From Cusco: Sacred Valley Tour with Buffet Lunch

Exploring the Sacred Valley from Cusco
This full-day Sacred Valley tour from Cusco costs around $36 per person and offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the most iconic sights of this region. It typically lasts about one day, with pick-up included from your Cusco hotel, making it a convenient way to get an overview of Incan heritage without the hassle of planning transportation or guides yourself.

During the trip, you’ll visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, with the added bonus of a buffet lunch in Urubamba. Your guide, fluent in English and Spanish, will help you navigate each site, sharing insights that bring the ruins and towns to life.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the panoramic views of the Sacred Valley—which give you a sense of the vast, dramatic landscape—and the chance to see local artisans at work during the Chinchero demonstration. The opportunity to purchase handcrafted textiles and souvenirs directly from the makers is also a highlight for many travelers.

A possible downside is the pace of the tour, especially if you’re looking for ample time at each site. Some reviews mention that the site visits, like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, felt rushed or that the schedule was tight, especially with the stops at markets and the long drive. Also, the lunch might not suit everyone’s palate, as some travelers found it less flavorful and were surprised to pay extra for water.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of the Sacred Valley in one day, especially those who prefer the convenience of guided transport, insightful commentary, and visiting multiple highlights. If you’re interested in Inca ruins, local markets, and authentic Peruvian cuisine, this experience offers good value.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup makes logistics easy.
• Expert guide service provides insights into Inca culture and history.
• Diverse stops including archaeological sites, markets, and cultural demonstrations.
• Buffet lunch in Urubamba offers local flavors, though some may find it average.
• Limited time at some sites might leave you wishing for more exploration.
• Flexible options include shared or private tours to suit your style.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Sacred Valley Tour

Starting from Cusco, we’re picked up early in the morning, allowing us to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler morning air. The drive out of Cusco is about an hour, during which your guide will give a brief overview of the Sacred Valley’s significance—an important agricultural and ceremonial center for the Incas.

This tour’s first major stop is Pisac, famous for its lively market and impressive Inca ruins. We appreciate the scenic viewpoints along the way, which give a sweeping sense of the lush valley stretching out below. The market in Pisac is vibrant, filled with handmade textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts. We loved the opportunity to browse and pick up authentic souvenirs directly from local artisans, which makes the experience more genuine than visiting tourist shops.

Our review mentions that the archeological site at Pisac is a highlight, with large terraces and intricate stonework. However, some visitors felt one hour isn’t enough to fully appreciate the extensive ruins. If you’re a history buff or keen on photography, you might wish for more time here.

The tour then moves to Urubamba for a buffet lunch. While the meal is included in the tour price, a review noted that the quality was not outstanding and that you need to pay extra for water. This is a point to keep in mind if you’re expecting a gourmet experience—this lunch is more about local variety and convenience than fine dining.

Post-lunch, the group heads to Ollantaytambo, a site often described as the “living Inca town.” The Sun Temple here is remarkably well-preserved, with giant stone blocks that have withstood centuries of weather. We loved the way the big stones seemed almost deliberately placed by skilled Inca engineers, and the commanding views from the hilltop are breathtaking.

Traveling onward, the driver takes us through Urubamba again before heading out of the valley to visit Chinchero. This town is famous for its painted murals and market, especially those traditional textiles. The cultural demonstration at a local weaving center gives a fascinating glimpse into the region’s craft traditions. We found this part particularly authentic and colorful, with many opportunities to buy handcrafted goods directly from the artisans.

Logistics and Practicalities

The transportation is comfortable, with a tourist bus that handles the long drive smoothly. The group size can be either shared or private, depending on your preference and budget. The full-day itinerary is well-paced but can feel rushed, especially if you want to linger longer at each site.

The guide is bilingual and generally knowledgeable, although some reviews mention that English can be basic or difficult to understand, which might affect the experience for some.

Important tips include wearing comfortable shoes—a lot of walking or climbing steps, especially at Ollantaytambo, which involves climbing around 100 steps without an elevator. Also, bring your passport or ID for site entry.

What’s Worth Noting

The price of $36 per person makes this tour quite affordable, particularly considering the included transportation, guide, and lunch. When assessing value, it’s worth considering that some visitors feel the site visits could be longer and that the lunch, while convenient, might not satisfy gourmet expectations.

A key point from a review was that unnecessary stops, like at jewelry shops, can extend the trip without adding much value, so if you prefer a more streamlined experience, you might want to discuss this with your guide or choose a private tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see multiple highlights in one day—from archaeological ruins and markets to local crafts—this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors with limited time in Cusco or travelers who prefer guided comfort over self-planned excursions.

However, if you’re a history enthusiast wanting more time at each site or a food lover seeking a gourmet lunch, you might find the experience a bit rushed or basic. Also, those with mobility issues should note the stairs at Ollantaytambo and the generally active nature of the tour.

Overall, it offers good value for its price, with knowledgeable guides and a chance to see the Sacred Valley’s most famous spots.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is available at downtown hotels in Cusco, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, but check current availability for specific starting times.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a towel, and lightweight, comfortable clothing.

Are drinks included in the lunch?
No, drinks are not included, and you might need to pay extra for water or other beverages.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as there are stairs and active walking involved.

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

In summary, this Sacred Valley tour from Cusco provides an accessible, inspiring taste of Inca sites, vibrant markets, and authentic culture. It balances convenience with a taste of adventure, making it a good pick for those new to the region or travelers looking for a guided overview. Keep in mind the schedule may feel hurried—so if you crave more in-depth exploration or gourmet meals, you might want to consider other options or private arrangements. But for the price, the experience largely delivers on its promise of a memorable day in the heart of Inca land.