The Sacred Valley Tour: A Must Stop Before Machu Picchu

The rainy season in the Andes starts in November, gathers force in December and lasts until April. The dry season is best for trekking that runs from the end of April to the beginning of November. This is the best time to visit although it can be cold during the night, especially at the highest altitudes. May and October receive fewer visitors but the weather can be unpredictable. For more information, please read our guide on the best time to visit Peru.

How to get to Sacred Valley: Many buses travel from Cusco to Písac on the daily.

1. The Inca remains

While there is more to the area than ruins, they are arguably the biggest draw. No visitor should consider skipping the majestic Machu Picchu, but a longer visit can include several other outstanding examples of Incan construction. Each end of the Valley is watched over by a hilltop citadel, Písac in the east and Ollantaytambo in the west and most Sacred Valley tours take in one or both. The Sun Temple at Písac, in particular, is an unmissable highlight.

2. Agricultural terraces

Many of the hillsides in the area were terraced in antiquity to maximise the area of cultivable land and you will not regret witnessing this elegant testament to human ingenuity and endeavour.

One fascinating site that should be included is the bizarre amphitheatre-shaped terraces of Moray. While agricultural terraces are ubiquitous, the terraces at Moray were cut in such a precise way and at such a specific altitude that they were able to control the temperatures and reproduce climatic growing conditions from other areas, allowing crops normally unsuited for the mountains to be grown. Researchers are divided over whether Moray represents a giant Incan agricultural laboratory or a high-altitude nursery but it clearly demonstrates the Incas’ high level of agricultural knowledge and sophistication.

3. Ancient saltpans

For a unique sight, head to the ancient saltpans at Salineras. Salt has been collected from this area since long before the Incas arrived and these saltpans are still in use today. If anything, the saltpans are even more impressive than the agricultural terraces.

4. Local markets

The towns of Písac and Chinchero both hold lively markets on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Possibly the most vibrant is the Sunday market at Písac, which is also the most popular. For a more authentic experience, try the one at Chinchero. These markets offer an insight into the local way of life and are also good places to pick up handicrafts.

The Sacred Valley is not just about visits. A Sacred Valley tour can incorporate a multitude of activities for all tastes, including treks ranging from one day to upwards of a week, as well as a range of pursuits guaranteed to increase adrenaline levels.

1. Trekking

The Sacred Valley is an area with exceptional trekking possibilities and most of the routes see far fewer trekkers than the ultra-popular Inca Trail. For those looking for a challenging alternative approach to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek is the one to go for. However, other treks including the Lares trek, the Choquequirao Trek, the remote Vilcabamba (Espíritu Pampa) Trek and the high-altitude Ausangate Trek are all options for those who don’t necessarily need to finish at Machu Picchu.

2. Mountain biking and zip-lining

You can even opt for adventure activities such as mountain biking and zip-lining. The Sacred Valley is home to the longest zip-line in Peru.

While it is more rewarding to spend more time exploring at a more leisurely pace, a one-day whistle-stop tour of the most important sites may be the only option for those pushed for time. A typical tour itinerary will start with a market visit at Písac (but not the ruins) followed by lunch at Urubamba. The day will then continue with a visit to Ollantaytambo with a final stop at Chinchero. A variation might include a visit to the Písac ruins but with less time at the market. 

• Get the Boleto Turístico ticket. A combined ticket called the Boleto Turístico grants access to a number of sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley and is valid for ten days. The Sacred Valley sites included are Písac, Ollantaytambo, Chincero and Moray. For those who don’t wish to pay for the ticket that includes the Cusco sites, a cheaper version exists just for the Sacred Valley sites.
• Don't forget the markets. The Pisac market is one of the most famous markets in Cusco and draws a lot of visitors! Plan your trip on a Sunday if you want to check out traditional souvenirs along with fresh local produce. If you are interested in markets, then try the Mercado de San Pedro as well as the Izcuchaca Market. Both markets are known for showcasing authentic local goods / produce sans souvenirs. The Izcuchaca and the Chinchero markets both lie in the west of Cusco and a visit to both can be combined together. 
• Be aware of pickpockets. The Sacred Valley is a popular area for tourists and shouldn’t be too dangerous as long as you use common sense. The most common danger is from pickpockets.
• Acclimatization is necessary.  Any visitors to the Sacred Valley should allow enough time, at least 2 days, for acclimatization, especially for those planning on trekking. At 3,399 m, Cusco is the perfect start point for this. 
• Be prepared for both cold weather. At high altitudes, temperatures can drop very low and you should ensure you have the proper clothing and equipment. Check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Peru to know more about Peru's climate. 

There is much more to the region than just the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu and a more comprehensive Sacred Valley tour will reveal a wealth of lesser-known Inca sites, picturesque mountain scenery and colourful local cultures for those who make the time.