How to Plan Your Sacred Valley 1 Day Tour in Cusco

If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, you don’t want to miss the chance to explore the incredible Sacred Valley. With this one-day tour, you can enjoy stunning views and learn more about the fascinating Inca culture. In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your perfect day trip.

Experience

The Sacred Valley 1 day tour offers a unique experience that combines history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Starting from Cusco, you’ll visit the town of Pisac, renowned for its impressive Inca ruins and traditional artisan market. Then, you’ll head to the town of Urubamba for an Andean buffet lunch before continuing to Ollantaytambo, a charming town known for its ancient Inca fortress. Throughout the tour, you’ll have a bilingual guide to provide you with all the information you need to understand and appreciate the cultural significance of the places you visit. The tour also includes a partial tourist ticket, which gives you access to some of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley.

Highlights

The Sacred Valley is filled with highlights that you won’t want to miss. Some of the must-see destinations on the tour include:

Pisac

Pisac is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Here, you’ll find impressive Inca ruins, including terraces, temples, and irrigation systems. The town is also known for its traditional market, where you can find unique handicrafts and textiles.

Urubamba

Urubamba is a charming town that offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys of the Sacred Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy an Andean buffet lunch made with local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town that has preserved its Inca heritage. The town is home to an impressive Inca fortress that was never conquered by the Spanish conquerors.

Learn more about the Inca culture

Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the fascinating Inca culture. Your bilingual guide will provide you with all the information you need to understand the customs and traditions of the ancient Inca civilization. You’ll learn about their impressive engineering skills, religious beliefs, and agricultural techniques.

Cusco archaeological sites

The Sacred Valley isn’t the only place where you can explore the Inca culture in Cusco. The city itself is home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites in the region. Some of the must-visit destinations include:

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is an impressive Inca fortress located just outside of Cusco. The site is made up of massive stone walls that have withstood earthquakes and the passage of time.

Qorikancha

Qorikancha was once the richest temple in the Inca Empire. The site was covered in gold and silver and adorned with precious stones. Today, you can still see the impressive stone walls that have survived since the time of the Inca.

Amazing sacred valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning landscape filled with scenic mountains, valleys, and rivers. The beauty of this region is truly unforgettable, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take amazing photos throughout the tour.

Full description

The Sacred Valley tour 1 day begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. The tour includes round-trip transportation, an Andean buffet lunch, a bilingual guide, and a partial tourist ticket. During the tour, you’ll visit Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. You’ll have plenty of time to explore each destination and take in the stunning scenery. This tour is the perfect way to get a taste of the rich history and culture of the Sacred Valley.

Booking

You can book the Sacred Valley 1 day tour in Cusco online through this link: book the tour here. The tour is offered by a third-party company, and all details about pricing and availability can be found on the booking page.

The Bottom Line

Visiting the Sacred Valley is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss during your trip to Cusco. With this one-day tour, you’ll get a taste of the Inca culture and see some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cusco

Cusco is a historic city located in southeastern Peru, known for its rich Incan history and vibrant culture. As a popular tourist destination, there are many questions that travelers may have about Cusco. Here are some frequently asked questions and helpful answers to make your trip to this amazing city even more enjoyable.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Cusco?

The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season from May to September, when there is less rainfall and the weather is mild. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. If you don’t mind some rain and crowds, you can still visit Cusco during the shoulder seasons of October to November and March to April.

2. What altitude is Cusco located at?

Cusco is located at an altitude of 11,152 feet (3,399 meters) above sea level. This can cause altitude sickness in some travelers, so it’s important to take it slow when arriving in Cusco and allow your body time to acclimate to the altitude. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals and drink plenty of water to help prevent altitude sickness.

3. What are some must-see tourist attractions in Cusco?

There are many amazing tourist attractions to see in Cusco, but some of the must-see sights include:

• Machu Picchu
• The Sacred Valley
• The Incan fortress of Sacsayhuaman
• The Cusco Cathedral
• The Qorikancha Temple
• The San Pedro Market

4. What is the currency used in Cusco?

The currency used in Cusco is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). You can exchange money at banks, exchange booths, or some hotels. It’s also a good idea to carry small denominations of cash for purchases at markets and smaller businesses.

5. What is the official language spoken in Cusco?

The official language of Peru is Spanish, but many locals in Cusco also speak Quechua, the traditional language of the Incan people. It’s a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases before your trip to help with communication.

6. What is the food like in Cusco?

Peruvian cuisine is known for its diversity and unique flavors. Some must-try dishes in Cusco include ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juices), lomo saltado (stir-fry beef with onions, tomatoes, and french fries), and cuy (guinea pig). There are also many vegetarian and vegan options available. Don’t forget to try the local specialty drink, the pisco sour!

7. Is it safe to travel to Cusco?

Cusco is generally a safe city to travel to, but like any tourist destination, it’s important to take precautions to avoid theft and scams. Keep an eye on your belongings and be wary of anyone trying to offer you unsolicited help or services. Stick to well-lit and busy areas at night, and always use licensed taxis.

8. Do I need a visa to travel to Cusco?

Most tourists do not need a visa to travel to Cusco, as Peru allows visa-free travel for citizens of many countries for stays of up to 183 days. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your embassy or consulate to make sure you have the necessary paperwork for your trip.

9. What is the electrical voltage in Cusco?

In Cusco, the electrical voltage is 220-240 volts, with a frequency of 60 Hz. If you are traveling from a country with a different voltage, you may need a voltage converter to use your electronic devices.

10. What is the best way to get around Cusco?

Walking is the best way to explore the historic city center of Cusco, as many of the streets are too narrow for cars. Taxis are also widely available and affordable for longer trips. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a bicycle or take a horseback riding tour of the surrounding countryside. In conclusion, there are many things to consider when planning a trip to Cusco, but with a little bit of preparation and knowledge, you’ll be able to make the most of your adventure in this amazing city. Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure, and get ready to experience all that Cusco has to offer!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cusco

If you’re planning a trip to Peru, chances are that you’ll be adding Cusco to your itinerary. It’s a beautiful city that was once the capital of the Incan Empire, and there are plenty of things to do and see here. Keep reading for a detailed step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Cusco.

1. Exploring the Historic Center of Cusco

Cusco is a city that’s full of history and culture, and you can soak up much of it by walking around the historic center. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many well-preserved colonial-era buildings, churches, and plazas. Some of the must-visit places in the historic center include:

• Plaza de Armas: This is the heart of Cusco and one of the most charming plazas in all of South America. It’s surrounded by colonial buildings and a fountain in the middle.
• Cathedral of Santo Domingo: Located on the Plaza de Armas, this is an impressive cathedral that houses many religious artworks from the Cusco School of art.
• Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha): This was once the most important temple in the Incan Empire and was covered in gold. The Spanish built a convent on top of it, but you can still see some of the original Incan stonework inside.
• San Pedro Market: Located just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas, this is Cusco’s main market, where you can buy fresh produce, souvenirs, handicrafts, and more.

2. Visiting the Incan Ruins

Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire, and there are plenty of ruins in and around the city that you can visit. These ruins are not just historical sites, but they also offer breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Some of the top ruins to visit include:

• Sacsayhuaman: This is an impressive fortress located on a hill overlooking Cusco. It’s believed to have been built by the Incas in the 15th century and was the site of a major battle between the Incas and Spanish during the conquest of Peru.
• Q’enqo: This is an ancient ceremonial site that was dedicated to the worship of the sun, moon, and stars. It has an underground chamber and intricate carvings on the stone walls.
• Puka Pukara: This is a small fortress that once guarded the entrance to Cusco. The name means “Red Fortress” in Quechua, and it’s made of red stones.
• Tambomachay: This is a site that’s believed to have been used for water rituals and baths. It has an intricate system of aqueducts and channels that still work today.

3. Hiking to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Peru, and for good reason. It’s an ancient Incan city that’s perched on top of a mountain and surrounded by lush green forests. It takes some effort to get there, but it’s totally worth it. You have a few options for getting to Machu Picchu:

• Inca Trail: This is a four-day trek that starts in Cusco and ends at Machu Picchu. It’s a challenging hike, but it’s also the most rewarding, as you’ll get to see many other Incan ruins along the way.
• Salkantay Trek: This is a more challenging five-day trek that takes you through the Salkantay Pass and ends at Machu Picchu. It’s a great option if you’re up for a more rugged experience.
• Train: If you’re not up for a hike, you can take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, which is the closest town to Machu Picchu. From there, you can take a bus or hike up to the ruins.

4. Trying Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is gaining popularity all around the world, and Cusco is a great place to try it out. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Ceviche: This is a dish made of raw fish that’s marinated in lime juice and served with onions and peppers.
• Lomo Saltado: This is a popular stir-fry dish made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries.
• Aji de Gallina: This is a creamy chicken dish made with yellow chili peppers, bread, and cheese.
• Cuy: This is a traditional Peruvian dish made with guinea pig. It may sound strange, but it’s actually quite tasty.

5. Shopping for Handicrafts and Souvenirs

Cusco is a great place to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. You can find everything from alpaca wool sweaters and blankets to pottery, jewelry, and paintings. Some of the best places to shop include:

• San Blas neighborhood: This is a bohemian neighborhood that’s full of artisan shops and studios.
• Plaza de Armas: There are plenty of souvenir shops around the main plaza, but be prepared to haggle for the best prices.
• Artisanal Market: This market is located just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas and has dozens of stalls selling handicrafts and souvenirs.

Book Your Tour Now

Cusco is a city that has a lot to offer to tourists, from its rich history and culture to its stunning natural beauty. By following the above guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this amazing city. Whether you’re exploring the historic center, visiting the Incan ruins, hiking to Machu Picchu, trying Peruvian cuisine, or shopping for souvenirs, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Cusco.