Best Time to Visit
May to October
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Language
Spanish, Quechua
Timezone
PET (UTC-5)
Discover Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is far more than just a scenic route to Machu Picchu. This fertile river basin, cradled by the Andes, was the agricultural and spiritual heartland of the Inca Empire. Its strategic location, lower altitude, and temperate climate made it a vital center for cultivation, defense, and worship, leaving behind a landscape dense with monumental ruins, living indigenous communities, and terraced mountainsides that continue to tell the story of a sophisticated civilization.
Today, the valley offers a profound immersion into both ancient history and vibrant Andean culture. You can explore the colossal stone terraces of Ollantaytambo's fortress, wander through the labyrinthine ruins of Pisac perched high above the valley, and witness the ingenious agricultural experiments at Moray. Beyond the archaeology, the valley thrums with life in its colorful markets like Pisac and Chinchero, where Quechua is spoken and traditional textiles are woven, and in the surreal, centuries-old Maras salt mines, where thousands of pans cascade down a mountainside.
Why Visit Sacred Valley?
Walk in the footsteps of the Incas at monumental archaeological sites. Explore the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo, with its original cobblestone streets and massive temple-fortress. Hike the extensive agricultural and ceremonial terraces of Pisac, which offer breathtaking valley views.
Immerse yourself in authentic Andean culture at traditional markets. Bargain for handwoven alpaca textiles and vibrant crafts at the famous Pisac Market. Visit Chinchero on a Sunday to experience a more local market and see master weavers demonstrate ancient techniques.
Witness unique and surreal landscapes shaped by ancient ingenuity. See the concentric circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory. Explore the thousands of pre-Columbian salt pans at Maras, which have been harvested since Inca times, creating a stunning mosaic on the hillside.
Enjoy a gentler altitude for acclimatization. At elevations around 2,800m, the valley is significantly lower than Cusco (3,400m), making it the perfect place to adjust to the Andes while exploring, reducing the risk of altitude sickness before heading to higher points.
Experience the vibrant gateway to Machu Picchu. The town of Ollantaytambo is the starting point for the scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes. Spending a night here allows for an early, less crowded train ride to the iconic citadel.
Engage in world-class outdoor adventures beyond hiking. The valley is a hub for mountain biking along ancient trails, white-water rafting on the Urubamba River, and embarking on lesser-known trekking routes like the Lares Trek, which passes through remote Quechua villages.
Sacred Valley is Known For
Ready to explore Sacred Valley?
Sacred Valley Neighborhoods
Pisac Area
Famous for its massive hilltop Inca ruins and its sprawling, colorful artisan market. The town below has a relaxed, bohemian vibe with many cafes and yoga retreats, attracting travelers who want to combine culture with tranquility.
Highlights:
Best for:
Urubamba Town
The commercial and transportation hub of the valley, less touristy than other towns. It's a practical base with excellent hotels and restaurants, offering a more local feel and easy access to all major valley sites.
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Ollantaytambo
A living Inca town with original cobblestone streets, canals, and dwellings still in use. It's a bustling, historic gateway with a dramatic fortress looming overhead and the train station for Machu Picchu.
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Chinchero
A high-altitude weaving village known for its spectacular views, Sunday market, and impressive colonial church built atop Inca foundations. The atmosphere is deeply traditional and less commercialized.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Buy the 'Boleto Turístico del Cusco' (Tourist Ticket). It grants access to 16 sites across Cusco and the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray, and is much cheaper than individual entries.
- •Visit major sites like Ollantaytambo Fortress or Moray early in the morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon to avoid the large tour groups that arrive from Cusco around midday.
- •For the Maras Salt Mines, go with a guide or on a tour. Independent access can be tricky, and guides explain the fascinating communal ownership and harvesting process of the 3,000+ salt pans.
- •Haggle politely at the markets, but do so with a smile. It's expected for crafts, but not for food. A good rule is to start at about 50-60% of the asking price.
- •Carry small denominations of Peruvian Soles (coins and small bills). Many small vendors, taxi drivers, and colectivo vans cannot change large bills.
- •Take a 'colectivo' (shared van) for cheap, authentic travel between towns like Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. They depart when full from designated spots in each town.
- •If prone to altitude sickness, plan your itinerary to sleep in the Sacred Valley (lower altitude) before going up to Cusco. Drink coca tea and stay hydrated.
- •On Sunday, combine Chinchero's market with a visit to the Moray terraces and Maras salt mines, as they are on the same circuit from Cusco and make for a perfect day trip.
- •Support the community by buying textiles directly from weaving cooperatives in Chinchero or at the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco in town, where prices are fixed and fair.
- •Learn a few basic Quechua phrases like 'Allillanchu' (hello, how are you?) and 'Yusulpayki' (thank you). It is deeply appreciated by the local communities.
Sacred Valley Food Scene
Sacred Valley cuisine is a hearty blend of ancient Inca ingredients and Spanish influences, centered on locally grown potatoes, corn, quinoa, and river trout. Meals are fortifying, designed for life in the high Andes, and often cooked in traditional clay pots.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional & Hearth Cooking
- • Pachamanca at El Huacatay in Urubamba
- • Cuy at Kusikuy in Pisac
- • Alpaca at Tres Keros in Urubamba
Pachamanca is often a large, celebratory dish; ask if a smaller portion is available or go with a group.
Market & Street Food
- • Fresh empanadas from Pisac market stalls
- • Choclo con Queso from any market vendor
- • Tamales from early morning street sellers
Eat at busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness. Carry hand sanitizer.
Contemporary Andean
- • Tasting menu at Cicciolina in Urubamba
- • Innovative dishes at El Huacatay
- • Fusion cuisine at Morena in Ollantaytambo
Reservations are recommended for dinner at these popular, higher-end establishments.
Cafes & Bakeries
- • Coffee and pastries at Apu Veronica in Ollantaytambo
- • Fresh juices and sandwiches at Ulrikes Café in Pisac
- • Homemade bread from local panaderías
These are great spots for breakfast, a light lunch, or to use reliable Wi-Fi while planning your day.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Sacred Valley
Spring
September to November marks the spring shoulder season. The landscape is green from the departing dry season, crowds are thinner, and temperatures are pleasant, though rain begins to increase in November.
Pros:
- + Beautiful green scenery
- + Fewer tourists than peak season
- + Comfortable hiking temperatures
- + Good for photography
Cons:
- - Increasing chance of afternoon showers, especially in Nov
- - Some trails can be muddy
Summer
December to March is the rainy summer season. Days are warm with frequent, heavy afternoon rains and lush, vibrant landscapes. This is the low season for tourism.
Pros:
- + Lush, emerald-green valleys and full rivers
- + Lowest tourist crowds
- + Lower accommodation prices
Cons:
- - Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel and hiking
- - Risk of landslides on roads
- - Clouds may obscure mountain views
- - Machu Picchu can be very wet
Autumn
April and May are the autumn months, transitioning from wet to dry. The rains taper off, leaving clear skies and verdant landscapes. It's an excellent, uncrowded time to visit.
Pros:
- + Landscape is still green from rains
- + Reduced crowd levels before peak season
- + Ideal, stable weather for outdoor activities
Cons:
- - A few lingering showers possible in early April
- - Nights start to get cooler
Winter
June to August is the dry winter season, the peak tourist period. Days are sunny and clear with intense sun, but nights are very cold, especially at higher elevations. Rainfall is rare.
Pros:
- + Guaranteed sunny days with brilliant blue skies
- + Best conditions for hiking and photography
- + All archaeological sites are fully accessible
Cons:
- - Peak crowds and highest prices
- - Very cold nights and early mornings
- - Landscape can be dry and brown
- - Must book trains and hotels far in advance
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Day Trips from Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu
1.5-2 hours by train from Ollantaytambo, plus 20-min bus
The iconic 15th-century Inca citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It's a non-negotiable pilgrimage from the Sacred Valley, showcasing breathtaking architecture harmonized with a dramatic mountain ridge.
Cusco City
1-1.5 hours by car or colectivo from Urubamba
The historic capital of the Inca Empire, now a vibrant colonial city built atop Inca foundations. It offers world-class museums, stunning Spanish churches, and a dynamic atmosphere of restaurants and nightlife.
The Maras & Moray Circuit
40 min by car from Urubamba, often done as a half-day tour
A fascinating duo of sites showcasing Inca ingenuity. Moray features mysterious concentric agricultural terraces, while nearby Maras is a stunning hillside of thousands of pre-Hispanic salt evaporation ponds.
Sacred Valley Budget Guide
The Sacred Valley is generally more affordable than Cusco or Machu Picchu, but costs vary widely between basic hostels and luxury resorts. Daily expenses are moderate, with food and local transport being quite cheap.
Budget
$30-50 per day for hostels, market meals, and colectivo transport
per day
Mid-Range
$80-150 per day for comfortable hotels, restaurant meals, and guided tours
per day
Luxury
$250+ per day for high-end resorts, fine dining, and private drivers
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •The Tourist Ticket is a major expense (~$45) but saves money if visiting multiple sites.
- •Eat 'Menu del Día' (set lunch) at local restaurants for a hearty, cheap meal.
- •Use colectivos instead of taxis for inter-town travel to save significantly.
- •Bargain at markets, but be respectful; know that high-quality alpaca wool costs more.
- •Carry cash (Soles) as many smaller establishments, markets, and drivers do not accept cards.
Sacred Valley Hidden Gems
Huchuy Qosqo
A lesser-known but significant Inca archaeological site perched on a plateau above the town of Lamay.
It requires a beautiful 3-4 hour hike or horse ride to reach, offering stunning valley views and ruins with far fewer visitors than the major sites, feeling like a personal discovery.
The Pisac Terraces at Sunset
While the ruins close in the afternoon, the view of the terraces from across the valley is spectacular at dusk.
Find a spot along the road between Pisac town and Taray as the sun sets; the warm light illuminates the vast agricultural terraces, creating a magical, crowd-free photographic opportunity.
The Potato Park (Parque de la Papa)
A community-based biocultural heritage area near Pisac, managed by six Quechua communities.
It's a living museum of biodiversity, conserving over 1,300 native potato varieties. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about potato cultivation, Andean cosmology, and community life in a deeply authentic setting.
Perolniyoc Waterfall & Ruins
A scenic hike near the village of Socma leads to an Inca site and a beautiful, cascading waterfall.
This half-day trek is rarely crowded and combines archaeology with natural beauty. You'll see the small but impressive Inca outpost of Perolniyoc before reaching the refreshing waterfall, perfect for a peaceful picnic.
The Town of Calca
A quiet, traditional market town less frequented by tourists, located between Pisac and Urubamba.
It offers hot medicinal springs (Baños Termales de Machacancha), a local market without the souvenir crowds, and a more genuine glimpse into everyday life in the valley away from the main tourist circuit.
Sacred Valley Culture & Customs
The Sacred Valley is a stronghold of Quechua culture, where ancient traditions coexist with modern life. Respect for the earth (Pachamama) is central, and many communities maintain a subsistence lifestyle based on agriculture and weaving. Catholicism is practiced, but often blended with pre-Columbian beliefs.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always ask permission before taking photos of local people, especially weavers and villagers.
- •Respect sacred sites; don't climb on fragile ruins or altars.
- •Use your right hand to give or receive items, as the left hand is considered unclean.
- •Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or rural communities.
- •Be patient; life moves at a different pace here, and service can be slower than you're used to.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Sacred Valley
Do I need to acclimate to the altitude in the Sacred Valley?
Yes, but the valley (avg. 2,800m) is significantly lower than Cusco (3,400m), making it an ideal place to start your trip. Spend your first 2-3 nights here to adjust gently. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals and alcohol initially, and consider coca tea.
Is the Sacred Valley just a day trip from Cusco?
While day trips are common, staying 2-3 nights in the valley is highly recommended. This allows for deeper exploration of multiple sites at a relaxed pace, better acclimatization, and the chance to experience the valley's atmosphere in the quieter mornings and evenings.
What is the best way to get around the Sacred Valley?
The most flexible options are hiring a private driver/guide for a day or using taxis for specific journeys. For budget travelers, 'colectivos' (shared vans) are efficient and cheap for routes between main towns. Organized tours are good for covering the major highlights in one day.
Can I use US dollars or credit cards in the Sacred Valley?
Peruvian Soles (PEN) are essential for markets, small restaurants, taxis, and colectivos. Some hotels and higher-end restaurants accept US dollars and credit cards, but always carry cash. ATMs are available in Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?
No, do not drink tap water. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Many hotels provide filtered water dispensers. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth and avoid ice in drinks from unknown sources to prevent stomach issues.
Do I need a guide for the archaeological sites?
Guides are not mandatory but are highly valuable for understanding the history, architecture, and significance of sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray. You can hire licensed guides at the entrance of most major sites for a reasonable fee.
What should I pack for the Sacred Valley?
Pack layers! Days can be warm and sunny, but nights are cold year-round. Essentials include a sun hat, strong sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, broken-in hiking shoes, a rain jacket (especially Nov-Apr), and a warm fleece or jacket for evenings.
How far in advance should I book the train to Machu Picchu?
Book as far in advance as possible, especially during the peak dry season (June-August) and for the early morning departures. Trains can sell out weeks or even months ahead. You must also secure your Machu Picchu entrance ticket with a specific entry time.
Sacred Valley Itineraries
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