What to do in the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. A trip to Cusco and Peru would not be complete without a trip to the Sacred Valley. Whether you take a day trip or a few days there is plenty to see and do. Here are out suggestions for the top things to do in the Sacred Valley.

1. Explore Pisac

• Pisac Ruins: Impressive Inca ruins with agricultural terraces, temples, and stunning views. Learn about the ruins from your experienced local guide, here the stories of the Inca and the other cultures that inhabited the area.
• Pisac Market: A colorful artisan market perfect for souvenirs like textiles and jewelry. There is no better place in Peru to shop for local craft and treasures for gifts or keepsakes to remember your trip to Pisac Market.

2. Visit Ollantaytambo

• Ollantaytambo Fortress: Massive ruins with terraces, temples, and a great spot to learn about Inca military strategy. Be blown away by this impressive ancient site and the history. The views from the fortress are not only impressive but will take your breath away.
• Old Town: Still inhabited and built on original Inca foundations, it's like stepping back in time. This wonderful town is still inhabited, feel the presence of the Inca and see how a working Inca town still remains the same as in Inca times.

3. See the Salt Mines of Maras

• Thousands of salt pans carved into the mountainside, used since Inca times. Super photogenic and interesting to walk around. See how the local people still work the pans today and make a living for their families.

4. Marvel at the Moray Agricultural Terraces

• Circular terraces believed to be an Inca agricultural experiment station for testing crops at different altitudes. So many different stories as to the purpose of this site. Learn from your guide the many theories.

5. Adventure Activities

• Zip-lining, whitewater rafting, ATV tours, and paragliding are all available in the valley, especially around Urubamba. The Sacred Valley of the Incas is packed with adventures for you to experience. Surrounded by the spectacular Andes Mountains ranges you will not be disappointed.

6. Visit Chinchero

• Known for its well-preserved Inca terraces, a beautiful colonial church, and vibrant weaving demonstrations. This ancient valley town has much to offer and a visit is a must for any tour to the Sacred Valley.

7. Enjoy the Scenery

• The valley is dotted with charming villages, rivers, and dramatic mountain landscapes—perfect for slow travel, hikes, and photography. A few days in the Valley will give you a some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in Peru or South America.  The fabulous Andes Mountain range and the culture of the area, will be a highlight of your tour.

8. Taste Local Cuisine

• Try traditional dishes like cuy (guinea pig), pachamanca (meat and veggies cooked underground), or chicha (fermented corn drink). Peru is known world wide for its cuisine and the Sacred Valley will not disappoint. There is a wide range of restaurants to choose from, with local ingredients that make the food experience exceptional.

9. Where to Stay?

The Sacred Valley of the Incas has a wide range of accommodation to choose from, you can enjoy backpacker style accommodation or mid range hotels that offer all the comforts. There are also many luxury properties that will astound you with their beauty and views. Many offer fine dining experiences that are matched to any restaurants in both Lima and Cusco.

10. How to get there?

Most group tour packages will offer a tour to the Sacred Valley included in the package. Some will be for one day and other will be for two days. Travelista offers packages with 3 days to explore the magic of this wonderful place. If you are not on a tour you can get to the main cities in the Sacred Valley from Cusco by local transport for a few soles.

Not to be missed while in the Cusco area the Sacred Valley is just a great place to spend some time. You will understand why there are so many expats that live in the area once you have experienced it for yourself.  Take the time to explore the Sacred Valley of the Inca, a place that will live in your memory forever. Contact Travelista for more information.

Date: 2025-05-01