Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in just one day. Travel through the inter-Andean valley of the Urubamba River, considered sacred by the Incas. Discover its most iconic archaeological sites, colorful traditional markets, impressive agricultural terraces, and savor delicious local dishes in one of the most fertile valleys in Peru.
A perfect one-day cultural adventure for travelers seeking to connect with the heart of the Inca Empire.
Itinerary Highlights:
In the morning, between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco aboard our comfortable tourist transport. We'll begin our journey to the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by majestic Andean landscapes that will accompany us throughout the day.
Our first stop will be at the extraordinary Pisac Archaeological Park, strategically located atop a mountain overlooking the Vilcanota River. This fascinating site consists of various clusters of Inca ruins showcasing their impressive agricultural terraces built along the mountain slopes, aqueducts, ceremonial gateways, water channels, ancient cemeteries, and more. You’ll witness the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization while enjoying stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
After exploring the ruins, we'll head down to the charming town of Pisac, home to a vibrant traditional market. This colorful market, which has preserved its ancestral essence, offers a variety of authentic Andean crafts such as handwoven textiles, decorative ceramics, silver jewelry, musical instruments, and organic products. You’ll have free time to walk around, interact with local artisans, and purchase unique souvenirs.
We’ll then travel along the Vilcanota River to Urubamba, known as the "Pearl of the Valley." Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring both traditional Andean and international cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. This relaxing moment will give you the chance to recharge while taking in the peaceful valley scenery.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the impressive Fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the most important and best-preserved archaeological complexes in Peru. Built as a fortified city, it includes a ceremonial temple, extensive agricultural terraces, and a well-organized urban area. We'll explore the “Araqama Ayllu,” used for religious purposes and home to the Temple of the Sun, and the “Qosqo Ayllu,” a residential area with original Inca streets and functional water canals. Walking through the still-inhabited Inca town offers a vivid glimpse into ancient Inca life.
On the way back to Cusco, we’ll make a final stop at the traditional town of Chinchero, set on a high plateau with spectacular views of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Here, we’ll visit local women’s weaving associations, where you’ll see the entire traditional textile process—from washing and spinning the wool to natural dyeing and weaving. This unique experience highlights the living heritage of pre-Columbian techniques still practiced today.
Next, we'll explore the Chinchero Archaeological Complex, home to the remains of the royal estate of Tupac Inca Yupanqui. The site beautifully blends Inca and colonial architecture, with its remarkable agricultural terraces and a colonial church built atop Inca foundations, adorned with murals from the early colonial period. This final visit offers a meaningful reflection on the cultural evolution of the Sacred Valley region.
At the end of the tour, we will return to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 PM.
Our Classic Sacred Valley Tour offers a complete and balanced experience, covering the region’s most iconic archaeological sites in a single day. You’ll be guided by knowledgeable, passionate locals, travel in modern and comfortable transportation, and enjoy the best of Andean cuisine. You’ll also have the unique opportunity to connect with native communities that preserve ancient traditions to this day.
Book your Classic Sacred Valley Tour now and journey through time as you discover Peru’s most treasured landscapes, cultural richness, and Inca history!
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Myexperience2
May 25, 2025
I did the 2 day short inka trail led by guide, Percy. The hike was fantastic and Percy’s explanations were really good regarding the history. He answered all our questions and was extremely polite and helpful throughout the 2 days! The organisation by Intrepid Expeditions/Salkantay Trek was ok, communication via WhatsApp was very prompt and responsive however on the morning of my trip, the driver was 30 mins late which led to panic as I nearly missed the train and I had no one to contact at 4am despite 24/7 assistance being advertised. However, the team called the driver an hour later and we managed to make the train. The hotel booked was good, very central in Agua Calientes and clean. Food: the included dinner was below average standards so perhaps a different venue for next time. The picnic lunch was plentiful, with sandwich, fruit, bars and a rice chicken box. Perfect during the intense hike on day 1!
Mo G
April 28, 2025
We loved our trek with Elio who taught us so much about the history and culture of the Inka’s along our trek. Amazing trip!
Petra
April 27, 2025
La caminata de Salkantay fue una gran experiencia y con Jorge Calderón tuve la suerte de tener una guía excelente, muy agradable y competente. ¡Muchas gracias! 🩵
Gabriela C
April 25, 2025
Lugares muy bonitos, vistas incribles, los guias com gran experiencia en todo. Jo fiz el camino de Salkantay (4 dias) com Guia Abet, buenissima experiencia. Despues hacemos 2 dias de Inca Trail com Guia Percy, gran persona, mucho profissional. Todo fue muy agradable
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