The Sacred Valley, nestled between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is one of Peru’s most beautiful regions, rich in Inca history, traditional villages, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re interested in culture, adventure, or simply relaxing in nature, the Sacred Valley offers something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in and around the Sacred Valley.
1. Visit Pisac Ruins and Market
- Pisac Ruins: Perched on a hillside, the Pisac ruins feature impressive agricultural terraces and a well-preserved Inca cemetery. The site is large and offers spectacular views of the valley below. It’s a great introduction to Inca engineering and architecture.
- Pisac Market: Every Sunday (and other days to a lesser extent), Pisac’s market bursts into life with local vendors selling handmade crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. It’s one of the best places to buy souvenirs and experience local Andean culture.
2. Ollantaytambo Fortress
- Inca Fortress: Ollantaytambo is home to one of the most important Inca sites in the Sacred Valley. The fortress, with its large terraces and ceremonial areas, played a key role during the Inca resistance against the Spanish conquistadors. The town itself retains its original Inca layout, with narrow cobblestone streets and ancient stone walls.
- Gateway to Machu Picchu: Ollantaytambo is also a popular stop for those taking the train to Machu Picchu. You can explore the ruins in the morning and catch an afternoon train to Aguas Calientes.
3. Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)
The Maras Salt Mines are a unique and picturesque site where salt has been harvested from natural springs since Inca times. Over 3,000 small salt pools cascade down the mountainside, creating a stunning visual contrast with the surrounding valley. Visitors can walk along the paths between the salt pans and learn about traditional salt extraction methods.
4. Moray
Moray is an archaeological site with a series of concentric circular terraces that the Incas are believed to have used for agricultural experimentation. The terraces, which vary in temperature from top to bottom, allowed the Incas to simulate different growing conditions and study crop adaptation. Moray offers a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s agricultural knowledge and is a short drive from the Maras Salt Mines.
5. Chinchero
Chinchero is a small Andean village known for its vibrant market and traditional textile production. Visitors can explore the ruins of an Inca palace, a colonial church built atop Inca foundations, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Chinchero is one of the best places to witness traditional weaving techniques, and many local women demonstrate their craft in workshops where you can buy handwoven textiles.
6. Huchuy Qosqo
For those looking for adventure and tranquility, the hike to Huchuy Qosqo is a great choice. This lesser-known Inca site sits high above the Sacred Valley and can only be reached by hiking. The route takes you through remote villages and stunning mountain scenery before arriving at the ruins. Once there, you can explore the Inca stonework and terraces in peace, as the site is much less visited than others in the valley.
7. Urubamba
Urubamba is a tranquil town located in the heart of the Sacred Valley. While not as rich in historical sites as Pisac or Ollantaytambo, it serves as a base for exploring the region. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes and offers activities such as biking, hiking, and rafting on the Urubamba River. It’s also home to several luxury hotels and spas, making it a great place to relax.
8. Explore the Sacred Valley by Horseback
One of the most enjoyable ways to explore the Sacred Valley is on horseback. Several local operators offer horseback riding tours that take you through scenic landscapes, past ancient Inca terraces, and along less-traveled paths. It’s a peaceful and unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
9. Adventure Activities
For thrill-seekers, the Sacred Valley offers a variety of adventure activities:
- Mountain Biking: You can bike down from Moray to the Maras Salt Mines or through the countryside around Ollantaytambo.
- Zip-lining: There are several zip-lining locations in the Sacred Valley that allow you to fly over the valley and take in breathtaking views from above.
- Rafting: The Urubamba River offers both relaxing floats and more exciting white-water rafting experiences, depending on the season.
10. Visit Local Villages
The Sacred Valley is home to many traditional Andean villages where life moves at a slower pace. Visiting villages such as Yucay, Calca, and Lamay offers an authentic glimpse into rural life in the valley. Many of these villages still maintain traditional customs and agriculture, and they provide a peaceful escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.
Conclusion
The Sacred Valley is not just a gateway to Machu Picchu but a destination in its own right, filled with historical, cultural, and natural wonders. Whether you’re interested in exploring Inca ruins, enjoying adventure activities, or experiencing traditional Andean life, the Sacred Valley has something for everyone. Plan to spend a few days in the region to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.