Overview
The Sacred Valley of the Incas stands as the most legendary corridor between the city of Cusco and Machu Picchu. Famous for its majestic archaeological remains, sprawling cornfields, and pleasant year-round climate, it is a must-see destination. QOSQO ADVENTURES invites you on an exclusive, high-quality journey through the valley’s primary highlights, ensuring every moment of your time is maximized and meaningful.
Our comprehensive itinerary covers the Pisac complex—home to a massive Inca cemetery and a bustling traditional market—the mysterious agricultural rings of Moray, the shimmering white salt ponds of Maras, and the formidable ceremonial fortress of Ollantaytambo. We conclude the day with a comfortable drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.
This all-inclusive experience by QOSQO ADVENTURES provides a deep dive into Andean weaving traditions and offers constant, awe-inspiring views of the mountains. With entrance tickets included and a well-paced schedule, you can immerse yourself in every stop without ever feeling rushed.
Everything is Taken Care Of: This QOSQO ADVENTURES tour includes all entrance fees, professional transportation, expert guiding, and a delicious lunch. Your only job is to enjoy the wonders of the Incas!
Super Sacred Valley at a Glance
- 07:00 AM: Morning pickup from your hotel in central Cusco.
- Alpaca Farm Visit: Learn about traditional wool dyeing and interact with friendly camelids.
- Mirador Taray: Stop for a stunning overview of the valley’s geography.
- Pisac Ruins: A guided exploration of the ancient hilltop fortress.
- Pisac Market: Time to browse the region’s most famous craft hub.
- Urubamba Buffet: Around 12:00 PM, enjoy a high-quality regional lunch.
- Moray Terraces: Descend toward the impressive circular earthworks.
- Maras Salt Pools: Witness the ancient salt harvesting process still used today.
- Ollantaytambo: A final walk through the legendary stone fortress and its colorful town.
- 06:00 PM: Estimated return and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.
Full Itinerary: The Best of the Sacred Valley
Discover Ancient Secrets with QOSQO ADVENTURES
Cusco – Alpaca Farm – Taray
Beginning at 7:00 AM, QOSQO ADVENTURES will collect you from your hotel to start our journey in a comfortable, modern vehicle. Our first stop is an Alpaca farm, where you will meet the four types of South American camelids. You will discover their vital role in the local economy and observe the intricate Inca techniques for extracting and dyeing wool using natural elements. It is a perfect opportunity for photos and cultural learning.
We then travel to Mirador Taray, an observation point offering a massive panoramic view of the valley. From here, you can see the Urubamba River snaking through the fields below, framed by the snow-capped Andean peaks.
The Wonders of Pisac
A short drive leads us to the Pisac archaeological site. Perched high on a hill, this complex features remarkable agricultural terraces, religious sectors, and the largest Inca cemetery known today. After the ruins, we descend to the modern town of Pisac to visit its handicraft market. This vibrant center is the best place to find unique textiles, ceramics, and local street food like traditional empanadas.
Urubamba, Moray, and Maras
After a scenic drive, we arrive in Urubamba for a buffet lunch made with fresh, local products. Once recharged, QOSQO ADVENTURES takes you to Moray. This site resembles a natural amphitheater, but it was actually a sophisticated agricultural laboratory where Incas tested different seeds in varied microclimates. Next, we visit the Salineras of Maras, featuring over 3,000 salt pans that have been maintained by local families for generations since before the Inca Empire.
Ollantaytambo: The Final Stronghold
Our final destination is Ollantaytambo. We will explore its 15th-century Inca fortress, known for its incredible stonework and massive terraces. The town itself is a masterpiece of urban design, with original stone streets and flowing water channels that make it feel as if time has stood still. We then return to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 PM.
Included
- Morning hotel pickup within Cusco city.
- Modern, high-quality tourist transportation.
- Professional Bilingual Guide (English/Spanish) from QOSQO ADVENTURES.
- Full buffet lunch at a traditional restaurant in Urubamba.
- All Entrance Fees: Includes the Cusco Tourist Ticket and Maras salt mines entry.
- Drop-off at your hotel upon return.
Not Included
- Breakfast and evening dinner.
- Personal expenses and souvenirs.
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
Why book with QOSQO ADVENTURES?
- Local Expertise: We are a 100% Peruvian operator based in Cusco, offering the best local insights.
- Certified Professionals: Our guides are experts in Inca history and fluent in English.
- Worry-Free Travel: As an all-inclusive tour, we manage every detail so you don’t have to.
- Flexibility: We offer both small group and private services tailored to your needs.
What to Pack for the Super Sacred Valley
The Andean climate can be quite unpredictable. QOSQO ADVENTURES recommends dressing in layers to stay comfortable as the weather shifts throughout the day.
Essential Items
- Original Passport (mandatory for checkpoints).
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket (even in the dry season).
- Warm down jacket or fleece for the early morning and late afternoon.
- Sun protection: SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses.
- Hat or cap with neck coverage.
- Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with good traction.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Personal medication and hand sanitizer.
- Cash in Soles for market purchases and personal drinks.
- Camera with extra batteries and memory space.
Note: We recommend bringing only a light daypack. Avoid large bags as you will be walking on uneven stone trails.
Important Travel Information
Altitude and Health
The Sacred Valley averages about 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), which is lower than Cusco. This makes it an excellent place to acclimatize. However, we still recommend drinking plenty of water and moving at a relaxed pace. Coca tea is a local remedy that many travelers find helpful.
Best Season to Travel
The dry season (May to September) offers the clearest skies and most stable weather. If you prefer lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, the shoulder months of April and October are fantastic choices.
Booking and Logistics
- Reservation: We require a deposit of US$50 per person to secure your spot.
- Payment: The balance can be paid online or at our Cusco office using credit cards or PayPal.
- Flexibility: If you have a train to Machu Picchu later in the day, we can drop you off at the Ollantaytambo station instead of returning to Cusco.
How to Book with QOSQO ADVENTURES
1. Select your date and service type (Group or Private). 2. Provide your passport details and any dietary restrictions. 3. Complete the secure payment. Our team will contact you shortly to confirm all pickup details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the Super Sacred Valley tour is very family-friendly. The interaction with alpacas and the diverse sites usually keep children engaged and curious.
Can I still walk among the Maras salt pools?
To prevent contamination of the salt, walking inside the pools has been restricted since 2019. However, QOSQO ADVENTURES takes you to the best viewing platforms for incredible photos of the entire complex.
Where exactly is the Sacred Valley?
It is located about 15 kilometers north of Cusco, stretching along the Urubamba River between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
What are the dining options like?
We visit a high-quality restaurant in Urubamba that offers a buffet with international and traditional Peruvian flavors, including numerous vegetarian and fresh salad options.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility is limited due to the ancient Inca stone steps and uneven trails. However, please contact us at QOSQO ADVENTURES to discuss specific needs and see how we can assist with a private service.
