Complex: 40 to 50 minutes.
Pisac Market: 25 to 30 minutes.
Buffet lunch in Urubamba: approximately 1 hour.
Ollantaytambo: 40 to 50 minutes.
Chinchero and Textile Center: 20 to 30 minutes.
What happens if I feel unwell due to the altitude during the tour?
The guides are trained in first aid, and they carry a first aid kit and an oxygen tank to provide assistance in case of any eventuality. If the traveler does not wish to walk, they can remain in the unit until they recover and then continue the tour.