10 tourist circuits in the Sacred Valley: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines. Routes, durations and which to choose.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a cultural and archaeological treasure in Cusco that offers travelers an enriching experience combining ancient history, impressive landscapes, and authentic local life. Here we present the most popular tourist circuits to explore the valley.
10 tourist circuits in the Sacred Valley
| # | Circuit | Duration | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cusco → Pisac → Archaeological site | Half day | Market and ruins |
| 2 | Pisac → Coya → Lamay → Calca | Half day | Gastronomy and culture |
| 3 | Calca → Urubamba → Ollantaytambo | Half day | Inca archaeology |
| 4 | Cusco → Chinchero → Moray → Salt Mines | Full day | Textiles, terraces and salt |
| 5 | Cusco → Ollantaytambo | Half day | Inca fortress + train to MP |
| 6 | Cusco → Calca → Lares | 1-3 days | Hot springs and trekking |
| 7 | Cusco → Chinchero | Half day | Andean textiles |
| 8 | Chinchero → Huaypo Lagoon | Half day | Nature and landscapes |
| 9 | Cusco → Calca → Huchuy Qosqo | 1 day | Archaeological trekking |
| 10 | Pisac + Ollantaytambo + Moray + Chinchero + Salt Mines | Full day | The complete circuit |
Circuit #10 is the most popular. Our Sacred Valley Full Day Tour covers the main sites from $55 USD with bilingual guide.
Places in the circuit
Pisac
Popular for natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and its pre-Hispanic urban grid. The artisan market runs Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Ollantaytambo
The "living Inca city" — one of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish. Also the main train station to Machu Picchu. Visit it on our Sacred Valley + Maras Moray Tour.
Moray
Concentric circular terraces functioning as an Inca agricultural laboratory, with temperature differences of up to 5°C between levels.
Maras Salt Mines
Over 5,000 pink salt pools used since Inca times. One of Peru's most photogenic sites. Include them with our Maras Moray Half Day Tour.
Chinchero
Notable for textile art in camelid fibers and its archaeological site with panoramic views.
Urubamba
Central hub of the valley with ideal climate, great hotels and restaurants. Easy access to Maras and Moray.
Which circuit to choose?
- 1 day: Sacred Valley Full Day Tour — $55 USD
- 2 days: Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu Package — $350 USD
- 3 days: Cusco + Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu Package — The complete experience
Check our detailed Sacred Valley map and Cusco transportation guide.
The Sacred Valley is not just a tourist circuit; it is a journey to the heart of Inca civilization, where every town preserves living traditions and every site tells a story of ingenuity and greatness.
