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The Super Sacred Valley of the Incas is a full-day tour that brings together the best of the valley in a single experience: Andean landscapes, Inca archeology, and living culture. Along the way, you will discover impressive archeological sites, colorful artisan markets, and towns that keep the ancestral traditions of the Andes alive.
Sacred Valley VIP 1-day tour overview
Why choose this experience with us?
- Small groups and guaranteed departures: Travel in groups of up to 18 people for a more authentic experience throughout the tour. Departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, so you can plan your adventure with complete confidence.
- Buffet lunch included: A break in Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley, with typical Andean dishes, fresh salads and regional desserts.
- Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pickup at your hotel to the end of the experience, our guide will answer your questions and provide information and safety along the way.
- Enjoy every destination without rushing: An itinerary designed to explore each highlight of the route calmly, taking in the natural landscapes and the cultural richness of the destination.
Programme summary
Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Pisac – Cusco
The most complete tour of the Sacred Valley: it begins in Chinchero and continues to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, combining tradition, archaeology and Andean landscapes. After lunch in Urubamba, the route heads to Ollantaytambo and ends in Pisac, with its archaeological complex, its craft market and the best views of the valley.
Tour facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full day, approx. 12 hours |
| Schedule | Departure 7:00 a.m. / return 7:30 p.m. |
| Maximum altitude | Chinchero: 3,762 m / 12,343 ft above sea level |
| Minimum altitude | Ollantaytambo: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft above sea level |
| Difficulty | Moderate, with short walks and some stepped sections |
| Temperature | Minimum 2 °C / 36 °F, maximum 25 °C / 77 °F |
Highlights
- Chinchero (3,762 m / 12,343 ft): an important Inca agricultural and cultural centre, known for its terraces, its colonial church and views of the snow-capped peaks surrounding the Sacred Valley.
- Chinchero textile centre: a place where Andean women keep alive the ancient techniques of weaving and natural dyeing, passed down from generation to generation.
- Moray (3,500 m / 11,483 ft): huge circular terraces forming an impressive natural amphitheatre. In Inca times it was an agricultural research centre, where different microclimates were used to adapt a variety of crops.
- Maras Salt Mines (3,380 m / 11,089 ft): at first sight they look like a vast white blanket over the mountain, but they are more than 3,000 salt pans fed by a natural spring, worked since pre-Inca times.
- Urubamba (2,871 m / 9,419 ft): the heart of the Sacred Valley, known for its pleasant climate, fertile land and mountain scenery.
- Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft): considered one of the last living Inca towns, with its stone streets, water channels and an impressive fortress that witnessed important events in Inca history.
- Pisac archaeological complex (2,972 m / 9,751 ft): an Inca citadel named after the bird shape of the mountain it sits on. It stands out for its ancient mountainside tombs, extensive agricultural terraces and the mix of simple buildings with fine carved stonework.
- Pisac Market: one of the most traditional markets in the Sacred Valley, where artisans and villagers from Andean communities sell textiles, silver jewellery and local produce in a colourful setting.
Sacred Valley VIP 1-day tour itinerary
Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Pisac – Cusco
Seven destinations in a single day: Inca archaeology, living textile traditions and two of the most photogenic landscapes in Peru.
- The tour begins with the pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. The drive crosses stunning Andean landscapes on the way to Chinchero.
- From around 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. we explore Chinchero. First we visit its archaeological site, where Inca terraces and walls stand alongside colonial architecture. The local communities then show us their ancestral textile tradition up close, from natural dyeing with plants and minerals to loom weaving.
- At around 10:00 a.m. we reach the circular terraces of Moray. This site is believed to have served as an agricultural laboratory, thanks to the many microclimates formed on its terraces, which made it possible to experiment with different crops.
- At 11:15 we visit the Maras Salt Mines, more than three thousand terraced pans fed by an underground spring that form one of the most photogenic landscapes in the world.
- At 12:30 we stop for lunch in Urubamba, with a wide selection of typical Andean dishes in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
- At around 2:30 p.m. we visit Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru, with its imposing temple-fortress, its ceremonial fountains and streets that keep the original layout of the Tahuantinsuyo.
- The tour ends in Pisac, from approximately 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., with its archaeological complex, its extensive agricultural terraces offering the best panoramic views of the valley, and its colourful craft market.
- We return to Cusco, arriving at around 7:30 p.m.
What the Sacred Valley VIP tour includes
Support and safety
- Virtual assistance before the tour. Before departure, our team answers all your questions about the programme so you can enjoy the trip without worries.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English). A team of guides highly trained in history, culture and tourist information accompanies you throughout the tour.
- First-aid kit and oxygen tank. Our guides receive ongoing first-aid training, which ensures timely assistance along the route.
- 24/7 customer service, with an emergency number available from start to finish.
Meals
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba, combining the richness of Andean cuisine with a selection of regional desserts.
Transport
- Pickup in tourist transport from your hotel in Cusco's historic centre. For hotels outside that area, a nearby meeting point is arranged.
- Tourist transport throughout the tour.
Not included
- Cusco Tourist Ticket, required to enter Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo and Pisac. It is paid in soles and can be the Partial Ticket (BTP), approx. 70 soles / 21 USD, or the General Ticket (BTG), approx. 130 soles / 40 USD, which also covers the City Tour, the South Valley and some museums in Cusco.
- Entrance to the Maras Salt Mines, which is not part of the Tourist Ticket: approx. 20 soles / 6 USD.
- Breakfast and dinner.
- Travel insurance (recommended).
- Tips (optional).
Sacred Valley VIP tour price
Rates by group size
| Your group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 2 people | 36 USD |
| 3 people | To be confirmed |
| 4 people | To be confirmed |
| 5 people | To be confirmed |
| 6 or more people | To be confirmed |
Plan your visit
We recommend booking early to secure your date. Travelling soon? Ask us about availability: depending on the date, you can also book just a few days ahead.
Upgrade your experience
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lunch at a premium restaurant | On request | Options such as Tunupa Valle Sagrado or Don Ángel Inka Casona Restaurant, known for the quality of their service, their range of dishes and their facilities. We recommend requesting it in advance so we can confirm availability. |
| Private service at your own pace | On request | A more comfortable and personalised experience, with flexible timings, more time at each site and the freedom to stop whenever you wish. |
Entrance tickets are not included
For Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo and Pisac you will need the Partial Ticket (approx. 70 soles / 21 USD) or the General Ticket (approx. 130 soles / 40 USD). The Maras Salt Mines have a separate entrance fee of approx. 20 soles / 6 USD. You can buy them on the day of the tour; we recommend bringing cash in soles.
What to bring on the Sacred Valley VIP tour
These are the most important items for this full-day tour.
Required documents
- Original, valid passport or ID card.
- Original, valid university student card, if you wish to use the student rate for the Tourist Ticket.
Luggage
- A light 20 to 30 litre backpack or day bag for the essentials.
- Water bottle and some snacks.
- Cash in soles for the entrance tickets, purchases and souvenirs along the way.
Clothing and footwear
- Comfortable shoes with good non-slip soles.
- Light, breathable clothing.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Warm clothing for the morning and evening.
- Hat or cap and sunglasses.
- A special outfit for your photographs at Maras, Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
Personal items
- Sunscreen.
- Personal medication and a basic first-aid kit.
- Wet wipes or toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
Equipment and extras
- Camera or mobile phone.
- Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs or tips.
Important considerations
- This is an ideal tour for acclimatising in Cusco before tours that involve hiking.
- Avoid heavy luggage so you can enjoy the experience more.
- Always keep your documents and valuables with you.
Frequently asked questions about the Sacred Valley VIP tour
Which places does the tour visit?
Chinchero and its textile centre, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac with its craft market.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 12 hours. It starts between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. and ends at around 7:30 p.m.
Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, from hotels in Cusco's historic centre. For hotels outside that area, a nearby meeting point is arranged.
Is breakfast included? Will there be a stop to buy food?
No, breakfast is not included and, because of the departure time, there is no breakfast stop. We recommend asking your hotel for a box breakfast or buying light snacks the night before.
Is lunch included?
Yes. The programme includes a buffet lunch in Urubamba, with a varied selection of typical Andean dishes, fresh salads, vegetarian options and regional desserts. For a more exclusive dining experience, you can choose a premium restaurant at an additional cost.
Do I need the Tourist Ticket for this tour?
Yes. It is required to enter Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo and Pisac:
- Partial Ticket (foreign adult): approx. 70 soles / 21 USD.
- General Ticket (foreign adult): approx. 130 soles / 40 USD.
Is entrance to the Maras Salt Mines included in the Tourist Ticket?
No. The Maras Salt Mines have a separate ticket, with a general entrance fee of approx. 20 soles / 6 USD.
How much is the Tourist Ticket for students and children?
- Foreign student or child aged 10 to 16: approx. 70 soles / 21 USD, with original passport.
- Foreign student aged 17 to 22: approx. 70 soles / 21 USD.
An original physical university card is required, showing a photograph, full name, university and expiry date. Children aged 9 and under enter free.
How are the entrance tickets paid? Can I pay by card or in dollars?
We recommend bringing cash in soles. Some points accept cards, although a surcharge of around 5 % usually applies and it depends on signal availability. Dollars are also accepted in some cases, although change is not always available.
Should I buy the tickets in advance or on the day?
You can buy them on the day of the tour. However, we recommend buying them in advance to avoid delays and keep the tour moving.
How difficult is the tour?
It is easy. It includes short walks within the archaeological sites and some stepped sections.
Is it a good tour for my first days in Cusco?
Yes. Many people do it during their first days in Cusco, as much of the route is at a lower altitude than the city.
What are the maximum and minimum altitudes of the tour?
Between 2,792 m / 9,160 ft at Ollantaytambo and 3,762 m / 12,343 ft at Chinchero, the highest point of the tour.
Can children and older travellers take part?
Yes. It is an ideal tour for families, couples and travellers of all ages; we recommend it from age 5. There is no upper age limit for adults, as long as they can move about independently and walk short distances comfortably: many travellers over 75 enjoy it without any problems.
As it is a shared service, the group follows a general pace. If you would like more time or extra breaks, you can choose the private service.
Do children aged 3 and over pay for a seat?
Yes. For safety reasons and in line with current transport regulations, passengers aged 3 and over must have their own seat, especially on full-day tours.
What clothing should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, light clothing for the day, a warm jacket, a waterproof layer, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
In which languages is the tour guided?
In Spanish and English. For other languages, such as German, French or Portuguese, a private guide is required and must be arranged in advance.
Does the tour run in the rainy season?
Yes, it runs all year round. Between November and March we recommend bringing a waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
How long do we spend at each site?
Times may vary slightly depending on the group's pace:
- Chinchero: 30 minutes.
- Textile centre: 20 to 25 minutes.
- Moray: 30 minutes.
- Maras Salt Mines: 45 minutes.
- Lunch: 1 hour.
- Ollantaytambo: 40 to 50 minutes.
- Pisac: 40 to 50 minutes.
- Pisac Market: 30 minutes.
Will I be able to buy textiles or local products along the way?
Yes. At the Chinchero textile centre and the Maras Salt Mines there is time to discover and buy products made by local communities: textiles woven with ancestral techniques, alpaca garments, handmade jewellery, Maras pink salt, chocolates and other typical products. As well as taking home a special souvenir, you directly support the work of the Andean families who keep these traditions alive.
What happens if I am affected by the altitude during the tour?
Our guides carry a first-aid kit and oxygen tank to deal with anything that may arise. If you feel very tired, you can stay in the vehicle until you recover.
What is the booking process?
Step 1. Availability enquiry. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check dates. We will send you a booking form for each participant to complete.
Step 2. Passenger details. To process the booking we need, exactly as they appear on your passport, your full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
Step 3. Deposit and confirmation. A deposit per person is required to secure your place. We recommend booking in advance, especially on public holidays and in high season.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once the booking is confirmed, you will receive the official invoice and your place will be 100 % guaranteed.
How is the outstanding balance paid?
The balance can be paid in cash, in US dollars or Peruvian soles, in Cusco, one or two days before the tour, according to the conditions indicated by your sales executive.
Can I cancel or change the date?
Yes. You can cancel or change your booking date up to 48 hours before departure. In these cases an administrative fee applies, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.
Any further questions?
You can contact our sales team on WhatsApp at +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % local, Peruvian company specialising in adventure and cultural tourism in Cusco and Peru. We have a team of certified guides and operations staff committed to delivering unique, safe and high-quality experiences.
We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personalised attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee standards of excellence in every detail of the operation, from planning through to the tour itself. With Sakura Expedition, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
