Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-do for anyone visiting Peru, and this full-day tour offers a fantastic introduction at an affordable price—just $28 per person. For roughly ten hours, you’ll visit some of the most iconic sites, including the lively Pisac market, the impressive archaeological ruins of Ollantaytambo, and the charming village of Chinchero. All this is done with the comfort of door-to-door service, a professional bilingual guide, and a delicious buffet lunch.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its emphasis on local culture and history. You’ll get to see how the Incas lived and worked, from the terraced agricultural fields to their ceremonial cemeteries. Plus, the stops at local artisans’ shops, especially the alpaca wool workshop, give you the chance to pick up authentic souvenirs directly from the makers.

One thing to consider is the moderate amount of walking involved, including stairs and uneven terrain—so it’s best suited for travelers in decent shape. And since some sites are higher than Cusco itself—up to 3,514 meters—you might want to pace yourself if you’re prone to altitude sickness.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed look at the Sacred Valley, especially if you’re eager to learn about Inca culture, enjoy scenic views, and visit authentic markets and villages without the hassle of organizing transportation or guides on your own.

Key Points

Covers the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, with a focus on cultural and historical insights.
Affordable price of $28 per person provides good value for a full-day guided tour.
Includes transportation with door-to-door service, a buffet lunch, and a bilingual guide.
Moderate physical activity involved—expect some walking and stairs.
High-altitude considerations—sites are above 3,500 meters, so travelers should be prepared.
Authentic experiences like visiting local markets and seeing traditional alpaca dyeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Cusco to the Sacred Valley

Your day starts with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center, making it a hassle-free way to begin. Once you’re comfortably seated in your private vehicle, the journey to the Sacred Valley begins. The scenic drive lasts about an hour, giving you time to relax and soak in the Andean landscape outside your window.

Our guide, whose name we wish we could remember, was bilingual and offered a wealth of information without overwhelming. We loved how the guide seamlessly blended historical facts with local anecdotes, making the experience both educational and engaging. As we left Cusco behind, the mountains grew more dramatic, and the valley’s lush greenery started to unfold.

Planning more time in Urubamba? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Mirador of Taray: A Picture-Perfect Viewpoint

Our first stop was the Mirador of Taray, a viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of the Andes and the Sacred Valley. Here, we had plenty of time to take photos—not just of the landscape but also of the surrounding villages and terraced hillsides. The air was crisp, and the scenery was truly breathtaking. This stop is a favorite for many, and some reviews express appreciation for the “spectacular views” that set the tone for the day.

Pisac: Market and Archaeological Site

Next, we arrived in Pisac—famous for its bustling market and impressive archaeological site. The market is lively, full of vibrant textiles, handmade jewelry, and local produce. If you’re looking for authentic souvenirs, this is the place to browse. Our guide pointed out some of the colorful textiles and explained their significance, adding depth to the shopping experience.

The archaeological site of Pisac is sprawling, with agricultural terraces, Inca cemeteries, and royal buildings. We loved the way the terraces cascade down the hillside, a testament to Inca engineering prowess. Our guide highlighted how these terraces provided both food security and ceremonial spaces. We also appreciated the opportunity to explore the site at our own pace, with some reviewers noting that the site “gives a real sense of what Inca life was like.”

A Taste of Local Cuisine: Buffet Lunch in Urubamba

After the morning sightseeing, we headed to Urubamba for a buffet lunch. The restaurant was well-organized, offering a variety of dishes that showcased regional flavors. The buffet was included in the price, and many reviewers mention the “good quality” food, making it a satisfying break before continuing the tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ollantaytambo: The Fortress and Village

Our next stop was Ollantaytambo, a fortress and town that played a strategic role defending the Incas from invasions. The site’s massive stone terraces and temples are impressive, especially considering their age. As we wandered through the ruins, our guide explained how the Incas used the terrain to their advantage.

Ollantaytambo also feels like a living village, with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional houses still inhabited by locals. Some visitors mention the “authentic atmosphere,” which makes this stop especially memorable. It’s a perfect blend of history and daily life.

While you're exploring Urubamba, here are other experiences we've looked into

Chinchero: The Royal Estate and Textile Workshop

On the way back to Cusco, we visited Chinchero, a charming village known for its colonial church and Inca remains. Here, we learned about the royal estate of Tupac Inca Yupanqui, which adds a layer of royal history to the site. The highlight for many is the chance to see how locals dye alpaca wool with natural plants—an art passed down through generations. Watching artisans at work and seeing the vivid colors was a real treat.

Some reviews mention that Chinchero “feels like stepping back in time,” and that the artisans’ shops offer quality souvenirs—and a chance to support local craftspeople directly.

The Return to Cusco: Reflecting on the Day

Our tour concluded back at Plaza Regocijo, where we could relax and reflect on the day’s experiences. The transportation was smooth throughout, and the guide kept us informed and entertained. For many travelers, this organized and comfortable approach makes seeing the Sacred Valley manageable, especially if you’re short on time or prefer not to navigate public transport.

What We Loved About This Tour

One of the best aspects is the balanced itinerary—it includes key archaeological sites, vibrant markets, and scenic viewpoints—all in one day. You get to see the diversity of the Sacred Valley, from bustling markets to ancient ruins, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn.

Another highlight is the local craftsmanship experience at Chinchero, which offers an authentic look at traditional textile dyeing—something you won’t find at every tourist stop. The inclusion of a buffet lunch is also practical and value-adding, providing energy for the entire day without extra cost.

Points to Consider

While the tour covers a lot, it involves quite a bit of walking and stairs, which can be tiring, especially at high altitudes. Some sites are above 3,500 meters, so travelers sensitive to altitude or with mobility issues should consider this. Also, since the tour operates in two languages, some explanations might be more concise than if you attended a dedicated English tour, but the bilingual guides do a good job of engaging everyone.

If you’re eager to maximize a single day in the Sacred Valley without the hassle of organizing transport or guides, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers on a budget—at just $28—and those who want a structured yet flexible experience. It’s ideal for culture buffs, history enthusiasts, and those who enjoy visiting local markets and artisan workshops. However, if you have limited mobility or are sensitive to altitude, you might want to assess your comfort level before booking.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you choose the option, the tour offers pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center.

How long is the drive between sites?
The drive between major stops ranges from about 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the location.

Are there stops at souvenir shops?
Yes, the tour includes stops at local artisan shops, such as a traditional alpaca wool workshop and markets.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at a time you should check with the booking provider.

Is food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available on the tour?
Tours are conducted in both Spanish and English.

Is walking difficult on this tour?
There is a moderate amount of walking, including stairs, so it’s best suited for those in good health.

Are the sites accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included; they cost PEN70 and are paid on site.

This Sacred Valley tour offers an accessible, well-rounded way to experience Inca culture and scenery without breaking the bank. It balances historical exploration with local flavor—markets, textiles, scenic vistas—all wrapped into a manageable day. The inclusion of a guide ensures you gain insights you might miss exploring alone, and the transportation makes it stress-free.

Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer, or someone eager to connect with local customs, this tour provides plenty of value. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of the Sacred Valley’s highlights and don’t mind a bit of physical activity at high altitude.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have specific mobility needs, you might want to consider other options. But for most visitors, this tour hits the right sweet spot between price, convenience, and authentic experience.