When you dream of Peru, you likely picture the iconic silhouette of Machu Picchu. But nestled between the ancient city of Cusco and the legendary citadel lies a region so beautiful, fertile, and culturally significant that it was revered by the Incas themselves: the Sacred Valley.
For any traveller looking to truly understand the Incan empire, exploring the Sacred Valley is not just a detour; it's an essential part of the journey. This stunning stretch of valley, carved by the Urubamba River, is dotted with ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and traditional villages where life has continued in much the same way for centuries.
So, what makes the Sacred Valley so special? Let's explore the highlights.
Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca City
Ollantaytambo is one of the most remarkable sites in the Americas. It's a massive Inca fortress with stone terraces climbing high up a mountainside. But more than that, the town at its base is one of the oldest continuously occupied settlements in the continent, with residents living in centuries-old cancha (Inca housing compounds). It's a breathtaking place where the past feels truly present.
Pisac: Terraces and a Famous Market
Pisac is known for two things: its spectacular Inca ruins, which feature some of the finest stone masonry in the region, and its bustling traditional market. The market is a vibrant explosion of colour, where you can find everything from handmade textiles and jewellery to local produce.
Maras & Moray: Incan Ingenuity
These two nearby sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity of the Incas.
The Salt Mines of Maras: A truly surreal landscape of thousands of shallow, terraced pools that have been used for salt evaporation since Incan times.
The Terraces of Moray: A series of deep, circular terraces that are believed to have been an Incan agricultural research station, used to test crops at different altitudes.
Chinchero: Weaving Traditions
The high Andean village of Chinchero is known for its beautiful colonial church, Inca ruins, and, most famously, its rich weaving traditions. It's one of the best places in Peru to see authentic demonstrations of how local artisans turn alpaca wool into the stunning textiles the region is famous for.
The Orienjo Private Tour Advantage
The Sacred Valley is vast and its sites are spread out. Exploring it on a private tour transforms the experience. Instead of being rushed on a crowded bus tour, you can travel at your own pace with an expert local guide. This allows you to spend more time at the sites that fascinate you, discover hidden gems away from the tourist trail, and truly connect with the history and living culture of this incredible region.
Ready to explore the heart of the Incan Empire? All of our Peru adventures include an in-depth, private tour of the Sacred Valley.