Private Ollantaytambo, Pisac Ruins Tour with Farm Visit, Gourmet Picnic Lunch

An In-Depth Look at the Private Ollantaytambo, Pisac Ruins Tour with Farm Visit and Gourmet Picnic

When we think about exploring Peru’s Sacred Valley, the names Ollantaytambo and Pisac naturally come to mind. This private tour offers a carefully curated experience, combining visits to these iconic Inca sites, a farm visit featuring local produce and traditional practices, and a delicious gourmet picnic. At $197 per person for about 8 hours of personalized attention, it’s a thoughtfully designed way to uncover the cultural layers and breathtaking scenery of the area.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances history and authentic local life. The private guide (named Valentin in reviews) ensures you get ample time at each site, with detailed explanations that bring the ruins and local customs alive. Plus, the farm visit and picnic provide a taste of traditional Andean life that you won’t find on more generic group excursions.

A minor consideration is that entrance fees aren’t included, so travelers should budget around $37 for the necessary Boleto Turistico to access the ruins. This might seem extra, but it allows flexibility—if you’re not archaeology buffs or if you prefer quick entries, you could opt for the partial ticket.

This tour suits travelers who value personalized experiences and in-depth knowledge. It’s perfect for those wanting to avoid crowded groups, enjoy authentic interactions with locals, and savor scenic, off-the-beaten-path views alongside famous archaeological marvels.

Key Points

• Private tour guarantees personal attention and plenty of time for questions
• Visits to Ollantaytambo and Pisac provide a comprehensive look at Inca architecture and culture
• Farm visit offers hands-on experience with local agriculture and traditional practices
• Gourmet picnic lunch showcases organic, local produce in a stunning setting
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for a hassle-free experience
• Entrance fees not included; budget for the boleto turistico

Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Full Breakdown

Starting Point: Ollantaytambo

Most tours begin with a pickup from your Cusco hotel at 7:00 am or from Ollantaytambo at 8:30 am. The journey to Ollantaytambo itself is part of the charm, as you traverse lush landscapes and terraced hillsides. Once at the Archaeological Park, you’ll have a guided tour of the ruins—fountains, aqueducts, terraced fields, and storage houses—that reveal how the Incas maximized limited space and resources.

Our guide, having grown up locally, was praised for her deep knowledge of Inca engineering and the area’s history. As one reviewer noted, “Valentin is very, very knowledgeable about Peru,” which translates into lively, informative commentary. You’ll learn about how Ollantaytambo served as Pachacutec’s residence and a strategic military checkpoint protecting the roads to Machu Picchu, which helps give the site context beyond just its beauty.

While the ruins are impressive, what truly makes this stop memorable is wandering the ancient streets of one of Peru’s oldest towns, where many 15th-century buildings still stand. It’s a living site, not just a tourist attraction, and you’ll see locals going about their day amid the Inca walls, offering a taste of genuine local life.

Farm Visit and Gourmet Picnic

Next, your journey takes you to a local farm in Yanahuara—a highlight praised repeatedly by those who love authentic experiences. Here, you’ll tour organic farmland, see how chicha (traditional fermented corn drink) is made, and even help feed guinea pigs with freshly cut alfalfa. The farm visit isn’t just about observing; it’s about engaging directly with Andean farming practices, which gives you a deeper appreciation for local food systems.

Lunch is a gourmet picnic prepared by a local chef, featuring fresh, organic ingredients grown on the farm. Imagine sitting outdoors, savoring delicious dishes while overlooking the Sacred Valley—an incredible way to enjoy regional flavors in a tranquil setting. Reviewers say the meal was “one of the best” they had in Peru, emphasizing the quality and freshness of the food.

Following lunch, you’ll visit an authentic, non-touristy market in Urubamba, vibrant with fruits, vegetables, flowers, and medicinal plants. Your guide will give a tour, sharing insights into local economy and traditions, and you’ll have opportunities to taste fresh produce. This adds a layer of everyday local life often missed in larger tours.

Pisac Ruins: The Highlight

From Yanahuara, the journey continues to the spectacular Pisac ruins, perched high above the Sacred Valley. The site features terraced terraces, a large Inca cemetery, and a complex of religious, astronomical, and defensive structures. It’s a place where the scale and ingenuity of Inca architecture are on full display.

Our guide explained that the terraces weren’t just for farming—they also served military functions and had astronomical alignments. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of the valley—truly breathtaking. Some tours include a walk through a little-known Inca trail and a tunnel, which adds an element of adventure and discovery, according to reviews.

The site is large enough that you can explore at your own pace, and the climb up offers fantastic vistas and photo opportunities. The archaeological significance combined with the scenic setting makes Pisac a must-see.

Timing and Logistics

The tour is carefully timed: pickups starting at 7:00 am from Cusco, with an 8:30 am start at Ollantaytambo, and a return by late afternoon. The private transport makes the day smooth and comfortable, avoiding the crowds and rigid schedules of group tours.

While admission fees are not included, you can purchase the boleto turístico for about $37, which covers multiple sites. Many travelers find this fee worth it for the flexibility and access it grants.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to larger, less personalized tours, this private experience ensures you get more meaningful interaction with your guide, allowing you to ask questions and dive deeper into the stories behind each site. The inclusion of the farm visit and gourmet lunch adds a memorable flavor of local life and culinary tradition, which many reviews describe as “one of the best meals” they’ve had in Peru.

You’ll appreciate the flexibility of a private tour—if you want to linger longer at a particular site or skip a less-interesting stop, your guide can accommodate. Plus, the scenic drive through the Sacred Valley is a treat in itself, providing stunning vistas and photo opportunities along the way.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with visitors noting that Valentin and others “know the locals” and make the history come alive. The authentic interactions and delicious food offer a depth that’s often missing from more commercial tours.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value personalized attention, are curious about Inca architecture and culture, and want a combination of history, local life, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal if you prefer engaging guides, authentic interactions, and a relaxed pace. If you’re a foodie or interested in Andean agricultural practices, the farm visit and picnic will be especially appealing.

It’s also well-suited for people who don’t mind moderate walking and stairs, as noted in the tour details, and who want the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to see the Sacred Valley’s highlights while also immersing in local life, this private tour offers an excellent mix of history, nature, and culture. You’ll walk away with a richer understanding of the Incas, a taste of traditional Andean food, and plenty of memorable views. The personalized approach means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, making it perfect for curious travelers who appreciate depth and authenticity.

The value is clear: for less than $200, you get a full day of private, guided exploration, a farm experience, and a gourmet picnic in a spectacular setting. If you love stories behind the stones and the chance to interact directly with locals, this tour is a smart choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes private transportation, a local professional guide, a farm visit, a gourmet picnic lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. You’ll need to purchase a boleto turístico for approximately 130 soles ($37) to access Ollantaytambo and Pisac ruins.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting early in the morning with pickups around 7:00 am, and returning in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for moderate walking and some stairs at Ollantaytambo and Pisac. Those with mobility concerns should consider their comfort with stairs and uneven surfaces.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adjust the timing or focus based on your interests—just ask!

What kind of food is served during the picnic?
The picnic features organic, local produce prepared by a chef, showcasing regional flavors in beautiful outdoor settings.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Cusco or Ollantaytambo hotels is included, making logistics easy and stress-free.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, most travelers book about 105 days ahead, indicating high demand and the benefit of securing your spot early.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved when planning for younger children.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
It’s the combination of personalized, expert-guided visits, authentic farm experiences, and a gourmet outdoor lunch—delivered in a flexible, private setting that values your interests.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, engaging day exploring Inca sites with authentic touches of local life, this tour offers excellent value and memorable experiences. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more personal and immersive journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley.