Machu Picchu Holidays » Tours » Sacred Valley Tour Full Day
Sacred Valley Tour Full Day
- Waqrapukara
(185)
Star -Cusco
End - Cusco
DURATION
full Day
LANGUAGES
English/Espanish
DIFFICULTY
⚫⚫〇〇〇
Starting from
$ 35
per person
“Machu Picchu permits are limited and often sell out months in advance. We highly recommend booking early to secure your spot.”
Tour Details
Embark on a journey through the heart of the Inca Empire with our Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco. Spanning a full day, this excursion unveils the splendor of the Peru Sacred Valley. We will guide you through the valley’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
Our tour begins in the vibrant city of Cusco, situated over 3,400 meters (about 11,155 feet) above sea level. We will then venture north of Cusco to explore the illustrious Valley of the Incas. Along the way, marvel at the Urubamba River, a lifeline that weaves through the valley.
Discover Ancient Wonders
The Sacred Valley Cusco is famous for its archaeological sites and agricultural terraces. Each stop showcases the ingenuity of the Inca ruins. The towns of Pisac and the town of Ollantaytambo are highlights, offering a glimpse into past and present local life.
At Pisac Market, we will immerse ourselves in the colors and crafts of the local people. This vibrant marketplace is a treasure trove of handmade goods. It’s a perfect spot to pick up souvenirs and interact with artisans. The agricultural terraces carved into the mountainside are a testament to Inca engineering. These terraces are not just historical sites; they are still in use today. They offer insight into the sustainable practices of the Inca Empire.
A Culinary and Cultural Experience
Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca site, stands majestically at the tour’s culmination. This town, with its stone streets and ruins, transports visitors back in time. Standing guard over the town are ruins that were once a formidable fortress.
A buffet lunch in the valley ensures we will enjoy local flavors amidst scenic views. This meal is a chance to relax and savor the culinary delights of South America. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the morning’s adventures.
The Sacred Valley Tour is a must-do for those visiting Peru. It offers an unparalleled look at the beauty and history of the Sacred Valley Cusco. We will navigate you through this historical journey, making unforgettable memories.
Traveling during the rainy season? Worry not. We will provide tips to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Remember, the Sacred Valley’s beauty shines through, rain or shine. Join us for a Sacred Valley full day tour that promises adventure, culture, and awe-inspiring vistas. Let’s discover the heart of the Inca Empire together. Your journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas awaits.
Inclusions
✅ Professional Bilingual Guide: Expert guidance from a knowledgeable, English and Spanish-speaking guide. Is who will share insights into the historical significance, cultural practices, and natural wonders of the Sacred Valley.
✅ Transportation: Comfortable and safe round-trip transportation from Cusco. This includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Cusco, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your day.
✅ Buffet Lunch: A delightful lunch featuring a variety of local Peruvian dishes. This meal offers a taste of the regional cuisine. It caters to a range of dietary preferences and ensures you stay energized throughout the day.
✅ Group Experience: The tour operates in a group setting, providing an opportunity to meet and interact with fellow travelers. This group experience enhances the journey, allowing for shared discoveries and memories.
Exclusions
❌ Meals and Beverages: Lunch and other meals are not included. Travelers will have the opportunity to purchase food at local restaurants or markets.
❌ Travel Insurance: We highly recommend that all travelers have comprehensive travel insurance. This is not on the price as part of the tour package.
❌ Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and beverages. This is outside of what is provided (if any) are not on the tour price.
❌ Gratuities: Tips for guides and drivers are not in the tour price. While not mandatory, they are a way to show satisfaction for their services.
❌ Additional Activities: Activities outside the planned itinerary, such as bike rentals, paragliding, or other adventure sports, are not in the tour price.
❌ Transportation Outside the Scheduled Tour: Please make your own arrangements. This is for the arrival at the designated meeting spot on time.
❌ Equipment Rental: Any special equipment needed for personal use during the tour is not on the tour operator.
❌ Additional Site Visits: Visits to sites not in the official itinerary are not on the tour’s price and will require separate arrangements and fees.
Things to carry
🟡 Valid Passport or ID: Required for entrance to many sites and for identification purposes.
🟡 Cash in Local Currency (Soles): For entrance fees (if not included in your tour), meals, souvenirs, and tips. Many places might not accept credit cards.
🟡 Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially at high altitudes.
🟡 Snacks: Energy bars, fruits, or nuts can keep your energy up during the tour.
🟡 Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against strong sun at high altitudes.
🟡 Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for uneven terrains.
🟡 Layered Clothing: The weather can change quickly, from chilly mornings to warm afternoons and cool evenings. Include a waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
🟡 Camera or Smartphone: For capturing photos of the stunning landscapes and archaeological sites.
🟡 Personal Medications: Along with a small first aid kit including altitude sickness medication if susceptible.
🟡 Day Backpack: To carry all your essentials comfortably.
🟡 Reusable Bag: For any purchases or to carry out your trash, promoting environmental responsibility.
🟡 Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes: To maintain hygiene, especially after visiting public places or before snacking.
🟡 Face Mask: Depending on the current health guidelines and requirements at the time of your visit.
🟡 Guidebook/Map: For additional information on the sites you will visit.
🟡 Portable Charger: To keep your devices charged throughout the day.
Tour Itinerary
Full DayPeru Sacred Valley Tour
Dive into the heart of the Inca civilization with our Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco. This full-day expedition that traverses ancient lands and unveils the mystique of the Sacred Valley. This journey promises not just sights, but an immersive experience. Delve into the culture, history, and landscapes that define this region. We will guide you, step by step, through a meticulously planned route that highlights the best of the Sacred Valley.
Embark from Cusco to Chinchero
Our day starts early as we depart from Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Ascending from Cusco, which stands at over 3,400 meters (about 11,155 feet) above sea level, we journey towards Chinchero. This quaint town is renowned for its textile markets and colonial church, built atop Inca foundations.
We will explore the artisan stalls, where local weavers demonstrate their craft. You’ll witness the blend of natural dyes and traditional techniques that have been through generations.
Following the morning’s explorations, we head towards Urubamba, nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Here, at an elevation slightly lower than Cusco, we will enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local Peruvian cuisine. This stop not only offers a moment to savor the flavors of the region. It also provides scenic views of the encompassing mountains. Enjoy the sights of terraces that define the valley’s landscape.
Discover Ollantaytambo’s Ancient Fortresses
Next, we make our way to Ollantaytambo, a town that boasts of life. The main attraction here is the massive Inca fortress with its large stone terraces carved into the hillside. We will ascend the terracing for a closer look at the engineering marvels of the Inca. Enjoy panoramic views of the valley below.
Explore Pisac’s Market and Ruins
Our final stop is the town of Pisac, known for its bustling market and impressive archaeological site. We will stroll through the market, where vendors sell everything from hand-painted ceramics to silver jewelry and woven goods. Afterwards, we visit the Pisac ruins, perched high above the market on a mountain spur. This place offers stunning views of the Urubamba River snaking through the valley.
As the sun begins to lower, we will journey back to Cusco, reflecting on a day filled with discovery and enrichment. This tour not only connects us with the history and culture of the Inca. It also connects you with the natural beauty that surrounds the Sacred Valley.
Sacred Valley Tour Statistics:
- Distance Covered: Approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles) round trip from Cusco.
- Highest Altitude: Chinchero at around 3,762 meters above sea level (12,343 feet).
- Lowest Altitude: Urubamba, at about 2,871 meters (9,419 feet) above sea level.
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate, with some walking at high altitudes.
Join us on this full-day tour from Cusco for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.
Tour Gallery
FAQ's
How long is the full-day tour?
A full-day tour usually starts early in the morning around 7 or 8 AM and returns to Cusco in the late afternoon or early evening, around 6 or 7 PM. The exact times can vary depending on the itinerary and traffic conditions.
Is there a lot of walking on the tour?
Yes, there is a moderate amount of walking involved, often on uneven surfaces. It’s advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
What should I bring on the tour?
Essentials include a valid ID or passport, cash in local currency, water, snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), comfortable footwear, layered clothing, and a camera. Check the detailed list provided by your tour operator.
How should I prepare for the altitude?
The Sacred Valley is at a lower altitude than Cusco, but it’s still high. Is recommendable to acclimatize in Cusco for at least a day or two before the tour. Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and consider altitude sickness medication if prone to it.
Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Some tour operators offer hotel pickups and drop-offs in Cusco. Confirm the availability of this service when booking your tour.
Are meals included in the tour?
This varies by tour operator. Some tours might include a lunch or offer a stop where you can purchase a meal. Check the inclusions and itinerary for details.
