Sacred Valley Peru Travel Itineraries and Places to Stay
The Sacred Valley of the Incas or Urubamba Valley (elevation 9,400 feet) is close to the Inca capital of Cusco and below the ancient sacred city of Machu Picchu. The valley is home to many points of interest for visitors, including Písac and Ollantaytambo.
The valley was formed by the Urubamba River, also known as Vilcanota River or Wilcamayu. The valley was appreciated by the Incas due to its special geographical and climatic qualities. It was one of the empire’s main points for the extraction of natural wealth, and continues to be one of the most important areas for maize production in Peru.
Today, the Sacred Valley offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Beyond its well-known archaeological sites, travelers can explore traditional Andean villages, vibrant local markets, and expansive agricultural terraces that have been cultivated for centuries. Many itineraries begin in Cusco, allowing time to acclimatize to the altitude before descending into the valley, where the slightly lower elevation makes for a more comfortable experience.
Popular activities in the region include visiting the colorful markets and hillside ruins of Písac, wandering the remarkably preserved streets and fortress complex of Ollantaytambo, and taking scenic train journeys that follow the Urubamba River toward Machu Picchu. Along the way, visitors can also discover lesser-known sites such as Moray, believed to have been an agricultural laboratory, and the striking salt pans of Maras Salt Mines, which are still harvested using traditional methods.
For those seeking outdoor experiences, the Sacred Valley provides excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and even whitewater rafting during certain times of the year. Trails range from gentle walks through farmland to more challenging routes that connect remote ruins and high mountain passes, offering sweeping views of the Andes.
Accommodation options in the valley are diverse, ranging from luxury lodges and boutique hotels set among the mountains to budget-friendly guesthouses and eco-retreats focused on sustainability and local culture. Many travelers choose to stay in smaller towns within the valley to enjoy a quieter atmosphere while still having easy access to major attractions.
Whether you are planning a short visit or a longer journey through the Andes, the Sacred Valley serves as both a destination in its own right and a gateway to Machu Picchu, offering a rich and memorable introduction to Peru’s Inca heritage and natural beauty.
Trips that Include the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Urubamba Valley)
5-Day Peru Sacred Valley and Lares Lodge-to-Lodge Adventure Trekking Package
The Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu is a 5 or 7 day lodge-to-lodge journey through the rich history, living culture and magnificent landscape of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
A Deluxe Tour Package through the Inca Region of Peru
Begin this deluxe tour in Lima, where some of the best food on the continent is found and where you will be invited to taste some of the famous local cuisine. Venture to Reserva Amazonica Lodge, a luxury jungle lodge located in a private reserve in the Amazon basin.
Cultural Peru Tour
If Peruvian food and Inca history piques your interest, you should join our special group tour in December. Your first day in Peru includes two tours of Lima: a food tour of this up-and-coming gastronomic capital and a historical tour of the colonial city.
Cuzco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and the Zafiro Amazon River Cruise
On this 10-day journey you will visit Cusco, the Capital of the Inca Empire, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, culminating your trip deep in the Amazon rainforest on a luxury riverboat cruise. Explore the markets and ruins of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, journey by train to the "Lost City of Machu Picchu", journey deep into the Amazon rain forest aboard the Zafiro.
Full-day Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru
If you have limited time but still want to hike on the Inca Trail and enter Machu Picchu from above this is the day hike for you.
Hike the Highlights to Machu Picchu Peru Tour Package
A wonderful week of day hikes in Cusco and the Sacred Valley culminating in hiking the Inca Trail through the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu.
Inti Raymi – Soul of the Andes Festival Experience in Peru
Inti Raymi and Qoyllor’ Ity are two of the most revered festivals in Inca and Andean tradition and take place during the winter solstice in Cusco, Peru. Every year in June, our Soul of the Andes Festival Experience begins and includes breathtaking hikes through the Sacred Valley and Lares region to Machu Picchu.
Peru Active Adventure Tour Package
If you prefer an active pace and wish to experience Peru through thrilling adventures, this trip may be just what you are looking for. Join us for a 10-day excursion packed with excitement and exploration on which you will be immersed in thousands of years of this country’s culture.
Peru and Galapagos Cruise Tour Package
Explore the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Galapagos Islands during this unforgettable 13-day adventure. This trip combines many of our exciting opportunities into one expansive experience.
Peru Discovery Tour: Rainforest to Ruins
On this amazing and complete Peruvian tour, we take you to every one of our favorite destinations within the country. From Lima you will fly to Cusco and transfer to the Sacred Valley. From here, you will not only acclimate to the high altitude, but you will also experience the mystifying beauty that is the Inca region.
Pisac Ruins, Market and Ollantaytambo Peru
Awana Kancha (Quechua name that means “The palace of the Weaver”) is located just off the highway and makes a nice stop for this interested in an outdoor museum for the four American Camelidaes (llama, vicuña, alpaca and guanaco), which are all found here. (Please let us know in advance if you would like to include this, free of charge).
Salkantay, Condors and Machu Picchu Peru Tour Package
An ecological adventure that will take you hiking along the Salkantay Trail, across pristine mountainsides while sighting condors, passing glacial lakes, picturesque villages and ancient Inca citadels. You will be based at two ecocamps, strategically located along the Salkantay Trail, within the great Vilcabamba Mountain Range.
The Inca Essentials Peru Tour Package
Explore some of the most exciting destinations in the Lima area with this thrilling package! Begin your adventure in the breathtaking Sacred Valley, where lush landscapes and ancient wonders await.
The Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu by explora
explora Valle Sagrado was designed as a headquarters from which to explore a Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. All programs include accommodations, transfers, meals and beverages, and a selection of more than 30 explorations developed by the explora outdoor team.
Yoga and Wellness Experience to Machu Picchu
A new 8-day Peru Yoga and Wellness Experience to Machu Picchu – a combination of exhilarating hikes, wellness workshops, and focused yoga practices – along with unique, meaningful cultural immersion and interaction with our Andean neighbors for a holistic journey like no other. The program will be led by Sandra Gallegos, the Yoga and Wellness Leader.
Sacred Valley Hotels
Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel and Wellness – Urubamba, Peru
The Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel and Wellness in Urubamba, Peru features splendid architecture and attention to detail with rooms decorated in colonial, modern and minimalist-styles. Enjoy its mystical atmosphere in the Sacred Valley that combines the elements of two periods: the ancient Inca culture and colonial grandeur in one of the most beautiful areas in the world. Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness is built along the Vilcanota riverbank,
Casa del Sol Machupicchu – Machu Picchu, Peru
Hotel Casa del Sol Machupicchu is located in the historical district of Machu Picchu, Peru and provides visitors with a complete Machu Picchu experience. Casa del Sol Machupicchu respects and preserves the history we inherit so we personalize each area with Andean motifs to complement the magical environment. The hotel is ideally located in the middle of sacred and revered lands, in the village of Machu Picchu, which gives our visitors a true luxury experience.
El Albergue Ollantaytambo – Ollantaytambo, Peru
El Albergue Ollantaytambo in Ollantaytambo, Peru offers rooms with impeccable rustic style décor and garden views. The inn just 19 miles from Machu Picchu and features red tiled terraced Spanish galleries and views of the surrounding scenery.
explora Valle Sagrado – Urubamba, Peru
explora Valle Sagrado is sheltered and surrounded by mighty mountains that were once the home to the great Inca Empire. explora Valle Sagrado is located near the town of Urubamba, Peru in the Sacred Valley, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Cusco.
Hacienda del Valle Urubamba – Sacred Valley, Peru
Hacienda del Valle is located in the middle of the Sacred Valley, just 15 minutes from the Ollantaytambo train terminal and 60 minutes from the city of Cusco. The hotel has 64 rooms inspired by a traditional Peruvian style novoandino overlooking the Andes and in the middle of nature, allowing you to enjoy an atmosphere of peace and recharge energies to start a magnificent trip to Machu Picchu or tour the Sacred Valley .
Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba – Sacred Valley, Peru
Immersed in the countryside in a gorgeous area, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba spans approximately 100 acres surrounded by imposing green mountains. The most recent addition to the Inkaterra portfolio, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is a contemporary hacienda-style hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in-between Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru.
Rio Sagrado, a Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley – Sacred Valley, Peru
Set on the banks of the rushing Urubamba River in Peru - Rio Sagrado, a Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley is built in natural materials to resemble an authentic Andean village. Situated at a lower altitude than nearby Cusco, the hotel provides the perfect environment in which to acclimatize, and is an ideal base to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Skylodge Adventure Suites – Sacred Valley, Peru
Have you ever wanted to sleep in a condor’s nest? Skylodge Adventure Suites in Urubamba, Peru is the next best thing! A transparent luxury capsule that hangs from the top of a mountain in the Sacred Valley of Peru. Located in the Sacred Valley of Cuzco, Peru, the exclusive Skylodge Adventure Suites offers you the chance to sleep within a completely transparent hanging bedroom, that allows you to appreciate the impressive view of this magic and mystic valley.
Sol Y Luna Hotel – Relais & Chateaux – Sacred Valley, Peru
Sol y Luna Hotel by Relais & Chateaux is located in the Urubamba Valley, 10 minutes from picturesque town of Yucay in Peru. Fly with the wind, cycle along Andean terraces, kayak under snow-capped peaks and trek the ancient mountain pathways of the Incas. Discover remote villages, colonial churches and mysterious heritage sites on horseback or by quad bike.
Sonesta Posadas Del Inca Yucay – Sacred Valley, Peru
The 87-room Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru. It is a former 18th century colonial-style monastery and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – Sacred Valley, Peru
Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa sits on the edge of the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru. The only hotel in Urubamba with a private train station to Machu Picchu, Tambo del Inka goes to every length to ensure an indelible stay. The hotel offers refined dining, a therapeutic spa and premier fitness center, along with an emerald lagoon and blooming riverside gardens.
Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado Urubamba – Urubamba, Peru
Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado Urubamba Hotel is located as its name says in Urubamba, Peru, the heart of the Sacred Valley. It 50 minutes from the center of Cusco and only 10 minutes from Ollantaytambo, the starting point for exploring Machu Picchu and last train station before arriving at the wonderful citadel.
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Tipping Guidelines
Although not mandatory, tipping is highly appreciated in all cases. Our general advice to travelers is to tip what you feel is appropriate and based on performance – using the guidelines below – and do not worry about offending anyone.
Uncorking Argentina – Food and Wine Tour
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Nicaragua Complete – Nicaragua East to West Tour Package
This extended trip allows you to see five areas of Nicaragua with free time to explore on your own. Start with 3 nights in Leon where you will have one day of touring the city and nearby wildlife refuge and a full day to wander on your own. Then return to Managua and fly to Big Corn Island.
Southern Patagonia Express – Argentina and Chile Tour
This experience of a lifetime will take you from Buenos Aires deep into Southern Patagonia, across Argentina and Chile, for up close encounters with glaciers and majestic granite spires. Your journey begins in the capital city of Buenos Aires, where you will receive your first introduction to this special country’s intriguing history and culture.
