From Cusco: Sacred Valley of the Incas + Buffet Lunch

Journey through the captivating beauty and ancient wonders of Peru's Sacred Valley, where Inca architecture and vibrant local culture await, complemented by a delightful buffet lunch.

Discover the captivating beauty and ancient wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley on this comprehensive tour from Cusco. Explore archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, marvel at the intricate Inca architecture, and learn about the vibrant local culture. Indulge in a delightful buffet lunch amidst the picturesque Urubamba Valley, offering a perfect blend of culinary delights and historical exploration. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Inca civilization.

Key Points

  • Comprehensive tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, from Cusco.
  • Buffet lunch in the Urubamba Valley, providing a culinary experience in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
  • Exploration of ancient Inca ruins and learning about their advanced construction techniques.
  • Opportunity to visit local markets and immerse in the vibrant textile traditions of the region.
  • Tour duration of 10.5 hours, allowing ample time to explore the cultural attractions of the Sacred Valley.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Sacred Valley of the Incas tour offers travelers a comprehensive experience from Cusco. Priced from $29.00 per person, the 10.5-hour tour includes visits to the Pisac archaeological center, Ollantaytambo archaeological zone, and Chinchero town.

Guests can discover ancient Inca ruins, explore Pisac’s local market, and enjoy a buffet lunch in the Urubamba Valley.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides an accessible way to explore the highlights of the Sacred Valley.

The tour includes pickup from Cusco hotels and entrance fees to the archaeological sites.

Itinerary and Highlights

The full-day tour includes visits to the Pisac archaeological center, Ollantaytambo archaeological zone, and the town of Chinchero.

A full-day tour exploring the Pisac archaeological center, Ollantaytambo ruins, and the traditional town of Chinchero.

Highlights of the tour include:

  • Discovering ancient Inca ruins

  • Exploring Pisac market for local crafts

  • Enjoying a buffet lunch in the Urubamba Valley

  • Admiring the terraced fields of Chinchero and learning about traditional textiles

  • Exploring Ollantaytambo’s strategic fortress and learning about Inca construction techniques.

Tour Details

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 7:30 AM.

Throughout the day, you’ll learn about the impressive Inca construction techniques used at the archaeological sites.

After visiting the town center and artisan market in Pisac, you’ll stop for a buffet lunch in the Urubamba Valley.

Next, explore the strategic fortress of Ollantaytambo, a highlight of the tour.

The excursion concludes around 6:30 PM with drop-off back in Cusco, providing ample time to discover the city’s cultural attractions.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, visits to the archaeological sites, a buffet lunch in the Urubamba Valley, and entrance fees to the sites, which cost PEN 70.

The tour excludes:

  • Tips (optional)

  • Suitability for wheelchair users

  • Pets

  • Smoking

  • Personal expenses

Travelers should bring their passport, comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and smoking and pets aren’t allowed.

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Preparation and Recommendations

As travelers prepare for the Sacred Valley of the Incas tour, they should ensure they bring essential items like their passport, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water.

It’s also recommended to carry cash for personal expenses. Wearing suitable clothing for the weather and comfortable footwear is crucial, as the tour involves ample walking.

Pets and smoking aren’t allowed. Travelers should be aware that the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users.

Following these simple preparation tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the ancient Inca ruins and Urubamba Valley.

Discovering Ancient Inca Ruins

Visitors to the Sacred Valley of the Incas will be captivated by the ancient Inca ruins that dot the landscape.

The ancient Inca ruins that dot the Sacred Valley’s landscape captivate visitors.

Some of the highlights include:

  • Exploring the archaeological center of Pisac, with its impressive terraced fields and stone structures.

  • Marveling at the strategic fortress of Ollantaytambo, known for its massive stone blocks and engineering feats.

  • Discovering the town of Chinchero, renowned for its well-preserved Inca architecture and vibrant textile traditions.

  • Learning about the Incas’ advanced construction techniques and their connection to the natural environment.

  • Taking in the rich cultural heritage and history that permeates the Sacred Valley.

Exploring Pisac Market and Local Crafts

After exploring the ancient Inca ruins, visitors can browse the lively Pisac market, known for its vibrant display of local crafts and textiles.

Winding through the bustling stalls, travelers discover an array of handmade souvenirs, from colorful weavings and embroidered garments to intricate pottery and carved wooden sculptures.

The market offers a unique opportunity to interact with local artisans, learn about their techniques, and support the indigenous community.

With its captivating atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, the Pisac market is a highlight of the Sacred Valley tour.

Admiring Terraced Fields and Textile Traditions

One of the highlights of the Sacred Valley tour is the opportunity to admire the terraced fields of Chinchero.

These ancient agricultural terraces, constructed by the Incas, cascade down the hillsides, creating a stunning visual tapestry. Visitors can explore the terraces and learn about the sophisticated irrigation systems that allowed the Incas to cultivate crops on these steep slopes.

The Incan agricultural terraces cascade down the hillsides, a stunning visual tapestry showcasing sophisticated irrigation methods for crop cultivation on steep slopes.

In addition, Chinchero is renowned for its textile traditions.

Visitors can:

  • Observe local weavers demonstrating their craft

  • Learn about the dyeing process using natural pigments

  • See traditional patterns and designs

  • Appreciate the intricate handiwork

  • Purchase unique handmade textiles as souvenirs.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food on the tour. The tour includes a buffet lunch in the Urubamba Valley, so bringing outside food is not permitted. Participants are expected to enjoy the provided meal as part of the tour experience.

What if I Have Dietary Restrictions?

If you have dietary restrictions, you can notify the tour operator in advance. They’ll accommodate your needs and provide a suitable alternative for the included buffet lunch.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children. It includes visits to ancient Inca ruins and a local market, as well as a buffet lunch in the Urubamba Valley. Children will enjoy the cultural and historical aspects of the tour.

Do I Need to Be Physically Fit for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t require extreme physical fitness, but visitors should be able to handle moderate walking and some uneven terrain. Those with mobility issues may find certain aspects challenging.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Sacred Valley?

You can extend your stay in the Sacred Valley after the tour. The tour only provides transportation from Cusco and doesn’t restrict how long you stay in the area. Many travelers choose to explore the region further on their own.

Sum Up

This immersive Sacred Valley tour offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s Inca legacy. Visitors will marvel at the architectural wonders of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, savor a delightful buffet lunch, and enjoy the vibrant local markets and textile traditions. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, this comprehensive excursion promises an unforgettable exploration of the Sacred Valley’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: