Sacred Valley Tour Including Lunch, Scape the Crowd

Experience the Sacred Valley in Style and Comfort

If you’re headed to Cusco and want to see some of the most captivating Inca sites without the hassle of large crowds, this Sacred Valley Tour is a solid choice. For $119 per person, we’re talking about a full-day adventure lasting roughly 10 hours, visiting iconic spots like Pisac, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. What we love about this tour is the intimate atmosphere — limited to around 14 travelers, ensuring personal attention from your guide — and the convenience of door-to-door pickup in Cusco.

Two standout features really get us excited: First, the spectacular views of the Andes Mountains from every stop, making this more than just a history lesson — it’s a feast for the eyes. Second, the local market experiences at Pisac and Chinchero, giving you a taste of authentic Peruvian culture and the chance to pick up handcrafted souvenirs directly from artisans.

One thing to keep in mind is that some of the sites, especially the Inca ruins, may involve walking on uneven terrain, and the tour involves quite a bit of sightseeing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking. This tour suits travelers eager to combine cultural exploration with scenic beauty, especially if you prefer small groups and knowledgeable guides over large bus tours.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to around 14 travelers for a more personal experience
• Stunning Mountain Views: Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Andes
• Authentic Market Visits: Explore lively local markets at Pisac and Chinchero
• Inca Archaeological Sites: See Pisac hilltop citadel, Ollantaytambo fortress, and Chinchero’s ruins
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a climate-controlled minivan
• All-Inclusive: Tour includes professional guide and lunch, with entrance fees paid separately

Exploring the Sacred Valley in Depth

A Day in the Heart of the Inca Landscape

From the moment your guide picks you up in Cusco, you’re whisked away into a landscape so dramatic it feels almost unreal. The Sacred Valley is renowned for its lush terraces, rugged mountains, and the sense that you’re stepping back into a time when the Incas ruled these lands. The drive itself, about three hours, offers a chance to get a feel for the geography and see the changing scenery.

Visiting Pisac: Market and Ruins

Your first stop is Pisac, a vibrant village famous for its handicraft market and impressive Inca archaeological site perched on a hill. The market is lively, filled with stalls selling woven textiles, jewelry, and other souvenirs. It’s a perfect place to soak in local color and consider a few authentic keepsakes.

The archaeological site at Pisac is a hilltop citadel where ancient temples, plazas, and the iconic Intihuatana stone await. We loved the way the site offers panoramic views across the Quitamayo gorge and surrounding valleys, giving a real sense of the strategic importance of these ruins.

Ollantaytambo: Fortress and Living Inca Town

Next, you’ll visit Ollantaytambo, often called the “living Inca town” because of its well-preserved streets and structures. The massive terraced fortress overlooks the village, and the Sun Temple and Princess Baths are highlights. Walking through the cobblestone streets, you feel as if you’ve stepped into an ancient Inca city rather than a modern town.

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides here, who help connect the dots between the ruins and Inca history. One traveler mentioned how the guide’s patience and English skills made the experience even more enjoyable, highlighting the importance of a good guide.

Chinchero: A Quiet, Authentic Village

Your afternoon brings you to Chinchero, a small highland village famous for its Sunday market and traditional dress. It’s a quieter spot compared to Pisac, with fewer travelers and more locals in their customary attire. The village’s scenic views of the Sacred Valley and surrounding peaks are stunning.

Chinchero’s claim to fame as the “mythical birthplace of the rainbow” adds a touch of legend to your visit. You might find that walking through mud-brick houses and watching artisans weave textiles gives you a genuine feel for local life that’s hard to find in more commercialized spots.

A Well-Bicked Journey with Local Flavor

The tour includes lunch, which usually features local cuisine — a necessary touch after a morning of walking and exploring. The climate-controlled van ensures comfort during the longer drives, and the small group size allows for more interaction and tailored attention from your guide.

Authenticity and Practicality

From reviews, we know that guides like Edite/Edith are praised for their English skills and patience, making complex history accessible and engaging. The tour’s 10-hour length means you get a rundown without feeling rushed, but it does involve some walking and opportunities for physical exertion — good to keep in mind if you’re not used to hills or uneven terrain.

Entry Fees and Costs

While the tour price covers the guide and lunch, entrance fees to sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo are not included, so you should budget around $10-15 for those. This flexibility allows you to decide whether to spend more time at specific sites or browse markets longer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights with a manageable group size. If you’re comfortable with moderate walking and want an authentic experience with friendly guides, this tour delivers. It’s also a good fit if you prefer to avoid large buses, as the small-group setting fosters a more engaging atmosphere.

Travelers who enjoy markets, archaeological ruins, and mountain vistas will find plenty to love here. However, if you’re looking for a strenuous physical challenge, especially involving mountain hikes, you might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Sacred Valley tour offers great value when you consider the included guide, comfortable transport, and lunch. The sites are iconic, and the small-group format enhances the experience. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Inca culture, a handful of beautiful photos, and memorable views that will stay with you long after your trip.

It’s best suited for curious travelers who appreciate authentic local markets, well-preserved ruins, and scenic mountain landscapes. The knowledgeable guides and personal touch make this a compelling choice for those wanting to get a true feel for the Sacred Valley without the crowds and chaos of larger tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking on uneven terrain. If you or your travel companions have mobility issues, it’s good to consider this before booking.

How long is the drive from Cusco?
The journey to the Sacred Valley takes about 3 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero are not included and are paid separately at each location.

What kind of lunch is provided?
The tour includes lunch, typically featuring local dishes, giving you a taste of Peruvian cuisine after a morning of sightseeing.

How large are the groups?
The group size is limited to around 14 travelers, ensuring personal service and a more intimate experience.

Is pickup offered at my hotel?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from central Cusco, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. Also, check the weather forecast as mountain weather can change quickly.

In essence, this Sacred Valley tour strikes a good balance between culture, scenic beauty, and personal service. It’s a smart choice for those who want a genuine, well-organized experience that showcases the best of Inca heritage with the comfort and insight of a knowledgeable guide.