Known for its mind-blowing Andean peaks, impressive agricultural hills, and stunning Inca sites, the Sacred Valley is a must-see for anyone traveling to Peru.
However, with so much to see, deciding where to go and what to do can be challenging for even the most experienced adventurers.
To help you with that, we have compiled some of the top sights and activities in the Sacred Valley that will meet and exceed the expectations of even the most discerning travelers.
The best tourist attractions in the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is an area in the Peruvian Andes that stretches for about 60 km. It is famous for its lush mountain scenery, ancient Inca sites, and outdoor adventures.
You will also find many picturesque villages in the Valley, such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo. A visit to these extraordinary places is rightly one of the best things to do in the Sacred Valley.
Below are some of the best places to visit in the Sacred Valley.
Pisac Archaeological Center
The ruins of Pisac are one of the most extensive and best-preserved archaeological sites in the Valley. Perched high on a mountain overlooking the charming little town of Pisac, the archaeological center offers some of the most spectacular views.
The Pisac ruins are separate, but the sections are easily accessible via several roads.
The site’s strategic location suggests that it was used to guard Cusco and the southern entrance to the Sacred Valley. However, with numerous agricultural, religious, and military structures, the ruins of Pisac probably served more than one function.
Visiting the archaeological center of Pisac is a beautiful little hike, but it can also be a perfect way to prepare for some of the most extended hikes you can do in the Andes, such as the Salkantay trek.
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is an ancient Inca fortress and village located about 95 km from Cusco.
The site dazzles with spectacular stone platforms and impressive buildings that reach 4 m in height. You will also find the temple of Ollantaytambo at the site, a masterpiece of engineering and architecture. It is commonly believed that the temple was used as a refuge for Inca nobility and royalty.
Even more fascinating, the rocks found in the complex are incredibly well preserved. Considering that the Ollantaytambo fortress is built on a steep slope, this is a remarkable achievement.
Maras and Moray
Maras and Moray are two small villages between Ollantaytambo and Pisac in the middle of the Sacred Valley.
Maras are home to some of the fascinating salt mines in the world. Also known as the Salineras de Maras, the mines stand out with their unique beige, white and pink shades. Maras is home to around 4,500 salt ponds arranged in the form of stepped terraces on the middle slope of the Qaqawinay hill.
The ruins of Moray are an ancient Inca complex built for cultivation. You can visit several Inca ruins in Moray, but perhaps the most famous is the circular terraces carved into the ground.
Huchuy Cusco
Huchuy Cusco is an Inca archaeological site north of Cusco and an excellent off-the-beaten-path destination.
The site, originally built as a royal estate, is called Little Cusco (Huchuy Qosqo in Quechua) because it is said to mimic the exact shape of Cusco (but on a smaller scale).
Despite its incredible scenery and proximity to Cusco, tourists heading to the more famous sites often skip the hike to Huchuy Cusco.
That said, the day hike is beautiful, and once you reach the archaeological center, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Vilcanota mountain range. If you’re looking for an unforgettable hike, add Huchuy Qosqo to your list of Cusco highlights.
Chinchero
Chinchero is a small Andean village between Cusco and Urubamba. Known to the Incas as the birthplace of the rainbow, the town is a beautiful way to understand better the area’s importance to agricultural production in the Sacred Valley.
Although often overlooked, Chinchero has many captivating terraces and aqueducts, some still in use today.
Some of the best things to do in Chinchero include visiting the colonial church (built in 1607 on the remains of an Inca palace), strolling through the town’s colorful market, and witnessing a weaving demonstration.
What to do in the Sacred Valley
In Cusco and the Sacred Valley, it is possible to do other outdoor activities.
From water sports to high-altitude experiences, the Sacred Valley has something to offer any traveler. Before you venture out, read this guide and find out what you want.
Let’s look at 5 Sacred Valley activities that will add even more excitement to your Peru adventure.
Paragliding
If you’re wondering what the Sacred Valley looks like from above and are ready for a big adrenaline rush, paragliding should be on your to-do list.
Paragliding has become popular worldwide, and Peru is no exception. Paragliding in the Sacred Valley gives you an unparalleled view of the area’s scenery and, without a doubt, one of the most thrilling experiences in the region.
Most paragliding experiences are launched near Pisac and Chinchero. In general, you do not need previous experience as all paragliding tours in the Valley are tandem flights operated by trained paragliders.
Rafting in the Sacred Valley
Rafting is one of the most exciting water activities in the Sacred Valley, and one of the best places to do it is the Urubamba River.
The river extends from high in the Andes and flows through the Sacred Valley, past Machu Picchu, and into the jungle.
While experience is often not required, it is good to remember that this can vary depending on the section of the river. Also, remember that rafting can usually only be done in the drier months (April to October/November) as the water level is too high during the rest of the year.
ATV Tours in the Sacred Valley
Another adventurous activity you can do in the Sacred Valley is an organized ATV tour.
You can drive an ATV on these tours while observing archaeological sites and scenic territories.
Driving an all-terrain vehicle is exciting, but before booking a tour, ensure that the company you choose is certified and has expert guides.
Mountain biking
With some of the most spectacular mountain terrain in the world, it’s no surprise that Peru offers plenty of adrenaline-filled biking trails.
Mountain biking in the Sacred Valley is one of the best ways to combine your love of cycling with a trip to Peru’s most pristine areas and Inca ruins.
You’ll need to have the right experience biking in steep, rocky terrain to get the most out of your mountain biking trip.
Llama Trekking
Llama trekking in the Sacred Valley is a more relaxed adventure but just as unique. It is a great way to explore the region while being accompanied by one of Peru’s friendliest animals.
Domesticated centuries ago, these animals were the perfect companion for the inhabitants of the Andes for thousands of years. Today, walking with llamas helps protect mountain ecosystems, generates sustainable development opportunities in local communities, and offers travelers an unforgettable experience.
Many Sacred Valley activities begin in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca empire and the largest city in the area. If you’d like to learn more and discover local gems, we recommend checking out the ten things to do in Cusco.
A tour of the Sacred Valley with Kondor Path Tours Peru
A great way to make sure you visit all the best highlights, learn more about the area and have an expert guide to help you every step of the course is to join a Sacred Valley tour from Cusco.
Visiting the Sacred Valley first when you come to Cusco will help you acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness but still pack some adventure. This can be especially beneficial if you plan to hike the Inca Trail or visit Machu Picchu.
During the Sacred Valley tour, you can explore Pisac, its ruins (or Chinchero), and the impressive salt mines of Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.
Ready to discover the secrets of the Sacred Valley? Check out our Full Day Sacred Valley itinerary from Cusco!
No comment yet, add your voice below!