City Guide for: Sacred Valley, Peru

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Sacred Valley, Peru Guide

The Sacred Valley is a region in the Andes Mountains of Peru, known for its stunning natural beauty and Inca ruins. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo Fortress, and Moray archaeological site. The Sacred Valley also offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and cultural experiences with local communities.

Transportation

The Sacred Valley is best explored by car or with a guided tour. There are local buses that connect the towns within the valley, as well as taxis for shorter journeys. Additionally, there are tour operators that offer transportation to popular tourist sites in the region.

Airport

The nearest airport to the Sacred Valley is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, located approximately 30 miles away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach the Sacred Valley.

Attractions

Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo Ollantaytambo is an ancient Inca archaeological site and a well-preserved example of Inca urban planning and architecture. Visitors can explore the impressive terraces, temples, and ceremonial centers that showcase the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Ollantaytambo also serves as a gateway to the famous Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Pisac Market

Pisac Market Pisac Market is a vibrant indigenous market where locals sell handmade crafts, textiles, and traditional Peruvian goods. Visitors can browse through the colorful stalls, shop for souvenirs, and interact with the friendly vendors. The market offers a unique cultural experience and a chance to purchase authentic Andean products.

Inca Trail

Inca Trail The Inca Trail is a famous hiking route that leads to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. This challenging trek takes hikers through diverse landscapes, including cloud forests, mountain passes, and Inca ruins. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes mountains and experience the rich history of the Inca civilization.

Maras Salt Mines

Maras Salt Mines The Maras Salt Mines are a series of salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since Inca times. Visitors can walk among the thousands of salt pans and learn about the traditional salt harvesting methods still used today. The stunning views of the Andes mountains make this a unique and picturesque attraction.

Moray

Moray Moray is a unique Inca archaeological site featuring circular agricultural terraces that served as an experimental agricultural laboratory. The terraces were designed at varying altitudes to create different microclimates for testing and growing crops. Visitors can marvel at the engineering and agricultural innovation of the Inca civilization at this fascinating site.

Chinchero

Chinchero Chinchero is a traditional Andean village known for its colorful markets and Inca ruins. Visitors can explore the colonial church built on top of an Inca palace, as well as watch local weavers demonstrate their traditional techniques. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains and terraced fields make Chinchero a must-visit destination in the Sacred Valley.

Day Trips

Maras Salt Mines and Moray

Discover the unique salt mines of Maras, where salt has been harvested since Incan times. Then visit the agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to have been an experimental agricultural site for the Incas.

Travel Time

1 hour by car from Sacred Valley to Maras

Activities
  • Exploring the salt mines of Maras
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  • Visiting the agricultural terraces of Moray
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  • Learning about traditional salt harvesting techniques

Machu Picchu

Visit the iconic Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the ancient ruins, learn about the history and culture of the Incas, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Travel Time

2 hours by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, then a 30-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu

Activities
  • Exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu
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  • Hiking to the Sun Gate for panoramic views
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  • Visiting the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Condor