Overview
The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers an extraordinary journey through the most significant and stunning sites of the Peruvian Andes. This comprehensive expedition by QOSQO ADVENTURES begins with a morning pickup from your hotel, leading you into the heart of the valley’s fertile lands. Throughout the day, you will visit a traditional alpaca farm, the scenic Taray viewpoint, the impressive Pisac archaeological site, and its vibrant local market, followed by a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba.
In the afternoon, the adventure continues to the historic village of Ollantaytambo, famous for its massive Inca fortress and ancient stone streets. Finally, you will visit Chinchero, where you can interact with master weavers who have preserved their ancestral alpaca wool techniques for generations. This tour is the perfect way for QOSQO ADVENTURES guests to experience the highlights of Peru in a single, well-organized day.
Sacred Valley Day Tour at a Glance
- 08:00 AM: Hotel pickup in Cusco. Be ready in the lobby at the scheduled time!
- 08:45 AM: Visit an alpaca farm to learn about native camelids and fibers.
- 09:00 AM: Panoramic photo stop at the Taray viewpoint.
- 09:45 AM: Guided exploration of the Pisac ruins (temples and terraces).
- 10:30 AM: Free time to browse handicrafts at the Pisac Market.
- 12:00 PM: Delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba with vegetarian options.
- 01:30 PM: Discovery of the Ollantaytambo fortress and living Inca town.
- 03:30 PM: Exploration of the Chinchero archaeological site and plaza.
- 04:30 PM: Traditional weaving demonstration using natural dyes.
- 06:00 PM: Return to Cusco and drop-off at your hotel.
Full Itinerary: Sacred Valley with QOSQO ADVENTURES
Inca Temples, Andean Culture & Living Traditions
Cusco – Taray – Pisac
Your day begins at 8:00 AM when the QOSQO ADVENTURES team picks you up for a drive through the high Andean landscapes. Our first stop is a specialized alpaca farm, where you will see llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos while learning about their role in Andean life. Afterward, we stop at the Taray viewpoint for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Urubamba River and the farming valleys below.
Pisac Archaeological Site & Market
We then reach the archaeological complex of Pisac, an impressive Inca settlement perched on a mountain. You will explore its fine stone temples, residential sectors, and massive agricultural terraces. Following the ruins, we head down to the Pisac handicraft market, where local artisans offer high-quality textiles and pottery directly to visitors.
Urubamba Buffet Lunch
Around noon, we arrive in Urubamba for a well-deserved break. QOSQO ADVENTURES includes a buffet lunch featuring a wide variety of local Peruvian dishes and fresh ingredients, with plenty of options for vegetarians.
Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca City
In the afternoon, we explore Ollantaytambo, known as the «Last Living Inca City.» We will climb the steps of its formidable fortress, a site of legendary battles and incredible stone engineering. If time permits, we will walk through the original Inca streets that have been continuously inhabited for centuries.
Chinchero: The Land of Weavers
Our final cultural immersion is in Chinchero, a royal estate of the Inca Tupac Yupanqui. We will visit the colonial church built over Inca foundations and the archaeological park. To conclude, we will attend a weaving demonstration where local women show the process of washing, dyeing, and weaving alpaca wool using traditional tools. We return to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 6:00 PM.
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off within the Cusco city center.
- Modern and comfortable tourist transportation.
- Expert bilingual tour guide from QOSQO ADVENTURES.
- Full buffet lunch in Urubamba (vegetarian options included).
- Entrance fees for all sites visited (Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket).
Not Included
- Breakfast and evening dinner.
- Personal snacks and bottled water.
- Individual expenses and souvenirs.
- Gratuities for the guide and driver.
Why book with QOSQO ADVENTURES?
- Authentic Local Knowledge: We are a 100% Peruvian operator based in Cusco.
- High-Quality Guides: Our professionals are fluent in English and specialists in Inca history.
- Personalized Solutions: We focus on small groups to ensure a personal and immersive experience.
- Seamless Logistics: From hotel pickup to ticket management, we handle everything for you.
Sacred Valley Packing List
The weather in the Peruvian Andes is unpredictable. QOSQO ADVENTURES recommends dressing in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day as we visit sites at different altitudes.
Essentials for your Daypack
- Original Passport (required for entry points).
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket (even in the dry season).
- A warm jacket or fleece for the late afternoon.
- Sun protection (high SPF sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses).
- Hat or cap with neck coverage.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers with good grip.
- Reusable water bottle and small snacks.
- Peruvian Soles (cash) for market purchases and tips.
- Camera with extra batteries.
Important Notes
Please pack light. Avoid heavy backpacks as we will be walking on uneven terrain for about 30 minutes at each archaeological site.
Essential Travel Information
Acclimatization and Altitude
The Sacred Valley sits between 2,700m and 3,400m above sea level. QOSQO ADVENTURES recommends spending at least 24 to 48 hours in Cusco before this tour. Staying hydrated and avoiding heavy meals on your first day will help prevent altitude sickness.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May to September) offers the clearest skies and best conditions for photography. April and October are excellent months with fewer tourists. The rainy season (November to March) turns the valley vibrant green, though you should expect daily showers.
Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC)
This tour includes the Partial Tourist Ticket (Circuit III), which covers entry to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. If you plan to visit other sites like Moray or Cusco museums on your own, you may consider upgrading to the Full Ticket (valid for 10 days).
Accessibility
Most Inca sites involve stairs and stone paths. If you have mobility concerns, please contact QOSQO ADVENTURES in advance so we can adapt the route where possible or suggest a private service for a more relaxed pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour start and end?
We pick you up at 8:00 AM and return to your hotel in Cusco around 6:00 PM.
Can I finish the tour in Ollantaytambo?
Yes. If you have a train to Machu Picchu, we can drop you off at the Ollantaytambo station. However, please note that you will miss the final visit to Chinchero.
Are meals included?
A full buffet lunch in Urubamba is included in the service. Breakfast and dinner are on your own.
Is there an age limit for this tour?
No, the Sacred Valley tour is suitable for travelers of all ages. It is a moderate-paced cultural trip.
Do I need to be in top physical shape?
A basic fitness level is sufficient. Most walking portions last about 30-40 minutes and are conducted at a steady pace with plenty of stops for explanations.
