The Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, Peru consists of five unique destinations, and you’ve surely wondered what the best time is to visit these mythical places, what kind of weather to expect, and what activities or tours you can enjoy.
From the grandeur of Inca architecture to breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and a history that evokes unmatched splendor, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most fascinating destinations you cannot miss when visiting Peru. Here, we’ll share everything you need to know before exploring this beautiful place—from the weather and best time to visit, to the archaeological parks you shouldn’t miss, and how to plan your trip with Machupicchu Wayna to make the most of your visit worry-free.
What Was the Sacred Valley of the Incas?
Due to its unique natural conditions, the Sacred Valley of the Incas was a vital region during the Inca Empire. Even today, it remains an optimal area for agriculture and livestock. This region consists of several valleys and mountains in Peru’s Andean zone, located near the current city of Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire. For the inhabitants, the Sacred Valley was not only fertile land for agricultural experimentation, but also a space full of spiritual meaning.
The fertility of the valley allowed people to grow native crops like corn, potatoes, and quinoa, all essential to their diet and economy. It also enabled the construction of agricultural terraces and ceremonial structures that remain intact today, admired for their design and architectural precision. Visiting this valley is an opportunity to walk the same paths that once connected the towns of the Inca Empire, and to experience the living history of the Incas in the towns and archaeological sites you’ll visit with our agency.
Essential Guide to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Before taking the tour to the Sacred Valley, it’s important to consider the weather conditions and the current season. The region has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season—each with its advantages and unique features.
Dry Season: The Best Time to Visit
Running from May to October, this is the optimal season to visit the Sacred Valley. During this time, days are typically sunny, rainfall is scarce, and daytime temperatures are moderate.
Visiting the Sacred Valley during these months allows you to stay longer at archaeological sites and enjoy the scenery with greater comfort and safety, without worrying that rain might spoil your plans. It’s also the ideal time for outdoor activities and hikes like the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or exploring the agricultural terraces of Moray. However, since this is the high season, you’ll encounter more tourists, so it’s advisable to book tours and accommodations in advance to secure the best spots and prices.
Rainy Season: The Magic of Rain in the Andes and Fewer Tourists
From October to April, this season brings stunning lush landscapes, with more vibrant vegetation due to the moisture. During this time, prices are usually lower, and tourist sites are less crowded, offering a more peaceful and personalized experience.
Keep in mind that since you’ll be exposed to rain, it’s essential to bring waterproof and warm clothing as well as trekking shoes, as some paths can become slippery. Still, occasional sunny days allow for spectacular moments, where the valley is at its greenest and rivers flow with force—offering a different and magical perspective of the region.
Top Tourist Attractions in the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley includes five major tourist destinations full of history, allowing visitors to explore cultural and natural heritage and marvel at Inca architecture. Here are the top places you shouldn’t miss during your visit to the valley.
Pisac: Handicrafts and Archaeological Legacy
This archaeological complex represents some of the best Inca engineering through its agricultural terraces and the integration of temple, housing, and burial architecture adapted to the mountainous terrain.
Its handicraft market is also one of the most colorful and iconic, offering textiles, jewelry, and traditional ceramics made by local artisans.
Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca Town
This town is globally recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages. It preserves original Inca constructions within the village itself, and its fortress—with a series of terraces and defensive structures—served as a key military stronghold during the Inca resistance against Spanish conquest.
Visiting Ollantaytambo is a unique experience, where you can walk cobbled streets that have preserved the original design of the ancient Tahuantinsuyo inhabitants.
Chinchero: A Blend of Inca and Colonial Culture
Chinchero is a charming town that blends Inca heritage with colonial influence. Here, you’ll find a colonial church built atop an Inca palace, creating a unique contrast between two architectural styles. Chinchero is also famous for its weaving workshops, where local communities demonstrate ancestral techniques and allow visitors to see the entire process of creating Andean textiles.
Maras Salt Mines: Tradition and Scenery
The Maras Salt Mines consist of over 3,000 salt pools located on a mountainside. This site is unique because of its traditional salt-extraction method, which is done manually and has been passed down for generations. When sunlight hits the salt pools, the view becomes a stunning natural spectacle. You can also purchase high-quality gourmet salt harvested directly from these pools.
Moray: Inca Agricultural Laboratory
Moray is another fascinating archaeological site, known for its circular terraces that the Incas used as an agricultural laboratory. It is believed these terraces created specific microclimates for experimenting with different crops and optimizing agricultural production. Moray is one of the best examples of Inca agricultural innovation. Walking through the site allows you to feel the unique fusion of science and spirituality.
Custom Tours to the Sacred Valley: Plan Your Adventure
The Sacred Valley offers a wide variety of tours, from group excursions to personalized experiences tailored to each visitor’s interests. Having a trusted agency can make a big difference in your travel experience, offering advice on the best time to visit, which places to explore based on your preferences, and how to adapt to the altitude.
If you’re looking for a more personalized tour, you can request an itinerary that includes everything from visits to major archaeological sites to adventure activities like rafting on the Urubamba River or trekking. Our Machupicchu Wayna team is always available to help you create a unique experience tailored to your interests—whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, adventure, or a mix of both.
