Full-Day Tour to Sacred Valley: Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Yucay Museum and Lunch

Setting out on a full-day tour to the Sacred Valley promises an immersive journey through Peru’s captivating history and culture. Visitors will explore the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, uncover the weaving traditions of Chinchero, and explore the living museum of Yucay. As they savor a local lunch, travelers can expect to gain a deeper appreciation for this stunning region, guided by knowledgeable professionals. The adventure awaits those eager to…

Key Points

• A full-day tour exploring the Sacred Valley, including visits to Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Yucay Living Museum, with guided insights into the historical and cultural significance of each site.
• The tour is priced from $56 per person and includes lunch and all entrance fees, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start.
• The tour features immersive experiences, such as witnessing traditional dyeing and weaving demonstrations by local women in Chinchero and exploring the Inca royal estate and agricultural terraces.
• Ollantaytambo, with its towering stone terraces and impressive Inca engineering, provides insights into the site’s strategic importance and urban planning mastery.
• The included lunch at a local restaurant offers a well-rounded introduction to the flavors of the Sacred Valley, with a variety of regional Peruvian dishes catering to different dietary preferences.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour to the Sacred Valley takes travelers from Cusco to explore the historic sites of Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and the Yucay Living Museum.

Priced from $56 per person, the tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transfers. Led by professional guides, the itinerary provides insights into the region’s cultural significance.

With a maximum group size of 20, the tour offers a personalized experience. Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start.

Rates exclude taxes for Peruvians and foreign guests staying over 60 days. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Exploring Chinchero

What makes Chinchero such a captivating stop on this Sacred Valley tour?

Situated at an elevation of over 12,000 feet, Chinchero is known for its vibrant indigenous culture and well-preserved Inca ruins.

Travelers will:

1. Visit the beautiful colonial-era Chinchero Church, with its intricate frescoes and altarpieces.

2. Observe local women demonstrating the traditional methods of dyeing and weaving textiles.

3. Explore the remnants of the Inca royal estate, including agricultural terraces and stone foundations.

4. Learn about the significance of Chinchero’s location and its role in Inca history from the knowledgeable guide.

Visiting Yucay Living Museum

After exploring the vibrant Chinchero, the tour continues to the Yucay Living Museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s traditional way of life.

At the museum, travelers can wander through traditional Andean homes, workshops, and artisan demonstrations. They’ll learn about the local cuisine, textiles, and agricultural practices that have been passed down for generations.

The knowledgeable guide provides insight into the cultural significance of these time-honored traditions. This immersive experience allows travelers to connect with the heart of Peruvian heritage and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich history.

Discovering Ollantaytambo

The final stop on the Sacred Valley tour is the impressive archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. This ancient Inca fortress and town offers a unique glimpse into the civilization’s architectural prowess.

The impressive archaeological site of Ollantaytambo offers a unique glimpse into the Inca civilization’s architectural prowess.

Visitors can:

1. Explore the towering stone terraces and ruins that once served as a royal estate and religious site.

2. Admire the impressive engineering feats, including the massive stone blocks that were quarried and transported from across the valley.

3. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of the town, which still maintains its original Inca layout.

4. Learn about the site’s strategic importance and the Inca’s impressive mastery of urban planning.

Included Lunch

As the tour winds down, travelers can look forward to an included lunch. The lunch is served at a local restaurant, providing an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine. The menu typically features a variety of regional dishes, catering to various dietary preferences.

| Dish | Description | Price |

| — | — | — |

| Cuy Chactado | Deep-fried guinea pig, a Peruvian delicacy | $15 |

| Lomo Saltado | Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and french fries | $12 |

| Quinoa Salad | Fresh quinoa with vegetables and a citrus dressing | $10 |

| Aji de Gallina | Shredded chicken in a creamy, spiced sauce | $11 |

| Chicha Morada | Traditional Andean purple corn drink | $3 |

The included lunch provides a well-rounded introduction to Peruvian cuisine, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of the Sacred Valley.

Tour Information

This tour provides travelers with the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

The full-day itinerary includes visits to the charming town of Chinchero, the Yucay Living Museum, and the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological site. A professional guide will provide historical context and significance, enhancing the overall experience.

The tour includes:

1. Round-trip transfers from Cusco hotels

2. Entrance to Chinchero Church and Yucay Museum

3. Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) required for Ollantaytambo fortress

4. Maximum group size of 20 travelers, with availability of English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese languages.

Booking and Cancellation

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this tour.

Travelers have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins. This provides ample opportunity to make any necessary changes to travel plans.

The tour is priced competitively, starting from $56 per person. Booking details and policies are transparent, allowing customers to make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary isn’t customizable. It’s a pre-set full-day tour that visits specific sites like Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Yucay Museum. Customers don’t have the option to modify the itinerary or locations included in this tour package.

Can the Tour Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour can accommodate special dietary requirements, but travelers should notify the tour operator in advance. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can generally be provided with prior notice to ensure a seamless experience.

How Long Is the Transfer Time From Cusco to the Sites?

The tour includes round-trip transfers from Cusco hotels, though the exact transfer time isn’t specified. The journey likely takes around 1-1.5 hours each way, depending on traffic and road conditions between Cusco and the Sacred Valley sites.

Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Activities in the Region?

Yes, the tour can likely be combined with other activities in the region. Travelers have the flexibility to customize their itinerary and add complementary excursions or experiences to create a more comprehensive Sacred Valley exploration.

Are There Any Dress Code or Packing Recommendations for the Tour?

The tour is outdoors, so comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also advisable to bring. Dressing for the weather and terrain will help ensure a pleasant experience.

The Sum Up

The Sacred Valley tour offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing travelers to explore the region’s rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant local traditions. From the impressive Ollantaytambo site to the Yucay Living Museum, the day is filled with opportunities to discover the unique heritage of Peru. The included lunch provides a chance to savor authentic Peruvian cuisine, completing the journey through this breathtaking and culturally-significant area.