Private Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero

Summary

Full-Day Sacred Valley Private Excursion with Local Guide

You’ll travel through the Sacred Valley in private comfort, guided by a local expert who knows all the hidden details—from Inca ruins to textile secrets. This tour’s perfect if you want to see Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero in one day, with real insights and time to soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

Early morning in Cusco’s old town—there’s a chill in the air and the city’s waking up. Our guide met us right at the hotel lobby, and we hopped into a comfy van with big windows. Driving out of Cusco, you’ll notice how the city noise fades and the valley opens up. The first stop was Pisac. The ruins sit high above the town, and honestly, I could smell eucalyptus on the breeze as we walked up. Our guide, Maribel, pointed out old Inca terraces—she even showed us a spot where locals leave coca leaves as an offering. Pisac’s market was already buzzing with vendors setting up; I grabbed a small woven bracelet for a few soles.

By midday, we rolled into Urubamba for lunch. The buffet was packed with local dishes—quinoa soup, roasted corn, and this tangy sauce called uchucuta that I’d never tried before. It’s easy to linger here, but Ollantaytambo was waiting. Those stone steps are no joke—take it slow! Maribel explained how the Incas built the fortress without mortar, and you can still see grooves where they dragged stones up from the river. There’s a view over the town that’s worth every step. On the way back, we stopped in Chinchero. It’s quieter than Pisac but famous for its textiles; we watched a woman dye alpaca wool using crushed cochineal bugs—her hands were stained red. By late afternoon, we were back in Cusco, tired but happy, with the sun just starting to dip behind the mountains.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sacred Valley Highlights

• Start at Cusco Cathedral
• Visit Pisac Indian Market
• Lunch in Urubamba
• Tour Ollantaytambo Ruins
• Return to Cusco Cathedral

Top questions

How much walking is involved during this Sacred Valley tour?

There’s a fair bit of walking at Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins, including some steps. It’s not rushed though—you can go at your own pace and take breaks as needed.

Is lunch included? What kind of food is served?

Yes, lunch is included in Urubamba. It’s an Andean buffet with plenty of local dishes—vegetarian options too. You’ll get to try things like quinoa soup and fresh salads.

Can children join this private Sacred Valley tour?

Absolutely! Kids are welcome as long as there are two paying adults. Just keep in mind there are some stairs at the archaeological sites.

What’s included

Your private Sacred Valley tour covers hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco, air-conditioned transport, a professional local guide who really knows their stuff, entrance to all main sites, and a buffet lunch in Urubamba. Just bring comfy shoes and a bit of cash if you want to shop at the markets.