The Sacred Valley stretches along the Urubamba River between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Travelers use this area to adjust to lower altitude before heading higher. The valley contains important Inca constructions, active communities, and agricultural zones that supplied the empire. Plan at least one full day here, though two days allow more time at each location.
Private transportation owned by Machu Picchu by World makes the trip comfortable. Our drivers receive extensive training, and guides know these routes well from years of leading groups in English, Spanish, French, and other languages.
Thousands of salt evaporation ponds cover the hillside here. Local families still harvest salt using methods from Inca times. A salty stream feeds the ponds year-round.
Details to note:
Visit early in the morning. The separate entrance ticket costs approximately 10 soles per person.
Circular terraces descend like an amphitheater. Researchers believe the Incas used this place to test crop growth at different temperatures. Each level differs by about 1 degree Celsius in average temperature.
Key elements:
The site stays open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
This community preserves strong Andean traditions. People wear daily clothing in bright colors, and women demonstrate weaving techniques passed down for generations.
What stands out:
Sunday brings a larger local market.
Massive stone blocks form temples and storage areas. This location served as a ceremonial center and defense point. Many original water channels continue to flow.
Important sections:
Many trains to Machu Picchu depart from here.
Terraces climb the mountain above the modern town. The site includes residential areas, temples, and what may be the largest known Inca cemetery.
Features include:
The town market operates every day. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays draw more vendors selling fresh produce and crafts.
| Ticket Type | Sites Included in Sacred Valley | Adult Price (USD approx.) | Validity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boleto Turístico Parcial | Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray | 40 | 2 days | Best for valley focus |
| Boleto Turístico General | All 16 sites (includes Cusco areas too) | 70 | 10 days | Worth it if combining with Cusco |
| Maras Salt Mines | Only the salt ponds | 5 | Same day | Separate ticket required |
Students with valid ID pay half. Buy tickets at the first site visited or in Cusco.
The tour starts with pickup from your Cusco hotel between 6:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Order of visits (varies slightly by group needs):
Return to Cusco around 6:30 p.m.
All transport uses private vehicles owned by Machu Picchu by World with highly trained drivers. Guides have wide experience on this exact route.
The Sacred Valley provides direct contact with living Andean culture and impressive Inca engineering. Many visitors find this day just as memorable as Machu Picchu itself. Contact Machu Picchu by World for private or small-group options that fit your schedule.
