Sacred Valley: Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero

The Sacred Valley of Peru offers a captivating journey through the heart of the Inca Empire. Visitors can explore the vibrant markets and ancient ruins of Pisaq, marvel at the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, and witness traditional Quechua weaving in Chinchero. This tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and artistry that have endured for centuries. With a buffet lunch and opportunities to interact with local artisans, the Sacred Valley beckons travelers to uncover its timeless allure.

Key Points

• The Sacred Valley tour includes visits to the ancient Inca ruins of Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, known for their cultural and historical significance.
• The tour offers a buffet lunch and provides access to archaeological centers and museums through a partial or general tourist ticket.
• The tour is not recommended for individuals with certain physical limitations or medical conditions, such as heart problems, mobility issues, or motion sickness.
• Visitors can experience Inca engineering and architecture, traditional Quechua weaving, and interact with local artisans during the tour.
• The tour includes transportation from Cusco, a bilingual guide, and operates year-round with advance reservations required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley tour covers the picturesque towns of Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire.

Priced from $28 per person, the day-long excursion includes hotel pickup in central Cusco and an English-speaking guide.

Travelers can explore ancient ruins, learn about traditional weaving, and savor a buffet lunch.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

However, it’s not suitable for those with certain physical limitations or medical conditions.

Itinerary

Pickup for the tour occurs between 7:00-8:00 a.m., after which the first stop is Pisac, a picturesque town known for its lively market and Inca ruins.

Travelers will then enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba before visiting the archaeological center of Ollantaytambo, a magnificent Inca fortress.

The final stop is Chinchero, a traditional Andean village renowned for its colorful textiles and Inca ruins.

The tour ends at Plaza de Regocijo in Cusco, though an optional return to Ollantaytambo is available for those wishing to take the train to Machu Picchu Town.

Inclusions and Tickets

The tour includes transportation to and from Cusco, a bilingual guide, and a buffet lunch. Visitors can choose between a partial tourist ticket costing 70 soles or a general ticket costing 130 soles valid for 10 days with access to 16 sites. The table below outlines the differences:

| Ticket Type | Cost (Soles) | Validity | Sites Included |

| — | — | — | — |

| Partial | 70 | – | Selected sites |

| General | 130 | 10 days | 16 sites (e.g. City Tour, Sacred Valley, museums) |

The tickets provide access to the archaeological centers and museums visited during the tour.

Important Information

Although the tour includes a variety of activities, it may not be suitable for everyone.

Individuals with certain health conditions, mobility limitations, or sensitivities should exercise caution. The tour isn’t recommended for those with heart problems, wheelchair users, those afraid of heights, the visually impaired, the elderly, or those prone to motion sickness.

Participants should bring essential items like a passport, hat, camera, water, and cash. Prohibited items include pets, weapons, alcohol, and baby carriages.

Advance reservations are required, and the tour operates year-round in the ideal climate of the Sacred Valley.

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Visiting Pisac

After being picked up from their Cusco hotel, participants make their way to the first stop of the tour – the ancient Inka town of Pisac.

At Pisac, visitors can:

• Explore the impressive Inka ruins, including an expansive agricultural terrace system and the semi-circular Inka temple.

• Browse the famous artisan market, known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.

• Hike along the Pisac Trail, offering stunning views of the Sacred Valley.

Following the visit, the group will continue on to the next destination, Ollantaytambo, to learn more about the once-thriving Inka Empire.

Exploring Ollantaytambo

From Pisac, the tour then journeys to the remarkable Inka fortress of Ollantaytambo.

Sprawling along the Urubamba River, this mountain-top citadel offers a glimpse into the Inka’s impressive engineering feats. Visitors will explore the massive stone terraces, elaborate waterways, and towering ruins that reveal the strategic planning of the Inka.

The tour guide shares insights into the site’s history as an important administrative and military center.

After lunch in Urubamba, the group continues to the colonial village of Chinchero, known for its colorful traditional markets and Inka-era ruins.

Discovering Chinchero

The tour then continues to the picturesque town of Chinchero, nestled high in the Andes.

Visitors will:

• Marvel at the colonial church with its intricate Andean baroque architecture

• Observe traditional Quechua weaving demonstrations and learn about the vibrant textile heritage

• Browse the lively Sunday market, a hub for local artisans selling hand-crafted products

Chinchero offers a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the region.

The stop here provides an authentic experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the community’s way of life and appreciate the enduring legacy of the Inka civilization.

Cultural Immersion

Throughout the tour, travelers have the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley.

At Pisac, they’ll explore the ancient Inca ruins and browse the lively market, interacting with local artisans and learning about traditional weaving techniques.

In Ollantaytambo, they’ll discover the impressive archaeological site and gain insights into Inca engineering and architecture.

The tour culminates in Chinchero, where visitors can witness a live demonstration of the intricate textile-making process and purchase handcrafted souvenirs directly from the weavers.

This culture provides a deeper appreciation for Peruvian traditions.

Things To Know

Is It Possible to Visit Machu Picchu on This Tour?

No, this tour does not include a visit to Machu Picchu. However, it offers an optional return to Ollantaytambo where visitors can take a train to Machu Picchu Town to explore the famous Inca ruins.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Visas for This Tour?

No special permits or visas are required for this tour. The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and lunch. Visitors only need to bring a valid passport or ID to participate.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to fit your preferences. You can discuss any changes with the tour operator when booking, such as spending more time at specific sites or adjusting the lunch location.

How Much Time Should I Allocate for Each Stop in the Sacred Valley?

Allocating time for each stop in the Sacred Valley depends on your interests, but generally 1-2 hours at Pisaq, 1-2 hours at Ollantaytambo, and 1 hour at Chinchero should provide a good overview of the highlights.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Cameras or Lenses I Can Bring?

There are no restrictions on the types of cameras or lenses you can bring. The tour welcomes all types of photography equipment, so feel free to bring your preferred camera gear to capture the scenic sights during the Sacred Valley excursion.

Sum Up

The Sacred Valley tour offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and vibrant traditions of the Inca civilization. From the ancient ruins of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo to the traditional weaving techniques in Chinchero, this tour provides a captivating glimpse into Peru’s heritage. With a buffet lunch and opportunities to interact with local artisans, the Sacred Valley tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic and enriching journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: