The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in Peru, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Carved by the Urubamba River and surrounded by majestic Andean mountains, the valley was a vital agricultural, spiritual, and political center of the Inca Empire.
Thanks to its fertile land and mild climate, the Incas developed advanced farming techniques here, including impressive agricultural terraces that are still in use today. Throughout the valley, travelers can explore remarkable archaeological sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Chinchero, each offering a unique glimpse into Inca engineering, astronomy, and daily life.
Beyond its history, the Sacred Valley is known for its charming traditional villages, colorful markets, and warm local communities. Visitors can experience authentic Andean culture, taste traditional Peruvian cuisine, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes at every turn.
Today, the Sacred Valley is a must-visit destination for travelers heading to Machu Picchu. Whether you explore it on a guided tour, private transfer, or multi-day journey, the Sacred Valley offers an unforgettable combination of history, nature, and living culture.
Private Transfer to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Peru Xcapes provides comfortable tourist transportation with a professional driver for your visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our drivers are trained for safe travel and high-quality visitor assistance. While they are not tour guides, they know the routes very well and have extensive experience driving throughout the region.
There is no need to worry — your driver will stop at all the important viewpoints and attractions and will wait for you patiently at each location. Peru Xcapes drivers can also recommend good restaurants and places where you can buy souvenirs at fair prices.
Sacred Valley Tour Highlights
The Sacred Valley includes some of the most important tourist attractions near Cusco, such as the Pisac archaeological site, the Pisac market, and several scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley. Continuing the drive, you will arrive in Urubamba, where you can stop for lunch (not included). Your driver can recommend some of the best restaurants in the area.
After lunch, you will continue to Ollantaytambo, where you can explore the charming Inca and colonial town and visit the impressive archaeological site. On the way back to Cusco, you can also stop in Chinchero to explore its Inca remains and colonial church.
You will return to Cusco in the evening, and your driver will drop you off at your hotel or Airbnb.
The Sacred Valley tour is a full-day experience. We recommend starting early in the morning. Most group tours begin around 8:00 a.m., so an earlier start allows you to visit the archaeological sites and markets with fewer crowds and take better photos.
Can I Hire a Tour Guide at the Sacred Valley?
Yes, it is possible to hire a local tour guide at each archaeological site. However, if you plan to visit the entire Sacred Valley, Peru Xcapes recommends hiring a private guide in advance so the guide accompanies you for the full day from Cusco and returns with you.
Our guides are licensed professionals with strong knowledge of history, culture, and traditions. They have formal tourism education and can provide service in your preferred language. They receive regular training in visitor care and basic first aid, and they will assist you with anything you need during your trip.