The Sacred Valley of Peru is a magical place that will take your breath away! Nestled in the Andes between Cusco and Machu Picchu, this region is packed with ancient ruins, colorful markets, and incredible views. It is the perfect mix of culture, nature, and history. We loved exploring every corner of this valley. We walked through centuries-old terraces, met local artisans, and learned fascinating stories from the Inca times. Whether you are just passing through on your way to Machu Picchu or spending several days here, the Sacred Valley is a must-see. It offers the perfect blend of exploration and rest. With charming villages, friendly locals, and unforgettable scenery, this region was one of our favorite parts of Peru! Let us help you plan your journey with our guide to the best Sacred Valley tour stops for families.
The Sacred Valley, or Valle Sagrado, stretches between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, just north of Cusco. This fertile valley follows the Urubamba River and was once the heart of the Inca Empire. Its strategic location and mild climate made it ideal for agriculture and settlement. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, this area was sacred to the Incas for its spiritual energy and natural beauty. Today, it remains an important cultural region filled with traditional Andean villages, terraced hillsides, and archaeological wonders.
The climate in the Sacred Valley is more temperate than in Cusco. You will find warmer days and cooler nights. It is generally sunny and dry, especially during the high season from May to September. This makes it a great place to explore ancient ruins or browse through lively artisan markets. You can also enjoy scenic drives through breathtaking landscapes! Each town and stop along the way offers something unique and beautiful.
Altitude
Cusco sits at over 11,000 feet, which can make many travelers feel lightheaded or tired. The Sacred Valley is lower in elevation, usually between 8,000 and 10,000 feet. This makes it the perfect place to begin your adventure while giving your body time to adjust.
We felt the difference as soon as we arrived. Starting here meant we could ease into the altitude before heading up to the higher elevations. We drank lots of water, took it slow the first day, and enjoyed coca tea with the locals. Many families choose to go straight from the Cusco airport to the Sacred Valley to avoid altitude sickness.
Timing
A complete Sacred Valley Tour can be done in one very full day from Cusco. Tours usually leave early in the morning and return after sunset. This makes for a long but exciting day packed with sightseeing! Most tours include a mix of historical sites, scenic viewpoints, and local market stops. It is a wonderful way to see a variety of places in a short time.
But families may want to take things slower. You can break up a Sacred Valley tour into multiple days. Consider stopping overnight in Ollantaytambo and taking the train to Machu Picchu from there. On the way back, you can explore more Sacred Valley gems. This may make your trip feel more relaxed and gave you time to explore each location. You can also hire a private driver or guide, which allows for more flexibility with your timing. If your schedule allows, spreading out your Sacred Valley Tour gives you time to soak in the beauty of the region without feeling rushed. Each town and stop is worth lingering in a little longer!
Sacred Valley Tour Stop #1: Chinchero
Chinchero is a lovely village perched high above the Sacred Valley. It is located about 30 minutes from Cusco, and it feels like stepping back in time! Known for its traditional weaving and vibrant textiles, this town is a great introduction to Andean culture.
The highlight of Chinchero is its local weaving cooperative. We watched skilled artisans dye alpaca wool using natural ingredients and weave colorful patterns by hand. The girls loved learning how the dyes came from plants and insects.
Chinchero also has fascinating Inca ruins that include finely crafted stone walls, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial platforms. This site was once a royal estate of Inca Tupac Yupanqui. The terracing system here was used for farming and is still in excellent condition. Above the ruins stands a beautiful colonial church built on top of an Inca palace foundation. This blending of Inca and Spanish architecture tells a powerful story of Peru’s layered history.
We explored the ancient terraces and wandered through what felt like an open-air museum. The views of the surrounding mountains were breathtaking!
Just outside the church, you will find a local market where women in traditional dress sell handmade textiles.
Sacred Valley Tour Stop #2: Moray
Next on your Sacred Valley Tour should be Moray, an amazing archaeological site with circular terraces built into natural depressions in the earth. It is located about 45 minutes from Chinchero. This spot looks like something out of a science fiction movie!
The terraces of Moray were likely an agricultural laboratory for the Incas. Each level has a different microclimate, allowing them to experiment with growing crops at various temperatures and altitudes. It is a brilliant example of Inca innovation!
The site includes three large sets of concentric circular terraces. The largest depression measures about 100 feet deep! You can choose to walk down into one of the terrace rings or hike around the entire site for panoramic views of all three formations. We walked around the terraces and admired the perfect symmetry and the clever use of natural landforms. The girls loved running down the paths (and climbing back up again!) while we took in the scenery. The site is very peaceful.
There is not much shade here, so bring water, sunscreen, and hats. You can combine this stop easily with nearby Maras for a half-day adventure. Moray is fascinating and photogenic. It truly shows how smart and resourceful the Inca people were!
Sacred Valley Tour Stop #3: Maras Salt Mine
Just a short drive from Moray is one of the most unique sights in the Sacred Valley, the salt ponds of Maras! Also known as Salineras de Maras, this area is home to thousands of white salt pools cascading down the mountainside. It is stunning!
These salt pans have been in use since Inca times. Salty spring water is channeled into shallow pools where the sun evaporates the water, leaving behind layers of salt. Locals still harvest salt here by hand, just like their ancestors.
The bright white pools contrast beautifully with the reddish cliffs. We spent nearly an hour wandering along the paths, watching workers harvest salt and pack it for sale. We even tasted some Peruvian pink salt! The girls thought the whole place looked like a candy land.
You can buy salt products directly from the families who work here. It makes a great gift and supports the local community. The Maras Salt Mine is a place where history and tradition meet natural beauty!
Sacred Valley Tour Stop #4: Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is one of our favorite stops in the Sacred Valley! This ancient Inca town is full of history, charm, and adventure. Located about halfway between Cusco and Machu Picchu, it is often used as a base for catching the train to the famous ruins.
But do not rush through Ollantaytambo! It is home to one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Peru. This site was once a royal estate, military stronghold, and ceremonial center. The massive terraces climbing up the mountainside were part of the Inca’s sophisticated agricultural system, and also acted as defensive walls. At the top, the Temple of the Sun includes finely cut stones that align with astronomical events, showing the spiritual significance of this place.
The town itself is built on original Inca foundations. You can walk through narrow cobbled streets, drink fresh fruit juice in the plaza, and browse markets filled with alpaca gear.
We stayed overnight here in a glass capsule overlooking the Sacred Valley and fell in love with this town! Read more about our overnight adventure in our post “Is a Night in the Vertical Sky Suites in Ollantaytambo Worth It?”.
Ollantaytambo is also a great jumping-off point for families heading to Machu Picchu. Taking the train from here is scenic and convenient. Whether you explore the ruins or relax in town, Ollantaytambo deserves a full day of your time!
Sacred Valley Tour Stop #5: Pisac
Pisac is a colorful town and archaeological site located at the eastern end of the Sacred Valley, about an hour from Cusco. It is famous for its vibrant market and incredible hillside ruins that rival those at Machu Picchu!
The Pisac ruins are perched high above the valley and once served as an important Inca military, religious, and agricultural center. The site includes agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial baths, and tunnels carved into the rock. Its location high on the mountain provided strategic views and defense advantages.
The ceremonial areas show the importance of astronomy and spiritual rituals in Inca life. We hiked along the paths and marveled at the views. The girls had a blast pretending they were Inca explorers!
After visiting the ruins, head into town for the famous Pisac market. The market is open every day, but the biggest market days are Tuesday, Thursday, and especially Sunday. It is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs. You will find woven blankets, jewelry, ceramics, and more.
Pisac is a great mix of culture, shopping, and adventure. It is an ideal stop for families who want to experience both history and local life. With stunning views and a friendly atmosphere, Pisac quickly became a family favorite!
Other Sacred Valley Tour Stops
While the main stops are amazing, the Sacred Valley has so much more to explore! There are lesser-known towns and sites that add even more depth to your journey. If you have extra time, these places are worth the visit:
- Urubamba is the largest town in the valley and makes a great base for exploring nearby sites. It has more modern comforts, a lovely riverside setting, and some delicious farm-to-table restaurants. You can also find local markets, bakeries, and a relaxed vibe perfect for a low-key day.
- Yucay is a peaceful village between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo. It’s known for its colonial church, quiet atmosphere, and scenic countryside. We loved strolling through the cornfields and spotting hummingbirds near the river. It’s a great place to slow down and soak in the beauty of the valley.
- Lamay is a smaller village near Pisac that is gaining popularity for its community tourism projects and authentic experiences. It offers homestays and traditional Peruvian cooking classes that are perfect for families wanting to connect with local life.
These towns may not have massive ruins, but they offer the charm, friendliness, and beauty that make the Sacred Valley so special. If you have extra time, adding one of these quieter towns can add even more richness to your adventure!
There are also adventure activities like horseback riding, ziplining, or rafting. Families who enjoy outdoor fun will find plenty to keep everyone happy. Some tours also include local farms, cooking classes, or chocolate-making workshops.
The Family Verdict
We fell in love with the Sacred Valley! The beauty, history, and people made it one of the highlights of our Peru trip. We loved how every stop offered something special. The landscapes are jaw-dropping. The mountains seem to wrap around you like a big hug! From stunning ruins to colorful markets, it was a feast for the senses!
If you are heading to Peru, do not skip the Sacred Valley. It is more than just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu. It is a destination filled with wonder, culture, and unforgettable memories!
Make sure to check out our nearby adventures in Lima, Paracas, Huacachina, Arequipa, Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu. Also, follow along on our full 10 day family adventure through Peru!
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
Recommended Supplies
Don’t miss out on these recommended supplies for your family adventure!
For Packing:
For the Airport / Airplane:
For the Hotel:
Basics:
- Phone / Purse Combo
- Waist Pouch
- Waterproof Wet Bags
- Extra Duffle Bag / Personal Item
- Cross Body Bag
- Individually Wrapped Wipes
- Water Bottle Carriers
- Hand Soap Sheets
- Medicated Ointment for Bug Bites
- Insect Repellent
- Insect Repellent for Clothing & Gear
- Non-Drowsy Motion Sickness Medicine
- Portable Restroom Kits
- Toilet Covers
- Travel Wipes
- Laundry Sheets
- Jacket / Luggage Straps
Outdoors:
- Women’s All Around Jacket
- Women’s Water-Resistant Hiking Pants, These and These
- Women’s Quick Dry Pants and These
- Women’s Quick Dry Shirts
- Women’s Long Sleeve UV Shirt
- Women’s Hiking Socks
- Women’s Rain Jacket
- Kid’s Quick Dry Pants
- Kid’s Quick Dry Shorts
- Kid’s Quick Dry Shirts
- Kid’s Long Sleeve UV Shirt
- Kid’s Hiking Socks and These
- Kids Rain Jacket
- Kid’s Rain Pants
- Foldable Kid’s Hat
- Men’s Rain Jacket
