Exploring the Sacred Valley from Cusco is a must-do for visitors to Peru. This full-day tour immerses travelers in the rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire, from browsing the vibrant artisan market in Pisac to savoring traditional Peruvian cuisine in Urubamba. As you uncover the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s historical significance. But the real question is – what secrets do these ancient sites hold?

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Key Points

Comprehensive full-day tour of the Sacred Valley near Cusco, highlighting Inca cultural and historical sites.
Visit the vibrant Pisac artisan market and explore the impressive Pisac archaeological park.
Enjoy a traditional Peruvian buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba.
Discover the well-preserved Inca ruins and architecture of Ollantaytambo.
Guided tour with hotel pickup, small group size, and professional bilingual guide for an immersive experience.

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Overview of the Sacred Valley Tour

The full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley takes travelers on a captivating journey through the heart of the Inca Empire’s cultural and historical legacy.

Highlights include exploring the vibrant artisan market in Pisac, savoring a delectable local lunch in Urubamba, and discovering the military, religious, and cultural wonders of Ollantaytambo.

The tour also includes a visit to the well-preserved Inca Wall and colonial temple in Chinchero.

With hotel pickup, small group size, and a professional bilingual guide, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience of the Sacred Valley’s remarkable heritage.

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Highlights of the Pisac Visit

A highlight of the Pisac visit is exploring the vibrant artisan market. Strolling through the bustling stalls, visitors can discover an array of traditional Andean handicrafts, from colorful textiles and intricate weavings to handcrafted ceramics and jewelry. Haggling with the friendly vendors adds to the authentic experience.

After browsing the market, the tour moves on to the impressive Pisac archaeological park. Here, guests can wander the Inca ruins, admiring the impressive stone terraces and temples that offer insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

With the stunning Andes as a backdrop, the Pisac visit provides a captivating glimpse into the Sacred Valley’s history and traditions.

Dining Experience in Urubamba

After exploring the lively Pisac market, the tour continues to Urubamba, where participants enjoy a delectable buffet lunch at a local restaurant. The spread features a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes, allowing travelers to sample the rich flavors of the region. The meal is a highlight of the day, providing a chance to refuel and savor the local cuisine.

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Exploring the Ollantaytambo Ruins

Following the tour of Pisac, participants next journey to the imposing ruins of Ollantaytambo. This ancient Inca town is renowned for its well-preserved buildings and impressive fortifications.

Visitors can:

Explore the sprawling ruins, which include massive stone terraces, temples, and storehouses
Climb the steep steps to the top of the hill, offering panoramic views of the valley
Wander through the charming streets and admire the traditional Inca architecture that still stands today

The Ollantaytambo ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into the Inca Empire’s engineering and architectural prowess.

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The Chinchero Stopover

As the tour progresses, the group makes a final stop at the town of Chinchero. Here, they explore the well-preserved Inca wall and colonial temple.

The guide explains the site’s historical significance, noting that Chinchero was an important weaving center during the Inca Empire. Visitors can admire the intricate stonework and learn about the region’s textile traditions.

The stop also provides an opportunity to browse the local market, where artisans sell their handmade crafts.

After exploring Chinchero, the tour returns to Cusco, completing a comprehensive journey through the Sacred Valley’s remarkable cultural and archaeological sites.

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Included Transportation and Guide Services

The tour includes transportation throughout the day, with pickup from hotels in the historic center of Cusco.

Convenient transportation is provided, with pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic heart.

A professional bilingual tour guide accompanies the group, providing insights and commentary in both Spanish and English. The guide is highly rated by past participants, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 for their performance.

Additionally:

The small group size is limited to 13 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Guests receive a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba.
All necessary entry tickets to the archaeological sites are included in the tour price.

What to Expect and Recommendations

Visitors can expect a full-day immersion in the Sacred Valley’s rich cultural heritage. The tour includes guided explorations of Pisac’s artisan market and archaeological park, a buffet lunch in Urubamba, and discoveries in Ollantaytambo and Chinchero.

Travelers should dress comfortably, wear sun protection, and bring their passport or ID. Oversize luggage, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited.

The tour is limited to 13 participants, and the driver can’t wait more than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time.

With a knowledgeable bilingual guide, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the Inca legacy in the Sacred Valley.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have generally praised the quality of the Sacred Valley tour, with an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 28 reviews.

The guide rating is particularly high at 4.5/5, indicating travelers were satisfied with the knowledge and professionalism of the tour leaders.

Transportation received a 4.2/5 rating, suggesting the logistics of the tour were handled well.

Value for money was also considered favorable, earning a 4.2/5 score from reviewers.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. According to the important restrictions and guidelines, pets are not permitted during the tour.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour Participants?

The tour has no age limit, as it’s open to participants of all ages. However, parents should consider whether their children can comfortably complete the full-day itinerary and activities included in the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour information doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. However, some tour operators may offer discounted rates for these groups, so it’s best to check with the specific provider before booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

Customizing the itinerary is possible, but it may incur additional costs. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator to see if adjustments can be made within the tour’s duration and schedule. However, the standard itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive Sacred Valley experience.

Is the Tour Accessible for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities isn’t explicitly stated. It’s best to contact the tour operator to inquire about any accommodations or special assistance available to ensure the tour meets the traveler’s needs.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating heritage of the Inca Empire on this comprehensive Sacred Valley tour. From the vibrant Pisac market to the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins, this immersive journey offers an unforgettable glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural legacy. With a knowledgeable guide, delightful local cuisine, and comfortable transportation, this tour provides a well-rounded and personalized experience in the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.