Cusco isn’t just Machu Picchu or Sacsayhuamán. It’s also the vast agricultural territory that enjoyed great importance during the Inca Empire and is now known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s made up of several traditional villages surrounded by spectacular terrain, offering a wide variety of adventures and experiences for tourists. Most visitors know very little about this unique place on their way to the Wonder of the World. But how much time is needed to explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas?

• The Sacred Valley of the Incas
• 1-day visit to the Sacred Valley
• 2-day tour of the Sacred Valley
• How long does it take to get to know the Sacred Valley?
• What else to see in the Sacred Valley?
• Recommendations
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tourist observing handicrafts – Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas

This beautiful place, as its name suggests, was once sacred territory for the Incas. It covers a large part of the Urubamba province, very close to the city of Cusco and on the way to Machu Picchu. It is characterized by its fertile land filled with beautiful landscapes, surrounded by rivers, mountains, and traditional villages. Today, it offers all kinds of experiences for tourists. The prestigious American newspaper The New York Times named it one of the 52 places to visit in 2017, and it remains so to this day.

Among the main towns that comprise it are Chinchero, Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. All were important agricultural centers for the Incas, who established their residence in this territory. Because of this, visitors can explore archaeological remains such as the Pisac Archaeological Park, the Chinchero Archaeological Center, and the Ollantaytambo Fortress , all of which bear a resemblance to Machu Picchu. Additionally, you can practice adventure sports such as cycling, canoeing, ziplining, rock climbing, and many others. How many days are enough to experience the magic of the Sacred Valley?

1-day visit to the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley tour that most tourists take is a one-day trip. It begins very early with a visit to Pisac. There, visitors tour the Pisac Archaeological Park and have the opportunity to shop at the local artisan market, one of the most traditional in Cusco. Then, they travel to the town of Urubamba, where they can enjoy its characteristic cuisine. The largest corn in Peru is produced there. Another option is to begin the route by visiting the agricultural center of Moray and the Maras salt mines .

The tour continues through Ollantaytambo, home to the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park, a point of Inca resistance during the Spanish invasion. Most trains depart from this location to Machu Picchu. However, visitors return to visit the traditional town of Chinchero, where they can explore the textile centers where natural alpaca products are made. Before arriving in Cusco at night, they visit the Archaeological Park where the Inca Túpac Yupanqui lived.

This tour is offered through the classic Sacred Valley tour, which includes Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and lunch in Urubamba. However, there is also a VIP version, which adds Maras and Moray to the tour. This is one of the most popular tours and is available every day of the year.

Tourists entering the archaeological site of Pisac

2-day tour of the Sacred Valley

There are few tours that cover the Sacred Valley of the Incas in two days, so tourists must do so on their own. The starting point is the city of Cusco, from which they reach the town of Pisac. With adequate time, visitors can visit the local artisan market and archaeological park. A great alternative is to take this tour by bike . The route ends in Urubamba, where there are many hotel options for overnight stays. This city is considered one of the most beautiful in Cusco.

The next day offers many other options: visiting the Archaeological Park in the town of Ollantaytambo, rafting on the Vilcanota River, or exploring the agricultural centers of Moray and the salt mines of Maras. There, tourists can also take an ATV tour through the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Most adventure tours are booked in Cusco. Other adventurous options include ziplining or rock climbing.

When you go on a day trip, you usually don’t have enough time to discover every detail. That’s why if you plan to travel for two days, take the time to explore each one in detail. This way, you’ll get to know rarely-seen angles. It also gives you time to relax amidst the rich biodiversity and splendid landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

The Sacred Valley Villages
The Sacred Valley of the Incas covers such a diverse territory that we can find magical towns such as Coya, Pisac, Taray, Calca, Lamay, Yucay, Urubamba, Maras Moray, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Pachar, Huayllabamba and Chilca. All within a short distance from each other, since traveling the entire Valley without stopping can take much less than half a day, and you will constantly be surrounded by impressive landscapes full of biodiversity.

How long does it take to get to know the Sacred Valley?

The Sacred Valley is a must-see route on the way to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. For this reason, many travelers visit its tourist attractions before or after seeing the Wonder of the World. However, the towns and sites of this incredible place require more than one or two days to explore. Many tourists have stayed in Urubamba, Pisac, and other towns. There is no specific time limit to explore this magical territory. However, visitors should allow at least two days to experience the magic that the Sacred Valley offers.

What else to see in the Sacred Valley?

Chinchero, Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo are the most popular tourist destinations in the Sacred Valley, but they’re not the only ones. Below are some other options:

• Calca – This town is located a little over an hour by road from Cusco. Its main tourist attractions include the Machacancha thermal baths and the Moqo Mines. There’s also a museum called Inkariy, where you can learn more about the cultures that inhabited Peru, helping you better understand your tour of Cusco’s main Inca citadels.
• Huchuy Qosqo – Also known as ‘Little Cusco,’ this is an archaeological site located just minutes from Calca. It is believed that the Inca Wiracocha ordered it to be built as his resting place during his old age. To reach it, you can choose from several routes, although all of them involve hiking. The most popular route is from Lamay, from where you will have to hike for three hours of constant ascent. At Huchuy Qosqo, you will have one of the most incredible panoramic views of the entire Sacred Valley, and it is also possible to camp there, so you can enjoy a magical starry night.
• Lares – This characteristic town is located more than two hours from Cusco. It’s famous for its thermal baths and the Manto Waterfalls. It’s also popular as part of the Lares trek to Machu Picchu (4 days). In Lares, you can enjoy a relaxing day, ideal for visiting after a long trek through the valley. You can arrive at night to enjoy its hot springs and spend the night there.
• Arín – Near Calca, this small town offers a nature-filled experience and many holistic centers. An unusual adventure where you can also visit the famous Arín Falls for an immersive experience. Arín is also an ideal place to spend the night and acclimatize during your first few days in Cusco, given its altitude of approximately 2,900 meters above sea level.
• Yucay – The magical town of Yucay is a must-see if you want to discover a colonial place with Andean traditions. The tour is very easy; you can explore the entire town on foot. Yucay enjoys a near-ideal climate, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by green landscapes and buildings that tell a rich story.
• Inti Punku – A more exciting adventure in the Sacred Valley is the hike that will take you to Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate. This journey begins in Ollantaytambo, from where you’ll embark on a journey of approximately seven hours (round trip), but where you’ll experience breathtaking landscapes throughout. Upon arrival at Inti Punku, you’ll see enormous mountains, valleys, and snow-capped peaks at an altitude of approximately 3,900 meters above sea level.
• Ñaupa Iglesia – A mystical place in the Sacred Valley is Ñaupa Iglesia, an Incan structure that also contains archaeological remains from previous cultures. To get there, you’ll have to leave from Ollantaytambo; the journey is only 10 minutes, although you’ll then begin a short 10-minute hike. After ascending a small mountain, you’ll first encounter a sacred huaca (stone structure) and a finely carved stone doorway, which people often approach to “feel its energy.” All of this is located within a small cave, which adds even more mysticism to Ñaupa Iglesia.

Inti Punku or Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo

Recommendations

There are many options available in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions when visiting each of the tourist attractions. Here are some recommendations for your visit:

• The dry season (March to October) is characterized by sunny days and cool nights. The rainy season (October to March) is characterized by rainfall that can occur at any time. Any time is ideal for exploring the Sacred Valley and Cusco.
• The landscape of the Sacred Valley is ideal for meditation. Take the time to disconnect from your daily routine.
• There are many options for adventure sports: ziplining, cycling, horseback riding, rock climbing, ATV riding, etc. Make sure the tour you book offers a high-quality service with all safety measures in place.
• The Sacred Valley offers many typical dishes from the region and Peru. Don’t be afraid to try Chiri Uchu, Cuy al Horno, Chancho al Horno , and more. Peruvian cuisine is considered among the best in the world.
• Many of the towns in the Sacred Valley still preserve the traditions of the past. Learn more about the living culture of this area. The town of Chinchero is one of the communities that most jealously guards its customs.
• The Sacred Valley is an ideal place to acclimatize during your first few days in Cusco. Towns like Yucay and Arín will provide you with an ideal climate along with activities to fill your itinerary.
• Explore the Sacred Valley with the classic day tour at any time during your trip to Cusco. This tour will take you to places like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero in an all-inclusive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) How many days do I need to get to know the Sacred Valley well?

  Ideally, you should take at least two days. One day allows you to see the essentials, but a second day gives you the opportunity to enjoy the scenery more calmly and explore less-frequented places.

• 2) What places should I not miss if it’s my first time in the Sacred Valley?

  We recommend visiting Pisac, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. These towns bring together the most representative features of the Valley, including archaeological sites, traditions, cuisine, and spectacular landscapes.

• 3) Is the classic one-day tour worth it?

  Yes, especially if you’re short on time. The classic day tour covers the most notable destinations (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero) and is very well organized.

• 4) What if I have two days, how do I organize my trip?

  On the first day, you can take the Pisac–Urubamba–Ollantaytambo route, staying overnight in Urubamba. On the second day, you can visit Maras, Moray, and Chinchero, or choose an adventure experience like ziplining, ATV riding, or hiking.

• 5) Is it better to travel to the Sacred Valley on my own or with a tour?

  It depends on your tastes. If you prefer freedom and flexibility, going on your own is perfect (especially if you have two or more days). But if you want to maximize your time, an organized tour offers convenience and a comprehensive itinerary.

• 6) What is the best place to stay in the Sacred Valley?

  Urubamba is an excellent choice, given its good accommodation options, good connections to other towns, and a peaceful atmosphere.

• 7) Is the Sacred Valley a good place to acclimatize before traveling to Machu Picchu?

  Yes, definitely. Towns like Yucay, Urubamba, and Arín are ideal for getting your body used to the altitude.

• 8) What kind of experiences can I have beyond the archaeological?

  You can enjoy adventure sports (ATVs, ziplining, climbing), participate in pottery, weaving, or cooking workshops, hike along less-touristy trails, or enjoy hot springs like Lares or Calca.

• 9) Is it safe to travel through the Sacred Valley?

  Yes, it’s very safe for tourism. As anywhere, it’s best to take basic precautions: take care of your personal belongings, learn about your routes, and hire reputable tour operators.

• 10) Is there anything to do at night in the villages in the valley?

  It’s not an area with a busy nightlife. Nights are generally quiet, ideal for relaxing, dining well, or strolling through the town squares.

Advice from people who have been there

Sacred Valley

By: Raúl G.

“Disconnect from everything and recharge your energy“

“There are many ways to get to and tour this marvel. You can do it the traditional way, you can go by ATV or bike tour. You can also see it from the sky by zipline or paragliding. I personally liked the ATVs. While touring the valley you can connect too much with nature and enjoy an excellent view of the landscape.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, July 7, 2025