Cusco serves as the perfect base to explore the numerous sights of the Sacred Valley. Colonial settlements and ancient Inca towns are dotted here and there, while in remote mountain settlements life has largely remained unchanged for centuries. Use this guide to plan your day trips from the ancient Inca capital.
## Exploring the Enchanting Sacred Valley: A Journey Through Time and Nature
The Sacred Valley, a treasure trove of ancient Inca history and breathtaking landscapes, unfolds as a panorama of fertile plains nestled between steep mountainsides. This remarkable region continues to be the breadbasket for Cusco and its surrounding areas, providing a bounty of fresh, organic produce that nourishes the local communities. The Valley’s rich history, coupled with its diverse micro-climates, creates a unique tapestry of natural and man-made wonders. Visitors will find themselves spoiled for choice with a plethora of exciting activities, from exhilarating rafting adventures to challenging treks through the Andes, all easily accessible as day trips from Cusco. Beyond the captivating cultural sites and thrilling activities, the Sacred Valley also boasts a network of scenic hiking trails, offering immersive experiences in the heart of the Andes. These trails wind through stunning landscapes, revealing hidden corners of the valley and offering unforgettable views.
## Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Atmosphere of Pisac Market
Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant energy of the Pisac market, where vendors from across the Sacred Valley converge to showcase their wares. The market is a kaleidoscope of colors and textures, with stalls overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables, tempting the senses with their vibrant hues and fragrant aromas. Hand-woven alpaca blankets, intricately designed clothes, and unique crafts are displayed in abundance, creating a visual feast for the eyes. The market is not just a place to shop; it’s an experience in itself. Strategically located cafes around the main plaza offer a perfect vantage point to soak in the atmosphere, observing the ebb and flow of daily life as men and women stroll by in their traditional, brightly-colored costumes. Pisac market is a fantastic destination to acquire reasonably priced garments and crafts, and a perfect opportunity to witness the authentic everyday life of the Sacred Valley unfold before your eyes. Be sure to haggle politely and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this traditional market.
## Ascend to the Majestic Heights of Pisac’s Citadel
Embark on a journey through time as you ascend to Pisac’s citadel, a magnificent testament to the Inca civilization’s architectural prowess. Perched at the entrance to the town’s dramatic gorge, the citadel’s layout remarkably resembles a giant condor in flight, a powerful symbol revered by the Andeans as the guardian spirit of the deceased. Marvel at the ingenious engineering of the hundreds of terraces, meticulously constructed in areas that basked in ample sunlight and were sheltered from the elements. These terraces played a crucial role in agriculture, ensuring abundant harvests for the Inca people. Once a strategic stronghold controlling the vital route connecting the Sacred Valley to the lush jungle beyond, the citadel showcases exceptional stone masonry work that rivals even the renowned Machu Picchu. Explore the ancient temples, residences, and ceremonial sites, and imagine the lives of the people who once inhabited this impressive fortress.
## Wander the Charming Cobbled Streets of Chinchero
Escape the hustle and bustle and step back in time as you stroll through the cobbled streets of Chinchero, a quaint colonial settlement nestled over 3700 meters above sea level. Here, life unfolds at a slower pace, preserving traditions that have endured for centuries. Admire the rustic charm of the buildings, constructed from local stone and adobe, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Venture to the outskirts of town to discover impressive Inca ruins and intricately carved rocks, once used by the Incas to venerate their deities. The air is filled with a sense of history and serenity, inviting you to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region.
To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, plan your visit on a Sunday to experience the town’s lively market. Witness women adorned in traditional dress selling their handcrafted wares, offering a glimpse into the artistic traditions passed down through generations. The market provides an excellent opportunity to find unique souvenirs and experience an authentic Andean atmosphere, away from the larger tourist crowds of Pisac. It is a memorable experience for those looking to connect with the local culture.
## Explore the Rugged Beauty Around Ollantaytambo by Foot or Bike
For avid trekkers and cycling enthusiasts, the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, with its charming cobbled streets and intricate network of ancient irrigation canals, serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding landscapes. Towering peaks and rugged mountainsides encircle the town, beckoning adventurers to explore their hidden trails. Embark on gentle paths that wind their way into the hills to the east, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, numerous hikes of half a day or longer await, traversing spectacular mountain scenery and passing remote Inca ruins.
Mountain bikers will find themselves in paradise, with a vast network of trails that will undoubtedly get their adrenaline pumping. The challenging terrain and stunning vistas make Ollantaytambo a premier destination for mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through the valley or a thrilling descent down a rugged mountain trail, Ollantaytambo has something to offer everyone.
## Embark on a Horseback Adventure to the Inca Quarries of Cachiqata
Experience the Sacred Valley from a unique perspective as you embark on a memorable horseback-riding trip. The valley’s majestic mountain scenery provides an awe-inspiring backdrop as you ride through the heart of the Inca Empire on a graceful Peruvian Paso horse. Along the way, discover ancient ruins comprised of colossal stone slabs, and gain insights into the remarkable engineering skills of the Inca civilization.
Witness the Incas’ mastery of stonework firsthand at the quarry of Cachiqata, an important source of pink granite. Here, you’ll see where massive stone slabs were meticulously quarried and transported to the nearby town of Ollantaytambo, where they were used to construct impressive structures that still stand today. The horseback ride to Cachiqata is an unforgettable journey through history and nature, offering a unique glimpse into the ingenuity and artistry of the Inca people.
## Marvel at the Ingenuity of the Inca Site of Moray
Prepare to be amazed by Moray, an Inca site that stands as a testament to the civilization’s advanced knowledge of agriculture and engineering. The site comprises a series of concentric terraces, cleverly engineered to follow natural depressions in the land, creating a variety of microclimates. Temperatures can vary by as much as 15 degrees Celsius across the different levels of the terraces, leading many to believe that Moray served as the world’s first agricultural experiment station. Here, the Incas likely studied the effects of different climatic conditions on crops, developing innovative farming techniques that allowed them to cultivate a wide variety of plants in the challenging Andean environment. Ceremonial fountains found within the largest of the complexes suggest that the site also held religious significance. Exploring Moray is a fascinating journey into the past, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Inca people.
## Witness the Ancient Tradition of Harvesting Salt at the Saltpans of Maras
Step into a timeless scene as you observe local residents harvesting salt at the ancient salt pans of Maras. Built on the side of a ravine, these salt pans have been providing local inhabitants with salt for centuries, continuing a tradition that dates back to pre-Inca times. A natural spring of warm, salt-rich water is channeled to fill small pools that cascade down into the valley, creating a mesmerizing landscape of glistening white terraces.
Passed down from generation to generation, the ponds are still in use today, with families working together to harvest the precious salt. Once the water has evaporated under the Andean sun, the salt crystals are carefully scraped off with simple instruments, a testament to the enduring traditions of the region. While you cannot enter the ponds themselves, you can walk along the periphery, peering across at the men and women diligently working the pans, preserving a vital part of their cultural heritage.
## Experience the Thrill of Rafting on the River near Ollantaytambo
Thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike will find excitement on the rushing Urubamba River, which carves its way through the heart of the Sacred Valley. Offering excellent rafting opportunities year-round, the river caters to all skill levels, making it a perfect adventure for families and individuals seeking a touch of adrenaline.
The Ollantaytambo section of the river is particularly accessible and suitable for beginners, featuring a smattering of Class III rapids that provide just the right amount of challenge. As you navigate the scenic route, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, your experienced guide will share insights into the area’s rich cultural history. The Urubamba River offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and cultural immersion, making it a must-do activity in the Sacred Valley.
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