From Cusco: Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo without Lunch

This full-day tour from Cusco, costing just $36 per person, offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas. With stops at Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, you’ll step into a landscape filled with ancient terraces, archaeological marvels, and vibrant markets. Led by a bilingual guide, the tour typically runs from early morning, starting around 7:00 a.m., and wraps up with your return to Cusco around 6:30 or 7:00 p.m.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, the fact that it focuses solely on the archaeological and cultural highlights without the hassle of a set lunch, giving you more flexibility and time to explore each site. Second, the balanced schedule allows for enough time at each stop (about 1 to 1.5 hours), meaning you can genuinely soak in the details and atmosphere without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration is that the entrance tickets are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget around 70 soles for entrance to the sites. Also, if you prefer a more leisurely or gourmet experience, the buffet lunch in Urubamba might be a highlight you’d miss here.

This tour suits travelers who want a straightforward, cost-effective way to see key Sacred Valley sites without the fuss of planning transportation or entry logistics. It’s ideal for those who value guided insight and prefer to keep things simple and efficient.

Key Points

Affordable and efficient: At $36, it’s a budget-friendly way to see important sites.
Flexible itinerary: You can opt to be dropped off early at Ollantaytambo or stay longer.
Cultural highlights: Visits include some of the most iconic Inca sites and colonial towns.
Includes transportation and guide: No need to worry about navigating or translating.
Entrance tickets are separate: Budget for additional site entrance fees.
Ideal for travelers with limited time: Covers key highlights in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Sacred Valley from Cusco: What to Expect

We found that this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Sacred Valley’s past and present. Starting with a hotel pickup in Cusco, the early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler morning air as you head toward the first stop, Pisac.

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Pisac: The Inca and Colonial Blend

Once in Pisac, your guide will highlight the ancient terraces and architecture, which are impressive both in scale and craftsmanship. Pisac is famous for its market, but since this tour emphasizes archaeological sites, you’ll spend about an hour exploring the ruins. The site is a mixture of Inca and colonial influences, with stone terraces and temples perched on the hillside, offering stunning views of the valley below.

We loved the way the guide explained the strategic importance of Pisac — it wasn’t just a religious center but also a military and administrative hub. If you’re into history, the details about the terracing techniques and their agricultural significance are particularly interesting.

Urubamba: The Perfect Lunch Stop

After Pisac, the tour heads to Urubamba for a buffet lunch. While some travelers might prefer a sit-down meal with more local flavor or a chance to relax, this buffet offers enough variety for a satisfying break and is included in the tour price. Many reviews mention that the lunch is a good value, with plentiful options, although it’s not the focus of the tour.

Ollantaytambo: The Iconic Inca Fortress

Post-lunch, the highlight for many is Ollantaytambo, often called the “Living Inca Village” because it has been continuously inhabited for centuries. The site is renowned for its massive terraces and commanding fortress, which played a crucial role in resisting Spanish conquest. We appreciated the guided explanation of how the Incas engineered these impressive stone structures to withstand earthquakes — a testament to their ingenuity.

If you’re a photographer, the site’s dramatic terraces and stonework make for memorable shots. Some reviews mention that the site is quite expansive, so allocate enough time to explore thoroughly. You can walk around freely, but the actual archaeological exploration inside the site is limited to about an hour.

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Chinchero: Colonial Charm and Terraces

The last stop is Chinchero, famous for its colonial church and agricultural terraces. Your guide will point out the blending of Inca and colonial architecture and explain how the town remains a hub for traditional weaving. We loved the peaceful atmosphere here and the chance to see agricultural terraces that still serve a farming community today.

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Returning to Cusco

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Cusco, arriving between 6:30 and 7:00 p.m. While the itinerary is tight, the overall experience balances sightseeing with cultural context, making it a solid choice for those wanting to tick off several major sites without the hassle of individual planning.

Authenticity and Value

Reviewers frequently mention that the guides are bilingual, providing clear explanations in both English and Spanish, which enriches the experience. Many appreciate the small group size, allowing for more personalized attention and easier questions.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely pace or wants to spend more time at each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Also, since entrance tickets are not included, be prepared for an additional cost. It’s a good idea to purchase your tourist ticket beforehand if possible, to save time and avoid last-minute lines.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, guided overview of the Sacred Valley’s key sites. It works well if you’re short on time or prefer having transportation and commentary arranged for you. It’s especially suited for those who value historical insights and want a balanced day of exploration without too much walking or complicated planning.

If you’re looking for an authentic, straightforward introduction to the Inca sites and want to stay flexible on site, this tour offers good value and a well-structured route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You’ll need to purchase a general ticket (~130 soles) or specific site tickets (~70 soles for Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac).

Can I get dropped off at Ollantaytambo?
Yes, you can choose to be dropped off at Ollantaytambo around 3:30 p.m., which gives you extra time to explore or catch a train.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
The tour is offered with bilingual guides in English and Spanish.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, generally from 7:00 a.m. to about 6:30 or 7:00 p.m. depending on traffic and group pace.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a buffet lunch in Urubamba is part of the itinerary, providing a good variety and value.

What is the price?
The tour costs $36 per person, making it a budget-friendly way to see key sites.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, though those with mobility issues should be aware of some walking at archaeological sites.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour offers an accessible, well-organized way to experience the Sacred Valley’s highlights from Cusco. It’s a solid pick for travelers seeking a guided tour with good value, especially if you want to see the Inca sites without the fuss of planning logistics or spending extra on entrance fees. The mix of archaeological sites, scenic drives, and cultural insights makes it a worthwhile addition to your Peru itinerary, especially if you’re short on time but want a rundown.