Private Tour Sacred Valley Of The Incas 1 Day

Experience the Sacred Valley of the Incas in One Day

Imagine waking up in Cusco and heading out early in the morning—by 8 am, a comfortable private vehicle is ready to whisk you away into the heart of the Incan Sacred Valley. For about $200 per group (up to three people), this 10-hour private tour gives you a personalized and flexible way to explore some of the most iconic sites in this region. It’s designed to blend the history, culture, and natural beauty into a seamless day, led by knowledgeable guides and complemented by a delicious buffet lunch.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience: First, the personalized attention that comes with a private tour—no need to stick to large group schedules, and your guide can tailor the stories and stops to your interests. Second, the balance of archaeological sites and local culture, especially in places like Chinchero, which offers a glimpse into traditional weaving traditions alongside ancient ruins.

A potential consideration? Since the admission tickets to the archaeological sites are not included in the base price, you’ll want to budget an extra S/70 or S/130 for the boleto turístico if you plan to visit multiple sites. Also, the itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and some uneven terrain—comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, scenic views, and authentic cultural experiences without the hustle of large groups or rigid schedules. It’s perfect for those who want to see key sites with expert guidance but still have the flexibility to ask questions and explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide and driver
• Visiting four major sites: Pisaq, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero
• Includes a buffet lunch with traditional Peruvian dishes
• Flexible and customizable to your interests and pace
• Not included: tickets, so plan for extra costs
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and spacious seating

In-Depth Review of the Sacred Valley Private Tour

Starting Early in the Sacred Valley

Your day begins with a hotel pickup around 8 am. From there, the journey takes you through scenic mountain roads filled with views of glaciers and agricultural terraces—familiar sights that hint at the incredible history of this land. The small group size (up to three people) ensures you get personalized attention, and the vehicle’s comfort makes the long drive more pleasant.

We loved the way the guide pointed out specific landscapes and shared stories about the valley’s spiritual significance. The first stop at Parque Arqueologico Pisac allows you to explore the site’s terraces, temples, and plazas. Its layout, resembling a condor, is a testament to Incan engineering and planning. You’ll get around 40 minutes here—enough time to walk among the ruins and visit the vibrant artisan market, where locals sell handcrafted textiles and jewelry.

The Market and the Viewpoints

The Pisac market is a highlight for many visitors. It’s lively but not overly commercialized, offering a chance to see traditional weaving techniques and buy unique souvenirs. The guide’s insights into local crafts add depth to the experience, making it more than just a quick photo stop.

A Delicious Buffet Lunch in Urubamba

Next, your journey takes you to Urubamba, a charming town known for its lush scenery and excellent restaurants. Here, a buffet lunch awaits—featuring a variety of local dishes and flavors you might not find elsewhere. The setting is picturesque, and the meal is a real treat, giving you energy for the afternoon. Considering the meal is included, this part of the tour offers good value, especially if you enjoy trying regional cuisine.

Exploring Ollantaytambo

In the afternoon, the tour visits Ollantaytambo, often called the “Living Inca Town” because it still retains much of its original layout and architecture. The archaeological site here is impressive—massive terraces, temples, and stonework that showcase Inca ingenuity. Our guide shared stories about the site’s historical and strategic importance, making the ruins come alive.

Visiting Chinchero, the Cultural Gem

The final stop before heading back to Cusco is Chinchero, a village renowned for its vibrant weaving community and ancient archaeological remains. You’ll have about 40 minutes to stroll through its ruins, visit the colonial chapel, and see local weaving families demonstrate traditional techniques. This part of the tour is particularly valued for its authentic cultural experience—many travelers appreciated the chance to observe living traditions that continue to thrive.

Returning to Cusco

After a full day, your private vehicle takes you back to Cusco, with the option to be dropped at your hotel or in the city’s main square. The overall flow of the day is well-paced, and the private nature allows for flexibility if you wish to linger longer at certain sites or skip others.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the upfront cost is $200 for up to three people, the experience’s value lies in the expert guidance, comfort, and personalized attention. The inclusion of a buffet lunch adds convenience, and the scenic drives and fascinating sites provide a comprehensive introduction to the Sacred Valley. Since the tour is private, you won’t be rushed or stuck in a large group, and the guide can answer your questions in depth.

The only extra cost is the admission tickets to the sites, which are not included in the base price. For most travelers, these tickets are worth purchasing, especially if you want to explore multiple sites thoroughly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, flexible, and insightful introduction to the Sacred Valley. It suits those who appreciate cultural authenticity, scenic landscapes, and historical sites, and prefer a smaller, private group for a more personal experience. If you’re curious about Incan history and want to see key highlights without feeling rushed, this tour will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

This private Sacred Valley tour offers an excellent way to explore some of the most significant Inca sites in a relaxed and personalized setting. The combination of archaeological exploration, local culture, and scenic beauty makes it a well-rounded day trip. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport greatly enhance the experience—making it a worthy investment for those who want to truly connect with the history and spirit of the Andes.

If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic, and manageable day that combines history, culture, and nature, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who value quality over quantity and appreciate local traditions, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes professional guides, tourist transport with a driver, and a buffet lunch. The admission tickets to the archaeological sites are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Cusco by late afternoon or early evening.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
No, but you should budget extra for the admission tickets to the archaeological sites, which cost S/70 or S/130 depending on the site.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
It’s most suitable for most travelers who can handle walking and uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a private tour, guides can often tailor the experience slightly—asking in advance about specific interests can help.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a small backpack, water, snacks, extra cash for souvenirs, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and comfortable shoes.

How do I get to the starting point?
Your hotel will be picked up at your specified location in Cusco. If staying outside the city center, check with the tour provider for options.

What if I want to skip a site?
As a private tour, you can request to spend more time at certain sites or skip others if you prefer.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, but consider weather conditions—rain gear may be needed during the rainy season (October to March). The tour can be flexible based on weather.

This private tour of the Sacred Valley offers a blend of history, culture, and scenery wrapped in a comfortable, personalized package. Perfect for those eager to experience the essence of Incan civilization without the crowds or rigid schedules.