Explore the Sacred Valley from Cusco with this full-day tour for $45, including visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and a traditional Andean buffet. Led by bilingual guides, this experience balances history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a great option for those wanting an authentic taste of Inca Peru without breaking the bank.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines visiting impressive archaeological sites with a chance to enjoy a hearty Andean buffet amidst stunning mountain scenery. The guided tours at Pisac and Ollantaytambo are detailed but not overly rushed, giving you a real sense of the history embedded in these ruins. Also, the visit to Chinchero offers a wonderful look at local textiles and traditions.

A possible drawback is the somewhat tight schedule—if you like lingering longer at any site, you might find the timing a bit brisk. Plus, you’ll need to be prepared for early mornings and some walking, as the sites involve uneven terrain.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of cultural history, scenic views, and local cuisine, especially those with limited time in Cusco but eager to see some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley.

Key Points

Affordable and well-organized: At $45, it offers great value with transportation, guides, and lunch included.
Cultural immersion: Guided visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero provide insights into Inca and Andean traditions.
Authentic meal: Enjoy a traditional Andean buffet lunch, a highlight for many travelers craving local flavors.
Efficient itinerary: The day covers important sites with a balance of structured tours and free time.
Bilingual guides: Guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible to diverse travelers.
Group size and timing: Starts early (7-8 am) with a typical full-day schedule, suitable for those who plan ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco

While in Urubamba, here are other experiences we've covered

Starting Your Day in Cusco

Most travelers begin their adventure with a hotel pickup between 7:00 am and 8:00 am. This early start ensures you beat some of the larger crowds and make the most of daylight hours. The comfort of round-trip transportation means you won’t need to worry about navigating public transit or taxis—your guide takes care of the logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience.

First Stop: Pisac Archaeological Site

Your first major stop is Pisac, a site renowned for its impressive terraced slopes and intricate stonework. The guided tour here is comprehensive, covering platforms, aqueducts, roads, walls, gates, water channels, cemeteries, and bridges—all remnants of Inca ingenuity. We loved the way the guide explained the strategic placement of structures, which helped us visualize how the Incas used natural terrain for defense and agriculture.

One reviewer noted, “The guides really brought Pisac to life, describing how the Incas used every inch of this mountain for their purposes.” Walking among these ruins, you get a sense of the Inca’s mastery of architecture and their reverence for the land.

Lunch in Urubamba: A Taste of the Andes

After exploring Pisac, you’ll head to Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley, for a traditional Andean buffet lunch. The meal features local ingredients and flavors, often including potatoes, corn, quinoa, and fresh vegetables, reflecting the region’s agricultural bounty. Many travelers find this meal a highlight, especially after a morning of walking.

One guest shared, “The buffet was plentiful and authentic, giving us a true taste of local cuisine.” It’s a relaxing break amid stunning mountain scenery, and a good chance to chat with fellow travelers about their morning adventures.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ollantaytambo: The Inca Fortress

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Ollantaytambo, an impressive archaeological complex often called the “Living Inca town” because many of its original streets and buildings are still used today. The highlight here is the Temple of the Sun, an extraordinary structure that once served multiple purposes—administrative, military, and spiritual.

The guide’s explanations help you understand the strategic and religious importance of Ollantaytambo. As one reviewer said, “Walking through the ruins, you can feel the power of the Inca Empire—this was a true hub of activity.” Expect some uphill walking and uneven paths, but the views and history make it worthwhile.

While in Urubamba, here are other experiences we've covered

Chinchero: Weaving and Heritage

Your final stop is Chinchero, a charming town famous for its traditional textiles and lively market (although the latter may vary depending on the day). Here, you can explore the archaeological site and visit textile centers where artisans demonstrate Inca weaving techniques.

Many visitors appreciate this stop for its authenticity. As one traveler noted, “Chinchero gave us a genuine glimpse into native traditions—seeing local artisans at work was inspiring.”

Returning to Cusco

Your day concludes with a comfortable bus ride back to your hotel in Cusco. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and the pace of the group.

The Practical Side of the Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $45, this tour packs a lot of value. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center, round-trip transportation, an authentic Andean buffet lunch, and a bilingual guide. These inclusions make it accessible and convenient, especially for first-time visitors.

However, keep in mind that tourist entry fees are not included—these are extra and depend on your choice of tickets. The tour mentions two options: a partial tourist ticket for 70 soles (which covers select sites) and a full tourist ticket for 130 soles (covering 16 attractions). You’ll want to plan ahead if you’re keen on visiting specific sites or saving money.

Timing and Group Size

The tour is designed for a full day—so early mornings and some walking are involved. Group sizes tend to be manageable, and guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

Booking and Flexibility

Booking is flexible, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can reserve now and pay later, which offers peace of mind in case your plans change.

What to Bring

Travelers should bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and cash for optional purchases or tickets. The tour advises against littering and emphasizes respecting local sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those seeking a well-organized, affordable way to see key sites in the Sacred Valley with a knowledgeable guide. It suits travelers who enjoy a blend of history, scenery, and local culture without the hassle of planning transport or tickets. It’s also perfect for visitors with limited time in Cusco who want a comprehensive, yet relaxed day.

If you’re eager to learn about Inca architecture, see traditional textiles, or indulge in genuine local cuisine, this tour offers a solid introduction, especially given the inclusion of a hearty buffet and expert guiding.

Final Thoughts

For just $45, this Sacred Valley tour from Cusco offers a balanced, engaging experience that hits the highlights—Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero—along with a chance to enjoy authentic Andean food. It’s especially good for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Inca culture in one day, with the convenience of transport and guided commentary.

While it’s a full-day affair, the pace is generally manageable, and the sites are worth the early start. The inclusion of bilingual guides helps make the experience accessible, and the local buffet meals add an authentic flavor you’ll remember.

Ultimately, this tour offers solid value and a chance to connect with some of Peru’s most iconic cultural sites—perfect for those looking to make the most of their time in Cusco with meaningful, guided exploration.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $45 per person, which includes transportation, guides, and a traditional Andean buffet lunch.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Pisac Archaeological Site, Ollantaytambo Archaeological Center, and Chinchero, covering key Inca ruins and local heritage sites.

What is included in the tour?
Included are hotel pick-up within Cusco’s historic center, round-trip transportation, a guided tour in both English and Spanish, and an authentic lunch.

Are tickets to the sites included?
No, site entry fees are not included—these are extra. You can choose to buy a partial or full tourist ticket depending on what you wish to visit.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting early in the morning (7-8 am) and returning in the late afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain, especially at Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and cash for optional purchases or tickets.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to experience the Sacred Valley’s highlights, enriched by local culture and guided insights. If you’re after an authentic, informative day with good value, this is a solid choice.