Sacred Valley of the Incas: What to See and How to Plan Your Day

The Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado) stretches along the Urubamba River between Pisac and Ollantaytambo. It was a heartland of the Inca empire thanks to its fertile land and mild climate, and today it is full of archaeological sites, markets and living traditions. Here is a guide to the highlights.

Pisac: terraces and market

Above the town of Pisac, Inca farming terraces climb the mountain beside a ceremonial complex. Down in town, the handicraft market is busiest on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is a good place to try local food and pick up textiles and ceramics.

Ollantaytambo: a living Inca town

Ollantaytambo still has its original Inca street layout and an impressive fortress with giant stone terraces. It is also the train station for Machu Picchu, so many travelers sleep here before continuing.

Chinchero, Maras and Moray

On the high plateau above the valley you can visit the weaving community of Chinchero, the circular terraces of Moray and the salt pans of Maras. Read our guides to Maras and Moray and to weaving in Chinchero.

How to organize your Sacred Valley day

• Start early to enjoy the sites before the tour buses arrive.
• Decide whether you prefer a classic route or a more private, VIP style day.
• Plan lunch in the valley, which has beautiful restaurants with local ingredients.
• Combine it with Machu Picchu if you have only a few days.

Prefer a more private experience? Take a look at the Sacred Valley VIP tour.