Who wouldn’t want to take in the breathtaking sights of this Andean Paradise called The Sacred Valley? Certainly, not you!
Why do this tour?
The Sacred Valley 1-Day Tour is your best introduction to the rich history and mystery surrounding the Inca civilization. Situated in a lowland area between Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley was a crucial spot for the Inca empire, functioning as an agricultural, spiritual, and political base.
Enjoy the valley’s mild climate as you travel through fertile plains that are unusually abundant at such a high altitude in the Andes. Marvel at the vast contour terracing and irrigation channels built by the Incas.
Most tours stop at the famous El Mirador or Lookout Point where you can survey the valley and its verdant richness. The major highlights of this tour are the Pisaq ruins, the Pisaq market, and the Ollantaytambo fortress. Pisaq and Ollantaytambo were built at the height of the Inca Civilization.
The Pisac ruins showcase impressive agricultural terraces and spectacular stone art. However, very little is known about this site’s actual purpose. It is speculated to be part of a city, part ceremonial center, or part of a military complex. Other theories suggest the probability of it having been a royal estate of Pachacutec, the Inca emperor. But it was definitely a religious temple.
On the other hand, the Pisaq market is no mystery with its bustling commercial vibe. It will surely beckon you to walk around and do some bargain-hunting for exquisitely created handicrafts. Certain tour operators will arrange lunch at a local restaurant so you can sample various kinds of Andean cuisine.
On your way to Ollantaytambo, you can stop at Urubamba to visit a traditional ceramics factory and purchase handsomely crafted earthenware. Once in Ollantaytambo, get ready to marvel at its rock formations representing the Inca god, Wiracocha. This site, called the Fortress, was a strategic military, agricultural, and religious hub. Ollantaytambo also showcases impressive Inca terraces built to prevent landslides and one of the last structures of the Incas.
Many tourists choose to do this one-day Sacred Valley tour right before their tour to Machu Picchu since you can opt to end the tour at Ollantaytambo, where you can take the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu.