Hiking with Llamas and Alpacas in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Hiking with Llamas and Alpacas in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

If you’re looking for a unique combination of nature, culture, and animals, this tour in the Sacred Valley of the Incas offers just that. Starting in Chinchero, about 40 km from Cusco, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring scenic mountains, ancient paths, and archaeological sites, all while walking alongside gentle llamas and alpacas. For a reasonable $110 per person, this experience blends outdoor adventure with authentic Peruvian culture, making it a great choice for travelers craving something off the beaten path.

What we love about this tour is its personalized feel—small groups, friendly guides, and the chance to spend quality time with animals that are central to Andean life. The stunning vistas of terraces, glaciers, and a crystalline lagoon make every step visually rewarding. Plus, the delicious organic picnic serves as a special highlight, allowing us to sample local ingredients in a relaxed setting.

On the flip side, a consideration is that this tour involves quite a bit of walking and hills, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable with some physical activity. If you’re looking for an easy, relaxing day, this might be more challenging, but for those who enjoy a good trek, it’s absolutely worthwhile.

This tour is perfect for adventurous spirits, animal lovers, and those eager to connect with local culture in an authentic, uncommercialized environment. It’s especially ideal if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with nature and history.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Walk alongside llamas and alpacas in a setting that feels genuine and not overly touristy.
• Scenic Landscapes: Expect breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and traditional terraces.
• Cultural Insights: Visit archaeological sites in Chinchero and learn about Inca and colonial history.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy a picnic with organic ingredients, highlighting regional flavors.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour feels personal and engaging.
• Moderate Fitness: Be prepared for a 4-5 hour hike with hills, so some stamina is needed.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Plaza Haukaypata in Cusco, with pickup scheduled for 8:00 am. You’ll travel comfortably in private transportation to Chinchero, allowing you to relax and enjoy scenic views on the roughly one-hour drive. This setup is advantageous because it minimizes hassle and maximizes time spent on the trail rather than navigating public transport or complicated logistics.

The Trek Begins in Chinchero

Once in Chinchero, the real adventure starts. This traditional town, known for its colonial church and vibrant indigenous markets, serves as a perfect launchpad. Here, the guides introduce you to the llamas and alpacas, gentle animals that have been part of Andean life for centuries. According to reviews, guides like Reynaldo are kind and informative, helping you understand the significance of these animals and their role in local culture.

The walk spans 4 to 5 hours, with the route taking you along ancient paths once used by shepherds and traders. You’ll see shepherds with sheep and other animals, giving a glimpse into rural life. The landscape is dotted with agricultural terraces, mountains, glaciers, and a striking lagoon with crystalline water—a perfect backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

Archaeological and Colonial Highlights

Midway through, the tour takes a break for a delicious picnic featuring organic ingredients from the area—a thoughtful touch appreciated by many. This is a chance to relax, chat, and sample regional flavors in a natural setting.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to the Chinchero archaeological complex and colonial temple. These sites provide insight into the influence of Inca and Spanish cultures. Visitors often comment on how the guide’s explanations bring these relics to life, deepening their appreciation for the area’s layered history.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up back in Chinchero, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery or explore the local market before heading back to Cusco. The entire experience is about connecting with the land, animals, and history—not just ticking boxes.

Authenticity and Value

At $110, this tour offers excellent value considering the personal attention, quality of the guides, and the scenic richness of the route. The inclusion of private transportation, lunch, and drinks reduces the hassle and extra costs that can creep into similar experiences. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, fostering genuine connections and allowing for personalized questions.

From the Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, mentioning Reynaldo specifically as kind and informative. Many highlight how walking with the llamas and alpacas is a fun and memorable aspect, with some noting the animals’ personalities—like one alpaca named Chocolate that was wary at first but friendly by the end.

The scenery receives frequent nods—spectacular mountain views, glaciers, and lakes—with travelers remarking on how peaceful and beautiful the landscape is. The local food in the picnic is also well-loved, with reviewers describing it as delicious and showcasing regional ingredients.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Physical Fitness: Be prepared for a moderate hike involving hills and uneven terrain. If you have altitude concerns, give yourself a day or two to acclimate in Cusco.
• Clothing: Dress in layers—mornings can be cool, and the high altitude can make it feel colder.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for uneven paths.
• Booking: The tour is booked an average of 16 days in advance, so plan ahead, especially during peak season.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, so booking early ensures your spot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers with a moderate fitness level, animal lovers eager to interact with llamas and alpacas, and those interested in seeing authentic rural life away from tourist-heavy sites. If you’re looking for a relaxing day with little walking, this may not be ideal, but if you enjoy hiking, stunning scenery, and cultural insights, it’s a worthy investment.

The Sum Up

Hiking with llamas and alpacas in the Sacred Valley offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and animal companionship. The tour’s small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and authentic atmosphere make it a memorable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see the lesser-known side of the Sacred Valley while enjoying spectacular vistas and a delicious organic picnic.

If you’re after a genuine, engaging half-day adventure that combines outdoor activity with cultural discovery, this tour delivers on all fronts—and leaves you with plenty of stories and photos to cherish.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, as long as they have a moderate fitness level and are comfortable walking on hills. The duration is about six hours, so some stamina is required.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, a picnic lunch with organic ingredients, coffee and/or tea, bottled water, and guided walking.

How physically demanding is the walk?
It involves 4 to 5 hours of walking, with some hills and uneven terrain, so it’s best for those with moderate physical fitness.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection. A camera for the stunning vistas is also recommended.

Are the llamas and alpacas friendly?
Yes, the animals are accustomed to travelers and are gentle. Many reviews mention their personalities and the fun of interacting with them.

Can I customize or cancel the tour?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Weather-related cancellations are possible, with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

This experience offers a fantastic way to connect with the landscape, animals, and history of the Sacred Valley—an authentic adventure that’s well worth the modest price.