Sacred Valley – Full Day (Personalized Service)
Uncover the hidden treasures of the Sacred Valley on this exclusive, personalized full-day adventure designed for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the land, its people, and its ancient heritage. Departing from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, this immersive experience takes you beyond the typical tourist routes, revealing breathtaking Inca sites, dramatic landscapes, and authentic Andean traditions.
Begin your journey at Moray, a spectacular archaeological site composed of concentric circular terraces once used as an agricultural laboratory. Here, the Incas experimented with microclimates to cultivate diverse crops, showcasing their extraordinary ingenuity and harmony with nature. Continue to the Maras Salt Mines, a dazzling mosaic of more than 3,000 salt pools cascading down the mountainside, still harvested today by local families using centuries-old techniques.
For nature lovers and light adventurers, descend on a scenic hike through the valley, following winding trails surrounded by mountain views and the gentle sound of flowing streams, eventually reaching the sacred Urubamba River. Afterward, indulge in a buffet lunch of regional flavors that celebrate the essence of Andean cuisine.
Your exploration culminates at Pisac, one of the Sacred Valley’s most fascinating archaeological complexes. Walk among ancient terraces and temples before descending along historic Inca pathways to the colorful town below. This exclusive experience reveals the hidden beauty, peace, and living history that define the true spirit of the Sacred Valley.
Places to Visit
- Moray Archaeological Site
- Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)
- Optional Descent Hike to the Sacred River (1–1.5 hours)
- Pisac Archaeological Complex
- Descent Hike to Pisac Town (2–3 hours, moderate difficulty)
Gallery
Itinerary
- Moray Archaeological Site
- Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)
- Optional Descent Hike to the Sacred River (1–1.5 hours)
- Pisac Archaeological Complex
- Descent Hike to Pisac Town (2–3 hours, moderate difficulty)
- Optional departure from Cusco or Ollantaytambo (between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m.): begin your adventure through the heart of the Sacred Valley, where ancient history, breathtaking nature, and Andean traditions intertwine in harmony. Enjoy a scenic drive through mountain landscapes dotted with traditional villages and farmlands.
- Visit Moray: explore one of the most fascinating examples of Inca agricultural innovation. Walk among the perfectly circular terraces, once used as a natural laboratory to adapt crops to different microclimates. Feel the peaceful energy of this unique site and capture panoramic photos of its green concentric rings framed by snow-capped peaks.
- Continue to the Maras Salt Mines: marvel at more than 3,000 dazzling salt pools cascading down the mountainside. Learn about the ancient techniques still practiced by local families and take stunning photographs of this surreal landscape where white salt glistens under the Andean sun.
- Optional hike to the Sacred Valley River: for those who enjoy light adventure, descend on a scenic trail through the valley. The one-hour walk offers close contact with nature—passing small farms, wildflowers, and gentle streams before reaching the tranquil banks of the Urubamba River.
- Buffet lunch at a local restaurant: savor a delicious selection of regional dishes prepared with fresh Andean ingredients, from quinoa and corn to organic vegetables and local meats.
- Drive to Pisac: journey deeper into the valley to reach one of its largest and most impressive archaeological sites. Explore the terraces, temples, and fortress-like structures that overlook the valley below.
- Hike from the upper ruins to Pisac town: descend along ancient Inca trails that wind through the mountainside. This 2–3 hour hike offers magnificent views of the valley and glimpses of rural life, with locals tending their fields just as their ancestors did centuries ago.
- Meet your vehicle in Pisac: after your descent, enjoy some free time to browse the colorful artisan market before returning to Cusco.
- Arrival in Cusco around 6:30 p.m.: conclude your day filled with discovery, culture, and the unforgettable landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Included
- Personalized service with private guide and transportation
- Pick-up and drop-off from Cusco or Ollantaytambo
- Entrance tickets to all sites
- Buffet lunch at a local restaurant
- English or Spanish-speaking professional guide
Not Included
- Personal expenses or extra drinks
- Tips for guides or drivers
- Travel insurance
Recomendations
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and light layers
- Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Carry a small backpack with water and snacks
- Bring a rain jacket (especially from November to March)
- Suitable for travelers with moderate physical condition
- Duration: Full day
- Difficulty: Easy
- Group size: from 2 to 8 people
- Altitude: 3.399 m.s.n.m
Cusco Esencial
Your local agent, specializing in tailor-made tours and small group travel to Peru.