Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco Full Day
Cultural Tours Peru
18 people
1 Day
Visit the Most Important Archaeological Sites of the Sacred Valley in One Day
The Sacred Valley Full-Day Tour from Cusco is one of the most complete and recommended experiences for those who want to discover the history and living culture of local communities. During this guided excursion, you will visit the main archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, uncover ancient traditions that are still preserved today, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes mountain range. This Sacred Valley tour is perfect for travelers looking to connect with Inca heritage and explore the most authentic towns of the region in just one day.
The adventure through the Sacred Valley from Cusco begins with hotel pickup and a scenic drive to Chinchero, where you will visit its handicraft market, Andean textiles, and archaeological remains that blend Inca and colonial heritage. The route continues to Moray, with its circular terraces considered an ancient agricultural laboratory, and then to the Maras salt mines, a complex of more than 3,000 salt ponds where pink Andean salt is still produced. Later, in Urubamba, there is a stop to enjoy a buffet lunch prepared with local products.
The journey continues to Ollantaytambo, known as the living Inca town, where you will see its fortress, temples, and agricultural terraces that preserve the original Inca layout. The last stop is at Pisac, with its vast archaeological complex, terraces, and ceremonial temples, as well as its handicraft market, perfect for buying textiles and local crafts. This full-day Sacred Valley tour combines culture, history, and Andean landscapes in a complete experience from Cusco.
Itinerary Summary
Day 1: Cusco | Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Pisac – Cusco
Departure from Cusco to Chinchero to visit its textile center, Inca terraces, and handicraft market. Continue to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines. Buffet lunch in Urubamba. In the afternoon, visit the Inca citadel of Ollantaytambo and the archaeological complex of Pisac, with a stop at its handicraft market. Return to Cusco in the evening.
Tour Highlights
- In Chinchero you will discover its handicraft market, textile traditions, and Inca remains combined with colonial heritage.
- Explore Moray, considered the world’s first agricultural laboratory, with its unique circular terraces.
- Admire the impressive Maras Salt Mines, a complex of more than 3,000 salt ponds still in use since ancient times.
- Enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba, prepared with fresh local products from the Sacred Valley.
- Discover Ollantaytambo, with its imposing fortress and sacred temples.
- Visit Pisac, famous for its agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and vibrant handicraft market filled with textiles and local crafts.
- Take in unique Andean landscapes and enjoy history, living culture, and traditions in a single day with the guidance of an expert.
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Itinerary
Cusco – Sacred Valley of the Incas
Full-Day Excursion from Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Discover the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco, a full-day experience that allows you to explore the region’s history, culture, and most stunning landscapes. The adventure begins early with hotel pickup in Cusco and a scenic 45-minute drive to Chinchero, a traditional town with a rich Inca and colonial legacy.
During the tour, you will visit the main attractions of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, accompanied by expert guides who will reveal the secrets of this ancient civilization. Among the highlights are Moray, with its mysterious circular agricultural terraces; the traditional Maras Salt Mines; the impressive archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo; and the famous ruins and handicraft market of Pisac.
This guided excursion combines unique landscapes, ancestral traditions, and an unparalleled cultural legacy, making it one of the most recommended experiences for those seeking a Sacred Valley tour from Cusco—ideal for history, archaeology, and nature enthusiasts.
Chinchero: Living Culture in the Sacred Valley
Chinchero is one of the most authentic towns in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and a must-visit on any excursion from Cusco. This destination is not only famous for its Andean textiles but also for its landscapes, ruins, and traditional handicraft market.
During your visit to Chinchero, you will enjoy:
- Textile center: Where local women demonstrate the complete weaving process, from natural dyeing with plants and minerals to crafting blankets, hats, and traditional belts.
- Archaeological site of Chinchero: Perfectly preserved Inca terraces still used for farming, offering a unique panoramic view of the valley.
- Colonial Church of Our Lady of Monserrat: Built in the 17th century on the remains of the Inca palace of Pachacutec. Inside, it preserves murals and baroque altars of great historical value.
- Chinchero handicraft market: One of the most picturesque in Cusco, where you can find souvenirs, handmade textiles, and local crafts.
- Panoramic views of the mountain range: From Chinchero, you can see snow-capped peaks such as Salkantay and Veronica, a perfect setting for photography.
This small town perfectly combines living culture, archaeology, and nature, making it an essential stop on any Sacred Valley full-day tour.
After exploring Chinchero, the excursion continues to Maras and Moray, where you will discover more secrets of Inca engineering and agriculture.
Moray: Agricultural Laboratory of the Incas
Our next stop on the Sacred Valley Tour is Moray, one of Cusco’s most enigmatic and fascinating archaeological sites. This place is known for its circular agricultural terraces, unique in the world, which formed part of a sophisticated agricultural research system developed by the Incas.
In Moray, you will see massive circular depressions in the ground shaped like amphitheaters, built with different terrace levels. Each level created a distinct microclimate, allowing the Incas to experiment with more than 250 plant species. For this reason, many researchers consider Moray to be the world’s first agricultural laboratory.
During your visit, our expert guide will explain how the Incas used this site to adapt crops to different altitudes and temperatures, which was key to the development of agriculture in the ancient empire.
Beyond its scientific importance, Moray also offers:
- Panoramic views of the Urubamba mountain range and its snow-capped peaks.
- Inca hydraulic engineering, with drainage and irrigation systems that still amaze archaeologists.
- An ideal setting for landscape and archaeology photography thanks to the perfection of its concentric terraces.
After exploring Moray, we will head to Maras, famous for its spectacular natural salt mines.
Maras: Famous Salt Mines of the Sacred Valley
Our next stop will be Maras, one of the most photographed sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here you’ll find the impressive Maras Salt Mines, a complex of more than 3,000 pre-Inca salt pools spread across the mountainside, creating a unique geometric landscape in the world.
The pink salt of Maras is renowned for its purity, high mineral content, and distinctive flavor. From pre-Inca times to the present day, this resource has been essential for the local economy and the region’s gastronomy. Even today, the salt harvested here is considered one of the most nutritious and healthiest in the world.
During the visit, you’ll learn how local families keep alive the ancestral tradition of salt production. Each family inherits a set of pools and uses the same method as their ancestors: allowing salty water from a natural spring to flow in, waiting for the sun to evaporate it, and then manually collecting the salt crystals.
In Maras you can also enjoy:
- Unique photo-worthy landscapes, especially at sunset when the pools are painted in golden and pink tones.
- The chance to purchase artisanal pink salt, used in international haute cuisine.
- Discovering a living example of community economy and Andean sustainability.
Visiting the Maras salt mines is an unmissable experience on any Sacred Valley tour from Cusco, as it combines nature, tradition, and living culture.
After exploring Maras, we will continue our journey toward Ollantaytambo, the living Inca town of the Sacred Valley.
Urubamba
After visiting Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, we will head to Urubamba, one of the most fertile valleys in the region. Here we’ll stop at a local restaurant to enjoy a buffet lunch, prepared with fresh products from the area such as corn, native potatoes, and vegetables grown in the Sacred Valley itself.
Restaurants in Urubamba usually work directly with local producers, offering an authentic and high-quality gastronomic experience. This will be the perfect time to rest, recharge, and savor Peru’s traditional cuisine before continuing on to Ollantaytambo, the next stop on the tour.
Ollantaytambo
After lunch in Urubamba, we will continue on to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important archaeological complexes in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This ancient citadel served administrative, military, and religious functions during the Inca Empire and is strategically located between two mountains.
On the guided tour, we will explore the main temple, famous for its massive carved stone walls and agricultural terraces climbing the hillside. We will also visit highlights such as the central plaza, the Ñusta’s Bath —a ceremonial water fountain associated with purification rituals—, the Temple of Water, and other religious constructions of great historical value.
Ollantaytambo was not only the site of important battles against the Spanish but also preserves an Inca urban layout still visible today in its narrow streets, water channels, and traditional houses. Due to its importance and state of preservation, it is one of the must-see stops on any Sacred Valley excursion from Cusco.
Pisac
After visiting Ollantaytambo, we will continue our journey to Pisac, located about 45 minutes away by car. This site hosts one of the most extensive archaeological complexes in the Sacred Valley, considered the second largest after Machu Picchu.
On the guided tour we will explore its main sectors, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of Water, the ceremonial enclosures, and the impressive Inca agricultural terraces that descend along the mountainside. From above, the panoramic views of the valley are spectacular and provide an ideal setting for photography.
As we descend to the town, we will stop at the Pisac handicraft market, famous for its variety of textiles, silver jewelry, and ceramics made by local artisans. It is one of the best places to purchase authentic souvenirs from the trip at affordable prices.
After this final visit, we will conclude our full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, returning to the city of Cusco in the evening.
End of the trip
Upon returning to Cusco, we will conclude our one-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our services will end at the agreed drop-off point, but if you wish, we can also help you arrange additional packages or excursions to continue exploring Cusco, Machu Picchu, and other attractions in Peru.
Included
What’s Included in the Sacred Valley Full-Day Tour
During your one-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas from Cusco, everything is organized so you can enjoy the experience without worrying about transportation or logistics. Here’s what the tour includes:
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco: We will pick you up early in the morning right at your hotel door to start the journey to the Sacred Valley. You won’t need to look for transportation on your own, as the transfer is fully coordinated.
- Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish – English): An expert guide in Andean culture and archaeology will accompany you throughout the tour. You’ll receive detailed explanations at each archaeological and cultural site, making your experience much more enriching.
- Tourist transportation in a minibus: You’ll travel in a safe and comfortable 18-passenger tourist minibus, perfect for enjoying the Sacred Valley landscapes along the route.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba: Midway through the tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with typical regional dishes. Vegetarian and vegan options will also be available at no extra cost.
Not Included
What’s Not Included in the Sacred Valley Full-Day Tour
Although the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco covers the main services, there are some additional expenses you should consider:
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC): Required to enter archaeological sites such as Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
- Partial: S/ 70.00 per person (valid for 2 days).
- General: S/ 130.00 per person (valid for 10 days at 16 attractions).
- Entrance to the Maras Salt Mines: Entry to the famous salt ponds is not included.
- Cost: S/ 20.00 per person.
- Personal expenses and extras: Souvenirs, drinks, additional snacks, or any personal purchases during the tour are not covered.
- Travel insurance: The tour does not include medical or travel insurance. It is recommended to purchase one that covers emergencies, accidents, or cancellations.
- Tips for guides and drivers: Not included in the tour price. Tips are optional but considered a gesture of appreciation for good service.
- Additional costs due to force majeure: In case of strikes, landslides, extreme weather conditions, or other unforeseen events beyond the organization’s control, extra expenses must be covered by the traveler.
Packing List
Complete Essential Packing List for the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco Full Day
To make the most of your one-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, it’s important to bring what you need to stay comfortable during visits to different archaeological sites, artisan markets, and Andean villages. The weather in the Andes can change quickly, from intense sun to cold wind or light rain, so being prepared will make all the difference.
Important documents
- ID or passport: Required for identification and to purchase or use the Tourist Ticket.
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC): Required to enter Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
- Entrance to the Maras Salt Mines: Entry fee is paid separately at the gate.
- Cash (Peruvian soles): Very useful for souvenirs, handicrafts, textiles, snacks, or tips, as ATMs are not always available.
Clothing – Layering system
- Breathable t-shirts: Keep your body fresh and dry during walks.
- Light jacket or fleece: For early mornings and the return in the afternoon.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket: Necessary during the rainy season (November to March).
- Comfortable trekking or light pants: Preferably quick-dry.
- Hat or cap: Essential to protect yourself from the sun.
- Light scarf or shawl: Useful during the dry season (May to September).
Footwear
- Comfortable walking or trekking shoes: With good grip for stairs, terraces, and stone paths.
Backpack and accessories
- Small backpack (10–20 L): Enough to carry the essentials without discomfort.
- Waterproof cover for the backpack or plastic bag: Ideal to protect documents, camera, and phone in case of rain.
Hydration and snacks
- Reusable water bottle (approx. 1 L): Stay hydrated throughout the tour.
- Energy snacks: Cereal bars, chocolates, or dried fruits to regain energy between stops.
Sun protection
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+): Essential at high altitude, even on cloudy days.
- Polarized sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the strong Andean glare.
- Lip balm with sunscreen: The dry air can chap your lips.
Hygiene and first aid
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer: For personal hygiene during the tour.
- Personal medication: Includes painkillers or altitude sickness pills if you use them.
Extra recommended gear
- Camera or smartphone with power bank: To capture landscapes and archaeological sites.
- Notebook or small journal: Perfect for jotting down cultural and historical information shared by the guide.
Final tips
- Pack light: Bring only what you need in your daypack.
- Adapt to the altitude: If it’s your first day in Cusco, rest and acclimate before taking the tour.
- Be prepared for weather changes: In the Andes, you can go from intense sun to rain in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco
In this section, we answer your most common questions about the full-day Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco. Here you will find clear and useful answers to help you plan your trip with peace of mind and fully enjoy your experience in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
1. At what altitude is the town of Pisac located and how can it affect visitors?
Pisac is located at 2,972 m (9,751 ft) above sea level in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. At this altitude, some travelers may feel mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as fatigue or shortness of breath, especially if it is their first day in Cusco. It is recommended to acclimatize before taking the tour.
2. What is the best season to take the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco?
The dry season, between May and September, is ideal due to its sunny days and clear skies. However, from November to March the valley becomes greener due to the rains, which also provide spectacular landscapes.
3. How far is Chinchero from the city of Cusco?
Chinchero is 28 km (17 miles) northwest of Cusco, about a 45-minute trip by tourist bus. It is the first stop of the tour.
4. What is the altitude of Ollantaytambo and what can be visited there?
Ollantaytambo is at 2,792 m (9,160 ft) above sea level. During the tour, visitors explore the fortress, the Temple of the Sun, the agricultural terraces, and the famous “Bath of the Ñusta.”
5. What is the altitude of Moray and why is this archaeological site important?
Moray is at 3,500 m (11,482 ft) above sea level and is considered an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory. Its circular terraces created microclimates that allowed experiments with Andean crops.
6. Where are the Maras Salt Mines located and how does their pond system work?
The Salt Mines are on the mountainside at 3,200 m (10,498 ft) above sea level, 10 km (6 miles) from the town of Maras. More than 3,000 ponds collect salty water from a natural spring, which evaporates in the sun, forming pink salt crystals.
7. What is the altitude of Urubamba, the place for the buffet lunch?
Urubamba is at 2,871 m (9,419 ft) above sea level. It is one of the most fertile valleys in the region and offers fresh local products enjoyed in the lunch included in the tour.
8. How long does the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco last?
The tour is a full-day excursion, lasting approximately 10 to 12 hours. It starts with hotel pick-up in Cusco around 7:00 a.m. and ends in the city around 7:00 p.m.
9. What type of transportation is used in the Sacred Valley Tour?
The journey is made in tourist minibuses with 15 to 18 passengers, comfortable and safe, allowing travelers to enjoy the valley views throughout the route.
10. Does the tour include all entrance tickets to the archaeological sites?
No. The tour includes transportation, guide, and lunch, but entrance fees are paid separately: the Cusco Tourist Ticket (S/ 70 or S/ 130) and the entrance to the Maras Salt Mines (S/ 20).
11. Where is Pisac located and what can be seen there?
Pisac is 34 km (21 miles) from Cusco, in the eastern part of the Sacred Valley. Visitors explore its extensive archaeological complex with terraces, ceremonial temples, and its famous artisan market known for textiles and jewelry.
12. Can I buy authentic handicrafts during the tour?
Yes. In Chinchero and Pisac you will find traditional markets where handmade Andean textiles, ceramics, and silver jewelry crafted by local artisans are sold.
13. What are the average daytime temperatures in the Sacred Valley?
During the day, temperatures range between 18 °C and 23 °C (64 °F–73 °F), while in the morning and afternoon they can drop to 5 °C or 10 °C (41 °F–50 °F). The climate is mild but with quick changes typical of the Andes.
14. Is it recommended to do the Sacred Valley Tour on the first day of arrival in Cusco?
It is not the most advisable. Cusco is at 3,399 m (11,152 ft) above sea level, so it is best to rest and acclimatize for at least one day before taking long excursions like the Sacred Valley.
15. Is it possible to continue to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo at the end of the tour?
Yes. Ollantaytambo is the starting point of the train to Machu Picchu. Some travelers arrange to stay in the town after the tour and take the direct train to Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu the next day.
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TripAdvisor Reviews
At Peru Jungle Trips, we work every day to exceed our travelers’ expectations. The reviews on TripAdvisor reflect the commitment, dedication, and quality we bring to every journey through Peru. Thanks to our clients’ trust, we continue creating unique experiences surrounded by nature and Andean culture.
Much of our enjoyment of the challenge was thanks to our guide, Dario. He not only accompanied us throughout the trek but also brought us closer to the culture and history of the Inca Trail in a way that made each stage much more meaningful.
We also want to give special thanks to Fredy, our second guide, who was always attentive and, along with Dario, ensured our safety and comfort at all times.
But above all, we want to say a few words to the 13 porters who made our expedition possible. Their effort, kindness, and dedication deeply impressed us. Without them, completing the Inca Trail would not have been possible. We have immense admiration and respect for the entire team that worked behind the scenes on this experience.
And we can't forget our amazing cook, who ensured we regained our strength each day by preparing delicious, hearty, and comforting meals. After each day's trek, finding a meal like that was a true reward.
All the equipment provided by the company was in excellent condition and perfectly suited to the challenge: spacious tents, comfortable sleeping mats, and cold-weather sleeping bags that kept us warm at night.
We returned home with incredible memories and, above all, with profound admiration for everyone who made this experience possible. Thank you to the entire team for accompanying us, taking care of us, and making this Inca Trail an experience we will never forget.
Eleftheria 😊
I was in Cusco and wanted to visit the jungle originally thinking Tambopata, overwhelmed with options. My desire was to visit the Amazon and be deep in the jungle with few people. I walked into the office and met Pedro who talked with me for over half an hour explaining different options. Ultimately, Pedro told me that Manu National Park is the place to be in the jungle with few people. Pedro helped me book a 6 day tour in Manu National Park 2 days later.
It is hard to describe how special Manu national park was. The trees, the wildlife, the river, seeing uncontacted Natives, and hearing all of the jungle sounds.
I would not have experienced Manu National Park without Pedro and Peru Jungle Trips.
I highly recommend this business!
Also thank you Celia for your kindness and the Poncho :)
Thanks to the entire team because it was a wonderful experience.
Don't miss the tour to the Ballestas Islands and the dunes in Ica. Carlos, the man who drove the buggy, was very nice and super friendly, taking our photos and everything!
Thank you, thank you.
In the reserve we could find many types of fauna and the guide gave information at all times and knew many species.
From the moment I arrived in Peru, Peru Jungle Trips made everything feel effortless and personal. Pedro, the owner, greeted me at the airport with a warm, open energy that immediately set the tone for the rest of the journey. He thoughtfully organized both parts of my trip, first to Cusco and Machu Picchu, then deep into the Amazon jungle, handling every detail with care, sincerity.
What made it even more special was the consistency throughout the experience. Every driver and guide I encountered shared the same heartfelt energy. They were easy to find, always on time, and carried a calm presence that helped everything feel aligned. It allowed me to move through the journey with ease and actually enjoy the experience without stressing over logistics.
Then there was Kevin, my guide in the jungle, who took the experience to another level. With a sacred presence and deep knowledge of the land, he didn’t just show me the jungle, he helped me connect with it. He was a kind and gentle spirit, who was fully present. His guidance felt personal and grounded.
Peru Jungle Trips is more than a travel service. It is an experience curated by people who genuinely care. I’m grateful to have found it, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for something meaningful and real❤️
