Sacred Valley Tour From Ollantaytambo 1 Day Tour
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Best Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo / Urubamba to Cusco
Explore the best of the Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba! – This tour is perfect for those who choose Ollantaytambo or Urubamba as the base to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu as we start this tour from either Ollantaytambo or Urubamba; you may decide to join us on this guided tour either before or after your trip to Machu Picchu (those who are heading back to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu!)
Enjoy a full-day private tour exploring the must-see sites of Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo and Urubamba, take most of your trip in the Sacred Valley visiting Pisac, Moray, the Salt Mines, Chinchero and Ollantaytambo on a full-day guided tour. At the end of the tour, you can choose to return back to Ollantaytambo or move to Cusco.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, also known as Urubamba Valley was one of the most important regions for the Inca civilization in Peru. It was called “Sacred” because of its fertile soil, abundant water, mild climate, and most importantly it derived from the sacred river (Urubamba river) that runs through it, which the Inca believed to have spiritual significance and was related to the milky way. The Sacred Valley was an important agricultural center for the Incan people, as they used the fertile soil, special climate, and terraces to grow the staple crops such as maize, potatoes, quinoa, and some fruits, as a result, they built massive agricultural terraces throughout the valley.
Do not see a perfect tour for you? No problem! You can also check our Best of Sacred Valley Tour or the Absolute Sacred Valley Tour, both options depart from Ollantaytambo. This tour is completely customizable, we will be happy to tailor this guided tour to your interests. Please contact us at info@cuscolocalfriend.com or fill out the contact form on our site and make your tour from scratch.
Why you will love this tour
- Explore the highlights of the Sacred Valley starting from Ollantaytambo! This tour is perfect for those who choose Ollantaytambo and/or Urubamba as the base to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
- Explore the Maras Incan Salt Pools, where locals still farm the salt by hand as the Incas used to do it centuries ago.
- If you are planning a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu, this activity is perfect for acclimatization while also allowing you to explore the best of the Sacred Valley.
- Unlike the standard bus tours, we do not waste your time by stopping at commission stores. You get to explore and experience the real Sacred Valley with a friendly local guide.
- Avoid crowds and enjoy a private tour at your pace. Enjoy a personal experience, and go at your own pace. You will be able to talk to your guide and ask questions and be involved during the tour.
Trip Details
- Pickup location: Hotels in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba
- Drop off Location: Hotels in Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, or Cusco city
- Pick-up Time: @7:30 – 8:30 AM (Based on the tour option you choose)
- Duration: 9 – 10 Hours approx.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Group Size: You decide! This is a private tour so you will have the Guide and transportation only for your group.
- Difficulty: EASY – MODERATE, you don’t need to be super-fit. Just mobile. Suitable for Everyone, although there is quite a lot of walking, there will be a couple of uphills (Inca steps). Altitude acclimatization is recommended but not mandatory.
- Customizable? Yes! Private, custom and add-ons are all available. You can add this tour to any trek or tour
ITINERARY
Full Day Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo
We start this day adventure to the Sacred Valley with the pickup from your Accommodation in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba. Pick-up time is flexible and it will be provided once the tour is confirmed. Based on the sites you are interested in, you will visit some of the following sites:
- Visit Ollantaytambo Ruins – One of the grandest Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, boasting Inca terraces, an otherworldly Temple of the Sun, a Water Temple with ceremonial fountains, and so much more.
- Visit the amazing Inca Terraces of Moray, unique among the Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, believed to be an elaborate agricultural laboratory; each terrace has a unique micro-climate with which the Incas could determine the optimal growing conditions for different crops.
- Visit the famous Salt Mines of Maras, where locals, since pre-Inca times, have obtained Salt by evaporating warm salty water from a local subterranean stream.
- Around midday, we make a stop for a deserved lunch (not included)
- We also visit the Eastern side of the Sacred Valley, exploring Pisac Ruins, the most extensive archaeological sites in the Valley (it is even bigger than Machupicchu) You will be amazed by the stunning Incan farming terraces and the fort-like ruins of an Inkan village on the top of the Mountain. Whether or not to visit the Pisac Market is your choice, as it is an optional stop.
- Visit Chinchero – a small town famous for its spectacular mountain views and traditional textile weaving centers.
- At the end of the tour, we will either return to your Hotel or continue to Cusco city or drive to Ollantaytambo and drop you off at the train station.
*** The order of visiting the sites is flexible and is based on the Itinerary option you choose.
Tour Inclusions:
- Hotel Pickup (it can be from Hotel in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba as well as from the train station); and drop-off at your Hotel
- Professional English-speaking Local Guide
- Private transportation
Does Not Include:
- Sacred Valley Pass (We can add to your tour)
- Lunch (You can add to your tour)
- Gratuities
Note on the Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. Reasons which may include strikes, political issues, local festivals, extreme bad weather, and some areas within the site may be closed at certain hours due to the site regulations which are beyond the reasonable control of Cusco Local Friend and we are not liable for such changes or amendments.
On some occasions, these conditions may demand us to deviate from our original schedule, in which case we will provide the best available alternative options. And we’ll make a great experience of it!
What is the difference between the 3 Touring options ?
1). CLASSIC SACRED VALLEY TOUR: This is a more relaxed guided experience that allows you to explore the two major archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo in-depth, with plenty of time at each site to absorb their history.
2). BEST SACRED VALLEY TOUR: This tour focuses mainly on the western side of the Sacred Valley, visiting Chinchero, Moray, Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo, which are located close to each other, allowing enough time to explore them.
3). ABSOLUTE SACRED VALLEY TOUR: This tour covers both the eastern and western ends of the Sacred Valley, providing travelers with the opportunity to see all the must-see sites of the Valley in one day! However, due to the extended itinerary, this guided tour may feel rushed so if you love exploring the sites with no rush, you can choose either the 1st or 2nd options from above.
Price Options
Classic Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo
Private Tour from Ollantaytambo
Sites we include:
- Ollantaytambo Ruins
- Pisac Ruins
- Pisac Market
Best Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo
Private Tour from Ollantaytambo
Sites we include:
- Ollantaytambo Ruins
- Maras Salt Mines
- Moray circular Terraces
- Chinchero
Absolute Sacred Valley from Ollantaytambo
BESTSELLER! Private Tour from Ollantaytambo
Sites we include:
- Ollantaytambo Ruins
- Maras Salt Mines
- Moray circular Terraces
- Pisac Ruins
What to Expect
Impressive views, mild to hot temperatures although kind of windy at some places in the afternoons; mostly sunny days during the months of May, June, July, and August; Stops at scenic spots en route; Friendly English-speaking tour guide; Your journey your way!Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sacred Valley worth visiting?
Yes Definitely! The Sacred Valley is definitely worth visiting. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and impressive archaeological sites make it a must-see destination in Peru. Travelers can explore the ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, admire the amazing salt pans of Maras, and experience the traditional way of life in the local communities. The valley also offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and zip-lining, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. Even if it’s just to relax, enjoy the beauty and acclimate at a Sacred Valley hotel, it is definitely worth visiting. Overall, the Sacred Valley is a unique and fascinating destination that should not be missed.
Is this a private or shared Tour ?
Our guided tours, including the Sacred Valley Tours, are private, which means that you will have a dedicated local tour Guide and transportation exclusively for your group.
What is the "Boleto Turistico" or Tourist Ticket / Pass ?
The Cusco Tourist Ticket, also known as the “Boleto Turistico” is a pass that allows visitors access to various archaeological sites, museums, and other cultural attractions in and around the city of Cusco, including the Sacred Valley. The ticket can be purchased at the entrance gate of the sites and they only accept cash in PEN SOL.
There are different types of tickets available, with the most popular being the “General Tourist Ticket” or “Boleto Turistico General,” which allows access to 16 different sites in and around Cusco, including the famous Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley, such as Pisac, Moray, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo. If you plan to visit multiple attractions in both Cusco and the Sacred Valley, purchasing the General or Full Cusco Tourist Ticket can be a cost-effective way to gain access to these sites.
Alternatively, the “Partial Tourist Ticket” or “Boleto Turistico Parcial” is another ticket option. Unlike the General Tourist Ticket, this ticket only provides access to a limited number of sites. This ticket may be a good choice for visitors with limited time or those who are primarily interested in specific tourist attractions in the region.
So, if you’re wondering which ticket to purchase for a Sacred Valley Tour, the Partial Tourist Ticket will suit you best for visiting the Sacred Valley sites unless you also plan to visit the sites in Cusco. In that case, it would be best to get the Full Ticket.
What is the Tour cancellation policy ?
- If cancellation is made with more than 3 days minimum notice, we will refund the full amount of your deposit minus the 20% admin fees
- If cancellation is made within less than 3-day notice, no refund can be given.
- The strikes and natural disasters are unlikely events that are beyond our control which may force us to change the tour dates or in the worst scenario and if that represents a risk for the safety of our clients, cancel the tour. The strikes are normally announced a couple of weeks in advance so we will let you know in advance in case one is scheduled for that specific tour date and provide alternatives to either change or cancel the tour.
I am staying in Urubamba, can this tour start from Urubamba ?
Yes of course! We offer private guided tours so we are happy to pick you up from your accommodation in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba. Simply indicate your preferred pickup location on the booking form, and our guided tours will begin from there.
Can you drop us off at Ollantaytambo train station at the end of the tour?
Yes of course! Our guided tours are mainly private so we are able to drop you off at the train station in Ollantaytambo so you can catch your train to Machu Picchu town.
What should I pack for this day trip ?
- Camera
- Daypack with personal belongings
- Sunblock and sunhat
- Comfortable shoes (running or hiking shoes)
- Cash in PEN SOL for your Entrance Tickets, souvenirs or any other expenditures
- Rain gear or rain plastic “poncho”, especially for the rain season (November to April) They can be purchased locally
Why Travel with us
Local Knowledge & Expertise
It's great to travel with professional experts from the same destination you are going, that's how you get first-hand information. With deep in-country knowledge, We know the ins and outs of all the logistics, we will ensure you can make the most of your time away.
Personalized Experiences
Your time is precious - we know that. Your experience is our top priority. No big bus groups, No flags to follow! Traveling with a private guide and driver you’ll do what you want, when you want with the freedom to change your plans on the fly.
Friendly Local Guides
Great sights don’t make an amazing tour. Great guides do! Our guides don’t read from a script, we give them the freedom to make each tour their own, and your experience unique. We love what we do and it shows. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel the buzz and excitement that Cusco Local Friend to offer.
Exclusive Itineraries
It’s not all about the destination, it’s also about the journey. We offer only the best itineraries and tours. As local experts, we know first-hand what tours or experiences are the ones that most travelers enjoy and request. Escape the crowds! Never waste any minute, never miss any highlight!
Trip Reviews
Cusco Local Friend has been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence due to the most consistent 5-star reviews in Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu for exceptional levels of service and care.
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