Sacred Valley Complete Tour (Full Day)

Exploring Cusco’s Sacred Valley in One Day: An In-Depth Review

If you’re visiting Cusco and want to experience the highlights of the Sacred Valley without sacrificing comfort or depth, the Sacred Valley Complete Tour offers an inviting solution. Priced at just $55 per person, this 13-hour journey whisks you through some of the most iconic Inca sites, from the charming town of Chinchero to the terraces of Moray and the bustling markets of Pisac. Your day is filled with cultural insights, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Peruvian cuisine, all while being comfortably transported in a small group.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the ease of transportation—you won’t need to worry about navigating the winding roads yourself—and the personalized attention afforded by a small group limited to just 15 travelers. That means plenty of opportunities to ask questions and really connect with your guide. That said, a potential downside is the full schedule, which can feel a bit packed, especially if you like exploring sites at a more leisurely pace. Still, for those eager to see as much as possible in a single day, this tour hits the right balance.

This adventure suits travelers who want a comprehensive, value-packed overview of the Sacred Valley, especially those who appreciate professional guides, scenic vistas, and delicious local food. If you’re keen on getting a solid introduction to Inca culture without the hassle of planning each stop, this tour is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Visit Chinchero, Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac in a single day.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a small, guided van with pickup from your Cusco hotel.
• Expert Guidance: Learn about the sites from a knowledgeable, bilingual guide.
• Authentic Local Food: Enjoy a buffet lunch with a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes.
• Limited Group Size: Small tours (max 15) ensure personalized attention.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

An In-Depth Look at the Sacred Valley Full Day Tour

Starting Your Day Early and Conveniently

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups between 6:30 and 7:00 am in Cusco, a smart move to maximize your day. The early start is well worth it, allowing you to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler morning air as you head into the Sacred Valley. The transportation is described as “touristy class vans,” which suggests basic but comfortable and reliable vehicles—good enough for a day trip, especially since the focus is on the sites, not the luxury.

First Stop: Chinchero

Right from the start, we’re transported into a world of colonial and Inca history. The town of Chinchero is a picturesque spot that blends Inca ruins with colonial architecture. We loved the way the guide explained the remains of the royal hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui and pointed out the beautifully frescoed colonial temple. The fact that the site was built on Inca foundations adds a layer of authenticity and history to the experience. It’s a gentle but profound introduction that combines Inca walls with colonial art—an easy way to get a sense of Peru’s layered past.

Next: Maras Salt Mines

The town of Maras, perched at about 3,380 meters, offers one of the most visually striking sites of the day. The thousands of small salt evaporation wells create a landscape that looks like a natural patchwork quilt—almost surreal to see. These salt mines have been exploited since Inca times, and the process of extracting salt from underground springs makes for an interesting story. We appreciated that the salt production here represents a historic economic activity, connecting past and present.

Moray: An Inca Agricultural Lab

A quick 7-kilometer drive takes you to Moray, where the circular terraces reveal a unique Inca innovation. These terraces are not just pretty; they were an agricultural experiment where Incas tested how different crops adapted to various microclimates. The terraces plunge about 150 meters deep, with concentric rings widening as they ascend. The guide’s explanations helped us understand how Moray was a precursor to modern agricultural research, and it’s a site that sparks curiosity about Inca ingenuity.

Lunch in Urubamba

Midway through the day, the tour offers a buffet-style lunch in Urubamba, a city central to Sacred Valley tourism. The meal includes more than thirty varieties of traditional Peruvian food, providing a taste of local flavors without the fuss. This aspect of the tour is a hit with travelers who enjoy sampling authentic cuisine and relaxing before heading to the afternoon sites.

Afternoon: Ollantaytambo

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Ollantaytambo, often called the “Living Inca Town” because of its well-preserved streets and terraces. The archaeological complex was constructed to protect against invasions and served as a religious, military, and administrative hub. We loved wandering the cobblestone streets, feeling transported back in time, and imagining the bustling Inca life here. The site’s massive stones and strategic location make it an impressive testament to Inca engineering.

Final Stop: Pisac

The tour wraps up with Pisac, famous for its market and ancient terraces. The market is a lively place full of local crafts and textiles, giving you a taste of Peruvian culture. Then, climbing the archaeological complex, you’ll see terraced fields, tombs, and stone structures that showcase Inca ingenuity at a functional level. The viewpoint over the Sacred Valley provides a perfect photo opportunity of the Andes and lush landscapes, a fitting end to your day of exploration.

Return to Cusco

By around 7:30 pm, you’ll arrive back in Cusco, tired but enriched by your day of discovery. The early start and full schedule mean you’ll get a lot for your money, but it also makes for a very busy day—something to consider if you prefer a slower pace.

What the Tour Means for You

This tour’s strength lies in its ability to cover a wide range of sites comfortably. The guided format means you’ll learn more than just what you see; your guide explains the historical significance and cultural stories, making each site come alive. The small group size helps keep the experience intimate and engaging, perfect for asking questions or snapping photos without the crowds.

The delicious buffet lunch is a highlight, providing a well-earned break and a chance to sample Peruvian culinary staples. The scenery throughout is stunning—mountains, terraced fields, and the salt mines’ mineral-rich landscape all contribute to an experience that feels authentic and visually rewarding.

However, some travelers might find the pace a little rushed if they prefer to immerse themselves at each site. As one reviewer mentioned, “it’s a lot to pack into one day,” but others appreciated the rundown. If you’re eager to see the major highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This Sacred Valley tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, educational, and scenic day. It balances cultural insights, beautiful landscapes, and local flavors, making it a solid choice for those who prefer guided tours but still want to experience the region’s highlights fully.

The knowledgeable guides and delicious lunch elevate the experience, while the focus on main sites means you’ll leave with a good understanding of Inca life and architecture. For travelers short on time but eager to see the Sacred Valley, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot of Inca culture.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy small-group travel, guided explanations, and a full schedule, and who don’t mind a day that moves at a brisk pace. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, value-for-money introduction to Cusco’s most iconic Inca sites, this tour won’t disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation in vans described as “touristy class,” which are comfortable enough for a day trip but not luxury vehicles. Pickup is available from your Cusco hotel.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the tour price does not include the entrance fees to Inca sites or the Salt mines. These are paid separately—about 70 soles for the Inca sites and 20 soles for the salt mines—which can be paid on site.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with more personalized attention from your guide.

How long is the lunch break?
You’ll get approximately two hours for lunch, which is enough to relax and enjoy a buffet with over thirty varieties of traditional Peruvian food.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and walking, including some uphill climbs at sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this Sacred Valley tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of Peru’s most important archaeological sites, scenic landscapes, and local flavors—all in one well-organized day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, comprehensive introduction to the region, especially those who value small-group intimacy and expert commentary. Just pack comfortable shoes and an open mind—your adventure into Inca history awaits.