The Full Day Sacred Valley Guided Tour offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and Inca legacy of Peru. From the breathtaking vistas at Taray lookout to the impressive archaeological wonders of Pisac and Chinchero, this comprehensive tour promises an eye-opening exploration of the region’s diverse history and traditions. Throughout the journey, guests will encounter vibrant artisan markets, savor delectable local cuisine, and gain a deeper understanding of the enduring influence of indigenous and colonial forces on this remarkable part of the world. With an experienced guide leading the way, travelers embark on a captivating adventure that leaves them eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- This full-day tour showcases the cultural heritage and Inca legacy of the Sacred Valley, with stops at Pisac archaeological site, Pisac market, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, bottled water, entrance tickets, and a traditional Peruvian lunch, providing a comprehensive and personalized experience.
- Highlights of the tour include panoramic views from the Taray lookout, exploring the engineering marvels of Pisac, and discovering the colonial and archaeological wonders of Chinchero.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible but service animals are allowed, and free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the tour.
- The tour starts at 7:30 AM with pickup from multiple locations in Cusco, ensuring a well-rested start to the day.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Cusco
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary at a Glance
- Tour Inclusions and Logistics
- Meeting and Pickup Details
- Exploring Pisac Ruins
- Discovering Pisac Market
- Lunch in Ollantaytambo
- Visiting Chinchero
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
- Is It Possible to Visit Additional Sites Beyond the Planned Itinerary?
- What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
- Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Guided Tours in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The full-day Sacred Valley tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and Inca legacy.
The tour begins with a 7:30 AM hotel pickup, allowing travelers to start their journey well-rested. The first stop is the Taray lookout, which provides stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Next, the tour explores the Pisac archaeological site, dating back to the 15th century at an altitude of 3,400 meters. After, guests discover the vibrant Pisac market, renowned for its artisan crafts.
Lunch is served in Ollantaytambo, followed by an exploration of the town’s Inca landmarks.
The tour concludes in Chinchero, visiting its archaeological complex and colonial church.
Loving the local insights? Here are more guided experiences we recommend in Cusco
Itinerary at a Glance
A comprehensive Sacred Valley tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s rich Inca legacy.
The full-day itinerary begins with a scenic drive to the Taray lookout, offering panoramic views of the stunning Sacred Valley.
Next, explorers explore the well-preserved Pisac archaeological site, marveling at its agricultural terraces, aqueducts, and ancient residential quarters.
The tour then shifts to the lively Pisac artisan market, where travelers can browse a vibrant collection of alpaca textiles, musical instruments, and handcrafted souvenirs.
After a delightful lunch in Ollantaytambo, the experience concludes in Chinchero, where visitors uncover the region’s colonial heritage at the archaeological complex and historic church.
Tour Inclusions and Logistics
This full-day Sacred Valley tour includes bottled water, all necessary entrance/admission tickets, and a delectable lunch.
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing flexibility.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it welcomes service animals. Pickup points are available, with timing based on the location of your hotel.
The tour kicks off at 7:30 AM, ensuring you make the most of the day in this stunning region.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Pickup points are available for this Sacred Valley tour, with timing based on the location of your hotel. The tour starts promptly at 7:30 AM, so it’s important to be ready at your designated pickup spot.
Some key details about the meeting and pickup logistics:
- Multiple pickup locations throughout Cusco and the surrounding areas to accommodate various hotel locations
- Pickup times may vary slightly depending on the proximity of your hotel to the starting point
- Guests are encouraged to be ready 10-15 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time to ensure a smooth and timely departure
Exploring Pisac Ruins
The Sacred Valley tour makes its first stop at the impressive Pisac archaeological site, located at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,150 feet). Visitors explore the site’s remarkable Inca architecture, including agricultural terraces, aqueducts, military structures, residential quarters, and religious precincts. The site offers a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced urban planning and engineering capabilities.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Terraces | Intricate system of stepped terraces used for crop cultivation |
| Aqueducts | Sophisticated water management system |
| Military Structures | Defensive walls and towers to protect the site |
| Residential Quarters | Well-preserved Inca homes and living spaces |
| Religious Precincts | Sacred temples and ceremonial areas |
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Cusco
Discovering Pisac Market
After exploring the impressive Inca ruins at Pisac, the Sacred Valley tour continues to the vibrant Pisac market.
This bustling artisan marketplace is renowned for its diverse selection of traditional Peruvian crafts, including:
- Vibrant alpaca sweaters, shawls, and accessories
- Handcrafted musical instruments like pan pipes and drums
- Intricate pottery, ceramics, and paintings featuring Andean motifs
Travelers can enjoy the lively atmosphere, bargaining with friendly local vendors and discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.
The Pisac market is a highlight of the Sacred Valley tour, offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant artisan community.
Lunch in Ollantaytambo
Travelers then embark on a scenic drive to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, where they enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch.
This charming town is renowned for its well-preserved Inca urban planning and the imposing Inca ruins overlooking the valley.
During the lunch break, visitors have the opportunity to savor an authentic meal featuring Andean staples like potatoes, quinoa, and roasted meats.
The lunch venue offers a serene setting, allowing travelers to soak in the town’s rich history and cultural ambiance.
After the satisfying meal, the tour continues with an exploration of Ollantaytambo’s Inca archaeological site, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s remarkable heritage.
Visiting Chinchero
Next, the tour concludes in the picturesque town of Chinchero. Located at an impressive altitude of 3,762 meters (12,336 feet), Chinchero boasts an impressive archaeological complex and a stunning colonial church.
Visitors can explore:
-
The Chinchero Archaeological Complex, which features impressive Inca terraces, ruins, and aqueducts that provide a glimpse into the region’s past.
-
The Chinchero Church, a colonial structure built in the 17th century that blends indigenous and Spanish architectural styles.
-
Traditional weaving demonstrations, where local artisans showcase the intricate techniques used to create the vibrant textiles Chinchero is renowned for.
After a full day of immersing in the Sacred Valley’s rich history and culture, the tour concludes, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for this captivating region of Peru.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, the tour operator may be able to customize the itinerary to fit your interests. It’s best to discuss your preferences with them directly to see if adjustments can be made to the standard Sacred Valley tour.
Is It Possible to Visit Additional Sites Beyond the Planned Itinerary?
Yes, it’s possible to visit additional sites beyond the planned itinerary. The tour operator can customize the tour to accommodate traveler interests, though extra fees may apply for unplanned stops or extended duration.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Travelers should wear sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and layers suitable for the varying temperatures and weather conditions in the Sacred Valley region.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Absolutely, participants can take photographs throughout the tour. The guides encourage capturing the beautiful scenery, vibrant markets, and historic sites visited. Just be mindful of any restricted areas and follow the guide’s instructions.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, including families. However, the itinerary may not be wheelchair-accessible, so guests with mobility issues should check with the tour provider.
Full Day Sacred Valley Guided Tour
“Carlos was absolutely amazing!
Take-away points:
Organized and efficient.
Great recommendations for local spots.
Very knowledgeable about Peruvian …”
Recap
The Full Day Sacred Valley Guided Tour provides an immersive journey through Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can expect a well-paced itinerary, breathtaking Inca ruins, a vibrant artisan market, and a delectable lunch, culminating in the exploration of Chinchero’s blend of indigenous and colonial history. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to deeply connect with the essence of the Sacred Valley.
