Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Complete Travel Guide
Altitude
9168 ft
Dry Season
59°F to 62.6°F
Rainy Season
57.2°F to 60.8°F
Explore one of Peru’s most magical destinations. The Sacred Valley, located in the Cusco region, is where Inca history, breathtaking nature, and vibrant culture come together to offer an unforgettable experience. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Where is the Sacred Valley?
The Sacred Valley is located just an hour and a half from the city of Cusco, in the Andean region of Peru. It extends along the Urubamba River, surrounded by imposing mountains and ancient Incas vestiges. It is an essential stop for those who plan to visit Machu Picchu, since it connects with train stations that take you directly to the sanctuary.
Thanks to their strategic location, many travelers decide to spend here one or two nights to acclimatize, enjoy their unique landscapes and discover villages full of living culture, such as Ollantaytambo, Pisac and Chinchero.
What to See in the Sacred Valley
How to Get to the Sacred Valley from Cusco?
Getting to the Sacred Valley is easy and scenic. Here are the main options:
- By Road:
- Shared vans and buses: Depart from Av. Grau in Cusco to Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo.
- Private taxis or tours: Ideal for flexibility and personalised stops.
- By PeruRail Trains:
One of the most comfortable and scenic ways to reach Ollantaytambo (and continue to Machu Picchu) is by PeruRail trains. You can board from:- Poroy Station (30 minutes from Cusco)
- San Pedro Station (in central Cusco)
- Ollantaytambo Station (if you’re already in the Valley)
Trains offer a range of services, from budget-friendly to luxury, and allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the Sacred Valley along the way.
PeruRail
Expedition
- Stations:
Departs from Ollantaytambo and Poroy. - Features:
Affordable, comfortable service with Inca-inspired décor. - Ideal for:
Backpackers and travellers seeking a budget-friendly yet comfortable option.
PeruRail
Vistadome
- Stations:
Departs from Cusco (San Pedro, Poroy), Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. - Features:
Panoramic windows, onboard snacks, alpaca fashion show, Andean music, and audio tour. - Ideal for:
Travellers looking for a rich visual and cultural experience.
Why Visit the Sacred Valley?
Because it’s a place where you can:
Connect with
Inca history
Enjoy breathtaking landscapes
Experience authentic moments with local communities
Relax before or
after visiting
Machu Picchu
You may be interested
From luxury hotels like Río Sagrado, A Belmond Hotel, in Urubamba to cosy rural lodges in Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley offers accommodation for every taste and budget.
Try traditional dishes such as oven-roasted guinea pig, fresh trout from the Urubamba River, and corn with cheese. Many restaurants serve gourmet Andean cuisine using organic ingredients.
The best season is from April to October, during the dry season. However, the Sacred Valley is beautiful all year round.