{"id":51309,"date":"2024-05-13T19:40:05","date_gmt":"2024-05-14T00:40:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/blog\/15-cosas-que-hacer-valle-sagrado\/"},"modified":"2026-03-05T11:22:00","modified_gmt":"2026-03-05T16:22:00","slug":"15-things-to-do-sacred-valley","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/15-things-to-do-sacred-valley\/","title":{"rendered":"Cusco: 15 magical places in the Sacred Valley"},"content":{"rendered":"
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There may be no such thing as traveller’s sins<\/strong>, but if there were, missing out on a visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas<\/a> would certainly be one. And not just a minor oversight, but a serious lapse that would only be forgiven with considerable contrition and penance.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

And since it’s better to be safe than sorry, and it’s best to be free from sins<\/strong>\u2014even those that don\u2019t exist\u2014we\u2019ll show you a list of 15 magical places<\/strong> waiting for you in a valley where history, culture, and tradition are framed by a landscape of mountains and snow-capped peaks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nourished by the winding waters of the Urubamba River<\/a>, the Sacred Valley\u2019s Mamapacha (Mother Earth) <\/strong>generously offers her finest grains and fruits, while the Apus (protective mountains) <\/strong>stand as steadfast guardians over the men and women who work the land.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adventure trails, colourful markets, and archaeological sites that reveal the significance of Inca civilisation<\/strong> are just a few of the experiences that will absolve you from any imagined sins, allowing you to enjoy, relax, connect with nature, and learn more about Andean culture<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That\u2019s what the Sacred Valley has to offer. That\u2019s what you\u2019ll discover and experience to the fullest if you follow our advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Discover the agricultural terraces of Moray<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Sowing and harvesting, as well as experimenting\u2014that\u2019s what the Incas did in Moray, where you’ll see circular and terraced platforms<\/strong>\u2014resembling a vast amphitheatre\u2014designed for agricultural research<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A society that respected Mamapacha (Mother Earth), the Andean engineers<\/strong> cultivated various crops on these terraces to refine their agricultural techniques <\/strong>and assess how plants adapted to different altitudes and microclimates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moray<\/a>, located 53 km from Cusco at an altitude of 3,385 m a.s.l. will not only impress you with its agricultural terraces but also with its scenic surroundings<\/strong>, a feature that defines the entire valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Explore the Living Inca City<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Ollantaytambo:<\/a> the town, its narrow streets, stone houses<\/strong>, the archaeological park<\/a>, and the train signalling its journey to Machu Picchu<\/strong>. These are just a few highlights of the \u201cLiving Inca City,\u201d<\/strong> as this mountainous corner of the Sacred Valley is known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A vibrant destination that retains its Inca layout<\/strong>, Ollantaytambo offers a closer look at Andean culture and traditions. You\u2019ll also discover one of the best-preserved archaeological sites<\/strong> in Cusco. Some believe it was a fortress, but it is more likely that it served as a tambo (a place for accommodation).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to its strategic location (61 km from Cusco and at 2,792 m a.s.l.), Ollantaytambo is a key stop <\/strong>for travellers heading to Machu Picchu by train or along the Inca Trail.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Shop at the Pisac Market<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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If you love shopping, enjoy artisan crafts<\/strong>, and want to discover the fruits of Mamapacha, you must explore the Pisac market or popular fair<\/strong>. Here, you’ll find a bit of everything<\/strong>, engage in bargaining, and get closer to Andean customs and traditions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vibrant, lively, and always bustling, the market offers a wide variety of crafts<\/strong> (textiles, ceramics, jewellery, wooden sculptures, leatherwork, and more) as well as agricultural products (native potatoes<\/a>, giant Sacred Valley corn, ollucos, fava beans, and herbs and spices<\/strong>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But that\u2019s not all. You\u2019ll also find supplies and products for making offerings to the land and other Andean rituals<\/strong>. We\u2019ll leave it at that to ensure you\u2019re left amazed by the market, the archaeological site<\/a>, and the town of Pisac, located 30 kilometres from Cusco at an altitude of 2,972 m a.s.l..<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4:<\/strong> Photograph the valley from Taray<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Before or after shopping for a bit of everything at the Pisac market, make sure to visit the Taray viewpoint<\/strong>. From here, you’ll have the chance to capture stunning views of the Vilcabamba mountain range, the Urubamba River canyon<\/strong>, and the vibrant fields of the valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This viewpoint is a perfect spot for taking magnificent photographs of Cusco’s<\/strong> landscape, breathing in the refreshing mountain air, and imagining what the area might have looked like during the Inca era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located beside the road that connects Cusco with Pisac, Taray is also a great place to pick up various crafts, in case you missed out on buying a souvenir<\/strong> at the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Try the salt of Maras<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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A village of colonial houses with intricately carved stone doorways. A salt mine with over four thousand pools<\/strong> arranged in stepped terraces descending into the valley. Maras offers a unique two-in-one <\/strong>experience, located 41 km from Cusco at an altitude of 3,330 m a.s.l.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a perfect combination. From the village\u2014with its colonial church, cobbled streets, and striking doorways\u2014to the salt flats<\/a> where, since pre-Hispanic times<\/strong>, the substance that flavours our food has been harvested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make sure to use your visit as an opportunity to buy and taste the excellent salt of Maras<\/strong>. You\u2019ll also find crafts and other products made from this edible mineral.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Ride an ATV in Maras <\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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If you want to reach places inaccessible to conventional vehicles, explore remote and less-travelled<\/strong> areas, and experience the thrill of navigating winding roads, steep trails, and rocky terrain\u2026 dare to <\/strong>ride an ATV in Maras!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Surrounded by stunning natural and cultural landscapes, Maras is the perfect setting for embarking on an ATV adventure<\/strong>. At the wheel, you’ll experience thrilling moments and adrenaline-pumping excitement in one of the Sacred Valley’s most remarkable locations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7.<\/strong> Learn to work the land<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Share, converse, learn. Embrace a unique way to experience your journey in the Sacred Valley by working the land<\/strong> using ancestral techniques and participating in rituals to give thanks to the earth and the mountains. You\u2019ll become part of the local community, respecting and preserving Andean traditions and customs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experiential tourism <\/strong>allows you to connect with the valley’s residents in a truly unique way. This close interaction will offer you a fresh perspective<\/strong> on the lifestyle of the men and women who work the land, just as their parents and grandparents<\/strong> did.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, experiential tourism directly benefits local residents by boosting their economy, promoting sustainable development<\/strong>, and highlighting the importance of their culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Make an offering to Mamapacha<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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In the highlands and valleys of the Andes, descendants of pre-Hispanic peoples<\/strong> maintain their respectful and cherished connection with the sun, the earth, the water, and the mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This relationship is expressed through ceremonies and rituals<\/strong> of deep significance. These are integral to the Andean worldview<\/strong>, allowing people to connect with nature, thank the earth for its produce, or seek protection from the mountains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Offerings to the land are known as “pagos<\/a>” or “pagapus,” though this term is debated because the ceremony is not a commercial transaction.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mamapacha does not charge<\/strong> or demand payment for her produce. This is understood by the community members who honour her with sincerity, faith, and hope. They prepare offerings with agricultural products, sweets, and other foods, which they bury in a hole.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While doing this, they recite prayers in Quechua<\/strong>, smoke an unfiltered cigarette, chew coca leaves<\/strong>, and make offerings with rum or aguardiente. You can join them, learn, and pay homage to the land. It\u2019s an intense, mystical, and earthy experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Cycle on a dirt road<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Not by car or on foot, but rather with a bike ride<\/a> to explore the rural paths of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cycling along unpaved trails that wind around fields, slowing down to greet the people working the land or stopping in a traditional village to recharge, are all part of an adventure that\u2019s enhanced by spectacular views of the mountains, the river, and pre-Hispanic terraces (cultivation terraces on the hills).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s an adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories<\/strong>. A genuine challenge to approach with responsibility and care, ensuring you make the most of your holiday in Cusco<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Sample the valley’s cuisine<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Prepare to enjoy a feast of flavours<\/strong> and excellent seasoning in the restaurants of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where the kitchens are enriched with the exquisite and varied agricultural products harvested from this blessed, fertile land.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Native potatoes, quinoa<\/a>, corn, and a range of fruits are some of the Andean ingredients used by cooks who learned their craft at a family hearth<\/strong> and chefs who honed their skills in refined schools, creating dishes that honour traditional recipes or daring fusion creations<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t miss the chance to discover the valley\u2019s cuisine<\/strong>. Whether at a market or a fine restaurant, your taste buds will be deeply satisfied. So much so that you\u2019ll want to try just one more dish<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Explore the textile art of Chinchero<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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The colonial church, the archaeological park, and the craft market make up the tourist trilogy of Chinchero<\/strong>, a district located 30 kilometres from Cusco at an altitude of 3,754 m a.s.l.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The church, built in the 17th century, stands on the site of the Inca Tupac Yupanqui’s palace<\/strong>. The archaeological park preserves terraces, agricultural platforms, and ceremonial sites, while the craft market is the place where beautiful textile art pieces <\/strong>are created, displayed, and sold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the market and craft shops, you\u2019ll learn about the production process, watch live demonstrations<\/strong> of weaving on traditional looms, hear explanations of the iconography<\/strong> used, and listen to fascinating stories about this district.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After this immersive experience and learning, you’ll appreciate the significance of textile art. You\u2019ll recognise that it involves dedication and creativity and value the efforts of the weavers<\/strong> to improve their economy andpreserve their ancestral legacy<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you like a jumper, a shawl, a bag, or any other product, consider buying it. By doing so, you\u2019ll be supporting local artisans and their families and helping to keep the Andean textile tradition alive.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. Go white-water rafting on the Urubamba<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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The river, the rapids, the thrill, the adventure. Adrenaline at its peak<\/strong>. The pounding of the water. The guide\u2019s voice shouting orders to paddle; but you\u2019re exhausted\u2026 It doesn\u2019t matter! You have to keep going. You can\u2019t let your team down<\/strong>. Everyone together. United to stay afloat and continue navigating the Urubamba.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

And you don\u2019t need to be an expert with the paddles. The Urubamba has different sections<\/strong> for rafting, from moderate areas to exhilarating rapids that offer a real challenge. You can choose based on your experience and skill level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During your descent, you\u2019ll see Inca ruins <\/strong>on the nearby hills and traditional villages along the riverbanks. This mix of adventure, stunning landscapes, and cultural sights adds an extra dose of excitement<\/strong> to your journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before you head out, make sure to choose an operator<\/a> with expert guides<\/strong> who know the river well. Remember, safety is the most important factor in adrenaline-fueled activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Relax in the Lares hot springs<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Imagine ending a glorious day<\/strong> in the Sacred Valley of the Incas by soaking in hot springs that help relieve fatigue<\/strong> and rejuvenate your skin. Sounds great, right? Make it a reality in the district of Lares, located 98 kilometres from Cusco at an altitude of 3,171 m a.s.l.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The hot springs in Lares are rich in calcium and magnesium<\/strong>, minerals that help ease muscle and joint pain<\/strong>, as well as improve blood circulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another benefit is their ability to cleanse and revitalise the skin<\/strong>, leaving it smooth, firm, and refreshed. So, not only will you relax, but you\u2019ll return to Cusco with a radiant and healthy complexion<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Walk to Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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While it might be an exaggeration to say that all paths lead to the greatest architectural marvel of the Incas<\/strong>, it\u2019s certainly true that more than one trail will take you to Machu Picchu<\/a>, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most famous and coveted route for hikers is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu<\/strong>. This historic path is a pedestrian journey of indescribable beauty, covering 42 kilometres<\/strong> through mountains and stone ruins. It\u2019s a four-day adventure that will be etched in your memory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The reward for your efforts will be entering Machu Picchu through Inti Punku (the Sun Gate)<\/strong>. As you pass through, you\u2019ll realise that every step, every drop of sweat, every laboured breath on the high points (abras), and every night of light sleep<\/strong> at the camps were all perfect, just, and necessary experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re unable to take the Inca Trail (remember, spots are limited), there are other long and demanding options, such as the Salkantay-Machu Picchu and Choquequirao-Machu Picchu <\/strong>routes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a shorter trek, you can walk from Aguas Calientes<\/strong> (the town where the train drops you off) to Machu Picchu, or from the area known as Hydroelectric. Both of these routes can be completed in a few hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Learn more about Machu Picchu in a museum<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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If you want a deeper understanding of the Inca city (llaqta<\/em>), you should visit the Manuel Ch\u00e1vez Ball\u00f3n Site Museum<\/a>. Its galleries provide a historical perspective of Machu Picchu and the Inca civilisation through multimedia exhibits<\/strong>, informative panels, and archaeological pieces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you wish, an expert guide can accompany you on the tour, helping you better contextualise<\/strong> what you\u2019re seeing and enriching your knowledge of pre-Hispanic Peru.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The museum is located near the old Ruinas Bridge<\/strong>, on the route connecting the town of Aguas Calientes with the archaeological site. Be sure to visit it to round off your holiday in the Sacred Valley of the Incas<\/strong> in the best way possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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