Sacred Valley Tour: An Unforgettable Journey to the Land of the Incas
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located in the Cusco region, is one of the most fascinating destinations in Peru. Known for its natural beauty, rich history, and impressive cultural legacy, it is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history of the Inca Empire. In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know about tours to the Sacred Valley, including distances between key points, available times, and shared and private tour options to make your experience as comfortable and enriching as possible.
What is the Sacred Valley of the Incas?
The Sacred Valley, also known as the Urubamba Valley, is a vast Andean region that was of vital importance to the Incas. Throughout this valley, there are important archaeological sites, traditional communities and dreamlike landscapes. Among the main attractions of the Sacred Valley are the ruins of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, the Salineras de Maras, Moray and Chinchero, all of them witnesses of the impressive legacy of the Incas.
Main Points of the Sacred Valley
- Pisac: Famous for its archaeological ruins and colorful handicraft market.
- Ollantaytambo: An ancient Inca military, agricultural and religious center.
- Salt mines of Maras: Salt wells in a surreal landscape.
- Moray: Circular terraces used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory.
- Chinchero: A picturesque village with a strong textile tradition and impressive views.
Distance between points in the Sacred Valley
One of the most important aspects when planning a tour to the Sacred Valley is the distance between the main points of interest. Although all these destinations are relatively close, distances vary depending on the starting point. Below are the approximate distances between the most common destinations:
| Destination | Distance from Cusco | Distance between Valley sites |
| Pisac | 33 km | 15 km to Ollantaytambo |
| Ollantaytambo | 60 km | 30 km to Maras |
| Moray | 50 km | 12 km to Chinchero |
| Salt mines of Maras | 10 km (from Moray) | 18 km to Chinchero |
| Chinchero | 28 km | – |
This chart gives you a general idea of the distances you will cover on your tour. Depending on the type of tour you choose, travel time will vary, but in general, a complete tour of the Sacred Valley can take between 8 and 10 hours.
Sacred Valley Tour Schedule
Tours to the Sacred Valley are available throughout the year, and generally start in the morning to make the most of the daylight. Departure times may vary depending on whether you choose a shared or private tour.
Shared Tours
Shared tours are an excellent option for those who are looking for a more economical experience and do not mind sharing the trip with other tourists. These tours usually start around 8:00 a.m. and end around 5:00 p.m. and have as starting point the city of Cusco and not the Sacred Valley. While schedules can be flexible, each tour agency has different starting times, it is advisable to be ready at the meeting point first thing in the morning to make the most of the day.
Private Tours
If you prefer a more personalized experience, private tours are the best option. These tours tend to be higher priced, but allow you to tailor the itinerary and schedule to your preferences. You can choose to leave early in the morning to avoid the crowds or take more time at each archaeological site. Private tours usually have a more flexible schedule, and departures can be scheduled as early as 7:00 a.m. depending on your needs and location.
Why Choose a Shared or Private Tour?
Shared Tours
Advantages:
- More affordable price: Sharing the tour with other tourists makes the cost lower.
- Opportunity to meet new people: Shared tours are perfect for those looking to make friends and share the experience with other travelers.
- Experienced guides: Despite being shared, these tours are guided by professionals with extensive knowledge of the history and culture of the Sacred Valley and the explanations are in 2 languages: Spanish and English.
Disadvantages
- Less flexibility: The itinerary is predetermined and you cannot modify it according to your preferences.
- Longer waiting time: Being a group, there may be waiting times or additional stops.
Private Tours
Advantages:
- Personalized itinerary: You can choose which sites to visit and how much time to spend at each one.
- Comfort and privacy: The tour is designed just for you or your group, which means more comfort and privacy.
- Personalized attention: The guide can focus exclusively on your interests and needs.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost: Private tours are usually more expensive due to the exclusivity of the service, at Ukumari Peru Travel we have the lowest prices in the market.
What does the Sacred Valley Tour include?
Both shared and private tours usually include:
- Comfortable transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco.
- An expert guide in Inca history and culture.
- Visits to the main archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley.
- Free time to explore markets and shop for handicrafts.
- Buffet lunch
Tips to make the most of your tour to the Sacred Valley
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking, as some of the ruins require hiking and climbing.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Although the weather can be cool in the mornings, the sun in the Andes can be very strong, so don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Hydrate well: Bring water to keep yourself hydrated, especially on hot days.
- Camera ready: The Sacred Valley offers breathtaking scenery that you will want to capture. Don’t forget your camera or phone.
- Adaptation time: If you are coming from a low altitude, we suggest you spend at least a couple of days in Cusco to acclimatize before the tour.
