The Best of Sacred Valley Full-Day Walking Tour

A Complete Walk Through the Sacred Valley: An In-Depth Review

When planning a trip to Cusco, venturing into the Sacred Valley is practically a must. This full-day walking tour takes you through some of the most iconic and picturesque spots in the area. For $124 per person, and about 12 hours of immersive exploration, you’ll visit Chinchero, Moray, Maras salt pans, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. Plus, a hearty buffet lunch and the convenience of pickup make this a hassle-free way to see some of Peru’s most captivating sights.

What we love most about this tour is its balance of cultural insight and scenic beauty. The textile demonstrations in Chinchero offer a glimpse into ancient Inca weaving techniques, while the terraces of Moray and salt pans of Maras combine photogenic landscapes with fascinating history. Another highlight is the climb up Ollantaytambo’s fortress, providing not just a history lesson but also some of the best panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. The only thing to consider? The day is packed, which means early mornings and a lot of walking, so it’s best suited for active travelers eager to maximize their time.

This tour particularly appeals to those who appreciate a mix of outdoor scenery, archaeological marvels, and cultural authenticity. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day that balances sites with local life, this could be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac showcase the best of the Sacred Valley.
• Authentic Experiences: Textile demonstrations and local markets give genuine insight into Peruvian traditions.
• Scenic Highlights: Expect breathtaking mountain views, terraced landscapes, and photogenic salt pans.
• Expertly Organized: Pickup from your hotel, a well-paced schedule, and a delicious buffet lunch add to the overall value.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Includes Entry Fees: Most site admissions are covered, so there are no surprises on the day.

The Sacred Valley Full-Day Walking Tour: A Detailed Look

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This full-day tour offers a thorough exploration of the Sacred Valley, a region that’s central to understanding the Inca civilization and surrounded by some of Peru’s most stunning scenery. The fact that it’s a walking-focused tour means you get to really absorb the atmosphere rather than just pass by in a bus. Plus, with a small group size, you’ll have opportunities for questions and personalized observations.

Starting Bright and Early

The tour begins at 7:00 am, a sensible hour that allows plenty of time to cover the extensive itinerary. Being picked up from your hotel in Cusco ensures a smooth start, minimizing stress. The early start also means you get to beat some of the crowds at popular sites, especially in the more remote locations like Moray and Pisac.

Visiting Chinchero

Our first stop, Chinchero, is a charming Andean village blending Inca ruins with a colonial church. This is where you’ll see talented local weavers demonstrating traditional textile techniques. The guide explained the entire process—from gathering raw materials, washing, to natural dyeing—giving us a true appreciation of the skill involved. Many travelers appreciate this firsthand look into indigenous crafts, which are often sold at the end of the demonstration. As one reviewer put it, “They made everything so easy and helped me with anything I needed.”

The market in Chinchero is vibrant, especially on Sundays, but even on regular days, the colorful stalls add lively character. Expect to see traditional clothing, handmade textiles, and a chance to buy authentic souvenirs directly from the artisans.

The Enchanting Terraces of Moray

Next up is Moray, about 4.5 miles from Maras. The site’s circular terraces plunge down over 330 feet, creating a sort of natural laboratory that the Incas might have used for agricultural experiments. The terraces’ precise stonework and the way they contour the mountainside make for fantastic photo opportunities.

The site’s purpose remains somewhat speculative, but many believe it was used to test different crops’ growth conditions—an ancient form of agricultural research. This insight gives the site a certain practical fascination that elevates it above just another set of old stones.

Salt Pans of Maras

A highlight for many is Maras’ salt pans, which have been producing salt for over 500 years. The site’s pools are shallow, terraced into the hillside, and filled with briny water that evaporates in the sun, leaving behind crystallized salt. It’s a mesmerizing sight, especially when you see the shimmering pools reflecting the mountain backdrop.

The process is straightforward but ancient—it’s a working industry that has persisted for centuries, connecting the present with the past. Tourists often comment on how photogenic and uniquely atmospheric this site is.

Lunch in Urubamba

The tour provides a buffet lunch in Urubamba, giving travelers a chance to relax and recharge amid the stunning scenery. The meal is included in the price, which adds notable value given the long day of sightseeing. The town itself offers a peaceful break from the busy archaeological sites, and the meal typically features local dishes.

Ollantaytambo Fortress

Post-lunch, the group visits Ollantaytambo, an impressive Inca fortress often called the best-preserved Inca site. The steep stone terraces and ceremonial structures are awe-inspiring. Climbing up parts of the fortress offers incredible views of the valley below—definitely a highlight for those who enjoy a bit of physical activity along with their history.

The guide provided context on the site’s strategic importance and its role as a ceremonial and defensive complex. A reviewer mentioned how “you can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.”

Pisac Ruins and Market

Our last major stop is Pisac, which features a remarkable set of Inca terraces and temples. The site covers a large area set high on a mountain, with structures dating back to the 10th-11th centuries. The craftsmanship involved in building these terraces—covering a mountain from 3,000 to 3,450 meters—is jaw-dropping.

Besides the ruins, Pisac’s market is lively and colorful, perfect for browsing handmade crafts, textiles, and local produce. The site is less crowded than other spots, which makes exploring more relaxed. As one traveler noted, “This place has a different feeling—less touristy but just as impressive.”

The Overall Experience

Throughout the day, you can expect a mix of walking, learning, and picture-taking. The tour’s pace is well-managed, with enough time at each site to absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The small group size enhances this experience by fostering more meaningful conversations and attention from your guide.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves a combination of cultural insights and scenic beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy walking and want to see a variety of sites without the hassle of organizing transportation themselves. The inclusion of site entry fees and a buffet lunch adds convenience and value, making it perfect for those who prefer a hassle-free day.

Ideal for those interested in Inca archaeology, local crafts, and stunning mountain vistas, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of the Sacred Valley. It also appeals to travelers who appreciate small group tours, ensuring a more intimate and engaging day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, with pickup from your Cusco hotel, so be ready early to get the most out of the day.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 12 hours, covering many sites with a good balance of walking and sightseeing.

Are all entrance fees included?
Most site admissions are included, such as Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. You might find the salt pans and Chinchero demonstrations included as well.

Is it suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves walking and some climbing, especially at Ollantaytambo. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day of activity.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included in Urubamba, providing a relaxed break with local cuisine.

How many people are in the group?
The group is limited to 12 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera for those photo opportunities.

Is there transportation between sites?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Cusco to all sites, making logistics effortless.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Sacred Valley Full-Day Walking Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience for those eager to see some of Peru’s most iconic sites without feeling rushed. From detailed textile demonstrations in Chinchero to the breathtaking terraces of Moray and the ancient salt pans of Maras, you’ll get a true taste of Inca ingenuity and local life. The inclusion of a hearty buffet lunch and a small group setting makes the day both comfortable and engaging.

While it requires a full day’s commitment, the variety of sites and the natural beauty make it worthwhile. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, immersive experience that balances history, culture, and scenery—perfect for those who cherish authentic moments and stunning vistas alike.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or a culture enthusiast, this tour promises a memorable journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley, with plenty of opportunities to learn, explore, and simply enjoy the views.

Ready to explore Peru’s remarkable landscape and culture? This tour is a fantastic choice for a comprehensive, engaging day that highlights the best of the Sacred Valley.