Exploring Peru’s Sacred Valley: top sites, activities and tips

There’s a particular moment during any visit to the Sacred Valley in Peru, where time seems to stand still. Whether it be as you perch on the edge of an ancient Inca terrace or as the light of the afternoon sun spills over endless patchwork fields, it’s pure magic.

Its rolling foothills and formidable mountain peaks offer a slice of authentic Andean life. The valley is an ideal precursor to Machu Picchu, boasting charming colonial towns and countless archaeological sites.

With many reasons to visit, the Sacred Valley isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you leave. And with this insider’s guide by your side, you’re set for the trip of a lifetime.

A quick introduction to the Inca Empire and the Sacred Valley

Rising to power during the 14th century, the Inca Empire expanded across South America and ancient Peru into Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia. With Cusco as the capital city, home to the Inca emperor, the surrounding fertile valley was the breadbasket for much of the Inca civilization at the time.

The valley was significant for the Inca Empire agriculturally, economically, and spiritually. While it was a major food source for highland cities, it was also woven into Inca culture and beliefs, with many sacred Inca sites dotted around the landscape.

Considering all of this, the valley was known as and considered “sacred”, eventually leading to its modern-day name. Today, the Valley of the Incas is a popular tourist destination that brings Inca heritage to life.

The Sacred Valley, Peru: essential information

Where is the Sacred Valley in Peru?

Also known as the Urubamba Valley, El Valle Sagrado (or the Sacred Valley) is located in the Peruvian Andes, almost 10 miles northeast of Cusco. Near Machu Picchu, it runs along the Urubamba River, also known as the Vilcanota River.

While Cusco reaches an altitude of 11,200ft, the Sacred Valley is at a lower altitude, peaking at 9,800ft and reaching its lowest point at 6,730ft. Remember to take the necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness.

The best time to go to the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley has a subtropical highland climate and two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Typically, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from April to October.

The weather remains mostly dry, and you can expect sunny days and cooler nights. While temperatures range between 72-45 degrees Fahrenheit (7-22 degrees Celsius), thanks to Peru’s proximity to the equator, Peruvian winters are fairly temperate.

Must-visit Inca sites in the Sacred Valley

Located in the Andes Mountains, the Urubamba Valley was the Inca heartland, and the region’s history and culture are still thriving today. These are some of the most important places to visit in the Sacred Valley.

Pisac

Sprawled beneath a hilltop Inca fortress, Pisac is a bustling village with plenty of charm. While its popularity has increased in recent years, Pisac maintains its authenticity and makes an ideal stopping point when exploring the valley’s winding roads. The village’s main highlight is the Inca citadel that watches over it.

It’s perched on a mountainside, and a dirt road snakes from Pisac’s main square to the site’s entrance. Taxis are on offer, charging around $10 each way, but walking is an option for the more adventurous. Reaching the summit is well worth the effort – the breathtaking landscape and the ruined Sun Temple are a delightful taster of what you’ll find at Machu Picchu!

If possible, while exploring the Sacred Valley in Peru, try to time your visit to Pisac with the Sunday market. This weekly event sees villagers travel from miles around to barter and sell their wares. It’s an unforgettable insight into rural Peruvian life that boasts everything from handicrafts to homeware.

Ollantaytambo

Quaint and charming, Ollantaytambo is a testament to the passage of time. Its winding streets have been continuously inhabited since the 13th century, and structurally, very little has changed.

Although many visitors stay only a few hours in the village, it’s a popular stop on the Inca Trail. It’s well worth taking some time to explore Ollantaytambo, though. Its stone buildings are charmingly atmospheric, and, most importantly, it is home to an incredible example of an Inca fortress.

Machu Picchu

For many people, the only reason they’ll ever come to the Sacred Valley in the first place would be for the opportunity to hike to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail. Others prefer the Salkantay Trek, but their end destination remains unchanged.

Rightfully so, considering that the 15th-century Inca settlement is an iconic symbol of the region’s history and a bucket list must-see. As one of the most important archaeological sites, perched above the valley, it is believed to have been built in the 1450s.

Emerging from the mists, the citadel is a remarkable feat of stone masonry, displaying a harmony between architecture and nature, with its sheer scale quickly leaving you in awe. With palpable energy present from the Sun Gate to the Temple of the Condor, Machu Picchu is a true showcase of Inca ingenuity and spirituality.

Chinchero

Chinchero, a rustic town surrounded by the Vilcabamba Mountain range, has an illustrious history. It is thought that Inca Tupac Yupanqui chose the area as his countryside escape and ordered the construction of many aqueducts and terraces.

A beautiful adobe church, supposedly constructed over the ruins of Yupanqui’s palace, now stands among the ruins. The church is stunning, boasting elaborately painted ceilings and offering an ideal viewpoint over the sprawling Inca walls below.

Alongside its ruins, Chinchero is also a handicraft hub. The town has a thriving weaving industry, and local women happily demonstrate to passing visitors. They also sell alpaca wool products at a fraction of the price in the country, making it an ideal place to buy traditional gifts.

Moray and the Maras Salt Mines

A short drive from the beautiful landscapes of the valley leads to Moray, a site that feels and appears otherworldly. Its circular terraces sink into the earth, creating natural amphitheaters whose purpose remains largely a mystery. Most believe that the Incas experimented with crops at different altitudes here.

Near Moray’s agricultural terraces, the Moras Salt Mines deliver a very different scene. Thousands of salt pans cling to the mountainside, their crystal-like surfaces a sight to behold in the sunlight. Walk amongst the pans as they crunch underneath your feet with a tang of salt in the air for an unforgettable memory.

Top archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a wellspring of important archaeological sites and is home to an incredible number of Inca ruins. These complexes are all worth a visit, and here’s a quick breakdown of each.

Pisac Archaeological Complex

Nestled above the small village of Pisac, the archaeological area of the same name is the first must-visit destination. Thanks to well-preserved structures and gorgeous scenery, the hike up the stone steps is well worth it. Originally, it was built as a royal retreat for the Inca emperor Pachacuti. Today, it functions as a daily market selling everything from fresh local fruit to artisanal crafts.

Chinchero Archaeological Site

Often overlooked for more popular sites, the area at Chinchero (also called the Birthplace of the Rainbow) is a gem to discover. The site’s centerpiece is Chincheros’ terraces – massive stone platforms cascading down the hillside. At the top of the site, you’ll find the remains of an ancient Inca palace that stood here in quiet grandeur, with stone walls that almost blend into the natural landscape.

Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site

The Ollantaytambo fortress easily ranks among most travelers’ favorites. Characterized by its extensive set of high terraces, it’s easy to see why. It towers above the town’s maze-like streets, and the only way to the top is to climb the ancient stone staircase built into the hillside.

You can enjoy an incredible view across the Sacred Valley at the summit and explore the incomplete Temple of the Sun. The ruins of ancient storehouses are visible on the surrounding mountainsides. A close look reveals a face carved into the rock—that of Viracocha, the Inca deity of creation. Although the climb is steep, you can hike to the site and enjoy a stunning view over Ollantaytambo.

More great things to do in the Sacred Valley

Go hiking at Kinsa Cocha, Pisac’s Three Lakes

The little-known hike to Kinsa Cocha is one of the best things to do in the Sacred Valley. Translated from the Quechua word meaning “three lakes”, this trek from Pisac is a must. It lasts for about three hours, with extra time for admiring alpacas along the way, and you’ll need some hiking experience. Remember to pack warm, as it does get cold.

Hike to the ruins of Pinkuylluna

On the opposite side of town from the Ollantaytambo fortress lies the Pinkuylluna archaeological site. It’s free to enter, unlike its counterpart, and even if you’re not into history or ruins, its beautiful panoramic views of the Sacred Valley are second to none. Reaching the ruins involves a short hike that can be done in an hour, making it perfect for a morning activity.

Hike from Chinchero to Urquillos

Another fantastic choice for a longer hike, the trek from Chinchero to Urquillos showcases some of the most awe-inspiring scenery around. It’s mostly a downhill hike, with staggering views of the snowy Andes mountains, a sight that brings to life the scope of the Sacred Valley. It’ll take about four hours to reach the tiny village of Urquillos, without much need for hiking expertise.

Go shopping at Pisac’s Sunday Market

Outside of exploring ruins, the towns of the Sacred Valley deliver other excellent activities to fill your days with. One of which is the Pisac Sunday market, a vast and illustrious affair that spreads into every alleyway and corner of the village. With vendors from neighboring towns coming to sell their wares, it’s a different take on retail therapy.

Read more: Beyond Machu Picchu: 5 authentic ways to experience Peru

Travel tips for visiting the Sacred Valley in Peru

These travel tips for visiting the Sacred Valley in Peru can help ease some of your planning stress, so do bear them in mind when preparing for your trip:

• Acclimate in Cusco first: It’s best to spend at least two days in Cusco to help you adjust to the valley’s altitude.
• Pack layers: Remember that days are warm and nights are chilly. Bring along a jacket, hat, and sunscreen.
• Explore Pisac early in the morning: The best time to visit the Pisac ruins is during the morning before 8am, to avoid the crowds.
• Try local food: The area has a rich culinary history, so try some cuy (guinea pig), trout ceviche, and chicha morada (purple corn drink) at local restaurants.
• Always respect the local culture: Ask before taking photos of locals, and support artisans by buying directly from them in the villages of the valley.
• Spend the night: For overnight stays, both Urubamba and Ollantaytambo are excellent options.
• Bring cash (soles): Markets and small villages don’t have the best access to ATMs, so it’s best to always carry cash.
• Hike lesser-known trails: There are plenty of amazing trails that see fewer crowds, such as the Salinas de Maras to Moray hike.
• Learn basic Quechua phrases: Greet locals with allin p’unchay (good morning), and use sulpayki to show thanks and respect.
• Pack a reusable water bottle: Regardless of the season you choose, it’s always a good idea to get a reusable water bottle for day tours and excursions. Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• Book tickets in advance: Tourist ticket prices for sites like Machu Picchu skyrocket during peak season from May to September, so book yours in advance. Better yet, book guided tours that include access to all of the must-visit Sacred Valley sites; your local expert will be able to help recommend the best ones for you.

Make it happen

If you’ve ever dreamt of waking up to the sound of birdsong and the sight of mist rising over fields, then the Sacred Valley is calling. Contact our local experts in Peru or browse our destination page for more information.