Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco: Pisac, Ollantaytambo & Chinchero

Summary

Day Trip to Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo Ruins & Chinchero

You’ll wander lively markets, climb ancient terraces, and touch stones shaped by Inca hands. This Sacred Valley tour mixes history, local life, and those little moments you only get by being there yourself.

What’s the experience like?

Early morning in Cusco, the city’s still got that chill in the air. Our guide showed up right on time—8:30 sharp—and we hopped into a comfy van. The drive out of town is a bit bumpy at first, but once you hit the open road, the views open up: patchwork fields, distant peaks, and the odd llama wandering by. First stop was Pisac’s market. It’s busy, full of color, and you can smell fresh bread from a stall near the main square. I grabbed a woven bracelet from a woman named Rosa—she told me her family’s been selling here for years. We only had about half an hour, but it was enough to soak up the buzz.

Next, we wound our way up to the Pisac ruins. There’s a bit of a climb, but nothing too tough. The terraces curve along the hillside, and if you pause for a second, you’ll catch the wind carrying bits of conversation from other visitors. Our guide pointed out how the stones fit together—no mortar, just perfect cuts. From up there, you can see the whole valley stretching out below, green and gold depending on the season.

After lunch (simple, hearty stuff—think quinoa soup and grilled chicken), we rolled on to Ollantaytambo. This place feels different: huge stone blocks, water channels still running after centuries, and stairs that make your legs burn a bit. The Temple of the Sun is massive—honestly, I still can’t figure out how they moved those rocks. Our guide explained some of the history, but it’s the little things I remember: the cool stone under my hands, the sound of water trickling nearby.

Last stop was Chinchero. The church here is painted inside with bright murals, and outside, locals were selling potatoes in every color you can imagine. The air felt cooler by late afternoon, and there was this faint scent of eucalyptus from trees nearby. We wandered through the archaeological site as the sun started to dip, then headed back toward Cusco—tired but happy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sacred Valley Highlights

• Visit Pisac traditional market
• Explore Pisac ruins and valley views
• Tour Ollantaytambo Incan constructions
• Visit church and archaeological site in Chinchero

Top questions

How long does the Sacred Valley tour last?

The tour usually takes a full day, starting around 8:30am and returning to Cusco in the evening.

Is lunch included?

Yes, lunch is included—expect local dishes like soup and grilled meats.

Are there any steep climbs?

Some sites have stairs or uneven paths, especially at Pisac and Ollantaytambo, but most people manage fine with regular breaks.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?

Yes! Pisac market is great for local crafts and textiles. Bring some cash for small purchases.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Cusco, a knowledgeable local guide who really knows their stuff, and lunch at a spot along the way. All entrance fees are covered too. Just bring your curiosity (and maybe a jacket—it can get chilly in the morning).