The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most important tourist destinations in Peru, and it’s not hard to understand why. This stunning place is surrounded by mountains along the Urubamba River, crucial to the Incas in terms of agriculture, where large archaeological sites can be found. If you’re looking to stay in Cusco, taking the Sacred Valley tour is essential, visiting its most famous places. Below, we will talk about four places that you cannot miss during your visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Maras and Moray: Inca Ingenuity and Wisdom
One of the first destinations you should include in your sacred valley tour is Maras and Moray, two places that showcase the amazing ability of the Incas to make the most of what they had around them. Moray is an archaeological site known for its circular terraces, which were used as an agricultural laboratory to study how different altitudes affect crop growth. These terraces, located at an altitude of over 3,500 meters, were fundamental to Inca agriculture as they allowed experimentation with various climatic conditions in one place.
Very close to Moray are the famous Maras Salt Mines, a complex of over 3,000 salt ponds. These salt mines have been in use since pre-Inca times and are still a source of salt for local communities. The saline water comes from a natural spring and, after being channeled, evaporates under the sun, leaving salt in the ponds. Visiting Maras and Moray will allow you to learn more about the agricultural innovations and production methods the Incas used to ensure the success of their crops and products.
Chinchero: Textiles and Andean Traditions
Chinchero is another place that should not be missed on your journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Located at an altitude of 3,762 meters, this picturesque village is famous for its craft market and strong textile tradition. Here, locals still use ancient weaving techniques that have been passed down through generations. In this place, there are many weaving workshops where you can learn about the natural dyeing processes and alpaca wool weaving, one of the most precious fibers in Peru.
In addition to the market, in Chinchero you will find a colonial church that was built on the ruins of an Inca palace, which is a must-see if you wish to learn a bit more about history. To get there, it’s recommended to request a tour with transportation from your hotel in the Sacred Valley.
Ollantaytambo: The Inca Fortress
Ollantaytambo is one of the most important sites and an essential destination on any Sacred Valley tour. The Ollantaytambo fortress played a key role during the Inca resistance against the Spanish, and its massive terraces demonstrate the great military and agricultural power of the Incas. This archaeological site stands out not only for its size but also for its strategic location in the Sacred Valley, which allowed the Incas to have a defensive advantage.
Climbing the stairs of Ollantaytambo will take you to a high area where you can observe the remains of temples dedicated to the sun and other Inca deities, as well as enjoy the incredible views of the valley. Besides the fortress, the town of Ollantaytambo is one of the few that has been continuously inhabited since Inca times. Its cobbled streets and traditional houses will transport you to another era. Additionally, Ollantaytambo is a popular starting point for those who want to continue their journey to Machu Picchu.
Pisac: History and Culture in the Sacred Valley
Pisac is another iconic site of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, famous for both its archaeological ruins and its traditional market. The Pisac archaeological complex is located at the top of a mountain and consists of agricultural terraces, temples, and an impressive Inca cemetery. Climbing to the ruins allows you to appreciate the grandeur of the place, and from the top, you get a panoramic view of the valley and the Urubamba River.
In addition to its ruins, the town of Pisac is known for its artisan market, one of the most important in the region. Here, visitors can buy local products like textiles, pottery, and handmade jewelry. If you visit Pisac on a Sunday, you will have the chance to witness the biggest fair of the week, where locals still exchange goods using bartering, an ancestral practice.
Urubamba: Nature and Tranquility
Urubamba, known as the “heart of the Sacred Valley,” is a town surrounded by imposing mountains and natural landscapes. This place is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. Urubamba is the perfect starting point for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or horseback riding. It is also an excellent place for those wanting to explore the local cuisine, with restaurants offering traditional Peruvian dishes made with fresh regional products.
One of the main attractions of Urubamba is its proximity to several tourist sites in the Sacred Valley, such as the Ollantaytambo ruins and the town of Pisac. If you’re looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Sacred Valley, Urubamba is the perfect destination for you.
You may also be interested in: How to get to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley
Staying in the Sacred Valley will allow you to explore these places at your own pace and make the most of your time in this magical Andean region. Without a doubt, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a destination you cannot miss if you are in Cusco. So, if you’re in search of comfortable accommodations for you and your family, don’t hesitate to contact us through our website to make a reservation.