Complete guide to the Sacred Valley location, map with routes from Cusco, distances to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras and Moray.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located in the Cusco region of Peru, along the Urubamba River. It is famous for its Andean landscapes, Inca history, and traditional villages. Located just 35 km from Cusco city, it is an excellent option for acclimatization before visiting Machu Picchu.
Where is the Sacred Valley of the Incas?
The Sacred Valley stretches between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, following the course of the Urubamba River (also known as the Vilcanota River). It sits at an average altitude of 2,800 masl, making it lower and warmer than Cusco (3,400 masl).
Distances from Cusco:
| Destination | Distance | Approximate time |
|---|---|---|
| Pisac | 33 km | 1 hour by car |
| Urubamba | 57 km | 1.5 hours |
| Ollantaytambo | 72 km | 2 hours |
| Chinchero | 28 km | 45 minutes |
What to see in the Sacred Valley?
The Sacred Valley is home to some of Peru's most impressive archaeological sites:
- Pisac — Artisan market and Inca ruins with spectacular agricultural terraces. The market runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
- Ollantaytambo — Imposing Inca fortress and departure point for the train to Machu Picchu. One of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish.
- Chinchero — Ancestral Andean textiles and archaeological remains. Known as the "birthplace of the rainbow" in Quechua.
- Urubamba — Ideal for rest, gastronomy, and luxury hotels. Geographic center of the valley.
- Maras and Moray — The famous salt mines with over 5,000 pink salt pools and the circular terraces of Moray, an Inca agricultural laboratory.
Common routes from Cusco
There are two main routes to explore the Sacred Valley:
Route A (Blue)
Cusco → Chinchero → Maras → Moray → Ollantaytambo → Pisac → Cusco
This route starts northwest, visiting Chinchero and the Maras salt mines first. Ideal if you want to end in Ollantaytambo to catch the train to Machu Picchu.
Route B (Yellow)
Cusco → Pisac → Ollantaytambo → Maras → Moray → Chinchero → Cusco
Starts east visiting the Pisac market. The most popular route for full-day tours returning to Cusco.
Both routes are paved, except for detours to Maras and Moray which require organized tours or private taxis.
How to visit the Sacred Valley?
You can explore the Sacred Valley in several ways:
- Organized full-day tour — The most comfortable option. Includes transport, bilingual guide, and entrance fees. Ready to Travel Peru offers tours from $55 USD per person.
- Private transport or taxi — More flexibility but you need to negotiate prices.
- Local colectivos — The cheapest option but less comfortable. They depart from Pavitos street in Cusco.
Connect with Machu Picchu
From Ollantaytambo you can take the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is the most direct and popular connection between the Sacred Valley and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Sacred Valley is not just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu; it is a fascinating destination in its own right, with history, culture, and landscapes that will take your breath away.
