Spend a full day tracing Inca engineering and living Andean culture from Pisac’s mountaintop ruins to Ollantaytambo’s stone streets and Chinchero’s high terraces. This guided loop pairs archaeological visits with a lively artisan market and a lunch in the valley.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices across terraced slopes as the van eases away from Cusco and the Sacred Valley opens like a highland theater. Travelers arrive at the Taray lookout, where the Urubamba River carves the valley and air is thin enough to make each breath feel earned. The day moves from Pisac’s 15th‑century ruins—its aqueducts, military terraces and stone temples perched above a bustling artisan market—to the cobbled streets and Inca canchas of Ollantaytambo, and finishes at Chinchero’s high terraces and colonial church.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness for short site walks and stair climbs; no technical endurance required but altitude increases effort.
Wildlife
History
The Sacred Valley was a vital agricultural and spiritual heartland for the Inca, with sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo expanded under Pachacutec and later layered by colonial architecture in towns like Chinchero.
Conservation
Local communities balance tourism with traditional agriculture; visitors can support sustainability by buying directly from artisans and following site rules to minimize erosion and wear.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day Sacred Valley Guided Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before the tour
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco at lower exertion to reduce altitude sickness risk—hydrate and avoid heavy meals the night before.
Bring small bills
Markets and small vendors often accept only cash; bring soles in small denominations for souvenirs and tips.
Wear supportive shoes
Inca sites have uneven stone steps and short, steep sections—closed-toe shoes with good grip help prevent slips.
Layer for variable weather
Sunny valley mornings can turn windy and cool at higher vantage points—pack a lightweight shell and a warm midlayer.
Daypack
Holds water, layers, camera, and purchases from markets.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction and ankle support on uneven Inca stones and cobbles.
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
High altitude UV exposure is strong even on cool days—protect skin and eyes.
Reusable water bottle with filter or tablets
Hydration is critical at altitude; having a capped bottle reduces waste and allows refills.