The Sacred Valley was a significant area in the Inca Empire, rich with agricultural, spiritual, and political significance. The Urubamba River that flows through it was considered sacred, and the valley’s fertile lands were a major source of food for the empire.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is typically dry and clear during these months, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

The main attractions include the Inca ruins at Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Other attractions include the Maras salt mines, the Moray agricultural terraces, local markets, and beautiful Andean landscapes. Many visitors also use the Sacred Valley as a base for visiting Machu Picchu.

You need a car from Cusco via Pisaq, Chinchero, or Huaroncondo. You need to choose one of the routes depending on where you want to go.

• If you visit Pisaq, Calca, Lamay, or Haran, you must travel from Cusco via Pisaq.
• If you travel to Urubamba, Yucay, or Ollantaytambo, you can take a shorter route through Chinchero.
• If you are traveling to Ollantaytambo or are going to take the Train to Machu Picchu, the fastest way to arrive is via Huarcondo, following the train route. This route is closed during January and February due to the heavy rains.

The Sacred Valley is at a high altitude, with Cusco sitting at around 3,400 meters (11,200 feet) above sea level and other towns in the valley at slightly lower altitudes. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so taking it easy for the first few days to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and eat light meals is recommended.

While the official languages in Peru are Spanish and Quechua, English is commonly spoken in major tourist areas like the Sacred Valley. However, it’s always appreciated when visitors learn a few basic phrases in the local language.

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and highly regarded. In the Sacred Valley, you’ll find dishes featuring local ingredients like corn, potatoes, quinoa, and alpaca. Guinea pig (cuy) is also a traditional dish in the region. Fresh trout from the Urubamba River is another popular dish.

Yes, the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu starts near the town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. The trek typically takes four days and three nights, and a guide must accompany you. Permits are required and are limited, so you should book well in advance.

Generally, the Sacred Valley is considered safe for tourists, but it’s important to take common-sense precautions like anywhere. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash expensive items, and be cautious with food and water to avoid illness.

The Sacred Valley is a must-see place in Cusco. You need to take a day or 3 days to explore these beautiful Inca Sites and local markets.

This is a great idea if you plan to visit The Sacred Valley of the Incas and then take the train to Machu Picchu. You must arrive in Ollantaytambo and go to the train station to board the trains to Aguas Calientes town (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Before going to Machu Picchu, whether on a hiking tour or by train, we recommend 1 day in Cusco and 1 day exploring the Sacred Valley. This time will also help you adapt to the altitude as you rest for the big trip to Machu Picchu.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas has an average altitude of 2,800 meters or 9,186 feet above sea level. However, the elevation varies across the valley, ranging from 2,050 meters (6,730 ft) to 3,000 meters or 9842 feet.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers many tourist attractions such as:

• The archaeological site of Pisac.
• The market of Pisac.
• The archaeological site of Chinchero.
• The textile centers of Chinchero.
• The salt mines of Maras.
• The Inca terraces of Moray.
• The archaeological site of Ollantaytambo.
• Adventure in canoeing on the Vilcanota River.

The Sacred Valley is a territory that extended across the River Vilcanota-Urubamba that links the towns of Pisac, Urubamba, Chinchero, Ollantaytambo and more, northwest of Cusco city. The Urubamba river winds through this valley with fertile soils and an abundant water supply. The Sacred Valley altitude is lower than that of Cusco’s, making it a wonderful place to acclimate.

This splendid Andean valley is home to major archaeological sites and picturesque villages that have maintained their ancestral culture. Nowadays, due to its beautiful scenery and historical significance is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Peru and the gateway to Machu Picchu. Tourists constantly visit it, seeking tranquility, vacation days and even extreme adventures. In the Sacred Valley of the Incas you can find a variety of activities surrounded by magnificent landscape.

The most popular way to explore the Sacred Valley is on a full-day guided tour with a professional tour guide and driver. This allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the fantastic scenery.