Sacred Valley: The Hidden Gem of the Andes
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most beautiful and historic destinations in the Cusco region. Stretching along the Vilcanota River, this fertile valley boasts an exceptional mild climate and houses breathtaking archaeological complexes that rival the beauty of Machu Picchu itself. In this guide, we discover the main attractions that make the Sacred Valley an essential stop on your trip.
Pisac: Imperial ruins and traditional market
Located about 30 kilometers from Cusco, Pisac is famous for its stunning archaeological complex perched high on a mountain. Walking through its agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and ancient Inca cemetery is an amazing experience. In the lower town, the Pisac artisan market comes alive with colorful textiles, handmade ceramics, and beautiful silver jewelry.
Ollantaytambo: The last living Inca town
Ollantaytambo is one of the few places in Peru where residents still live in original Inca constructions. Its cobbled streets, running water channels, and traditional houses will transport you back in time. The imposing military fortress crowning the town was the site of one of the few battles where the Incas defeated the Spanish conquistadors, offering spectacular views of the valley.
Maras and Moray: Millenary salt pans and agricultural laboratories
The salt pans of Maras are a stunning visual spectacle: over 3,000 pink salt pools fed by a warm underground spring that have been harvested since pre-Inca times. Nearby lies Moray, a set of impressive concentric agricultural terraces resembling an amphitheater. Moray worked as an Inca agricultural research laboratory, where they experimented with different crops under specific microclimates.
Chinchero: The town of the rainbow and cradle of Andean weaving
Situated at a high altitude, Chinchero retains a very pure Andean charm. It houses a beautiful colonial church built over an Inca palace and extensive agricultural terraces. However, its main attraction lies in its traditional weaving centers, where local women dressed in typical attire demonstrate the washing, spinning, and dyeing of alpaca wool using only local plants, flowers, and minerals.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Sacred Valley offers a fascinating journey through the history, living culture, and natural landscapes of the Andes. We recommend spending at least two full days exploring its wonders before continuing to Machu Picchu. Check out our daily tour or the tour to plan your perfect itinerary.