Tour to Sacred Valley: Tour Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.

A Complete Guide to the Sacred Valley Tour: Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero

Imagine spending a full day wandering through the stunning landscapes and ancient sites of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, all for just $45 per person. This 10 to 11-hour tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the heart of Andean history and culture, with stops at key archaeological sites, vibrant markets, and traditional textile centers. Led by a knowledgeable guide fluent in English or Spanish, we loved how personal and engaging the experience was, with the guide sharing insights that brought each location to life.

Two things particularly stand out: First, the Awanakancha farm where you get to see South American camelids up close—an authentic farm experience that’s both fun and educational. Second, the local market at Pisaq, bursting with color, aroma, and local crafts, gives you a taste of daily life in the Andean highlands.

A possible consideration? The partial tourist ticket fee of S/70 PEN (about $18 USD) isn’t included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for that. Also, since the tour is a group activity with around 7 hours of sightseeing, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy structured, guided excursions rather than those seeking complete independence.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or anyone with just one day in Cusco wanting a rundown of the Sacred Valley’s highlights without the fuss of planning each stop. If you appreciate detailed explanations, authentic markets, and scenic vistas, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: All the major Sacred Valley sites, a buffet lunch, and a private guide at a very reasonable price.
• Authentic local experiences: Visit a textile center, see traditional crafts, and explore local markets.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off: Convenient hotel or Plaza Regocijo meeting point.
• Educational and scenic: Learn about Inca terraces, ancient ruins, and local agricultural practices.
• Value for money: Includes transportation, guide, and lunch, with optional tips.
• Consider the ticket fee: The partial tourist ticket isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the Sacred Valley: What You Can Expect

Starting the Day: Comfort and Convenience

At 8:00 am, your guide and transportation will pick you up at your hotel or designated meeting point in Cusco. From there, the journey to the Sacred Valley begins, and you quickly realize this is about making the most of your day with comfort. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant ride through the Andean landscapes, setting the tone for an easy, hassle-free experience.

Awanakancha: A Close Encounter with South American Camelids

Your first stop is Awanakancha, a small farm where you can see llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos—species that are integral to Andean life. This visit offers a rare, up-close look at these iconic animals, plus the chance to learn about their importance for local culture and economy. It’s a genuine experience that adds depth to your understanding of the region.

Pisaq: Ancient Ruins and Vibrant Market

Next, you arrive at the archaeological site of Pisaq. Here, you’ll explore large terraces that once supported sophisticated Inca farming practices. The site’s commanding views of the valley are breathtaking, and the ruins themselves are a testament to the Incas’ engineering prowess. As one reviewer fondly noted, “the views of the valley in the rainy season are beautiful with a deep green hue,” which highlights how this site is visually stunning year-round.

Following the ruins, you’ll stroll through Pisaq’s local market—a lively space filled with artisans selling handmade textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. The market is a true reflection of Andean craftsmanship. One visitor shared, “The artisans of Chincheros are charming,” emphasizing the warmth and authenticity of these local markets. You’ll have ample time to browse, haggle, and maybe pick up a unique keepsake.

Lunch in Urubamba: A Well-Deserved Break

At midday, a buffet lunch in Urubamba awaits, offering local delicacies and a chance to relax before more sightseeing. The buffet format means you can choose from a variety of dishes, typically fresh and flavorful, providing good value for the price. It’s a highlight for those who enjoy hearty, local meals after a morning of exploration.

Ollantaytambo: Step Back in Time

The archaeological site of Ollantaytambo is next. Famous for its impressive terraces and stone structures, this site demonstrates Inca ingenuity and strategic military importance. Walking through Ollantaytambo is like stepping into a living museum, with the town’s narrow streets and stone buildings still echoing the past. One traveler appreciated how “the ruins are well-preserved” and offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially when framed against the surrounding mountains.

Chinchero: Textile Traditions and Cultural Insights

Your last stop is Chinchero, known for its pre-Hispanic textile center. Here, you’ll see traditional weaving techniques in action and learn about the process of turning llama and alpaca wool into vibrant mantles and scarves. If you’re interested in handmade crafts, this is a highlight—many travelers comment on the charming artisans and the opportunity to purchase high-quality textiles directly from the source.

Returning to Cusco

Your day ends with the return trip, arriving back at your hotel or Plaza Regocijo around 7 hours after departure. The tour’s flexibility means you can relax and reflect on a day packed with sights, sounds, and flavors.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of archaeological sites, local markets, and traditional textile centers ensures a well-rounded experience of the Sacred Valley. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each site, making history accessible rather than just a series of ancient stones. The visits are timed well, giving you just enough time at each location without feeling rushed.

The lunch in Urubamba adds a nice touch of local flavor, and the small group size (since it’s a private tour) creates a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and connecting with your guide. The inclusion of transportation and guide service makes this a great value for travelers who want a hassle-free day out.

Possible Drawbacks

One thing to keep in mind is the additional ticket fee of S/70 PEN, which you will need to purchase separately at the first site. It’s an unavoidable expense but worth budgeting for. Plus, since this is a guided group tour, those seeking complete independence might find the schedule a bit restrictive.

Best For

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Cusco who want a comprehensive, guided overview of the Sacred Valley without the need to piece together transportation or multiple tickets. It’s also ideal for travelers interested in local crafts, archaeology, and scenic mountain vistas, especially if they prefer a balanced mix of learning and leisure.

FAQs About the Sacred Valley Tour

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, typically starting at 8:00 am and returning around 7:00 pm, providing a full day of sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch in Urubamba is included, offering a variety of local dishes to refuel after a busy morning.

Do I need to buy a ticket in advance?
No, but you will need to purchase a partial tourist ticket costing S/70 PEN at the first site you visit, which is not included in the tour price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking around archaeological sites and markets.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a group-guided tour, the itinerary is set, but your guide will share insights and answer questions along the way.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a good option for families interested in history and culture, provided children are comfortable walking and spending a full day out.

Final Thoughts

This Sacred Valley tour offers a solid balance between cost, convenience, and cultural depth. For just $45, you gain access to some of the most iconic Inca sites, authentic markets, and a taste of local craftsmanship—all with the guidance of a knowledgeable guide. The inclusion of transportation and lunch enhances the value, making it a stress-free way to experience this impressive region.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic, and reasonably priced day trip from Cusco, this tour should certainly be on your list. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of self-planning, while still enjoying meaningful encounters with local traditions and stunning scenery.

Remember: Budget for the entrance fee, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your curiosity—this tour promises a memorable day exploring some of the best parts of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.