Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a region in Peru's Andean highlands that holds immense historical, cultural, and natural significance. Formed by the Urubamba River, this fertile valley was the breadbasket of the Inca Empire, producing maize and other crops on elaborate agricultural terraces that still cling to the steep mountainsides today. The valley's lower elevation and warmer climate compared to nearby Cusco made it a favored retreat for Inca royalty, and its legacy is preserved in the monumental stone fortresses and temples that dot the landscape.

Today, the Sacred Valley is much more than a transit corridor to Machu Picchu. It is a destination in its own right, offering travelers a chance to immerse themselves in living Andean culture. Villages like Chinchero are renowned for their traditional weaving cooperatives, while Pisac hosts one of the most famous artisan markets in South America. Adventure seekers can mountain bike through the Maras salt pans, hike to hidden waterfalls, or rock climb via ferrata routes. With a growing number of eco-lodges, wellness retreats, and high-end restaurants celebrating native ingredients, the Sacred Valley provides a deeply enriching and multi-faceted travel experience.

Reasons to Visit

• Inca Archaeology: Explore world-class ruins like the fortress of Ollantaytambo, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the hilltop citadel of Pisac.
• Acclimatization: At a lower altitude than Cusco, it is the perfect place to adjust to the thin Andean air while still sightseeing.
• Living Culture: Witness traditional weaving, vibrant local markets, and indigenous communities that maintain centuries-old customs.
• Outdoor Adventure: Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and white-water rafting against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
• Culinary Heritage: Taste authentic Andean cuisine, from Pachamanca to farm-to-table dining experiences utilizing native superfoods.

Things to Avoid

• Rushing the Altitude: Avoid strenuous activity and heavy meals on your first day to prevent altitude sickness.
• Drinking Tap Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
• Taking Photos Without Permission: Always ask before photographing local people, especially those in traditional dress, and be prepared to offer a small tip.
• Skipping the Tourist Ticket: Don't arrive at major ruins without the Boleto Turistico, as individual entry tickets are not sold at the gates.
• Disrespecting Sacred Sites: Do not climb on restricted Inca walls or leave trash at archaeological sites.

Local Transportation Tips

Navigating the Sacred Valley is relatively straightforward. The most budget-friendly and authentic way to travel between towns is by 'colectivo' (shared minivans). These depart frequently from designated stops in Cusco, Urubamba, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo once they are full. For more comfort and flexibility, you can hire a private taxi for a half or full day; negotiate the rate before departing. Guided bus tours are also popular for visiting multiple sites in one day. To reach Machu Picchu from the valley, you will need to take a train operated by PeruRail or IncaRail, typically departing from the Ollantaytambo station.

Travel Etiquette

• Haggle Respectfully: Bargaining is expected in artisan markets, but do so politely and remember that a few soles mean more to the vendor than to you.
• Dress Modestly: While the valley is accustomed to tourists, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting rural communities or religious sites.
• Respect the Environment: Practice Leave No Trace principles, especially when hiking or visiting remote natural areas.
• Punctuality: While 'Peruvian time' (running late) is common socially, official tours and trains depart strictly on time.

Recommended Age Group

The Sacred Valley offers diverse experiences suitable for various age groups, though the high altitude and rugged terrain require some consideration.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not Recommended. The high altitude, intense sun, and lack of stroller-friendly infrastructure at archaeological sites make travel challenging for infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will enjoy the open spaces, colorful markets, train rides, and interactive experiences like visiting the ChocoMuseo or petting alpacas.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The valley is perfect for active teens, offering mountain biking, ATV tours, zip-lining, and engaging historical sites.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults can fully appreciate the deep cultural history, challenging treks, culinary scene, and wellness retreats.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The lower altitude compared to Cusco makes it a safer base. Many luxury lodges offer comfortable, accessible tours, though steep stairs at some ruins may be challenging.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Archaeological Sites: Most Inca ruins, such as Ollantaytambo and Pisac, involve steep, uneven stone steps and are generally not wheelchair accessible.
• Accommodations: High-end hotels and luxury eco-lodges in towns like Urubamba often provide accessible rooms and flat grounds.
• Transport: Public colectivos are not wheelchair friendly. Private transport must be arranged for travelers with mobility issues.
• Attractions: Some sites, like the viewing platforms at the Maras salt mines or the flat market squares in Pisac, offer limited accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the Maras salt mines (Salineras de Maras) consist of over 3,000 individual salt pools? These terraced pools have been harvested by local families since pre-Inca times. A subterranean hot spring feeds highly salty water into the pools, which then evaporates in the sun, leaving behind the famous pink Maras salt.

Cool Statistics

• Elevation: Ranges from roughly 2,050 meters (6,730 ft) to 3,000 meters (9,800 ft).
• River: The Urubamba River, known to the Incas as the Willkamayu (Sacred River).
• Salt Pools: Over 3,000 active salt evaporation ponds in Maras.
• Distance from Cusco: Approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) north of Cusco at its closest point.