From Cusco: Sacred Valley Tour With Pisac and Ollantaytambo

Discover the enchanting heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley on this captivating tour from Cusco. Uncover the region’s rich cultural heritage as you explore ancient Inca ruins, colorful local markets, and the picturesque Chinchero village. With expert guidance and convenient transportation, this immersive experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the beauty and history that define the Sacred Valley. What secrets await beyond the stunning landscapes and timeless traditions?

Key Points

• This full-day Sacred Valley tour from Cusco features visits to the archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, as well as the traditional weaving village of Chinchero.
• The tour includes a buffet lunch, photo stops, and transportation in a private vehicle with a bilingual guide.
• The tour covers a distance of approximately 1.5 hours from Pisac to Urubamba, with scenic views along the way.
• Guests will be picked up from their hotels in Cusco’s historic center and the tour lasts around 10 hours.
• Potential considerations include the high altitudes reached during the tour and the suitability for individuals with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley Tour with Pisac and Ollantaytambo offers visitors an immersive journey through the heart of the Incan Empire. Priced from $28 per person, this 10-hour excursion takes explorers to iconic sites like Pisac’s archaeological ruins and vibrant market, the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, and the picturesque village of Chinchero.

Along the way, travelers enjoy a buffet lunch, photo stops with stunning Andean vistas, and insights from knowledgeable bilingual guides. Convenient hotel pickups, private transportation, and flexible booking options make this tour an accessible and well-rounded introduction to the Sacred Valley’s cultural richness.

Highlights of the Itinerary

This tour begins with a photo stop at the Mirador of Taray, offering sweeping vistas of the Andes and the Sacred Valley below.

Next, guests explore the archaeological site and vibrant market of Pisac, seeing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

After a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to Ollantaytambo, a fortress town guarding the entrance to Machu Picchu.

The final stop is Chinchero, where visitors can see the remains of Tupac Inca Yupanqui’s royal estate and learn about the traditional textile weaving practices of the local people.

Transportation Details

For this Sacred Valley tour, guests are transported by a private vehicle, either a bus or a coach. The journey covers significant distances between the key stops, with the longest leg being 1.5 hours from Pisac to Urubamba.

However, the travel times are broken up by scenic photo opportunities and cultural visits along the way.

The transportation includes:

1. Cusco to Mirador of Taray: 1 hour

2. Mirador to Pisac: 40 minutes

3. Ollantaytambo to Chinchero and back to Cusco: 2 hours 10 minutes

The private vehicle ensures a comfortable and efficient journey through the stunning Andean landscapes.

Included in the Tour

Included in the Sacred Valley tour are several key features that enhance the overall experience.

The tour includes hotel pickup from the historic center of Cusco if selected, ensuring a seamless start to the day. Throughout the journey, a bilingual guide provides valuable insights and commentary, enriching the cultural experience.

Seamless hotel pickup in Cusco and a bilingual guide’s insights enrich the cultural experience throughout the Sacred Valley tour.

A delectable buffet lunch at a restaurant in Urubamba refuels travelers. Transportation by private vehicle, such as a bus or coach, ensures a comfortable and efficient journey.

Plus, entrance fees to the Sacred Valley sites are covered, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the region’s ancient wonders.

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Important Considerations

While the Sacred Valley tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

First, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs, as it involves a moderate amount of walking, including stairs.

Plus, some locations on the tour reach altitudes up to 3,514 meters above sea level, which could potentially impact those susceptible to altitude sickness.

Finally, the use of drones is prohibited, so visitors should leave their drone equipment at home.

Careful planning can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on this immersive tour.

Pisac: Archaeological Site and Market

The tour’s first stop takes visitors to the ancient Incan ruins of Pisac, a captivating archaeological site nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Perched atop a mountain ridge, the Pisac ruins offer stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding valley. Guided through the intricate stone structures, travelers learn about the site’s religious, agricultural, and defensive significance during the Inca Empire.

After the archaeological exploration, the group visits the colorful Pisac Market, known for its traditional Andean handicrafts, textiles, and local produce.

Here, visitors can browse the lively stalls and interact with the skilled artisans.

Ollantaytambo: Fortress Guarding Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo stands as a formidable Inca fortress that once guarded the entrance to the Sacred Valley, protecting the route to the legendary Machu Picchu.

The massive stone complex features:

1. Imposing terraced walls and staircases that showcase the ingenuity of Inca engineering.

2. Impressive temple ruins that offer a glimpse into the religious practices of the Inca.

3. Strategically positioned watchtowers that provided a commanding view of the valley below.

Visitors can explore these well-preserved ruins, marveling at the architectural prowess and strategic significance of this important Inca site.

Chinchero: Inca Royal Estate

After exploring the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley tour continues its journey to the picturesque village of Chinchero.

Here, visitors marvel at the remains of Tupac Inca Yupanqui’s royal estate, a testament to the Inca’s architectural prowess. The tour guide shares insights into the site’s history, explaining how it served as a royal retreat and administrative center.

Visitors also witness locals demonstrating traditional weaving techniques, showcasing the vibrant textiles that have been crafted in the region for centuries.

This stop offers a glimpse into the enduring cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

While there’s no requirement to bring your own food, you’re welcome to enjoy the included buffet lunch at a local restaurant during the tour. Outside food and drinks may be allowed, but it’s best to check with the tour provider first.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the standard tour duration is 10 hours, travelers can opt to extend the experience. Guests can discuss customization options with the tour provider, such as adding extra sites or increasing the time spent at certain locations.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounted rates for students and seniors, typically around 10-15% off the regular price. However, specific discount details may vary, so it’s best to inquire when booking the tour.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Vehicle for the Tour?

You can request a specific type of vehicle for the tour, such as a bus, mini-van, or private car. The tour operator will accommodate your preferences based on the group size and accessibility needs, if possible.

Is There an Opportunity to Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour offers some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your preferences. You can discuss options with the tour operator, such as adding or removing certain stops, to tailor the experience to your interests.

Sum Up

The "From Cusco: Sacred Valley Tour With Pisac and Ollantaytambo" is an exceptional opportunity to take in Peru’s rich cultural heritage. With its affordable price, impressive itinerary, and comfortable transportation, this tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the breathtaking Sacred Valley. Guests will marvel at ancient archaeological sites, vibrant markets, and the picturesque Chinchero village, all while enjoying a delicious buffet lunch and knowledgeable guidance from bilingual experts.

You can check availability for your dates here: