Sacred Valley of the Incas
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, or Valle Sagrado, is a breathtaking region in the Peruvian Andes, stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, the valley encompasses several key towns and archaeological sites, including Pisac, Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
Everything you need to know about the Sacred Valley
General Information
Location: Northwest of Cusco, Peru, following the Urubamba River.
Distance from Cusco: Approximately 15 km to the valley’s entrance at Pisac.
Altitude Range: 2,050 to 3,000 meters above sea level, with peaks reaching over 5,000 meters.
Climate: Subtropical highland climate; warm days (average 20°C) and cool nights.
Best Time to Visit: Dry season from May to September offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Historical Significance
The Sacred Valley was integral to the Inca Empire, serving as a vital agricultural, spiritual, and political center. Its fertile lands, nourished by the Urubamba River, allowed the Incas to cultivate maize, a staple crop. The valley also hosted numerous ceremonial sites and served as a corridor connecting Cusco to the Amazon.
Key Destinations
1. Pisac
Inca ruins with agricultural terraces, a vibrant artisan market, and colonial-era churches.
Altitude: 2,972 meters.
2. Maras
- Ancient salt mines (Salineras de Maras) consisting of thousands of salt evaporation ponds still in use today.
Altitude: 3,300 meters.
3. Moray
- Circular agricultural terraces believed to have been an Incan agricultural laboratory.
Altitude: Approximately 3,500 meters.
4. Ollantaytambo
- Well-preserved Inca fortress, ceremonial center, and a living town with original Inca urban planning.
Altitude: 2,792 meters.
5. Chinchero
- Colonial church built atop Inca foundations, traditional weaving workshops, and panoramic views.
Altitude: 3,762 meters.
Culinary Delights
The Sacred Valley boasts a rich culinary scene that blends traditional Andean ingredients with modern techniques:
Mil Centro: A gastronomic research center and restaurant by chef Virgilio Martínez, offering dishes inspired by the surrounding ecosystems.
El Huerto at Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado: Serves seasonal Andean cuisine with ingredients sourced from local gardens.
Pueblo Viejo Machupicchu Restaurant: Renowned for its authentic Peruvian dishes and warm ambiance.
Accommodation Options
From luxury resorts to cozy lodges, the Sacred Valley offers accommodations for every traveler:
Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado: A riverside resort in Urubamba featuring elegant rooms and a solar-heated pool.
El Albergue Ollantaytambo: A charming hotel adjacent to the train station, offering organic farm-to-table dining.
Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley: Combines modern amenities with traditional architecture in a serene setting.
Getting There
Travelers typically reach the Sacred Valley from Cusco via:
Private Car or Taxi: Offers flexibility and comfort.
Public Buses or Combis: Budget-friendly options connecting major towns.
Organized Tours: Provide guided experiences and transportation.
Activities and Tours
Most Popular
The Sacred Valley caters to diverse interests:
Cultural Tours: Explore archaeological sites, local markets, and traditional workshops.
Adventure Sports: Engage in hiking, mountain biking, and rafting.
Wellness Retreats: Participate in yoga sessions and holistic therapies amidst tranquil landscapes.
Travel Tips
Acclimatization: Spend a day or two in the valley to adjust to the altitude before ascending to higher elevations.
Boleto Turístico: Purchase this ticket to access multiple archaeological sites and museums in the region.
Local Etiquette: Learning basic Spanish or Quechua phrases enhances interactions with locals.