Kim MacQuarrie
Four-time Emmy-winner
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Destinations
Sacred Valley Tours
Stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas is a place of breathtaking beauty and holds great significance in the Andean region. Bustling markets, hillside Inca ruins, and centuries-old salt mines are among the attractions you can explore during our small-group and private Sacred Valley tours.
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The 10 Best Sacred Valley Tours
for 2024/2025
Cusco & Machu Picchu
6 Days / from $1249
6 Days / from $1249
Explore the historic city of Cusco, lush Sacred Valley and ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
Inspiring Incas & Great Galapagos
11 Days / from $5979
11 Days / from $5979
Explore the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu before meeting the fascinating wildlife of the Galapagos.
Discover Machu Picchu
7 Days / from $1469
7 Days / from $1469
Spend an extra day at Machu Picchu to snap that perfect picture or take a special hike for a bird’s-eye view.
Amazon River Cruise & Machu Picchu
9 Days / from $3649
9 Days / from $3649
Witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu and then take an all-inclusive Amazon Cruise into pristine jungle habitats.
Machu Picchu Express
4 Days / from $989
4 Days / from $989
See the key sites of Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on this expedited adventure.
Discover Peru
16 Days / from $3869
16 Days / from $3869
Visit Machu Picchu and other lesser known sites of the Peruvian mountains, coast and rainforest.
Explore the Path of the Inca
9 Days / from $2069
9 Days / from $2069
Tour Cusco and the captivating Sacred Valley before hiking the famed Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu & Jungle Adventure
9 Days / from $1919
9 Days / from $1919
Start your adventure in the vibrant Amazon Rainforest then travel on to legendary Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Ancient Inca & Traditional Lima
6 Days / From $1369
6 Days / From $1369
From bustling Lima to breathtaking Machu Picchu, a tour that will leave you speechless.
Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
8 Days / from $1679
8 Days / from $1679
Step into the mystical Andes by visiting the birthplace of the Inca and the lost city of Machu Picchu.
What to see in Sacred Valley
MIL Centro Restaurant
At MIL Centro you can taste various flavors unique to Peru cooked up by world-class chef Virgilio Martinez. This sister project to his flagship Central Restaurant in Lima has been climbing in acclaim since its inception in 2018. Panoramic views of the Moray ruins and Andes mountain can be seen from the windows while representations of the same landscapes can be tasted in 8-courses of gourmet cuisine.
Pisac Ruins
Witness some of the most impressive examples of Incan engineering at the Pisac ruins. Here Terraces, stone structures, and aqueducts will give you a first glance of the wonders to come at Machu Picchu.
Pisac Market
The Pisac market is an artisan market that can be visited daily. This world-famous market is a great place to pick up Peruvian souvenirs like Andean textiles or Maras salt. You’ll also witness the beautiful rural landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Ollantaytambo Ruins
The Ollantaytambo ruins are a unique archaeological site. This is the only place where the Incas took a stand against the Spanish conquerors. After putting up a fight, the Spanish gathered more forces and took it over as a fortress. Perfectly carved into the mountainside, with Inca terraces that overlook the Urubamba river you’ll understand why it was once an Incan estate as you gaze out into the scenic Sacred Valley.
Maras Salt Mines
While most mines are underground, the Maras Salt Mines are above-ground terraced pools that fill with natural saltwater. As the water evaporates, the salt solidifies and has been harvested for centuries by the nearby communities.
Moray
The Moray ruins are believed to have been an experimental farm. Archaeological evidence suggests that the concentric circles of terraces were used to test how altitudes affected the different growth rates and crop productions.
Chinchero
Chinchero is where to go in the Sacred Valley if you’re wanting to visit a traditional Andean town. Get a glimpse into the contemporary Andean culture and visit nearby Inca ruins and historical sites.
Urubamba
The town of Urubamba lies along the shores of the Urubamba River and is a traditional Andean town nestled within the Sacred Valley. Here you’ll find some of the Sacred Valley’s best hotels and lodges.
Ccochahuasi Animal Sanctuary
The Ccochahuasi Animal Sanctuary is a family-run rescue center for animals and is a highly recommended place to see in the Sacred Valley for families. Here you can feed alpacas, pet Peruvian hairless dogs, see colorful macaws, and more!
Sacred Valley Hotels
Tambo del Inka
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Avenida Ferrocarril, Urubamba, Sacred Valley
Tambo del Inka is a 5-star luxury hotel in the Sacred Valley. Cozy fireplaces take out the chill in the mountain air, while heated swimming pools and spa treatments will take you into a deep state of relaxation. The private train station here will take you to Machu Picchu with ease.
4.9 | Exceptional
5.0 | Excellent
Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley
★ ★ ★ ★
5to Paradero Yanahuara, Sacred Valley
Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley is a luxurious hotel, with a sweeping property nestled in the Sacred Valley. Only 10 minutes from Ollantaytambo, this property feels out of the way, yet close enough to all the top tourist attractions.
4.5 | Wonderful
4.5 | Excellent
Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado
★ ★ ★
5to paradero Yanahura, Urubamba, Sacred Valley
Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado is the perfect place to escape into the Sacred Valley. Located in Urubamba, this out-of-the-way property has all the amenities you could possibly need, friendly staff, and a fantastic breakfast buffet.
4.7 | Exceptional
5 | Excellent
Tunupa Lodge
★ ★
Av. Ferrocarril, Ollantaytambo, Sacred Valley, Peru
Tunupa Lodge is located right in Ollantaytambo town, just three minutes from the train station to Machu Picchu. This charming option has a private bathroom, complimentary breakfast, and panoramic views of the Ollantaytambo fortress.
4.0 | Very Good
Peru Highlights
Peru is filled with archaeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and delicious flavors. Must-see places in Peru include:
Inca trail
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.
Learn more →
Amazon Rainforest
Step into the lush Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and witness a spectacular array of wildlife in its natural habitat. Lodges in Puerto Maldonado are ideal for excursions and daily activities. Those looking for a more luxurious Amazon experience would love an Iquitos Amazon River cruise. Colorful macaws, giant tarantulas, and playful river otters are among the sights you’ll behold.
Learn more →
Cusco
Cusco city has it all, archaeological ruins, colonial buildings, top-rated restaurants, and countless places to explore. Your Cusco City Tour will take you to the top highlights like Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, the Cusco Cathedral, and more.
Learn more →
Lake Titicaca
Sail on the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca and step on the reed Uros and Taquile floating islands. Some of the best weavers are found in this area so pick up some Peruvian textiles here for unique souvenirs.
Learn more →
Lima
Lima is a mixture of modern city living and historical significance. Here you’ll find Central restaurant (ranked #6 by 50 Worlds Best), UNESCO World Heritage sites like Historic City Center with the San Francisco Convent, and the best shopping in Peru.
Learn more →
Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are mysterious geoglyphs and geometric shapes drawn onto the desert floor hundreds of years ago by the Nazca culture. Little is known about them nevertheless, the Nazca Lines inspire awe in those who take a flight over them.
Learn more →
Arequipa
Arequipa is a picturesque town and also the second-largest city in Peru. Local markets, beautifully built colonial architecture, and El Misti volcano are among the things you’ll see while walking the cobblestone streets of the white city.
Learn more →Peru Highlights
Peru is filled with archaeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and delicious flavors. Must-see places in Peru include:
Inca trail
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.
Amazon Rainforest
Step into the lush Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and witness a spectacular array of wildlife in its natural habitat. Lodges in Puerto Maldonado are ideal for excursions and daily activities. Those looking for a more luxurious Amazon experience would love an Iquitos Amazon River cruise. Colorful macaws, giant tarantulas, and playful river otters are among the sights you’ll behold.
Cusco
Cusco city has it all, archaeological ruins, colonial buildings, top-rated restaurants, and countless places to explore. Your Cusco City Tour will take you to the top highlights like Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, the Cusco Cathedral, and more.
Lake Titicaca
Sail on the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca and step on the reed Uros and Taquile floating islands. Some of the best weavers are found in this area so pick up some Peruvian textiles here for unique souvenirs.
Lima
Lima is a mixture of modern city living and historical significance. Here you’ll find Central restaurant (ranked #6 by 50 Worlds Best), UNESCO World Heritage sites like Historic City Center with the San Francisco Convent, and the best shopping in Peru.
Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are mysterious geoglyphs and geometric shapes drawn onto the desert floor hundreds of years ago by the Nazca culture. Little is known about them nevertheless, the Nazca Lines inspire awe in those who take a flight over them.
Arequipa
Arequipa is a picturesque town and also the second-largest city in Peru. Local markets, beautifully built colonial architecture, and El Misti volcano are among the things you’ll see while walking the cobblestone streets of the white city.
Faqs
Where is the Sacred Valley?
Close to the city of Cusco, the Sacred Valley is located in the Andes mountains in Peru.
Why is it called the Sacred Valley?
The Sacred Valley is named for its fertile soil. The Inca Emperors used this land for their estates which is why there are numerous spectacular Incan ruins leading the way to Machu Picchu.
What is the elevation of the Sacred Valley?
The elevation of the Sacred Valley is approximately 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level.
What is the Sacred Valley famous for?
The Sacred Valley is famous for its Inca Ruins, archaeological sites, scenic landscapes, and as a stopover spot on the way towards Machu Picchu.
How to get to the Sacred Valley from ___:?
Lima:
The Sacred Valley is located almost 700-miles from Lima. A short flight from Lima to Cusco is recommended, from there you can rest overnight in a Cusco hotel or continue onwards to the Sacred Valley.
Cusco:
The Sacred Valley is located 45-miles (72km) outside of Cusco city. If taking the train, allot ~90 minutes from Cusco to Ollantaytambo station. If taking a private transfer ~60-90 minutes from Cusco to your Sacred Valley hotel.
How to get to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley?
From Machu Picchu, you can only take a train or hike the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail.
Train:
From Ollantaytambo station, the train goes directly to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. From there, your PFL representative will meet you and direct you to the bus that will take you to the top of the mountain where the citadel of Machu Picchu, incredibly, is situated. The train will take ~90 minutes from Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes. The bus to Machu Picchu is ~30 minutes.
The Inca Trail:
Departing from the town of Ollantaytambo, your Inca Trail journey begins in the Sacred Valley and finishes at the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu. Our expert trekking team will guide you exactly where you need to go with gusto.
Is it worth it to see the Sacred Valley?
Yes, absolutely. The Sacred Valley is a peaceful respite nestled between scenic terraced mountains. Here you can find some of the best hotels. Our clients often tell us in our stellar reviews how they wish they had more time in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
How long should I spend in the Sacred Valley?
We recommend at least 1 day but 2 if you can swing it. A Sacred Valley tour around top sites in the Sacred Valley will instill you with an appreciation for Incan cultures and their engineering skills. A perfect preamp before Machu Picchu.
