Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour | Cusco to Ollantaytambo

The Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour is an unforgettable cultural and natural experience that immerses you in the essence of the ancient Inca empire. Along the way, you’ll discover spectacular landscapes, vibrant villages, and ancient temples that still preserve their mysticism. From the archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to the artisanal and culinary charm of Urubamba, each stop reveals the valley’s historical and spiritual richness. Ideal for those wishing to continue on to Machu Picchu, this tour combines history, tradition, and nature in a single day filled with Andean connection and unforgettable experiences.

Detailed Itinerary: Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour | Ending in Ollantaytambo

🕕 Pickup from your hotel in Cusco

Start your day with energy as our team picks you up from your accommodation in the historic center of Cusco or nearby areas. Aboard a comfortable tourist transport, you will begin a journey through the landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, accompanied by an expert guide who will share with you the history, culture, and traditions that still exist in this magical Andean region.

🏛️ Visit to the Pisaq Archaeological Complex

Our first stop is Pisaq, one of the valley’s most iconic archaeological sites. Here you can admire the Inca agricultural terraces, precisely designed to take advantage of the mountain’s topography, and its ancient cemetery, considered one of the largest in the Inca Empire.

🧶 Pisaq Artisan Market

After exploring the archaeological site, we will visit the Pisaq Artisan Market, famous for its colorful atmosphere and stalls full of traditional art. Here you can see textiles made from alpaca wool, silver jewelry, and ceramics decorated with Andean motifs.

🍽️ Andean Buffet Lunch in Urubamba

We continue to the heart of the valley, Urubamba, where you will enjoy a buffet lunch with typical flavors of Cusco cuisine. You will taste dishes made with organic and native products such as quinoa, trout, chili peppers, and Andean potatoes.

🏯 Ollantaytambo Archaeological Center

In the afternoon, we arrive at Ollantaytambo, a living Inca village that maintains its original urban structure. In its monumental fortress, you will discover the imposing terraces and temples built with gigantic stone blocks, fitted together with millimeter precision. Your guide will explain how this site was a key religious, agricultural, and military center, and how it became the last bastion of Inca resistance against the Spanish.

🚆 Transfer to Ollantaytambo Train Station

We conclude the Sacred Valley Tour by taking you to the Ollantaytambo train station, the departure point for Aguas Calientes and the wonderful citadel of Machu Picchu. Our team will assist you with all the necessary instructions for your boarding, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience.

✅Includes

🚐 One-way tourist transportation from Cusco: Modern, safe, and comfortable vehicles, driven by professional drivers with all the necessary permits.

🗣️ Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish/English): Full accompaniment throughout the tour with historical, cultural, and spiritual explanations about the Sacred Valley.

🏛️ Guided tour of the archaeological sites: Admission and explanations of the main attractions of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, with photo stops at panoramic viewpoints.

🍽️ Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba: A varied menu featuring local products such as quinoa, trout, chili peppers, and native potatoes. Includes vegetarian and vegan options.

🤝 Personalized assistance during the tour: Our team monitors every detail of the trip to ensure comfort, punctuality, and authentic experiences.

🕐 Scheduled stops with appropriate timing: We guarantee a relaxing experience, with time for photos, rest, and free exploration at each point of the itinerary.

🩵 24/7 local support: Assistance from our team in Cusco for any questions or requests before, during, or after the tour.

❌Not Included

🎟️ Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC): Required for entry to the archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley (Pisaq and Ollantaytambo). Can be purchased on the day of the tour.

🏛️ Admission to additional museums or temples: Optional entrances outside the main itinerary are not included.

🍳 Breakfast and dinner: Only the buffet lunch in Urubamba is included; all other meals are the traveler’s own expense.

🧃 Additional drinks or personal snacks: Not included; it is recommended to bring water, fruit, or energy bars.

🧾 Travel or medical insurance: Not included, but a valid personal policy is recommended.

💸 Voluntary tips: Not included. You can thank the guide or driver based on your satisfaction with the service.

🚆 Train ticket to Machu Picchu and entrance

Sanctuary Access: This tour ends in Ollantaytambo, so tickets and admission must be purchased separately.

🧍‍♂️ Transfers from hotels outside of downtown Cusco: For accommodations located in Poroy, Urubamba, or remote Airbnbs, an additional fee must be arranged.

🏨 Accommodation in Cusco or Aguas Calientes: Not part of this program, but can be requested as an additional service.

✨Recommendations

👟 Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear: The Inca steps can be steep or made of uneven stone. Good hiking shoes or sneakers are essential.

🧥 Wear light clothing and a warm jacket: The weather in the Sacred Valley varies from cold in the morning to hot at midday. A windbreaker or waterproof jacket will be your best ally.

🧴 Essential sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, a cap, and sunglasses. Radiation in the Andes is more intense.

💧 Stay hydrated: Bring your own reusable water bottle or canteen. Staying hydrated is key during the hikes.

🍫 Bring personal snacks: Fruit, energy bars, or nuts will help you maintain energy throughout the hike.

💰 Have cash: Some places in the Sacred Valley don’t accept credit cards. Bring Peruvian soles to buy handicrafts, snacks, or drinks.

🎟️ Buy your Tourist Ticket before the trip: You can buy it in Cusco or during the first stop. It is required to enter the archaeological sites.

📸 Don’t forget your camera or charged cell phone: The panoramic views of the Vilcanota River and the Inca temples and terraces are worth capturing.

🚻 Use the restrooms at designated stops: There are designated restrooms at public or restaurant locations throughout the tour.

🕶️ Avoid eating heavily or drinking alcohol the night before: This way, you’ll enjoy the tour with energy and without discomfort.

🎒 Bring a small backpack: Include your personal belongings, documents, water, and a light change of clothes if you’re continuing on to Machu Picchu.

⛰️ Acclimatize in Cusco at least a day beforehand: This will help you avoid altitude sickness and fully enjoy the tour.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can you return to Cusco the same day?

Yes. If you’re not continuing on to Aguas Calientes, you can return to Cusco by tourist transportation or private transportation at your own expense from Ollantaytambo.

Is the tour recommended for children or seniors?

Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, with a moderate pace and planned breaks. It is recommended to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen.

What should I bring besides the Tourist Ticket?

Just your ID or passport, cash for souvenirs or snacks, and clothing appropriate for the season.

When is the best time to visit the Sacred Valley?

The best time is during the dry season (April to October), when the days are sunny and the views of the valleys and mountains are clearest.

Does this include a train to Machu Picchu?

No, this tour ends in Ollantaytambo, where many travelers take the train to Aguas Calientes. You can request an extended version with a direct connection to Machu Picchu.