Sacred Valley Tour Vip Chinchero Ollantaytambo and Pisac

Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-do for anyone visiting Cusco, and this VIP full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the region’s most iconic archaeological sites and vibrant markets, all for just $29 per person. With around 11 to 12 hours of adventure, comfortable transportation, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide, it’s designed to pack in as much as possible without losing the magic of each location.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it balances culture with practical comfort, making sure you get a full, authentic experience without feeling rushed. The chance to visit Chinchero’s colorful market and Moray’s unique terraces offers genuine insight into Inca ingenuity and Andean life. Plus, the included buffet lunch in Urubamba provides a well-deserved break and a taste of local flavors.

A potential consideration is the timing at some sites, notably Moray and Maras, where reviews mention limited time—sometimes just 15 to 20 minutes. If you’re eager to explore every detail, this might feel a bit hurried. Still, for most travelers, the itinerary offers a thorough overview of the valley’s highlights in a single day.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, educational day without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s especially good if you appreciate professional guides, authentic cultural moments, and value for money—all wrapped into an accessible package. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and want to cover the Sacred Valley’s essentials, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
• Value for money: All-inclusive price of $29 with lunch and guide included.
• Authentic experiences: Local markets, Inca terraces, salt mines, and archaeological sites.
• Comfortable logistics: Pickup, modern transportation, bilingual guides.
• Timing considerations: Some reviews mention limited time at Moray and Maras.
• Suitable for: Travelers seeking a full day of sightseeing with cultural and archaeological highlights.

Exploring the Sacred Valley in Depth

Starting at Chinchero: A Less Touristy Gem

Your day begins early with a pickup in Cusco, and after roughly an hour’s drive, you arrive at Chinchero, a quaint Andean village perched high at 3,765 meters. Here, the views of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range and Salkantay Peak are stunning, and you’ll get to see a community where locals still go about their daily routines in traditional dress.

Chinchero is famous for its colorful Sunday market, which is less crowded than Pisac’s but just as vibrant. The locals sell textiles, produce, and crafts, offering a genuine slice of Andean life. The village’s mud-brick houses and ancient Inca terraces enhance the sense of stepping back in time. Although the admission ticket isn’t included, the experience of wandering its streets and seeing the traditional way of life is a highlight for many.

Moray: An Inca Agricultural Laboratory

Next, around half an hour away, is Moray, known for its circular terraces that descend in concentric rings. It’s a striking sight that illustrates how advanced Inca agricultural techniques were—creating microclimates by controlling sunlight, wind, and temperature across different levels. These terraces could be considered a cultivation laboratory, and you’ll see how the Incas used irrigation systems to sustain different crops at various heights.

One reviewer notes, “We loved the way Moray demonstrated the high level of Inca culture,” emphasizing how this site is more than just pretty terraces—it’s a window into Inca ingenuity. Keep in mind that the tour usually allocates about 1.5 hours here, so you’ll have time to walk around and appreciate the terraces but might not explore every corner.

Maras Salt Mines: A Photographers’ Paradise

A short drive from Moray takes you to the Maras salt pools, a vast expanse of terraced salt evaporation ponds that shimmer under the Andean sun. This site is perfect for photographers and nature lovers, thanks to its impressive landscape. The salt pools have been in use since Inca times, and you’ll see how salt is still harvested today.

While the included admission ticket isn’t paid upfront, visitors can still enjoy the scenery and take plenty of photos. This is also a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking, connecting to surrounding villages. Some reviews mention that the time here can be tight—about 10 to 15 minutes—so if photography is your passion, you might wish for more time.

Rest and Feast in Urubamba

Midday, the tour pauses at Urubamba, where a buffet lunch awaits. The meal features a variety of local dishes, offering a tasty break from sightseeing. The inclusion of soft Andean music adds to the atmosphere, and many travelers say this was a highlight—“the lunch was sensational,” as one reviewer expressed.

This stop also provides a chance to relax, regroup, and enjoy a bit of local hospitality before continuing to the archaeological sites. The 2-hour window is enough to savor the food and stretch your legs.

Ollantaytambo: Inca Fortress and Village

After lunch, the journey continues to Ollantaytambo, a charming town that embodies Inca urban planning at its best. Its well-preserved stone streets and terraces make it feel like an open-air museum.

The ceremonial temple and the fortress guarding the valley are impressive sights, with steep terraces that climb up to the Temple of the Sun. Visitors can walk around the ancient water channels and baths, and marvel at how the Incas built on such rugged terrain. Some reviews mention guides who enrich the experience with stories and insights, making the visit more than just sightseeing.

Pisac: The Ancient Inca Settlement

Finally, you arrive at Pisac, known for its stone walls and ceremonial site. The Intihuatana stone, an important religious artifact, draws many visitors. This site showcases Inca craftsmanship—the stones fit perfectly together, and the complex includes terraces, palaces, and towers.

Many reviewers find Pisac’s architecture mesmerizing, praising the symmetry and precision of its construction. The site’s expansive views of the valley make it a fitting end to a busy day.

Practical Insights and Tips

• Transportation: The tour offers comfortable, modern transport with pickup from Cusco, making the day hassle-free.
• Guides: Bilingual guides provide valuable explanations, often in both English and Spanish. Several reviews highlight guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging.
• Timing: Some sites, like Moray and Maras, might feel rushed—be prepared for about 15-20 minutes at each, which is enough for a quick overview but might leave some wanting more detail.
• Cost and Value: The $29 price includes lunch and guide, which makes it a very wallet-friendly option considering the number of sites visited. However, additional tickets are needed for certain sites, like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Chinchero, and Moray, which adds to the overall expense.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be aware of the high-altitude locations and walking on uneven terrain at sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
• Weather and Preparation: Since most sites are outdoors, bring sunscreen, hat, water, and comfortable walking shoes. The tour operates in good weather; if canceled due to rain, options for rescheduling or refunds are available.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the Sacred Valley without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s ideal if you appreciate guided storytelling—many reviews praise guides for their passion and depth of knowledge. Budget-conscious travelers will also find the value remarkable, especially with lunch and transportation included.

It’s great for history buffs, photographers, and anyone eager to explore authentic local markets and Inca archaeological marvels in a single day. If you enjoy a well-organized schedule and don’t mind moving at a brisk pace, this trip will suit you well.

The Sum Up

This Sacred Valley VIP tour offers a rich, well-rounded experience that balances archaeological exploration with culture. For around $29, you gain access to major sites, tasty local cuisine, and the insights of a knowledgeable guide—all in a comfortable, worry-free format. It’s a practical choice for those looking to see the highlights of the Sacred Valley without sacrificing authenticity or comfort.

While some sites might be visited briefly, the overall depth—especially at places like Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo—provides a meaningful glimpse into Inca ingenuity and Andean traditions. Travelers who value guided storytelling and authentic experiences will find this tour a worthwhile investment in their Cusco adventure.

If you’re short on time but eager for a full-day immersion in the Sacred Valley’s treasures, this tour hits the mark. Just prepare to move quickly at some locations and consider bringing extra cash for additional site tickets if you want to explore further.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Cusco, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 11 to 12 hours, starting at 7:00 am and wrapping up in the evening.

What sites are included in the visit?
You will visit Chinchero, Moray, Maras salt mines, Urubamba for lunch, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. Tickets for some sites are optional and need to be purchased separately.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, and many reviews highlight their passion and storytelling skills.

What is the price of the tour?
The base price is $29 per person, which includes transportation, guide, and lunch. Additional tickets for specific archaeological sites cost extra.

Can I customize the experience?
This tour follows a set itinerary, so while you won’t be able to customize it on the fly, the guide’s insights help tailor the visit to your interests.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of walking on uneven terrain and high altitudes. It’s a full day with some physical activity involved.

Embarking on this Sacred Valley tour offers an engaging, authentic taste of Inca heritage, making it a smart choice for those eager to explore, learn, and enjoy in a single day.