The Sacred Valley of Cusco winds between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, parallel to the Vilcanota River. Easily accessible from the city of Cusco, the stunning landscapes of this region are made up of numerous rivers flowing through gorges and valleys that host indigenous communities and important archaeological monuments of the Inca Empire.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas was highly valued by the Incas for its unique geographic and climatic conditions. Its fertile soils and diverse microclimates allowed the cultivation of potatoes, grains, vegetables, fruit trees, and ornamental plants. From snowcapped peaks and deep-blue lakes to blossoming meadows, this beautiful region—home to the sacred mountain spirits known as Apus—was also the location of many of their most important spiritual temples.
Pisac is famous for its astronomical observatory. Built by Viceroy Francisco Álvarez de Toledo over ancient indigenous settlements, Pisac offers visitors the chance to attend a Quechua mass alongside local communities and varayocs (regional mayors). Perched on a hill above the town, the Pisac Archaeological Park showcases how Inca agronomists mastered farming on steep slopes.
The weekly “Indian Market” in the main square is one of the best spots in the Sacred Valley to buy handmade textiles, ceramics, queros (ceremonial cups), jewelry, and more. Artisans and traders from all over the region gather here.
The Maras Salt Mines are an impressive salt-extraction complex located 4 km from the town of Maras. Used since Inca times, salt was once an important economic resource and even a form of currency. Today, the dazzling white pools of Maras are among the Sacred Valley’s most popular tourist attractions.
Maras preserved its importance through colonial times. Many doorways still feature noble coats of arms from the 16th to 20th centuries, and the beautifully carved portals of Jesuit homes remain a highlight of the town.
Moray is believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory. Its concentric circular terraces descend nearly 500 feet (150 meters), each creating a unique microclimate that allowed the Incas to experiment with crop diversity.
Another theory suggests Moray may have served as an amphitheater for religious or civic ceremonies. Located just 11 km from Maras and 38 km from Cusco, Moray is both visually stunning and historically intriguing.
The Ollantaytambo archaeological site is one of the most monumental Inca constructions. Built across two mountains, it served as a military, religious, administrative, and agricultural center. The entrance gate, known as Punku Punku, is a double-jamb masterpiece of stonework.
Ollantaytambo is also the only Inca town still inhabited by descendants of the original settlers. Visitors marvel at its urban design, stone streets, and the main temple with six massive pink-granite monoliths perfectly assembled.
According to legend, Ollantay—the “Titan of the Andes”—fell in love with Princess Cusi Coyllor, daughter of Pachacutec. Their love led to rebellion and battles, but in the end, Pachacutec spared Ollantay’s life in an act of mercy.
Chinchero is known for its slow pace of life and stunning mountain views of Chicón and Verónica. Once an important agricultural hub of the Inca Empire, today visitors can explore its ruins, a colonial church, and trapezoidal niches along ancient walls. The traditional Sunday market is especially famous for its textile weaving practices.
Nestled between the Sahuasira and Pitusira peaks, Calca is a peaceful town famous for its nearby hot springs such as Machacancha (sulfur baths) and Minasmoqo (carbonated springs).
During Inca times, Calca was an administrative center, with impressive pre-Hispanic walls and the nearby Huchuy Cusco archaeological complex. The surrounding snowcapped mountains were revered as sacred deities.
Yucay was chosen by Inca royalty as a place of rest and recreation thanks to its fertile soil and pleasant climate. Massive agricultural terraces still surround the town, and the remains of the Inca palace of Sayri Túpac can be admired today. A small local museum preserves Yucay’s history and culture.
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