Detailed Itinerary – Sacred Valley of the Incas Full Day Tour
The Sacred Valley of the Incas Full Day Tour is one of the best cultural experiences from Cusco, combining Inca history, Andean traditions, archaeological sites, local villages, and stunning mountain landscapes in one complete day.
Tour Start Point
The tour begins at 6:45 a.m. from the Machu Picchu Trip Guide office, located at:
Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco
Our office is located near the Plaza de Armas. We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early so the group can depart on time and enjoy the full itinerary without delays.
From there, we will begin our scenic drive into the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
First Stop: Chinchero
Our first destination is Chinchero, located approximately 45 minutes from Cusco.
Here, your guide will take you through the archaeological remains, Inca terraces, and the colonial church built over ancient Inca foundations. You will also visit a local family for a traditional weaving demonstration, where you will learn how Andean textiles are made using natural dyes, alpaca wool, and ancestral techniques passed down through generations.
This stop is a great introduction to the culture, history, and living traditions of the Sacred Valley.
Explore Moray
Next, we continue to Moray, one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the region.
Moray is famous for its circular agricultural terraces, believed to have been used by the Incas as an experimental farming center. Your guide will explain how these terraces created different microclimates and helped the Incas study crops and adapt agriculture to various conditions.
You will have time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the unique design of this impressive site.
Visit the Maras Salt Mines
After Moray, we will visit the famous Maras Salt Mines, a spectacular landscape made up of thousands of salt pools that have been used since ancient times.
Your guide will explain the traditional salt-harvesting process and how local families continue to manage the salt ponds today. You will also have time to admire the views, take photos, and visit small stalls where you can find handcrafted salt products and local souvenirs.
Buffet Lunch in Urubamba
Around 12:30 p.m., we will stop in Urubamba, a beautiful town located in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Here, you will enjoy a buffet lunch with a variety of Peruvian dishes. Vegetarian, vegan, and special diet options are available upon request.
This is a perfect moment to relax, recharge, and enjoy local flavors before continuing with the afternoon visits.
Discover Ollantaytambo
After lunch, we continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley and one of the best examples of a living Inca town.
Your guide will lead you through the impressive terraces, stone walls, water channels, and ceremonial areas, including the famous Temple of the Sun. You will learn about the strategic, religious, and agricultural importance of Ollantaytambo during the Inca period.
The visit usually finishes around 3:00 p.m.
If you are continuing by train to Machu Picchu, you may choose to end the tour in Ollantaytambo and stay near the train station.
Final Stop: Pisac
Our final archaeological stop is Pisac, known for its extensive Inca terraces, ceremonial areas, and panoramic views over the valley.
Your guide will explain the importance of Pisac as an agricultural, religious, and strategic site. You will also have time to explore the area and take photos of the impressive landscapes surrounding the ruins.
Return to Cusco
After visiting Pisac, we will begin the return drive to Cusco.
Arrival at Plaza Regocijo is usually between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., depending on traffic, weather, and the pace of the group.
Important Note
Travel time between destinations usually varies from 30 minutes to 1 hour. At each site, you will typically have around 30 minutes to 1 hour for the guided visit, photos, and exploration.
If you do not have the Boleto Turístico yet, don’t worry. You can purchase it at Chinchero, the first stop of the tour.
