The 20 Very Best Things To Do In Sacred Valley (Peru)

20 Best Things To Do In Sacred Valley Peru

A trip to Peru can not be complete without visiting Machu Picchu. And to make it happen, you will need to travel across the sacred Valley region which begins just after you leave Cusco.

The best thing is that there are many incredible sights to see along the way – which are both unique and also allow you to have a great time before arriving to the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu. Below we’ll cover the very best experiences and things to do in Sacred Valley Peru.

1. The Agricultural Terraces Of Moray

Moray terraces lie in the Maras plateau, over the Sacred Valley, in Cusco. Moray ruins consist of four concentric terraces built in a natural soil depression as if they were bowls or open-pit mines. These are unique and hard to explain at the same time – because the purpose of the use the Incas gave to the circular terraces of moray is still a mystery to this day. However, scholars such as John Earls claim it functioned as Agricultural terraces for the Inca who were there living and working at that time. On the other hand, another interpretation is that they were used for religious ceremonies. Interestingly still today, the people living nearby gather here once a year to perform an Inca ceremony. Definitely one of the stand-out attractions in Sacred Valley Peru!

2. Perolniyoc Waterfalls

Outside of Ollantaytambo, the Perolniyoc waterfall tumbles down about 80 meters in two drops. And Perolniyoc waterfall hike doesn’t only mean visiting the waterfall – as there is a portion of the Inca trail to walk through where you can also visit the Perolniyoq ruins (which are built on a rocky ridge right above the waterfalls). Here you’ll get sprawling views of Pomatales valley and farmlands, where you can also spot local shepherds in the hillsides tending to their Alpacas and Llamas. Perolniyoq can be also be visited on the Quarry Trail – which is a great alternative when compared with the multi-day Inca trail.

3. Ollantaytambo Archaeological Ruins

Ollantaytambo ruins sit in front of the present-day Ollantaytambo town, which is right on the bank of the Patacancha river. Ollantaytambo fortress offers a stroll through ancient terraces, other unusual rooms, water fountains, a walk through steps leading to the monumental sun temple, and viewpoints of the valley. Here you’ll also get the opportunity of hiking up to the Pinkuylluna site, which is a set of storage buildings that date back to the Inca periods. Although this hike is more demanding physically, it is worth seeing the sunset at this spot. You can easily get to Ollantaytambo with the numerous colectivos that head here from Cusco – or by taking the train on the way to Machu Picchu.

4. The Skylodge Zipline

This is another unique activity to enjoy in the Sacred Valley Peru region, and especially for adrenaline practitioners. The via Ferrata and zipline consists of climbing up a 400 meters cliff wall strapped to a metal cable through iron rungs. To get back down, you will need to zipline across six various zip lines that range from 150 m to the long 700 m – all the way back to the starting point. Then there is the Natura Vive sky lodge Peru that provides Sacred valley luxury cabin service, where you will stay a night on a glass cabin that hangs right off the sheer cliff face!

5. Sirenachayoc Waterfall

Sirenachayoq waterfall is one of the more recently promoted natural attractions in the Sacred Valley Peru region, and it wasn’t well known until 2020. However, this small waterfall has become a good alternative to outdoor adventures – given it only needs a thirty-minute walk from the entry point to get to. For this reason it remains even more special, given it was never discovered until recently – despite being so close! For a non-ordinary day tour in the Sacred Valley, include Catarata Sirenachayoq. It can be combined either with Pisac Ruins or Ollantaytambo archaeological park as well. 

6. Pisac Ruins

The Pisac Ruins place is the first Inca site to get to when touring the classic Sacred Valley tour in Cusco. It is also the highest spot due to its 3 347 m altitude. On its own, Pisac archaeological park is actually quite large – so travelers only visit the most attractive area which is easily accesible from the gatehead. There are two ways to get here though: one by joining on guided tours, going by car straight up to the entry point, and the other is by starting the walk in the Pisac town (where you hike up stone ladders all the way up to the ruins). Because it’s hard to do and requires good endurance, the latter is great for those who want to get away from the crowds.

7. The Legendary Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

Whilst exploring all of the unique small attractions that are usually located in just one town or part of the Sacred Valley, it can be easy to overlook the most large and proud destination of all! The Inca Trail weaves in and around the Sacred Valley Peru region, and mazes all the way to the sacred site of Machu Picchu. During the Four Day Inca Trail Tour we can camp in incredible star-filled locations, visit ruins such as Wiñay Wayna and Sayacmarca, as well as see unforgettable high Andean Mountain views. If possible we suggest taking on this famous hike after a few days exploring the lower Sacred Valley lands – this way you’ll already be well adjusted to the altitude and also will have had a great introduction to the Inca culture and legacy.

8. Huchuy Qosqo

The Huchuy Qosqo full-day hike consists of going to a surprising architectural hidden gem over the Sacred Valley in Lamay. It’s a great alternative trek to the Inca trail, but to complete this small portion of the original ancient path of the Inca, it makes more sense to start hiking from the Tambomachay site above Cusco. The trail itself is long and covers nearly 19 km, though it can be split into a 2-day hike to walk at a slower pace observing the rich and incredible views. Finally, the Huchuy Qosqo trek is doable either from Cusco or anywhere from the Sacred Valley hotels if not going to Machu Picchu.

9. The Hot Springs Of Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes almost always get forgotten when travellers speak about the best things to do in Sacred Valley Peru, however it’s still technically part of the same region. Here we swap jolly mountain vibes and Alpacas for a more green and humid forested town, given Aguas Calientes sits at a lower altitude and is closer to the Amazon regions. The best thing to do in Aguas Calientes has to be a visit to the Hot Springs, which have several geothermal heated pools at varying temperatures. It’s the perfect way to relax tired muscles after many days of hiking, and also to chat with locals about other hidden things to do in the region (which most guides won’t otherwise be able to tell you about!). The hot springs are located at the top of the main hill in town, and costs just 20 Soles to enter.

10. Chinchero Ruins And The Weaving Houses

Built during the Inca period, Chinchero archaeological site lies in Chinchero Town, about 30 km northwest of Cusco. Here we will see a series of terraces well aligned and carefully worked on a hillside- as well as a catholic church built over the foundations of an Inca temple. While the ruins are worth visiting alone – the highlight here has to be the local craftsmen and weavers. Here they show visitors and the world the heritage left by the Inca, as well as various textile centers in which ladies wearing beautiful outfits explain how to make them. It is a good opportunity to see the results of ancient wisdom and techniques – where we can also purchase them at the Chinchero market Sunday fair and in various Cusco markets. 

11. The Sun Gate Of Ollantaytambo

Aside from the famous Sun Gate on the Inca Trail – there is also another one called Inti Punku (beyond Cachicata quarries in Ollantaytambo). It’s another beautiful spot worth visiting for both ruins and epic views. Inti Punku is doable in a day hike – however, it demands more physical endurance as it is steep and a long-distance (5 miles one way and 10 miles out and back). The altitude is from 9 200 ft at the start and up to 12,700 ft at the summit. To get here, you can first depart from the plaza of Ollantaytambo, head to the Inca bridge over the Vilcanota River and follow the signpost and the well-marked trail bending along the mountainside. The hike is available year-round with no entry tickets at the moment, but of course, the rainy season is not recommended due to changing weather in the mountains.

12. Paraglide Over The Sacred Valley 

The Sacred Valley Peru region isn’t only reserved for cultural activities and tours – but it also a perfect place to go Paragliding in Cusco! Paragliding here is a totally different experience, given the incredible bird-eye views which includes flying over the Chinchero plains, various lakes as well as getting close to the surrounding snow-laden mountains. Sacred Valley paragliding tours usually start in Cusco city and drive to a regular hilltop beyond Chinchero town where you will begin your drift. Paragliding usually demands half a day, but it could be extended by adding some extra activities in Chinchero and Sacred Valley.

13. Salt Ponds of Maras

Did you know that the Salt Ponds of Maras consist over 3000 pools – all of which are sourced directly from the surrounding mountains? These rich pools are all owned and split by families, so all have their own salt resources which they tend to and usually sell. Tours to Maras salt mines are usually combined with Moray ruins and Ollantaytambo, but if you are short on time then you can skip Ollantaytambo ruins and do the half-day Maras Moray tour instead. As in many tourist spots In Cusco, there is a shopping center outside the Salineras where you find all kinds of souvenirs and crafted items, but what is most important is you get the Maras salt in different tastes and variations from chocolates to medicinal treatments.

14. Inkariy Museum

If you are journeying through Cusco the Sacred Valley, then we highly suggest making a brief stop at Inkariy museum which is on the way to Ollantaytambo. Although it’s one of the smaller museums of the region (especially when compared with those in Cusco and Lima),  it houses many important pre-Incan societies and cultural artifacts such as pottery and arts. The Sacred Valley Inkariy Museum is a fine cultural-focused gallery and is advisable for families traveling with kids since it almost always ends up being an interactive experience – and another great way to appreciate the Inca history of the region.

15. Visit Machu Picchu

It’s impossible to compile a list of the best things to do in Sacred Valley Peru without mentioning the star attraction – and perhaps the biggest reason all tourists head to Cusco (and even Peru) in the first place. Built around 1450 A.D for Emperor Pachacutec, Machu Picchu was intended to be a resort for the elite as well as a sacred ceremonial space. For this reason it has such an obscure location on top of a mountain – which is also why it was never discovered by the Spanish Empire during their conquest of Peru. During Our Overnight Machu Picchu Sacred Valley Tour you’ll explore this incredible site with our expert tour guide, who will show you the best parts as well as share curious facts about this sacred Inca site.

16. Chicherias Within The Sacred Valley

A traditional Andean fermented drink, Chicha is very popular in Peru. Made out of corn or quinoa, women were historically in charge of preparing Chicha at home – and still today we can find many of these chicherias which are perfect for trying the drink and ticking-off another gastronomic experience when in Cusco. At any of the villages in the Sacred Valley, you will see red plastic-wrapped sticks placed at the front doors of houses – which marks the spot of a chicheria.

17. Eat Cuy Al Horno (Guinea Pig)

Although this Peruvian cuisine delicacy has had long roots both in modern-day and ancient Peru, many are still hesitant to try it when coming to Peru. Roasted guinea pigs in the Sacred Valley are a very popular dish, which are usually on full display in the street in front of various restaurants. Almost all of them serve cuy al horno, which is oven-baked – which is worth trying at least once when you are in Cusco. They are very popular during traditional festivals too, so if coming during one then you won’t need to look as hard to find them!

18. Drink Beer At The Sacred Valley Brewery

Now time for some Cerveza! Not only can we find breathtaking sceneries and delicious food in Sacred Valley Peru – there are also many places such as Cerveceria del Valle which are perfect for knocking back some cold ones. Sacred Valley Brewery is a special type of brewery that produces beers out of barley, groundcherry plants, Hierba Luisa, and other local products. There’s also a charming courtyard inside where we sit down and also enjoy the views of high sheer cliffs of the Pachar area.

19. Urubamba River Rafting Adventure

The Urubamba is the river that runs right through the heart of the Sacred Valley, and offers a perfect stretch for heading on a adrenaline-filled adventure. Rapids range from 2 to 3 in the difficulty scale, although those who want even more challenge can head here during the wet season months (between November and March are when they are most wild). As usual, the Day river rafting tour in the Urubamba river begins in Cusco and then heads across the Chinchero plains and Maras plateau – and will often include visits to the these sites too.

20. Ñaupa Iglesia

Ñaupa Iglesia translates as the old church – however ironically we won’t be stepping inside a traditional church here to say the least. Instead this site is an ancient Inca creation, which is carved out of the surrounding rock and cliffs. Essentially this ancient church was believed to be created at a strong energetic site – and as such the Inca took it seriously despite it lacking in modern-day architectural features. Nearby we can also find the Perolniyoq waterfalls, so it’s worth visiting both on the same trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Sacred Valley Peru

Below we’ll now answer some of the frequent questions we get about things to do in Sacred Valley Peru, as well as anything else important that you need to know.

Is The Sacred Valley Peru Worth Visiting?

Yes the Sacred Valley is worth visiting – and is often touted as tourists’ biggest memorable highlights when visiting Peru! Not only can we see ancient ruins and learn how the region was once the beating heart of the Inca Empire, the culture is well and truly alive too today. Here we can really tuck-in and enjoy Andean dishes as well as unique experiences to really make the most of this famous Peruvian region.

Can You Do Sacred Valley In One Day?

Whilst it’s nearly impossible to see the entire bulk of the Sacred Valley Peru region in just one day, there are definitely ways to see large portions if you don’t have much time. Here at AB Expeditions we operate our very own Sacred Valley 1 Day Tour which focuses on the main highlights – and with our own private transportation you’ll be able to tick-off many bucket list wonders without wasting too much time waiting for rides or for public transport.

How Much Time Do You Need In Sacred Valley Peru?

As we’ve seen above in the previous FAQ question, you can see the majority of the top highlights in just one day. However to really explore and see everything that the Sacred Valley has to offer, then we would suggest spending at least 4-7 days here. You can break this up between towns like Pisac and Ollantaytambo which are perfect basecamps, where you can easily come and go from each of the different highlights of each region.

Can You Go To Sacred Valley On Your Own?

Yes, it’s certainly possible to visit the Sacred Valley in Peru independently, where you can take local colectivos (public shuttle buses) that travel throughout the region. The most dependable ones are those which link up major destinations from Cusco such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba – although there are no fixed schedules and you’ll need to wait until buses are almost full before leaving.

Should You Go To Sacred Valley Before Or After Machu Picchu?

This really depends on you and how you want to experience the Peruvian Andes. Sometimes people tend to arrive into Cusco and work it out as they go along, which works fine as long as you have the time to fit in everything that you want to see into your schedule. Personally we would recommend seeing the sacred valley first, as you will learn more about the incredible history of Peru and be able to better appreciate Machu Picchu once you arrive.

Overview Of The Best Things To Do In Sacred Valley Peru

And that’s all for this guide on the best things to do in Sacred Valley Peru, and how to organise your own trip here.

From visiting incredible ruins like those of Pisac, Ollantaytambo and beyond – it’s easy to tick-off each memorable site here. We can also enjoy many novel experiences too, such as hiking the Inca Trail, exploring hidden waterfalls and also trying cuisine that hail from way back to the Inca times.

Are you ready for the most memorable Sacred Valley Peru experience? Join our One Day Sacred Valley Tour now, and enjoy all of the very best highlights without minimal fuss or transport complications!