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The Super Sacred Valley of the Incas is a unique experience that will take you to discover the most impressive treasures of the region in a single day. The tour begins between 6:30 and 7:00 AM with pick-up from your hotel, then heads to the charming Chinchero Textile Interpretation Center, where you can discover the ancestral weaving techniques of the local communities.
As you progress through the itinerary, you will visit the fascinating Moray Agricultural Research Center and the impressive Maras Salt Mines, a natural wonder managed by the community. Afterwards, you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba at the renowned Casona Restaurante Don Ángel, where the local cuisine will delight your senses.
In the afternoon, two archaeological gems await you: the majestic Ollantaytambo fortress and the enigmatic Pisac site, known for its terraces and spectacular views. The day concludes with a return to the city of Cusco between 6:30 and 7:00 PM, after a day full of history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Itinerary Summary
We will pick you up in the morning from your hotel or accommodation in the city of Cusco to start our adventure towards the northern region.
The first place of visit will be Chinchero, where we will visit a local community to explore the Textile Interpretation Center. We will also conduct a guided tour of the Moray Archaeological Site, considered the Inca Agricultural Laboratory. Subsequently, we will pass through the town of Maras and visit the Salt Mines.
We will head to the town of Urubamba, where we will have a buffet lunch featuring our Peruvian gastronomy.
At midday, we will continue our journey to the restaurant in Urubamba, where we will savor a delicious and nutritious Novo Andean buffet lunch, showcasing exquisite Cusqueña cuisine.
Continuing with our tour, we will proceed to the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, which during the Inca era was a tambo or resting place, and also the starting point to reach the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. We will explore its most important stone structures, such as the large stone terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and the Princess Baths fountain of the era.
Returning to Cusco, we will head to the town of Pisac. Upon arriving in the town, we will ascend to the Pisac Archaeological Site, which is built high on a mountain.
Upon returning to the town of Pisac, we will visit its picturesque artisan market, where local residents, experts in working with minerals, will offer their products for purchase.
We will conclude the excursion by returning to the city of Cusco, with the tour ending at the Plaza de San Francisco around 6:30 or 7:00 PM approximately.
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Cusco Tourist Ticket BTC Cusco The Cusco Tourist Ticket is the permit required to visit the various tourist attractions in the city of Cusco, Southern Valley, Sacred Valley of the Incas, and local museums. Managed by the Cusco Integrated Tourist Cultural Services Committee (COSITUC), it can be purchased once you are in the city of Cusco or at the beginning of your excursion. It includes options for the Comprehensive or Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket.
“Illapa Peru Trip” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.
Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.
We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.
We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.
At “Illapa Peru Trip,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.
To ensure a more personalized experience at “Illapa Peru Trip,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.
Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
Hiking with “Illapa Peru Trip” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.
We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!
Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Illapa Peru Trip” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:
“Illapa Peru Trip” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.
We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.
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Travel Guide: One-Day Sacred Valley Tour The one-day tour of the Sacred Valley is one of the best ways to explore the impressive history and culture of the Incas, as well as to enjoy majestic landscapes. To help you plan your visit, we provide a guide with key recommendations on climate, attire, physical preparation, and more.
Climate in the Sacred Valley
Altitude and Climatic Conditions The Sacred Valley has an average altitude between 2,800 and 3,000 meters above sea level, making its climate more temperate than Cusco’s. This makes it a comfortable option for those seeking a day of exploration without extreme temperatures.
Dry Season (April to October) During these months, days are sunny and nights are cool. Daytime temperatures usually range between 20 and 25°C, but nights can drop to 5°C, so it is important to wear warm clothing for the early morning and evening hours.
Rainy Season (November to March) In the rainy season, temperatures are similar, but with frequent rains, especially in the afternoons. It is recommended to carry a lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat to stay dry.
How to Dress for a One-Day Tour
Layered Clothing The climate in the Sacred Valley can change quickly, so it is best to dress in layers. Start with a lightweight t-shirt and add a sweater or jacket for when temperatures drop. A waterproof jacket is also useful if traveling during the rainy season.
Appropriate Footwear Many archaeological sites, such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo, have uneven paths and stairs. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction to avoid slips or falls.
Sun Protection Even if you don’t feel very hot, the high-altitude sun can be very strong. Use sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself during the day.
Tips for a Day in the Sacred Valley
Early Arrival Tours usually start between 6:30 and 7:00 AM. It is advisable to be ready on time to make the most of the day and enjoy the sites with fewer crowds.
Stay Hydrated The altitude and dry climate can dehydrate you quickly, so make sure to bring enough water and drink regularly throughout the day.
Cash for Souvenirs In local markets, such as those in Pisac or Chinchero, vendors usually accept only cash. Bring small bills in Peruvian soles to buy souvenirs or local snacks.
Restrictions and Precautions
Entrance Tickets To access most of the archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, you will need the Cusco Tourist Ticket. This pass allows entry to multiple sites in a single day and is recommended to be purchased before the tour to save time.
Care in Archaeological Zones Respect the signs and restrictions at archaeological sites. Do not climb or lean on Inca structures, as they are fragile and are being preserved for future generations.
Cultural Respect In local communities, especially in Chinchero and Maras, respect customs and traditions. If you want to take photos of locals or during any cultural activity, make sure to ask permission first.
Physical Preparation for the Sacred Valley
Fitness Level The one-day Sacred Valley tour includes walking and climbing stairs, especially in places like Ollantaytambo. Excellent physical condition is not required, but being moderately active will help you enjoy the tour more.
Acclimatization to Altitude If you are coming from a lower altitude area, it is recommended to spend at least one or two days in Cusco to acclimate before the tour. This will help prevent altitude sickness and allow your body to adjust.
Pre-Tour Exercises Stretch your legs and back before starting the day, as the terrain can be rugged and the walks long. This will help avoid soreness or discomfort.
Health Recommendations
Prevention of Altitude Sickness To avoid symptoms like headaches, nausea, or fatigue due to altitude, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol, and move slowly, especially during the first few days in Cusco.
Basic First Aid Kit It is advisable to carry a small first aid kit with pain relievers, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medications. It’s also a good idea to bring altitude sickness pills in case you need them during the tour.
Safe Eating During the tour, especially at buffet lunches, choose fresh and well-cooked foods to avoid stomach issues. Use bottled water for drinking and, if possible, avoid ice in beverages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the one-day Sacred Valley tour include? The tour includes transportation, a tour guide, entrance fees to the main archaeological sites, and generally a buffet lunch in Urubamba.
What are the main places visited in the Sacred Valley tour? Places such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and sometimes additional sites like Moray and the Maras Salt Mines are visited, depending on the type of tour.
What time does the tour start and end? The tour generally starts between 6:30 and 7:00 AM and concludes between 6:30 and 7:00 PM with a return to Cusco.
Is it necessary to be in good physical condition for the tour? No, it is not necessary to be in excellent physical condition, but it is recommended to be in good shape to walk through the archaeological sites, which may include climbs and stairs.
What type of clothing should I wear? It is recommended to wear layered clothing due to temperature changes throughout the day, along with comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
What should I bring to the tour? It is advisable to bring water, sunscreen, a raincoat if it’s the rainy season, and cash for purchases at local markets.
Is it recommended to do this tour if I suffer from altitude sickness? If you suffer from altitude sickness, it is better to spend at least one or two days in Cusco to acclimate before taking the tour. Bring medications or remedies like coca tea.
Are there bathrooms available at the archaeological sites? Yes, there are bathrooms available at most archaeological sites, but sometimes a small fee in Peruvian soles is required to use them.
Can I buy crafts during the tour? Yes, in places like Pisac and Chinchero, you will find local markets where you can buy textiles, jewelry, and other traditional crafts.
What is the climate like in the Sacred Valley? The climate is temperate during the day, with temperatures ranging between 20-25°C, but nights can be cold, especially during the dry season.
What is the best time to visit the Sacred Valley? The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, as days are sunny and there is less rain.
Do I need a tourist ticket to enter the archaeological sites? Yes, the Cusco Tourist Ticket is required, which includes entry to various archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley.
Is it possible to do the tour on my own without a guide? Yes, it is possible to do it on your own, but having a tour guide will provide a better understanding of the history and culture of the sites you visit.
What is the lunch like during the tour? Lunch is generally a buffet and is offered in Urubamba, with options that include traditional Peruvian dishes and international options.
Is it recommended to book the tour in advance? Yes, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season (June to September), to secure your spot on the tour.
General Recommendations for the Super Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour + Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Mines
This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the main historical sites without dedicating too much time. To make the most of the experience, it is advisable to book in advance and carry cash for entrance fees to archaeological sites and purchases at local markets.
Best Time to Take the Tour The tour can be done at any time of the year, although the dry season, from April to October, is the most recommended. During these months, the weather is more stable, and the panoramic views are impressive with clear skies. In the rainy season, from November to March, trails may be more slippery, so it’s important to bring appropriate gear.
Climate in the Sacred Valley The Sacred Valley has a temperate climate year-round, although mornings and nights can be cold, especially during the dry season. Daytime temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, but during the rainy season, there may be intermittent rainfall. It is useful to be prepared for weather changes, as conditions can vary quickly.
Useful Tips for the Tour Bring a camera to capture the valley’s landscapes and the impressive archaeological sites. Don’t forget to charge your electronic devices before leaving. Additionally, it is recommended to carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour, as the air can be dry in the region.
How to Dress for the Sacred Valley Tour Due to the variability of the climate in the Sacred Valley, it is recommended to dress in layers. Wear comfortable clothing for walking, such as lightweight and breathable pants, and carry a jacket or windbreaker for cold mornings or if the weather changes. Don’t forget to use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun, which can be intense even on cool days.
Appropriate Footwear The terrain in some archaeological sites, like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, can be uneven and steep, so it is recommended to wear trekking shoes or sports sneakers with good grip. This will allow you to walk comfortably and safely without slipping.
Tour Restrictions At the archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley, it is important to follow local regulations to protect the heritage. Climbing Inca structures is not allowed, and in some places, the use of drones without special permits is prohibited. Additionally, it is essential not to leave trash or disturb the natural surroundings.
Conduct Rules at Archaeological Sites Respect sacred spaces and always follow the guide’s instructions. Avoid touching the structures to preserve their integrity. At the Pisac artisan market, it is important to negotiate respectfully and support local artisans by purchasing authentic, handmade products.
Physical Preparation for the Sacred Valley Tour The tour does not require intensive physical preparation, but it is advisable to be ready to walk on uneven terrain. The walks are not long or difficult, but some climbs may be steep. If you have any mobility issues, it is best to consult with the tour operator in advance to adapt the route according to your needs.
Short and Accessible Walks The tour around the archaeological sites is not physically demanding, but having a basic level of fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the experience. Most walks are short and accessible for people of all ages.
Health Recommendations for the Sacred Valley Tour Although the Sacred Valley is at a lower altitude than Cusco, it is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. If you are sensitive to altitude, consider taking precautions before the trip, such as acclimating for a few days in Cusco. Bring sunscreen, especially for daytime walks, and ensure you wear clothing that protects you from UV rays.
Altitude and Symptoms of Altitude Sickness Although the altitude in the Sacred Valley is lower than in Cusco, some people may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as fatigue or dizziness. Stay hydrated, walk at a steady pace, and avoid excessive physical exertion.
Recommended Luggage for the Sacred Valley Tour Choose to carry a lightweight backpack with essentials: water, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and some cash for purchases. It is not necessary to bring a lot of luggage, as the tour is half-day. Remember that the Cusco Tourist Ticket is required to enter the archaeological sites, so keep it with you.
What Not to Forget in Your Backpack In addition to water and sunscreen, it is recommended to bring a light snack to maintain your energy during the tour. If you plan to buy products at local markets, carry a reusable bag to avoid using plastic.
Environmental Responsibility During the Tour The Sacred Valley is a naturally and culturally significant environment, so it is important to be a responsible traveler. Do not leave trash, respect marked paths, and avoid damaging archaeological structures. When purchasing at local markets, choose handmade products by artisans, thereby supporting the local economy.
Conservation of Historical Sites Always follow the guide’s instructions and respect local regulations to ensure the preservation of archaeological sites. Enjoy the surroundings responsibly, making sure to leave only footprints and take only memories.
