The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located near Cusco, and you can reach it through various routes. Along the way, you will see Andean landscapes accompanied by the river. You’ll explore the archaeological sites, and you can choose between private tours or independent travel. Both options reveal the beauty of the valley.
Ways to Get to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
There are several ways to reach the Sacred Valley from Cusco:
By bus or shared vans: These leave from Pavitos Street, heading to Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
Organized tours: This might be the best option depending on your budget, available time, and preferred comfort level, as the agency takes care of all the planning, and you can simply enjoy the experience.
How to Get There by Bus?
To travel by bus from Cusco, head to the Pavitos or Rosaspata terminals, where buses depart for the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. Prices range between S/5 and S/10, depending on your destination.
The travel time is approximately 1 to 2 hours, making it one of the most economical options.
How to Get There by Taxis and Shared Taxis?
Shared taxis are a budget-friendly option, as they carry 10 to 15 passengers, but you may need to wait a few minutes for them to depart.
Private taxis offer more comfort and flexibility, but the cost is higher, ranging from S/70 to S/100.
How to Get There with an Organized Tour?
To join an organized tour, book a package with an agency. These packages typically include a guide, transportation, and visits to iconic sites like Pisac, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo. This is a recommended choice if you want to learn more about the history and culture of the valley without worrying about logistics.
Routes to the Sacred Valley in Peru
There are several routes to the Sacred Valley from Cusco. Here are the two main ones:
Route 1:
This route goes from Cusco to Pisac, one of the first tourist stops in the Sacred Valley, known for its market and archaeological ruins. From Pisac, you can continue to Urubamba, surrounded by impressive mountains. Travel time is approximately 1.5 hours.
Route 2:
This route passes through Chinchero, a village renowned for its traditional textiles and colonial church, before reaching the valley and continuing through Urubamba to Ollantaytambo. It is a popular route for those who want to visit multiple sites in a single day. The journey from Cusco to Ollantaytambo takes about 2 hours.
Map from Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
The map connecting Cusco to the Sacred Valley includes the main tourist towns and archaeological sites. Routes pass through Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, with detours to Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, helping travelers choose destinations based on their location in the valley.
Best Time to Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas
The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable, with clear skies and little rain. During these months, conditions are ideal for outdoor activities and archaeological site visits.
The rainy season, from November to March, may bring complications due to rainfall, but the valley becomes greener, and the landscapes are more vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to Visit the Sacred Valley?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September), when the weather is more predictable and hikes are more enjoyable. During the rainy season (November to March), the valley is greener, but the rain can make some activities challenging. However, it is less crowded, and the landscapes are more vibrant.
Will I Need a Ticket to Visit the Sacred Valley?
Yes, to access the main archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, you’ll need the Cusco Tourist Ticket. This ticket gives access to several major sites, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray. Tickets can be purchased in Cusco or at site entrances, with partial or full options available depending on the places you want to visit.
Which Ticket Should I Buy to Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas?
To visit the Sacred Valley, you need either the Partial Tourist Ticket or the General Tourist Ticket:
The Partial Ticket covers only the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, etc.) and is valid for 2 days.
The General Ticket includes more locations in the Cusco region, including museums and archaeological centers, and is valid for 10 days.
Your choice depends on the number of places you plan to visit.