The Authentic Sacred Valley Tour: 1 Day of Inca Life & Landscapes

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a breathtaking destination filled with remarkable sites, including:

• Chinchero: Renowned for its traditional textiles and agricultural terraces.
• Moray: Circular terraces used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory.
• Maras: Famous salt mines, a highly photogenic and culturally significant site.
• Ollantaytambo: An Incan fortress offering stunning views of the valley and unique constructions.
• Pisac: A religious, agricultural, and astronomical center of the Sacred Valley.

The tour is not overly demanding, but some sites might be challenging for older adults with limited mobility. For instance, places like Ollantaytambo require climbing stairs and overcome uneven terrain. However, the walks are relatively short, and breaks can be taken as needed. The routes are generally accessible if approached at a relaxed pace.

We recommend that older participants go at their own rhythm and consult the tour operator in advance to request possible adjustments for their comfort.

The tour is moderately challenging. It involves short walks on uneven terrain and some climbing at sites like Ollantaytambo. While it’s not overly strenuous, participants should be prepared to explore on foot for several hours and they should also consider the high altitudes (2,800–3,000 meters above sea level), which may cause fatigue or altitude sickness in some people.

Yes, the Sacred Valley Tourist Ticket is required to access many of the key sites, such as Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Chincher but you can buy it as well at the first stop in the tour.

• Partial Ticket: Costs 70 soles and covers specific sites. Add 20 soles for the salt mines for a total of 90 soles.
• General Ticket: Includes access to Sacred Valley sites and those from the city tour. If you plan to do both, the general ticket is the most cost-effective option.

While technically possible, visiting both the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in one day is not recommended due to travel times. The Sacred Valley is about 1.5 hours from Cusco, and Machu Picchu is 3–4 hours by train from Ollantaytambo. Additionally, visiting

Machu Picchu requires extra planning, such as ticket purchases and train reservations.
For a more relaxed and fulfilling experience, it’s best to dedicate one day to each destination or consider a multi-day tour.

If you’re short on time, check out our Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu connection tour for a seamless experience.

• Maras Salt Mines: A visually stunning location, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Moray: Unique circular terraces offering a glimpse into Incan ingenuity.
• Ollantaytambo: The fortress and its panoramic views of the valley are perfect for breathtaking shots.
• Chinchero: Traditional textiles set against a scenic mountain backdrop.
  The natural landscapes of the Sacred Valley, with its rivers and mountains, also provide excellent opportunities for capturing its beauty.

The rainy season in the Sacred Valley runs from November to March, with the heaviest rains in January and February. While rainfall can be intense, it typically doesn’t last all day. Visibility may sometimes be affected, but usually not significantly.

If you travel during this period, be prepared with waterproof clothing and proper footwear. Check the weather forecast and consider travel insurance for potential disruptions.

Advantages of visiting during the rainy season:

• Fewer tourists, leading to quieter attractions.
• Lush green landscapes, ideal for photography.

The dry season, from May to October, is the ideal time for photography in the Sacred Valley. During these months, rain is minimal, and clear skies provide excellent lighting for capturing stunning images.

June, July, and August are particularly great for visibility and light quality. Although these months see more tourists, the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley is at its peak.