Pisac Indian Market and Ollantaytambo fortress with lunch

Discover the Sacred Valley: Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo Fortress Tour

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Inca history, culture, and stunning mountain scenery, this full-day tour from Cusco is a smart choice. For $69 per person, you get roughly 10 hours of exploring, with stops at Pisac’s lively market, the mass on Sundays, and the imposing ruins of Ollantaytambo. With a knowledgeable guide, a hearty Peruvian lunch, and hotel pickup, it’s designed to give you a comprehensive look at the Sacred Valley’s highlights.

What we especially appreciate are the personalized guided experience—many reviews mention how guides like Angel and Frank bring the sites alive with stories and insights. Plus, the included lunch in a beautiful setting adds a satisfying break. However, it’s worth considering that if you’re not a fan of long drives or large group settings, you might find the trip a bit rushed or crowded at times.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves. It works especially well for those eager to see the Inca ruins, shop for local crafts, and enjoy a taste of Peruvian cuisine. If you’re after a deep, informative experience with opportunities for shopping and culture, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Covers the Sacred Valley’s main highlights, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, with a focus on Inca sites and local culture.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Angel, Frank, and Abton are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making history accessible and engaging.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Visit Pisac’s colorful market, see traditional crafts, and observe Sunday mass if your schedule aligns.
• Delicious Included Lunch: Enjoy a buffet featuring Peruvian specialties in a scenic setting, a real highlight for many travelers.
• Flexible Options: Choose private or shared tours, with or without tickets, to suit your preferences and budget.
• Rich Reviews: With an average rating of 4.4/5 from 391 reviews, most travelers find the experience well worth the price.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with Pisac Market, this lively bazaar is often the star of the tour. You’ll get a chance to wander amid stalls selling handmade textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs crafted by local artisans. This is more than just shopping—it’s a glimpse into the vibrant culture and artistry of the Quechua communities. Several reviewers, such as Georsadd, recommend this as a highlight, noting the market’s incredible variety and friendly atmosphere.

If your visit falls on a Sunday, you’re in for a special treat—the mass in Quechua and Spanish, attended by local dignitaries, with traditional music played on pututos (long trumpets). Zelda appreciated this authentic experience, stating, “My guide Angel was very professional and friend… and being an anthropologist helped answer many untypical questions.” This cultural detail often makes the day memorable.

After browsing and buying at Pisac, a tasty Peruvian lunch is included—many reviews mention how good and plentiful the buffet is. The setting often adds to the experience, with some tours stopping by riversides or gardens, providing a peaceful backdrop after the busy market.

Next, you’ll visit Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca archaeological sites. The fortress’s massive stones—some around 12 feet tall—are a testament to Inca engineering prowess. You’ll explore the Temple of the Sun, which served both as a religious site and a defensive structure during civil conflicts. Many visitors, like Jane, describe the views here as spectacular, and the site as fascinating and photogenic.

A few reviews mention a small hike at Ollantaytambo, which some found a bit challenging, but most agree the effort pays off with stunning vistas. The site’s combination of history, architecture, and scenery makes it a must-see stop in the Sacred Valley.

Once the site exploration concludes, the tour wraps up with the return journey to Cusco, often feeling like a satisfying balance between guided learning and personal exploration.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable bus, with options for private or shared arrangements. The smaller groups—capped at 15 travelers—allow for more personalized attention, which many reviewers commend. Pickup from your Cusco hotel is provided, with times communicated a day in advance, making planning straightforward.

The timing usually kicks off at 8:00 am, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed. The journey involves a fair amount of driving through scenic mountain roads, but the views make the long hours worthwhile.

Price and Value

At $69 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included guide, lunch, and entrance tickets (if you opt for the tickets-included version). Many reviews point out that the quality of guides like Adriel, Julio, and others enhances the experience, turning what might be a simple sightseeing trip into a rich cultural education.

Some travelers have noted that if you select the option without tickets, you’ll need to pay at each site—something to keep in mind for planning. The included lunch, often praised for its variety and setting, adds to the overall value, giving you a break and a taste of local flavors.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Cusco who want a guided, all-in-one day trip. It’s also well-suited for history buffs, shopaholics, and food lovers looking to combine culture, ruins, and cuisine. If you prefer more flexibility or a more intimate, private tour, check the private options, which many reviewers suggest can be quite worthwhile.

It’s less ideal if you’re after a long hike or want to explore more remote sites at your own pace. Some reviews mention a long bus ride and a tight schedule, so travelers who prefer a more leisurely or unstructured experience might find this tour a bit too fast-paced.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Sacred Valley tour delivers a rich, well-organized experience that packs in ancient ruins, colorful markets, and authentic culture, all while providing excellent guides and tasty food. For most travelers, it’s a solid investment in understanding the Inca civilization and enjoying the stunning scenery of the Andes.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, beautiful sites, and a delicious included lunch makes it a compelling choice for those visiting Cusco. It’s suitable for history lovers, shoppers, and anyone eager to get a meaningful glimpse of Inca life without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

If you’re looking for a day that balances culture, scenery, and comfort, with the ability to choose private or group options, this tour offers good value. Just remember to consider your walking stamina and whether your schedule aligns with the timing—most find it a rewarding adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Cusco hotel or lodging are included, with times provided the day before your tour.

What’s included in the tour?
A bilingual guide, hotel transfers, admission to Ollantaytambo (if you choose that option), and a buffet lunch are included.

Can I visit the market on a different day?
The tour visits the Pisac market during your scheduled tour day, which coincides with the site’s market days, especially lively on Sundays with the mass.

Is the lunch buffet vegetarian-friendly?
While specific dietary options aren’t detailed, many reviews praise the quality and variety of the Peruvian food served, suggesting it’s suitable for most tastes.

How long does the drive take?
The full-day tour involves a fair amount of driving through scenic mountain roads, with pickup around 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are tickets included?
You can choose between options with or without admission tickets. If not included, you’ll need to pay at the sites.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and layers are advisable, as sites involve uneven terrain and the weather can vary in the mountains.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s suitable for families, but keep in mind the long driving hours and walking involved.

Can I customize this tour?
Private options are available, allowing more flexibility, and guides are praised for their knowledge and personable approach.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour departs at 8:00 am; mornings typically offer better weather and fewer crowds at the archaeological sites.

This Sacred Valley tour offers a wonderful way to connect with Inca history, learn about local culture, and enjoy some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a shopper, or simply eager to see the iconic ruins and markets, it provides a solid, engaging day out in the mountains.