Machu Picchu is the main reason why thousands of tourists from all over the world visit Cusco in Peru. The other is, without a doubt, the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This immense fertile territory surrounded by rivers and beautiful landscapes was of great importance during the time of the Incas. Today, it offers a variety of tourist attractions such as archaeological centers, cultural manifestations and adventure sports. In addition to a great quality of hotels and services of all kinds. Here are some tips to make the most of your trip to the Sacred Valley.

• 1. Choose a good time to visit the Sacred Valley
• 2. Spend at least one night in the Sacred Valley
• 3. Enjoy the scenery to the fullest
• 4. Dare to do adventure sports
• 5. Enjoy the Peruvian gastronomy
• 6. Get to know the local traditions
• 7. Visit archaeological sites

These are some travel tips you can follow when visiting the Sacred Valley of the Incas

1. Choose a good time to visit the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is open to the public all year round. However, there are certain times when the weather is favorable to enjoy this incredible place to the fullest. The seasons in Cusco are well differentiated: the rainy season (from October to March) is characterized by sudden rainfall. The dry season (from March to October) is sunny during the day and cold at night. A good tip is to travel in the months of April-May and September-October. Those months present an intermediate season in which you can enjoy a cool and pleasant climate. In addition, in those days the numerous vacation tourists from Europe and the United States have not yet arrived.

2. Spend at least one night in the Sacred Valley

Every day more and more tourists visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This caused an increase in the hotel offer in that part of Cusco. There are luxury hotels built on old haciendas and corn fields, both in harmony with nature. There is also the so-called ‘scariest hotel in the world‘, which is perched on a cliff 400 meters above the Urubamba River. There are also a variety of lodgings for all tastes and prices. It is no longer necessary to go to Cusco to find an inn. It is advisable to spend at least one night in the valley, surrounded by immense mountains and the spectacle of nature.

Incredible hotel atop the cliffs of the Sacred Valley

3. Enjoy the scenery to the fullest

The Sacred Valley was one of the most important agricultural centers of the Inca Empire. Today, this territory is still fertile and surrounded by fantastic landscapes. The usual tours go through each point of the valley very quickly, leaving the visitor wanting to know much more. It is a good tip to take the time to enjoy the mountains, rivers and landscapes. It is also a great place for meditation. Urubamba, for example, has one of the most beautiful climates and landscapes on the planet.

4. Dare to do adventure sports

The Sacred Valley is surrounded by mountains, rivers and fields. This geography offers the right environment to practice adventure sports. These do not necessarily demand a great physical effort, so people of all ages can do them. The options are the following:

• Mountain biking – The cycling routes go through diverse landscapes such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, among others. You can also choose from different levels.
• Rafting – The Vilcanota River is the stage for this adventure. During the rainy season (from October to March) the most difficult levels. During the dry season (March to October), beginner levels.
• Horseback riding – For horse lovers, horseback riding in the Sacred Valley is the best experience. It is essential to bring a camera to perpetuate the adventure.
• Zip Line – If you want to add a little speed to your trip, dare to descend a metal rope from the top of a mountain. Ropes of all speeds and lengths are available.
• ATV – The most beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley are traveled by ATV. You will glimpse the fields of Chinchero and the Inca remains of Maras and Moray.
• Rock climbing – There are boulders for beginners and for experts. Safety implements are guaranteed.

Enjoy the different adventure sports you can do in the Sacred Valley

5. Enjoy the Peruvian gastronomy

Peruvian gastronomy is considered one of the best in the world. The Sacred Valley, as one of the best agricultural territories of the country, has succulent dishes for all tastes. The white corn grown in this part of the country is considered the largest and most delicious in Peru. Do not be afraid to try new flavors. Peruvian food is healthy and delicious. Among the typical dishes you will find in the valley are: Chiri Uchu, Pepián de Cuy, Chancho al horno, Olluquito con Charqui and other traditional Peruvian dishes such as Ceviche and Lomo Saltado.

6. Get to know the local traditions

Despite the passage of time, the Sacred Valley has many of its ancestral traditions. Even today you can still see villagers wearing their typical costumes in their daily lives. In the patron saint festivities, one can appreciate the dances, customs and culture of the people. This is especially true in the district of Chinchero. The people of that part still jealously guard the ancestral traditions such as the Sunday market where you can still barter or exchange. Do not be afraid to get involved with the customs of the people. Engage in conversation with the people. Or, why not, dare to practice experiential tourism.

7. Visit archaeological sites

The Sacred Valley of the Incas has several Inca archaeological sites. One of the most visited places are the circular terraces of Moray and the salt mines of Maras. There are also the Archaeological Park of Ollantaytambo, the Archaeological Remains of Pisac, the Archaeological Center of Chinchero and more. All of them keep to this day the traces of the Inca culture. There are also colonial buildings such as the Colonial Church of Chinchero, the Temple of San Pedro Apostle of Urubamba, among others. The tour can be done with a tour or on your own.

Visitor sharing the traditions of the people of the Sacred Valley

Advice from people who have been there

Sacred Valley

By: Carlos K.

“Disconnect from everything and recharge your energy“

“Connect with nature, let the rain get you wet, get your feet muddy, relax, take the ATV tour, it only lasts 4 hours. Tire yourself out, scream, cry and you will be relaxed. A thousand times recommended.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, July 10, 2024