My route through the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Sometimes all it takes is a moment. One day, you wake up with that feeling in your chest—an urge to discover the heart of the ancient Inca Empire: the Sacred Valley in Peru.

From the very first stop at the archaeological site of Chinchero, I knew this trip would be different. The Incas weren’t just masters of terraces and stone constructions—they were also brilliant at choosing where to build.

Throughout this blog, you’ll discover what the Sacred Valley is, why it’s called that, which towns make it up, and what to see in each one. I’ll also share my recommended travel itinerary—whether you prefer going on your own or with a tour agency—so you can make the most of your visit. And finally, I’ll show you how to combine this incredible place with Peru’s greatest jewel: Machu Picchu.

Let’s begin.

Why I Decided to Travel to the Sacred Valley

I’m always drawn to destinations that enrich the way I think and feel—places that mix culture, adventure, and something new. That’s how the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru appeared in my search: a place many would call the promised land. It has the perfect weather, historic centers, breathtaking landscapes, living traditions, warm and welcoming people, and above all, a unique energy—a peaceful space where you can simply be.

I had a feeling this destination held something special for me, as if it had been waiting for me for a long time. So I followed that instinct and set out for Peru.

My First Impression of the Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley exceeded my expectations in every way. From the window of the van, massive mountains appeared one after another, like protective guardians watching over everything within them. And then the valley itself opened up—colorful small towns that preserve the calm of an ancient world, narrow streets, rustic houses, women dressed in traditional clothing, kids playing on the sidewalks, tiny shops, and everyday life moving at its own gentle pace.

The Incas chose this place wisely to build many of their most important archaeological sites. The mild air, which contrasts beautifully with the cold of Cusco, makes it easy to tell when you’ve entered the Sacred Valley. And the Urubamba River (also known as the Vilcanota River), which you’ll often spot running alongside the road, is another guide—it flows through the entire valley.

To help you picture this landscape that welcomed me with such strength, here are a few details that will help you situate yourself within this vast and magical valley.

Where Does the Sacred Valley Actually Begin?

The Sacred Valley of the Incas has several entry points, with the most common being Chinchero and Pisac. From there, the route continues through a chain of towns all the way to Ollantaytambo, passing agricultural terraces, scenic viewpoints, and Inca remains that preserve the essence of this ancestral land.

The Altitude of the Sacred Valley and How It Affects Your Trip

The Sacred Valley sits between 2,700 and 2,900 meters above sea level (8,858–9,514 feet), which is lower than Cusco. Because of this, the Sacred Valley offers a sense of relief for travelers who have just arrived at a high altitude. I noticed it as soon as I stepped off the vehicle—breathing felt easier, my body adapted more quickly, and I was able to start exploring without the fatigue that comes with the first day in Cusco.

This difference in altitude makes the valley an ideal acclimatization point—perfect for visiting its towns and archaeological sites before doing higher trekking routes in Peru, such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay, Ausangate, and others.

The Climate of the Sacred Valley and the Landscape Around It

The Sacred Valley usually has a mild climate with high humidity, which increases during the rainy season (November to April). Mornings are generally cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F–77°F), while nights can drop to 2°C–5°C (35°F–41°F)—perfect weather for savoring a hot cup of muña tea.
This combination creates the ideal atmosphere for wandering through its towns, strolling its streets, and taking in every corner at your own pace.

Thanks to its climate and the Urubamba River, the entire route stays remarkably green—an ideal setting for vibrant, lively photos.

Safety in the Sacred Valley and in Peru

In my experience, traveling through the Sacred Valley of the Incas felt completely safe. These towns depend heavily on tourism, from shops to transportation, restaurants, and others; they take great care of those who travel through this part of the country. I walked through small streets, browsed local markets, and used local transportation without any issues.
Still, I always follow the same basic precautions I use anywhere: I keep an eye on my belongings, avoid walking alone at night in remote areas, and stick to familiar routes.

Overall, Peru is very welcoming to travelers, and the Sacred Valley feels especially peaceful thanks to its rural environment and slower pace of life. With common sense and a few simple precautions, you can enjoy this route without worries.

Summary of the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Here’s the only summary you need for this corner of the world:

• Location: Cusco region, Peru
• Altitude: 2,700–2,900 m (8,858 ft-9514 ft) (lower than Cusco) 
• Average climate: 18°C–25°C (64°F–77°F) during the day; 2°C–5°C (35°F–41°F) at night
• Best time to visit: May–October (dry season)
• Main river: Urubamba River, the natural axis of the valley
• Main towns and cities: Pisac, Chinchero, Calca, Lamay, Urubamba, Yucay, Ollantaytambo, and Maras
• Key archaeological sites: Pisac Archaeological Park, Moray Archaeological Complex, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, and Chinchero Archaeological Park.
• Distance from Cusco: 45–60 minutes, depending on the destination

Towns and Highlights of the Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley is full of traditional towns, each with its own charm—from its people to its archaeological sites and stunning landscapes. In this section, I’ll take you through the valley’s most iconic stops so you can choose which ones you absolutely don’t want to miss on your trip through this unique part of the world.

Chinchero: A Woven Heart

Chinchero was my first stop of the day in the Sacred Valley, and I couldn’t have started better. This small Andean town—known as “the land of the rainbow”—combines intense landscapes with living tradition. Its archaeological site stretches across a plateau surrounded by snow-capped mountains, featuring wide terraces, impeccably preserved Inca walls, and a colonial church built atop ancient foundations that still hold the spirit of the Inca era.

But what truly defines Chinchero is its weaving tradition: expert women who spin, dye, and weave by hand just as their ancestors did. Watching them work with local plants, alpaca wool, and ancestral techniques felt like stepping into a place where time moves differently.

Cultural Fun Facts

• It’s called the land of the rainbow because during the rainy season, its location and natural water sources make rainbow formations especially frequent.
• In Chinchero, women traditionally braid their hair into fine strands, sometimes decorated with the kantu flower—an elegant detail of their traditional clothing, alongside their skirts, shawls, and monteras (hats).
  

What to See and Do in Chinchero

• Chinchero Archaeological Complex
• 17th-century colonial church
• Traditional textile market
• Demonstrations of natural dyeing and weaving techniques
• Viewpoints overlooking the snow-capped mountains of Salkantay, Veronika, and Soray, as well as landscapes of the Sacred Valley
• Poc Poc Waterfall
  

Travel Tips for Chinchero

• Start at the archaeological site. Explore the terraces, Inca walls, and the colonial chapel built on ancient foundations.
• If you have time, hike to Poc Poc Waterfall. The round-trip takes about 2 hours and offers a natural landscape completely different from the main site.
• Visit an awana wasi. Step into a weaving house to watch natural dye demonstrations and support artisan families directly.
• Buy authentic textiles. Look for alpaca wool, natural dyes, and clean; avoid items that look printed or unusually cheap.
• Support local businesses. Buy souvenirs directly from workshops or the town’s artisan market.
• Plan for at least 40 minutes if you’re not hiking to the waterfall—enough to see the archaeological site and the chapel entrance.
• Go early in the morning. It’s the best time to avoid large groups and start your Sacred Valley route with calm light and great photos.

Moray: An Inca Laboratory

Moray surprised me with an unimaginable archaeological site—circular terraces shaped like an amphitheater descending toward the center of the earth. The terraces drop in concentric circles, each with its own microclimate, which allowed the Incas to study how their crops grew depending on temperature, humidity, and sunlight. Walking along the edges, with the wind gently hitting my face and the valley’s silence surrounding me, I could almost picture how seeds were tested here before feeding the entire empire. It’s a place where science, intuition, and the unique beauty of the Andes come together.

Curious cultural fact:

• Researchers discovered that between the upper level and the deepest point of Moray there is a temperature difference of up to 15°C (59°F)—surprising for an open-air site. This confirms that Moray served as a sophisticated agricultural center where the Incas experimented with more than 250 varieties of crops.

What to See and Do in Moray:

• The main circular terraces are the deepest and most photogenic.
• The secondary terraces—less known but just as fascinating for observing agricultural engineering.
• Natural viewpoints are perfect for appreciating the scale of the site.
• The rural landscape surrounding Moray, ideal for wide valley shots.
• ATV tours around the entire Inca complex.
  

Traveler Tips

• Take it slow: Moray sits at over 3,400 m (11,154 ft), so walk slowly and breathe deeply.
• Avoid going to the bottom during the rainy season (November-April): Trails can get slippery.
• Best time to visit: Morning hours for good light and fewer visitors.
• Bring a light jacket and poncho in the rainy season: Weather changes quickly at this altitude.
• Combine it with Maras: They’re close to each other, making it ideal to visit both in one outing.

Maras Salt Mines: A White Paradise

The Maras Salt Mines are one of those places that amaze you even before you step out of the vehicle. Suddenly, in the midst of the Sacred Valley’s green landscape, a mountainside appears covered with more than 3,000 salt pools—lined up like tiny white windows shimmering under the sun. The contrast is mesmerizing: salty water emerging from a natural spring in the mountain, flowing through pre-Inca channels to fill each pool. As the water evaporates, the crystallized salt remains, creating a surreal landscape that looks like a painting. Walking along the viewpoints and watching families who still work the salt just as their ancestors did is a fascinating experience.

Curious cultural fact:

• The salt from Maras comes from a mineral-rich spring whose origin is still a mystery. It has a slightly sweet taste and contains no added iodine. It’s said that the Incas considered it sacred because of its purity and because it flowed directly from the mountain.

What to See and Do in Maras

• Upper viewpoints for panoramic views of the entire white slope.
• The salt pools, where you can observe the evaporation and harvesting process.
• Local shops selling pink, black, flavored, or crystal salt for cooking or for cosmetic and wellness use.
• Ancient channels—still functioning—that precisely distribute water to each pool.
  

Traveler Tips

• Entry: Tickets are purchased directly at the entrance since Maras is not included in the tourist ticket. The cost is S/15 soles (approximately $4.46) for Peruvian citizens and S/20 soles (approximately $5.95) for foreign visitors.
• Stay on marked paths: You can’t walk between the pools—for your safety and out of respect for local workers.
• Best visiting time: Between 9:00 a.m. and noon, when the sun highlights the white color and creates beautiful photo contrast.
• Wear sunglasses: The glare from the salt can be intense.
• Buy local products: Maras salt is excellent for cooking and as a natural exfoliant—and your purchase supports the families who keep the tradition alive.
• Combine it with Moray: They’re very close, so it’s the perfect two-for-one stop.

Ollantaytambo: An Inca Fortress

Arriving in Ollantaytambo feels like stepping into a portal to the past. The town still preserves its original Inca layout, with stone streets, water channels that continue to flow, and homes built on ancient foundations. The fortress rises imposingly over the valley like an eternal guardian watching the mountains. From its terraces, the landscape opens into a display of light, history, and energy that reminds you why this place was so important for the Sacred Valley and for the Inca Empire itself.

Curious cultural facts:

• Ollantaytambo is the only Inca town that has been continuously inhabited from pre-Hispanic times to today.
• Its streets still use the original Inca water system, which flows through ancient channels.
• It was the site of one of the few Inca victories against the Spanish conquistadors.
  

What to See and Do in Ollantaytambo:

• Fortress and agricultural terraces: the town’s main highlight. Climb to the top to see how the valley forms a perfect corridor between mountains.
• Temple of the Sun: an Inca masterpiece built with enormous reddish stone blocks.
• Pinkuylluna storehouses: ancient Inca granaries high on the hills; the hike is free and offers spectacular views of the town.
• Historic town center: narrow streets, colonial doorways, and houses set on Inca foundations.
• Local artisan market: great for ceramics, textiles, and carved pieces.
• Train station to Machu Picchu: starting point for Aguas Calientes, the base town for entering the world wonder.
  

Traveler Tips:

• Recommended time: 1.5–2 hours for the fortress; add 45 minutes if you hike to Pinkuylluna.
• Best time to visit: early morning to avoid heat and crowds.
• Entrance: included in the Partial or General Tourist Ticket.
• Hydrate and take breaks: the stairs are steep—climb slowly and bring water.
• Footwear: wear shoes with good traction, especially if hiking to Pinkuylluna.
• Photos: morning light is ideal for illuminating the fortress and town.
• Taking the train to Machu Picchu? Arrive at the station 30 minutes early.

Urubamba: A Living Valley

Urubamba is the heart of the Sacred Valley—a place where nature and Andean life coexist in perfect harmony. Although many agencies skip the town due to time constraints, almost all tours stop here for lunch, whether at buffet restaurants or more exclusive spots that highlight the valley’s fresh produce. I passed through on my way to Pisac and, even during a brief stop, I could feel the calm of this place surrounded by giant mountains and farmlands that change color with the seasons.

Curious cultural facts:

• Urubamba was one of the main agricultural centers of the Inca Empire, known for producing the largest corn in Peru: Cusco’s giant white corn.
• During colonial times, it became an area of large estates, and today it is an important hub for fruit, ceramics, and artisan production.
• Its name comes from the Quechua Urupampa, meaning “plain of spiders,” due to the way crops were once distributed.
  

What to See and Do in Urubamba:

• Main Square and traditional town: a nice short stroll if your itinerary allows.
• Local market: full of fresh produce, giant bread loaves, and Andean fruits.
• Pablo Seminario Ceramics: a renowned art workshop inspired by pre-Hispanic cultures.
• Natural viewpoints: nearby hills offer wide-open views of the valley.
• Wellness centers: Urubamba is known for retreats, spas, and lodges focused on rest and Andean energy.
• Sacred mountains (apus): you can take acclimatization hikes to the archaeological sites of Saywa or Cataract de Pachac
• Chicon Glacier: for those well-acclimatized and physically fit, you can visit the glacier up to base camp at 4,900 m (16,076 ft). This route can be done as a day hike or with an overnight camp.
  

Traveler Tips:

• Recommended time: 1–2 hours if touring the town; if only stopping for lunch, expect 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Lunch: most tours stop here; if traveling independently, reserve a table since midday demand is high.
• Shopping: the Seminario ceramics workshop is perfect for unique pieces—make sure they’re signed and certified.
• Weather: Urubamba is warmer than Cusco—bring light clothing for daytime and a jacket for the evening.
• Want to explore calmly? Consider doing the Sacred Valley in two days so you can enjoy workshops, viewpoints, and hikes without rushing.
• Photography: the surrounding mountains glow beautifully at sunset.

Pisac: An Ancestral Overlook

Pisac was, without a doubt, one of the places that surprised me most in the Sacred Valley. As soon as you arrive, the archaeological complex unfolds across the mountain like a giant natural balcony, with endless terraces that seem to outline the shape of the hills. And although many travelers compare Pisac to Machu Picchu, its scale and energy make it a unique destination worth exploring slowly.

Curious cultural facts:

• Pisac was a multifunctional Inca city with agricultural, military, residential, and ceremonial sectors.
• Its terraces are among the best preserved in the Sacred Valley and showcase impressive agricultural mastery.
• It has one of the largest pre-Hispanic cemeteries in the Andes, located on the slope of Q’alla Q’asa mountain.
• Its name comes from the Quechua pisaca, meaning “partridge,” and it’s said the shape of the complex resembles this bird.
  

What to See and Do in Pisac:

• Torreon sector: one of the most striking areas, featuring circular structures used as watchtowers controlling the valley.
• Intihuatana: an astronomical observatory dominating the entire mountain.
• Giant terraces: true agricultural masterpieces showing the Incas’ mastery of the terrain.
• Inca tunnel: a narrow passage carved into the rock connecting different parts of the complex.
• Funerary sector: dozens of niches carved into the cliffside, visible from the trails.
• Pisac market (in town): famous for artisan crafts, ceramics, textiles, and silverwork.

Traveler Tips:

• Recommended time: at least 2–3 hours; add an extra hour if you enjoy photography.
• Closing time: the site closes around 5 p.m.—arrive early since they truly won’t let you in after hours, even with a ticket.
• Physical effort: the route includes ascents and descents—bring water, good shoes, and take breaks.
• Compared to Machu Picchu, although smaller in area, Pisac is steeper with larger vertical elevation changes and wide terraces.
• Don’t miss: the watchtowers and the panorama from the Intihuatana—these are the most impressive areas.
• Entrance: included in the Tourist Ticket.
• Best time: morning light illuminates the terraces; in the afternoon, the sun sets behind the mountains, creating a golden, photogenic atmosphere.
• Short on time? Visit only the main sector; if you’re physically fit, do the longer route.
• Artisan market: buy directly from the artisans—ask for handmade, not printed or industrial pieces.
• Walk down to town: descend via the pedestrian path to Pisac’s main square—takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour.

Recommended Sacred Valley Itinerary

If you only have one day to explore the Sacred Valley and want to make sure you see its most important highlights, this is the route I recommend. It’s based on my own experience and designed so you can enjoy each stop without stress while making the most of everything this valley has to offer.

One-Day Itinerary (Suggested Schedule)

• 07:00 – 08:00 | Chinchero
  Visit the archaeological site and a traditional textile center.
  (Perfect way to start the day and avoid large groups.)
• 08:00 – 08:30 | Drive to Moray
  (Scenic road through mountains and farmland.)
• 08:30 – 09:15 | Moray
  Explore the circular terraces and enjoy the viewpoints.
• 09:15 – 09:45 | Drive to Maras Salt Mines
• 09:45 – 10:30 | Maras Salt Mines
  Walk through the viewpoints and learn about the ancestral salt-harvesting process.
  (Remember: entrance is not included in the Tourist Ticket.)
• 10:30 – 11:30 | Drive to Ollantaytambo
• 11:30 – 12:45 | Ollantaytambo
  Climb the fortress and visit the Temple of the Sun.
  (Best to visit before lunch to avoid tour-group crowds.)
• 12:45 – 13:15 | Drive to Urubamba
• 13:15 – 14:00 | Lunch in Urubamba
  Buffet or local restaurant, depending on your travel style.
• 14:00 – 15:00 | Drive to Pisac archaeological site
• 15:00 – 17:00 | Pisac
  Tour the main sectors and enjoy the views from the watchtowers.
  (Remember the site closes around 5 p.m.—plan carefully.)

Travel Tip: End your day at the Pisac artisan market to take home an authentic souvenir from this unforgettable trip.

This itinerary is meant for travelers who plan to visit only the Sacred Valley and not continue to Machu Picchu on the same day. If you do want to continue on to the wonder of the world, check the next section where I explain how to connect both routes easily and efficiently.

How to Connect the Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu

When we talk about Peru, it’s impossible not to mention Machu Picchu—the wonder of the world that tops countless travelers’ wish lists. Its perfect setting between mountains, the harmony of its structures with the landscape, and the architectural precision the Incas achieved here make the visit truly unforgettable. And the best part: after exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you’re already much closer to reaching the citadel.

Below, I explain the most practical ways to get from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, depending on your travel style and itinerary.

1. From Ollantaytambo: The Easiest and Most Popular Route

Most travelers—and tour agencies—end their Sacred Valley tour in Ollantaytambo, since it’s one of the main train stations to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

How to do it:

• Finish your tour in Ollantaytambo.
• Walk 10 minutes or take a mototaxi to the station.
• Take the train to Aguas Calientes at 7:00 p.m. or 9:00 p.m. (about 1 hour 40 minutes).
• Spend the night there, and head up to Machu Picchu the next morning.
  

Another option:

• End your tour in Ollantaytambo and spend the night in town.
• The next day, go to the train station at your scheduled departure time. Trains start running around 5:00 a.m. (1 hour 40 minutes).
• Head up to Machu Picchu and enjoy.
  

This method is ideal if:

• You want to avoid returning to Cusco.
• You want to save time.
• You prefer the smoothest connection: Sacred Valley → Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu.
  

2. From Urubamba: A Great Option if You’re Staying There

You can take the train from Urubamba station. Some accommodations in Urubamba (especially ecolodges and luxury hotels) offer direct transportation to the station. You can also take a taxi from Urubamba to Ollantaytambo station (25–30 minutes).

This method is ideal if:

• You’re staying in Urubamba.
• You want a more relaxed transition before Machu Picchu.
• You’re looking for private or direct connections.
  

3. Returning to Cusco and Leaving the Next Day (Less Practical)

While it’s possible to return to Cusco after your Sacred Valley tour, this option means more time on the road.

Options:

• Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (1h 30).
• Train to Aguas Calientes from Poroy or San Pedro stations (available only from April to December).
  

Recommended only if:

• Your hotel is in Cusco.
• You’re planning a trekking route to Machu Picchu.
  

4. The Route I Recommend

Without a doubt:
Sacred Valley → Ollantaytambo → Train → Aguas Calientes

It’s fast, efficient, and lets you carry the energy of the valley with you as you finish your journey at Machu Picchu.

Essential Tips for Connecting the Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu

• Book your train tickets in advance, especially during high season (May–October).
• Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes if you want to enter Machu Picchu early.
• Watch your timing: if you visit Pisac at the end of the day, keep the site’s closing time in mind to avoid delays getting to Ollantaytambo.
• Bring your passport—you need it to enter Machu Picchu.
• Avoid booking trains too late in the day; valley traffic can be unpredictable.
• If traveling with a tour agency, confirm the full logistics: post-Pisac transfer, correct train station, and schedule.
• Don’t forget to book your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in advance.
  

Important: To continue your trip to Machu Picchu, it’s essential to already have your train ticket and your entrance ticket to the citadel. For detailed information on both, I suggest you consult the following guides: Complete Guide to the Machu Picchu Train and Machu Picchu Tickets 2026.

Things I Wish I Had Known Before Traveling to the Sacred Valley

• The valley is bigger than it looks on the map. Distances between towns can take longer than expected, so planning transportation well is key if you don’t want to rush.
• You can feel the altitude. Even though it’s lower than Cusco, the constant movement and uphill sections at archaeological sites can be tiring. Take it slow and stay hydrated.
• The Tourist Ticket is essential. If you plan to visit several archaeological sites, this ticket saves you both money and time. There are different versions depending on your itinerary.
• Always start early. The first hours of the day have better light, fewer crowds, and more pleasant temperatures. Everything flows better.
• The weather changes quickly. Even if it’s sunny, always bring a light jacket and a compact rain layer. You never know when rain—or a rainbow—might appear.
• Markets have beautiful crafts, but not everything is authentic. If you want truly handmade textiles, check online reviews and ask about natural dyes.
• Some places require walking. Moray, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo have steep or stepped sections, so wear comfortable, trail-friendly shoes.
• Visits often take longer than expected. Pisac, for example, is huge, and exploring it properly can take several hours.
• Eating in Urubamba is part of the experience. Buffet restaurants and local cuisine spots are a delicious break between visits.
• The Sacred Valley deserves more than one day. While you can see it in a single day, two days is ideal if you want to enjoy it without rushing and explore lesser-known spots.
• Water, snacks, and cash—always with you. Not every stop has stores or card payment options.
• Photography is best at certain times. In Moray and Pisac, morning light is spectacular; for Ollantaytambo, afternoon is ideal.
• Traffic toward Ollantaytambo can work against you if you’re catching the train. Arrive with plenty of time if you’re heading toward Machu Picchu.

Conclusion

The Sacred Valley is one of those places that you experience, not just visit. One day is enough to fall in love with it… and perhaps to make you want to move there forever. If you want to enjoy it without any complications, my personal recommendation is to go with an agency that takes care of all the logistics. I traveled with Salkantay Trekking on their Super Sacred Valley tour and, honestly, I couldn’t have made a better choice: everything went smoothly, and I was able to focus on enjoying the trip.

Written by: Ursa Major

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