Sacred Valley: Visit Pisac, Ollamtaytambo, Chinchero

The Sacred Valley of the Incas beckons travelers with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Venture through this celebrated region and uncover the captivating ruins, bustling markets, and time-honored traditions that have enchanted visitors for centuries. From the archaeological marvels of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to the vibrant textiles of Chinchero, this journey promises to immerse you in the heart of Inca civilization. Discover why this enchanting valley continues to captivate the imagination of all who step foot within its boundaries.

Key Points

• Tour the Pisac archaeological park, known for its Inca citadel, terraces, and opportunity to explore the local artisan market.
• Visit Ollantaytambo, an impressive Inca site featuring massive stone structures and stunning valley views.
• Experience the Chinchero textile tradition, including a live demonstration of dyeing and weaving processes.
• Enjoy a buffet-style Peruvian lunch in Urubamba, providing a midday energy boost.
• The tour is accessible from Cusco, offers daily departures, and is suitable for all ages.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Offering a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this tour showcases the region’s remarkable archaeological sites, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage.

Travelers can expect to visit the iconic Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero destinations, seeing the Inca’s remarkable architectural and engineering feats.

Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to browse local artisan markets, enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch, and learn about the area’s textiles and dyeing processes.

Led by knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Spanish, this 11-hour journey promises a well-rounded experience of the Sacred Valley’s most captivating highlights.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Taray viewpoint, where travelers can admire the stunning vistas of the Vilcanota River and the surrounding valley.

Next, the group explores the Pisac archaeological park, marveling at the Inca citadel, neighborhoods, cemetery, and terraces. Travelers then have time to browse the Pisac artisan market, discovering local crafts and Andean metallurgy.

After a Peruvian buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to Ollantaytambo, where they explore the megalithic structures, religious environments, and tambos.

The final stop is Chinchero, where visitors can see the colonial church built atop an Inca palace and witness traditional textile dyeing processes.

Pisac Archaeological Park

Pisac Archaeological Park captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring Inca citadel, perched atop a scenic mountain ridge.

Explore the meticulously planned neighborhoods, sprawling cemetery, and expansive agricultural terraces that showcase the engineering prowess of the Incas.

Wander through the ruins, marveling at the intricate stonework and strategic layout of this former administrative and religious center.

Beyond the citadel, the Pisac town offers a chance to browse local crafts, from Andean metalwork to vibrant textiles.

This comprehensive visit to the Pisac archaeological site provides a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated society and enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.

Pisac Artisan Market

At the heart of the Sacred Valley lies the vibrant Pisac Artisan Market, where visitors can enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of the Andes.

From handwoven textiles and intricate silver jewelry to colorful pottery and carved wooden figurines, the market offers a captivating array of traditional Andean crafts.

Haggling with the friendly local vendors is all part of the experience, as they showcase their unique, one-of-a-kind creations.

The market’s lively atmosphere, filled with the sounds of Quechua music and the scents of regional cuisine, is a true highlight of any visit to the Sacred Valley.

• Handwoven textiles
• Intricate silver jewelry
• Colorful pottery
• Carved wooden figurines

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Lunch in Urubamba

After exploring the vibrant Pisac Artisan Market, the tour takes visitors to Urubamba for a buffet-style lunch featuring a diverse array of Peruvian cuisine.

The lunch spread includes a selection of traditional dishes, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of the region. From hearty stews and roasted meats to colorful salads and vibrant vegetable dishes, the buffet caters to various dietary preferences.

This midday meal provides a much-needed respite and energy boost before continuing the journey through the Sacred Valley’s captivating archaeological sites and cultural experiences.

Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park

The Ollantaytambo archaeological park, a testament to the ingenuity and architectural prowess of the Incas, awaits visitors as the next captivating stop on the Sacred Valley tour.

This historic site boasts:

• Magnificent megalithic structures, carved from massive stone blocks
• Intricate religious environments, where the Incas worshipped
• Impressive tambos, or inns, that housed travelers on the Inca Trail
• Stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains

Tourists can explore these remarkable ruins, seeing the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization.

The Ollantaytambo experience adds depth and wonder to the Sacred Valley adventure.

Chinchero Textile Experience

Leaving the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo behind, visitors now head to Chinchero, where they’ll enjoy the vibrant world of traditional Andean textiles.

At the Chinchero colonial church, built atop an Inca palace, they’ll witness a live demonstration of the intricate dyeing and weaving processes that have been passed down for generations.

Skilled artisans showcase the use of natural dyes and traditional techniques, allowing visitors to appreciate the time and care required to create these beautiful textiles.

After the demonstration, travelers can browse the local market, purchasing unique handmade souvenirs to take home and share the story of Chinchero’s rich textile heritage.

Practical Information

Visitors can easily access the Sacred Valley from Cusco, located just 15 kilometers away. The tour operates daily and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Live English and Spanish-speaking guides accompany guests throughout the journey.

The tour includes:

• Pickup from hotel
• Transportation in tourist vehicles
• Buffet lunch in Urubamba
• Entrance fees for all sites
• Children under 10 free

Travelers should bring essentials like a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

The tour has minimal physical demands, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour, but comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Layers may be helpful as the weather can vary throughout the day.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks. However, a delicious Peruvian buffet lunch is provided during the tour, so bringing additional snacks may not be necessary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children under 10 can enter the tourist sites for free, making it suitable for families. The tour caters to travelers of all ages, from couples to solo adventurers.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour allows some customization to individual preferences, but the core itinerary featuring Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero cannot be significantly altered. Travelers can discuss any special requests with the tour operator prior to booking.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide Wi-Fi access during the excursion. However, travelers can access the internet at their hotels or on their personal devices when they’re not actively engaged in the tour activities.

Recap

Explore the sacred valley’s captivating ruins, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Discover the impressive Pisac archaeological site, browse handmade crafts at the Pisac artisan market, and learn about the textile traditions of Chinchero. This comprehensive tour offers a memorable journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes and enduring legacies of the Inca Empire.

You can check if your dates are available here: