A full-day private hike from Cusco into the Sacred Valley that pairs Inca terraces and colonial art with highland walking. Expect 8 km of trails, a village textile demonstration, and panoramic valley views at nearly 3,700 m.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Cusco before sunup and climb into the high plain where the air is thin and the light is clean. By the time the van drops you at Chinchero you can already see the stepped shoulders of terraces cutting across the hills and a compact colonial church sitting on top of massive Inca stonework. The morning is equal parts landscape and living culture: textile demonstrations, shepherds guiding their llamas, and a view that stretches down the Sacred Valley.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Moderately fit — able to hike 8 km on uneven ground with some elevation change at high altitude
Wildlife
History
Chinchero preserves Inca terraces and a colonial church built atop Inca masonry; the chapel contains notable works from the Cusco School of colonial painting.
Conservation
Stick to established paths, avoid feeding wildlife, and buy textiles directly from local artisans—tourism revenue and visitor behavior support conservation of terraces and cultural sites.
Reserve your spot on the Full-Day Private Hike to Chinchero, Urquillos and Huayllabamba today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before hiking
Spend at least 48 hours in Cusco (3,400 m) before this trek to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC)
You’ll need the BTC to enter Chinchero’s heritage sites—purchase in advance to avoid delays.
Sun protection is critical
High-altitude UV is strong; bring SPF, lip balm, sunglasses and a brimmed hat.
Sturdy footwear for uneven terrain
Expect stone steps and farm tracks—trail runners or hiking boots with good grip are recommended.
Layered clothing (fleece + shell)
Temperature swings are large—layers let you adapt from cold mornings to sunlit afternoons.
Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners
Provides traction on stone steps, terraces and muddy farm tracks.
Water bottle (1.5–2 L) and electrolyte mix
Hydration is crucial at altitude; bring extra fluids for the day.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen)
UV exposure is intense above 3,000 m—protect skin and eyes throughout the hike.