From Cusco: Sacred Valley, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo Day Trip

Exploring the captivating Sacred Valley from Cusco is a must-do for any traveler. This day trip offers a chance to take in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of the region. From the vibrant artisan market in Pisac to the impressive Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, this 12-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience. With a delicious lunch and guided tours, it’s an opportunity to discover the essence of this enchanting area. What secrets might the Sacred Valley hold for those who venture forth?

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Key Points

A day trip from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo, priced at $40.00 per person, with a duration of 12 hours.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation back to Cusco, a buffet lunch, and a professional guide.
Highlights include exploring the Pisac artisan market and archaeological site, and a guided tour of the Ollantaytambo archaeological park.
Visitors can optionally stop in Chincheros to view traditional crafts and a colonial church.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo is priced from $40.00 per person.

The 12-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a buffet lunch, transportation back to Cusco, and a professional guide. Guests can choose from 7 convenient pickup locations around Cusco.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Explore the fertile lands and historical sites of the Sacred Valley, discover artisan crafts in Pisac, and experience the 15th-century Ollantaytambo archaeological park during this immersive day trip.

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Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with pickup from guests’ hotels in Cusco or a designated meeting point at Plaza Regocijo. Guests can choose from seven pickup locations around the city center.

The tour then visits Pisac, where travelers explore the artisan market and archaeological site for 105 minutes. After, the group enjoys a 1-hour buffet lunch featuring regional dishes in Urubamba.

Next, the tour visits Ollantaytambo for a 1.5-hour guided tour of the archaeological park. There’s also an optional 1-hour stop in Chincheros to see traditional textile and ceramic crafts, as well as a colonial church.

Pickup Locations

Guests can choose from seven pickup locations around the city center, including Plazoleta de San Blas, Plaza San Francisco, Plazoleta San Pedro, Plazoleta Santa Ana, Limacpampa, Plaza De Armas, and Plaza Kusipata.

This makes it convenient for travelers to meet the tour group at a spot near their hotel or accommodation. The tour departs promptly, so it’s important to arrive at the chosen location on time.

The pickup locations provide easy access to the Sacred Valley tour, allowing guests to start their day adventure with a seamless transportation experience.

Pisac: Artisan Market and Archaeological Site

Travelers first explore Pisac, a quaint town nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. They wander through the lively artisan market, browsing an array of handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.

The vibrant stalls showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and skilled artisanship. After the market, visitors ascend to the Pisac archaeological site, an impressive Inca citadel perched atop a mountain.

They marvel at the carefully engineered stone terraces, temples, and fortifications, a testament to the Inca’s remarkable engineering prowess. This multifaceted stop offers a glimpse into Pisac’s past and present as a hub of cultural traditions.

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Lunch in Urubamba

After exploring the vibrant Pisac market, the group heads to Urubamba for a 1-hour buffet lunch featuring regional Peruvian dishes.

The spread includes:

Hearty Andean soups like quinoa or potato
Roasted meats like alpaca or guinea pig
An array of fresh vegetable sides and vibrant salads

The variety allows everyone to sample the authentic flavors of the Sacred Valley.

Refueled, the group is ready to continue their journey to the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo.

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Ollantaytambo: Archaeological Park and Guided Tour

After lunch, the group heads to the ancient Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo. This remarkable archaeological site dates back to the 15th century and was once a thriving Inca town. Visitors explore the impressive terraced ruins, enjoying a guided tour that brings the site’s history to life. The tour highlights the stone fortress, temples, and agricultural terraces that reveal the engineering prowess of the Incas. Visitors marvel at the sheer scale and complexity of the ruins, which stand as a testament to the ingenuity of this advanced civilization.

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Optional Visit to Chincheros

An optional visit to Chincheros allows travelers to explore the town’s rich textile and ceramic traditions as well as its notable colonial-era church.

Visitors can:

Witness skilled artisans demonstrating the intricate process of weaving vibrant textiles using traditional Inca techniques.
Browse the local market stalls for unique handcrafted pottery, ceramics, and other artisanal goods.
Admire the impressive Chinchero Church, a 16th-century colonial structure renowned for its stunning frescoes and architectural features.

This optional stop offers a glimpse into the enduring cultural heritage and craftsmanship that thrive in this picturesque Andean town.

Important Information and Recommendations

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Smoking and consuming alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are also not allowed.

For a comfortable experience, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and snacks.

Visitors should also carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historical sites.

The weather can be variable, so it’s wise to be prepared.

Lastly, it’s important to respect the local culture and environment throughout the tour.

Since You Asked

Can I Visit the Sites Independently Instead of a Guided Tour?

Yes, you can visit the sites independently. The Sacred Valley, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo are accessible without a guided tour. However, a guide can provide valuable insights and historical context you may miss on your own.

Do Children Receive a Discounted Price for the Day Trip?

Yes, children receive a discounted price for the day trip. The trip costs $40 per adult, but children under a certain age can participate at a reduced rate.

How Much Local Currency Should I Bring for the Day?

It’s recommended to bring around 200-300 Peruvian soles for the day trip, which covers the buffet lunch, any optional activities, and personal expenses like souvenirs or snacks. The entrance fee is included in the tour price.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trip to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, there’s an optional visit to Chincheros which allows travelers to explore traditional textile and ceramic crafts, as well as a colonial church. This can be added for an additional hour to the day trip itinerary.

Can I Get a Refund if the Weather Is Poor on the Day of the Trip?

Yes, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so you can get your money back if the weather is poor on the day of the trip.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Cusco offers a chance to take in the Sacred Valley‘s breathtaking landscapes and rich Inca heritage. Explore the vibrant Pisac market, discover the architectural marvels of Ollantaytambo, and enjoy a delicious lunch. At just $40 per person, it’s an affordable and unforgettable way to experience the cultural heart of Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: