The Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado) of the Incas is a region in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, extending along the Urubamba River. It’s renowned for its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the ancient Inca civilization.
The Sacred Valley stretches from the village of Pisac to Ollantaytambo, approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) northwest of Cusco. It encompasses fertile agricultural terraces, meandering rivers, and towering mountains, creating a breathtaking natural backdrop.
During the Inca Empire, the Sacred Valley was highly revered for its agricultural richness and strategic location connecting Cusco with Machu Picchu. The Incas built numerous settlements, terraced fields, and ceremonial sites throughout the valley.
Key Attractions
- Pisac: Known for its lively artisan market, Pisac also boasts impressive Inca ruins with terraces, temples, and ceremonial centers perched on a hill overlooking the modern town.
- Ollantaytambo: A well-preserved Inca town with narrow cobblestone streets and impressive stone architecture, including a massive fortress with terraces and temples. It also serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu, with a train station for travelers heading to Aguas Calientes.
- Chinchero: A traditional Andean village known for its Sunday market and Inca ruins, including agricultural terraces and a colonial church built on top of an Inca palace.
- Moray: A unique Inca archaeological site featuring circular terraces believed to have been used as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with crops at different altitudes.
- Maras Salt Pans (Salineras de Maras): Thousands of small salt pools carved into the mountainside, where salty water from a natural spring is evaporated to produce salt in a traditional method dating back to pre-Inca times.
How to get to the Sacred Valley
From Cusco:
- By Car or Tour: The most convenient way to explore the Sacred Valley is by hiring a private car or joining a guided tour from Cusco. Tours typically include visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and other key sites, providing insights into Inca history and culture.
- Public Transportation: Local buses run from Cusco to various towns in the Sacred Valley, such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo. However, this option requires navigating schedules and understanding Spanish, as English-speaking assistance may be limited.
- Collectivo which is a shared van or minibus commonly used for transportation in Peru. In Cusco, the main collectivo terminal for Pisac is located at “Pavitos Street” or “Puputi Street” near the Santiago bus terminal. Collectivos to the sacred Valley operate throughout the day, they generally depart when they have enough passengers, so departure times can vary.
The Sacred Valley offers a wealth of experiences for travelers interested in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination when exploring the ancient wonders of Peru.
