Cusco , Peru

Full-Day Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco

Active

(75 reviews)

12h - 13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a place full of old Inca ruins. The most impressive are Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Both structures are built with huge stone blocks. This tour also goes to the Maras Salt Mines and the archaeological site of Moray.

Available options

Full-Day Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco

Pickup included

What's included

Buffet lunch in Urubamba town

Transportation to the tour attractions.

Detailed itinerary

We will pick you up from your hotel at 6:40 am. We will be leaving Cusco city at 7:00 am. Our first stop will be Chinchero town. Here we will be visiting the archaeological site of Chinchero.

Stop 2

Next, in 25 minutes we will arrive at the archaeological complex of Moray. Moray has several circular agricultural terraces. According to some historians, these structures were used by the Incas to grow plants from warmer climates.

Stop 3

Our next stop will be the Maras Salt Mines, which are located 25 minutes from Moray. The Salt Mines contains dozens of square wells of salt water. These wells are filled with salt water that comes from the underground. After being exposed to sunlight, the water evaporates leaving the salt behind. Then, the salt is gathered by the local population and sold at the local market.

After exploring the Maras Salt Mines, we will drive to Urubamba town. Urubamba is located in the lowest section of the Sacred Valley, so the climate is a little warmer. We will be having a buffet lunch here.
After having lunch, we will visit the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo.

We will leave Urubamba after lunch and in 30 minutes we will be in the town and archaeological park of Ollantaytambo. Ollantaytambo is famous for its long stone stairs, which lead to main area of the complex. Like Pisac, Ollantaytambo was an Inca royal palace.
We will also visit the Ollantaytambo town, where you will be able buy some souvenirs.

After exploring Ollantaytambo, the transportation will take us for 1 hour and 30 minutes to the town and archaeological complex of Pisac, located in the Sacred Valley. The town of Pisac is a cozy village located next to the Urubamba river. It has a traditional market where you can buy souvenirs and taste the local food.
On the other hand, the archaeological complex of Pisac is located on a nearby hilltop. It comprises numerous stone buildings that were the houses of the Inca nobility.
After exploring this beautiful place, we will return to Cusco city, where we will be arriving around 7:00 pm.

What's not included

Any private expenses

Souvenirs

Tips

Breakfast and dinner

Entrance fee – Salinas de Maras: 20.00 PEN per person.

Tourist Ticket (70 soles) needed to visit Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo & Pisac.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

64 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Main square of Cusco

About Cusco

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.

Top Attractions

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Historical/Nature Full day PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.

Historical/Adventure Full day or overnight PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary

Qorikancha

Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.

Historical 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.

Cultural/Food 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al Horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Sopa de Quinoa

Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.

Soup Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Visiting spas Exploring parks Enjoying local cafes Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with street food

Getting there

By air

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

San Pedro Station

By bus

Cusco Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Blas San Cristobal

Day trips

Pisac

35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day

Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.

Ollantaytambo

60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.

Tipon

25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day

Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.

Festivals

Inti Raymi • June 24 Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August

Pro tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions