The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most rewarding places to visit in Peru. Located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, this Andean region is known for its Inca archaeological sites, traditional villages, agricultural terraces, and mountain scenery. The best things to do in the Sacred Valley include visiting the ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, seeing the circular terraces of Moray, visiting the Maras Salt Mines, and learning about traditional weaving in Chinchero.
Each destination offers a different way to understand the region. You can walk through ancient settlements, browse a traditional market, watch artisans work with alpaca fibers, or enjoy views of the Urubamba River and surrounding mountains.
Planning your route is important because the main attractions are spread across the valley and nearby highlands. Trying to visit every site in one day can leave little time to appreciate each place. Knowing what each destination offers will help you choose the stops that best match your interests and schedule.
What Makes the Sacred Valley Worth Visiting?
The Sacred Valley follows the Urubamba River through a landscape of fertile farmland, steep mountains, and extensive agricultural terraces. The Incas valued this area for its farming potential, strategic position, and access to different ecological zones.
Today, the valley brings together archaeological sites, rural communities, traditional markets, and towns where Andean customs remain part of daily life. Its history extends beyond the Inca period, with earlier cultural influences and Spanish colonial architecture also visible throughout the region.
The valley’s elevation is another consideration when planning a visit. Towns such as Urubamba and Ollantaytambo sit lower than Cusco, making them practical places to stay while adjusting to the altitude. However, some attractions, including Chinchero and Moray, are at higher elevations. Your route and the amount of walking you do should therefore be part of your planning.
The Sacred Valley is also a convenient stop before or after Machu Picchu. Depending on your travel plans, you can visit its archaeological sites before staying overnight in Ollantaytambo or continuing by train to Aguas Calientes.
Best Places to Visit in the Sacred Valley
- Pisac Archaeological Site and Traditional Market
Pisac is one of the main archaeological attractions in the Sacred Valley. Its Inca complex stretches across a mountainside above the modern town, with agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, residential areas, and stone pathways set against the surrounding mountains.
The terraces are among the site’s most impressive features. Built along steep slopes, they expanded the land available for cultivation and helped manage soil and water. Their scale demonstrates how the Incas adapted agriculture to the challenging geography of the Andes.
As you walk through the complex, notice how the terraces connect with the different sections of the settlement. The site covers a broad area, so the walking distance depends on the route you take. Uneven paths and uphill sections are part of the experience.
Below the archaeological site, Pisac town offers a different perspective on local life. Its traditional market sells textiles, pottery, jewelry, souvenirs, and other handicrafts. The number of stalls and level of activity can vary by day, so allow time to browse without assuming every stall will be open.
Local tip: If your schedule allows, visit both the archaeological site and the town. The ruins offer insight into Inca engineering, while the market provides an opportunity to see local crafts and purchase souvenirs. Wear comfortable shoes and allow extra time for the uphill sections.
- Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site and Inca Town
Ollantaytambo is known for its monumental stonework, agricultural terraces, and remarkable connection between the archaeological complex and the modern town.
The archaeological site rises above the town and includes extensive terraces, ceremonial structures, and stone constructions associated with Inca religious and political life. Large stone blocks on the upper terraces are among its most recognizable features.
Reaching the higher sections involves a substantial climb with many stairs. Take your time, especially if you have recently arrived in Peru or are still adjusting to the altitude. From above, you can see the town, the valley, and the surrounding mountains.
Ollantaytambo is equally interesting at street level. Its narrow lanes, original stone walls, water channels, and traditional layout preserve important features of the Inca settlement. Walking through these streets offers a closer look at how the town has developed around its historic foundations.
The town is also a major departure point for trains to Machu Picchu. If you plan to visit the archaeological site before your train journey, check your departure time and leave enough time to reach the station.
Local tip: Consider staying overnight in Ollantaytambo if your schedule permits. You will have more time to enjoy the town and can make your onward journey to Machu Picchu easier to organize.
- Maras Salt Mines: A Longstanding Andean Tradition
The Maras Salt Mines, also called the Maras salt pans or Salineras de Maras, form one of the Sacred Valley’s most distinctive landscapes. Thousands of shallow ponds cover a hillside, creating a striking pattern of white and earthy colors against the surrounding mountains.
Salt production depends on naturally saline spring water that flows into the ponds. As the water evaporates, salt crystals remain and can be collected. Weather and water conditions affect the process, so the appearance of the ponds can change throughout the year.
Salt extraction has a long history in the area, and local families continue to maintain and use the ponds. However, it is best not to describe every part of the current system as unchanged since the Inca period. The salt pans have evolved through generations of local use.
Visitors view the ponds from designated areas and must follow the access rules in place on the day of their visit. The production areas are not open for unrestricted walking, so respect barriers and instructions.
Small shops near the entrance sell salt and related products. Buying from local sellers is one way to support the community and take home a product connected to the region.
Local tip: Bring sunscreen and a hat because the hillside offers limited shade. If photography is important to you, allow time to appreciate the changing patterns and colors rather than treating the salt pans as a quick stop.
- Moray’s Circular Agricultural Terraces
Moray is an archaeological site famous for its large, circular depressions formed by concentric agricultural terraces. Each level sits at a different elevation, creating variations in sunlight exposure and local growing conditions.
The site is commonly interpreted as a place associated with Inca agricultural experimentation. Its unusual design suggests a sophisticated understanding of cultivation and environmental differences, although researchers continue to discuss the precise functions of its structures.
Moray demonstrates how the Incas adapted agricultural practices to the varied geography of the Andes. It also provides a useful opportunity to learn about the relationship between farming, engineering, and the natural environment.
Unlike the towns along the valley floor, Moray sits on a high plateau surrounded by open farmland and mountain scenery. The broad landscape offers a different perspective from the more enclosed archaeological sites at Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
The main viewing areas provide a clear view of the circular terraces. Stay on authorized paths and follow site regulations to help protect the archaeological remains.
Local tip: Moray is often visited on the same outing as the Maras Salt Mines because the two attractions are relatively close to each other. Allow enough time at both sites to appreciate their differences.
- Chinchero and Traditional Andean Weaving
Chinchero is known for its archaeological remains, colonial church, mountain setting, and textile traditions. Located at a higher elevation than much of the valley floor, the town offers another perspective on Andean culture and rural life.
Traditional weaving is one of its main attractions. At participating workshops, artisans may demonstrate how alpaca or sheep wool is prepared, spun, dyed, and woven into textiles. Depending on the workshop and technique, natural dyes may be made from plants, minerals, and other locally used materials.
These demonstrations explain the knowledge behind the finished products. Colors, patterns, and weaving techniques can reflect regional traditions passed down through generations. Watching the process also helps visitors appreciate the time and skill involved in making a textile by hand.
Chinchero has an archaeological area associated with the Inca period, as well as a colonial church that reflects another chapter of the region’s history. The town’s market and surrounding countryside add to the experience.
When visiting a weaving workshop, take time to listen to the artisans and ask about their techniques. Ask permission before photographing people, and consider purchasing directly from the maker if you find a textile you like.
Local tip: Chinchero is frequently combined with Moray and the Maras Salt Mines. Because it is at a higher elevation, bring an extra layer of clothing and allow yourself time to walk comfortably.
- Urubamba and the Rural Valley Landscape
Urubamba is a practical base for travelers who want to spend more time in the Sacred Valley. Located along the valley floor, the town provides access to nearby villages, archaeological sites, restaurants, and accommodation.
Unlike Pisac and Ollantaytambo, Urubamba is not defined by one major archaeological complex. Its appeal lies in its setting among farmland and mountains, along with its role as a center for exploring the surrounding area.
Depending on the season, the countryside features cultivated fields, fruit trees, corn crops, and mountain views. Local restaurants also offer opportunities to try regional dishes made with ingredients such as corn, potatoes, quinoa, and trout.
Staying in Urubamba can be a good option if you prefer not to return to Cusco every evening. It may reduce road travel on subsequent days, although the best base depends on which attractions you plan to visit and where you are heading next.
Local tip: Choose your accommodation around your travel plans. Urubamba offers a useful base for visiting several parts of the valley, while Ollantaytambo can be more convenient if you have an early train to Machu Picchu.
Other Cultural Experiences Worth Considering
The main archaeological sites are only part of what makes the Sacred Valley interesting. Spending time in its towns and communities can help you understand how local traditions, agriculture, and craftsmanship continue to shape the region.
Visit a traditional market. Pisac is a well-known place to browse handicrafts, textiles, and locally made products. Market activity varies, so check your intended visiting day if the market is a priority.
Learn about Andean agriculture. Agricultural terraces and cultivated fields remain prominent features of the valley. Looking at how farmland follows the slopes helps explain the importance of agriculture in the region’s history and daily life.
Try regional food. Look for dishes featuring local corn, potatoes, quinoa, and trout. Restaurants vary from casual local eateries to establishments offering a broader range of regional and international dishes.
Walk through traditional town streets. Ollantaytambo and Chinchero offer opportunities to appreciate stonework, historic layouts, and the relationship between architecture and the surrounding landscape.
Support local artisans. Ask about the materials, techniques, and time required to produce handmade textiles. Buying directly from artisans can help support their work and preserve traditional skills.
Respectful travel makes these experiences more meaningful. Ask permission before photographing individuals, respect religious and community spaces, and follow the rules at archaeological sites.
How to Organize Your Visit to the Sacred Valley
How Many Days Do You Need?
The amount of time you need depends on your interests, walking pace, and onward travel plans. You can see several major attractions in one day, but a longer stay gives you more time to appreciate each destination.
One day: Choose a limited number of highlights. Pisac and Ollantaytambo provide a strong introduction to Inca architecture and settlement history. Adding several other stops may leave less time at each place, especially when you account for driving and meals.
Two days: A two-day visit allows for a more balanced schedule. You could spend one day visiting Pisac and Ollantaytambo, then visit Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and Chinchero on another day. The best order depends on where you are staying and your onward plans.
Three days or more: Extra time gives you the flexibility to visit archaeological sites at a slower pace, spend longer at markets or weaving workshops, and enjoy the rural landscape. It can also make arrangements around Machu Picchu easier.
These are general planning suggestions, not fixed itineraries. Road conditions, opening arrangements, meal breaks, and the amount of walking you prefer will all affect how much you can comfortably fit into a day.
If you are comparing routes, review the options for a private Sacred Valley tour from Cusco and choose one that matches your priorities.
Should You Visit from Cusco or Stay in the Valley?
Many travelers visit the Sacred Valley on a day trip from Cusco. This can work well if you have limited time, but the main attractions are spread across different roads and elevations. A well-planned route helps reduce unnecessary driving.
Staying in the valley is worth considering if you prefer a slower pace or have an early train to Machu Picchu. Urubamba is a convenient base for several destinations, while Ollantaytambo offers easy access to its archaeological site and railway connections.
Public transport operates along some routes, but reaching attractions outside the main towns may require additional arrangements. Taxis and private transportation offer more flexibility, particularly when you want to visit several places in one day.
If you would rather organize transportation, entrance arrangements, and a guide together, compare the route and inclusions of a private tour before booking. Check which sites are included, how much time is allocated at each stop, and whether entrance fees are covered.
Entrance Tickets and Admission Rules
Entrance arrangements vary between attractions, so check the requirements before setting out.
The sacred valley Tourist Ticket, known as the Boleto Turístico del Cusco, covers designated archaeological and cultural attractions. According to COSITUC, the official ticket administrator, Circuit III includes the archaeological parks of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray.
The Maras Salt Mines have a separate admission arrangement. Do not assume that the Cusco Tourist Ticket includes entry to the salt pans.
Ticket types, prices, validity periods, and eligibility requirements can change. Check the official COSITUC information before your visit, and confirm the current admission rules for the Maras Salt Mines separately.
If you book a guided tour, ask which entrance fees are included. This helps you understand the total cost and avoid unexpected payments during the day.
Best Time to Visit and What to Bring
The Sacred Valley can be visited throughout the year, although the weather affects walking conditions and the overall experience.
The drier months generally offer more favorable conditions for outdoor sightseeing, while the rainy season brings greener landscapes and a greater chance of showers. Rain can make some walking surfaces slippery and may affect road travel, so allow flexibility in your plans.
Conditions can change throughout the day, especially at higher elevations. Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, drinking water, and a light rain jacket. Layers are useful because mornings can be cool, sunlight can be strong, and temperatures may vary between the valley floor and the surrounding plateau.
Remember that archaeological sites often involve uneven ground, stairs, and uphill walking. If you have mobility concerns or are adjusting to the altitude, choose your stops carefully and allow extra time.
Planning Your Visit Around Machu Picchu
The Sacred Valley is a natural addition to a trip to Machu Picchu, but the order of your visits matters.
Ollantaytambo is an important train departure point, so check your train ticket before arranging sightseeing. If you plan to visit the archaeological site on the same day, leave enough time for the visit, transport to the station, and departure procedures.
Travelers with more time may prefer to visit the Sacred Valley first and continue to Machu Picchu afterward. A two-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour is one option to consider when comparing travel arrangements.
Whichever option you choose, confirm your train times, entrance tickets, and departure station before finalizing the day’s plan. Avoid scheduling too many stops immediately before a train departure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sacred Valley
What are the best things to do in the Sacred Valley?
The main highlights include visiting the Pisac and Ollantaytambo archaeological sites, seeing the Maras Salt Mines, exploring Moray’s circular terraces, and learning about traditional weaving in Chinchero. You can also visit local markets, try regional food, and enjoy the valley’s rural scenery.
Can you visit the Sacred Valley in one day?
Yes. A day trip allows you to visit selected highlights, but you will need to prioritize. The attractions are spread across the region, and travel time between stops can limit how long you spend at each site. Two days provide more flexibility.
Is it better to stay in Cusco or the Sacred Valley?
Both options can work. Cusco is convenient if you want to visit the city and its surrounding attractions. Staying in the Sacred Valley can reduce travel time between valley destinations. Urubamba is a practical base for several sites, while Ollantaytambo is convenient for travelers continuing to Machu Picchu by train.
Do you need a guide to visit the Sacred Valley?
You can visit many attractions independently, but a knowledgeable guide can explain the history, architecture, and cultural context of the sites. A guided tour can also simplify transportation and help you organize several stops in a practical order.
Does the Cusco Tourist Ticket include the Maras Salt Mines?
No. The Cusco Tourist Ticket covers designated attractions, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray under Circuit III. The Maras Salt Mines have a separate admission arrangement. Check current ticket information before traveling.
Can you visit the Sacred Valley before going to Machu Picchu?
Yes. Many travelers visit the valley before continuing to Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo is a major train departure point, making it a convenient place to stay or visit before your onward journey. Plan your sightseeing around your confirmed train time.
Discover the Sacred Valley at Your Own Pace
The Sacred Valley offers much more than a collection of Inca ruins. Its archaeological sites reveal sophisticated engineering, its markets and weaving workshops reflect living traditions, and its agricultural landscapes show the close relationship between Andean communities and the land.
The most rewarding visit is one that gives you time to appreciate the places you see. Rather than trying to cover every attraction in a single day, choose the sites that match your interests and plan a route around your accommodation and onward travel.
Sacred Valley Tours is a licensed tour agency based in Cusco, specializing in private tours of the region. We can help you choose the main attractions, organize transportation, and coordinate your visit with Machu Picchu.
Explore our private Sacred Valley tours to find an option that suits your schedule and travel plans.
