A practical, full-day tour from Cusco that pairs Pisac’s bustling market with the stonework and terraces of Ollantaytambo. Ideal for first-time visitors who want history, culture, and accessible hiking in one day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of your hotel into the thin, cool air of Cusco as a coach hums toward the high valley. The road drops and rises through terraced slopes — agricultural benches that the Incas cut into the hillsides — and the valley opens like a map of stone and river. Your first stop is Pisac: a town where market stalls spill onto the plaza and local vendors haggle under tarps, while the ruins above hang like a series of stone steps holding the hillside.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness; must be able to climb stairs and walk on uneven stone surfaces for short periods.
Wildlife
History
The Sacred Valley supported the Inca state as a fertile agricultural corridor; Ollantaytambo served both as a military stronghold and an agricultural storehouse with precisely cut stonework.
Conservation
Visitor pressure on trails and markets is managed through local regulations; choose licensed guides, avoid single-use plastics, and respect local vendors to support sustainable tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Full day excursion in the Sacred Valley, Pisac and Ollantaytambo from Cuzco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize Before You Go
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco to reduce altitude sickness risk and keep pace comfortable during climbs.
Bring Cash for the Market
Many vendors in Pisac prefer soles; small bills make bargaining and purchases smoother.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Stone steps and uneven paths at Ollantaytambo demand supportive footwear with good grip.
Sun Protection Is Crucial
High-altitude UV is strong—use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses even on cool days.
Sturdy walking shoes
Grip and ankle support for stone steps and uneven paths at Ollantaytambo.
Layered jacket
Thin insulating layer and wind shell handle large temperature swings between morning and afternoon.
Sunscreen & sunglasses
High-altitude UV can burn quickly; protect skin and eyes during the day.
Small daypack
Carry water, passport, cash, and a rain layer while keeping hands free for photos.