Beyond Cusco and Machu Picchu

I feel like my journey to Peru did not truly begin until I was high above the Andes Mountains flying from Lima to Cusco. I think that was the pivotal moment when it really sank in just how far away from home I had traveled, and the sense of adventure awakened inside me. High above the clouds looking down at the continuous stretch of snow-covered jagged peaks, it felt as though I could reach out and touch them, the mysteries of the Incas right below me waiting to be explored.

There are a countless travel sites and recommendations for traveling to the Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado), Peru almost all of which center around Cusco and Machu Picchu. Cusco is incredible and Machu Picchu is definitely the biggest must see - do NOT skip them! However, if you are wondering what else you should do while there, you’ve come to the right place.

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Sacred Valley At a Glance

📍 Region: Sacred Valley, Peru

⛰️ Elevation: 9,000–11,000 ft

🗓️ Recommended Length of Stay: 3–5 days

🚂 Closest Gateway: Cusco

⭐ Best For: Adventure, Inca history, hiking, photography, and stunning scenery including the Andes

🗺️ Interactive Sacred Valley Map

📍 Use this interactive map to see where each destination is located and plan your route through Peru's Sacred Valley.

12-Day Peru Itinerary

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Getting to Peru's Sacred Valley

The Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima is Peru’s busiest airport and you can easily catch a flight there from most major cities.

From there, you will find daily flights, almost hourly, to Cusco - one of the most beautiful flights I’ve ever been on. Be sure to request a window seat. You won’t want to miss the views as you fly over the Andes.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness

One of the biggest concerns travelers headed to Cusco/Machu Picchu always seem to have is altitude sickness, and no wonder given Cusco sits at an elevation of over 11,000 feet. You can Google all kinds of tips and tricks to combat this ranging from Oxishot, Diamonx and Chlorophyll drops to chewing coca leaves. In fact, every hotel has coca tea to cater to the tourists which I definitely enjoyed. However, here is my number one tip (thanks to my amazing sister who collaborated on this blog and who has spent a lot of extended time in Peru) and it’s so easy! Simply start your trip at lower elevation then work your way up.

When we flew into Cusco, we immediately headed to Urubamba, near Ollantaytambo, about 1-1/2 hours away and almost 2,000 feet down. We started the trip at this lower elevation and worked our way up to all the sites we wanted to see, including Machu Picchu, ending the trip in Cusco instead of starting there. It worked like a charm. I had no issues with altitude doing it this way.

Another tip for elevation, drink lots of water! Hydration is always important at high altitude, and go easy on the alcohol and heavy foods at first (i.e. mayonnaise or meats with high fat content). One guide recommends eating a light chicken and rice soup or broth, having a nap, and then venturing out slowly.

Photographing Local People

Before I get into all the amazing things you’ll want to see in Sacred Valley, I want to touch on the subject of photographing locals.

The people of Peru are truly warm and welcoming, proud and strong. Peruvian culture is a beautiful mix of Hispanic and native traditions. The Aymara and Quechua are indigenous people of Incan descent who have successfully preserved their traditions despite globalization all around them. It is an extremely vibrant and rich culture.

However, not all Peruvians appreciate having their photo taken. I recommend taking photos in large settings like markets or on the streets discreetly, knowing many do NOT want to be the subject of your images and respecting their wishes.

Some people will also expect a tip if you choose to photograph them. This is especially common in Cusco. You will find locals donning the traditional style and dressing alpaca or llamas in vibrant colors which is often an invitation for tourists to take photos, but they will expect remuneration for you photographing them. It is always best to ask first before you poise your camera at them.

Best Things to do in Peru's Sacred Valley

Urubamba

Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley along the Urubamba River under the snow-capped mountain Chicon lies the village of Urubamba.

The town is full of cobblestone streets lined with little shops and moto-taxis which are nothing more than motorcycles with little cabs for passengers to ride pillion behind the driver.

I highly recommend an exhilarating ride in this common mode of transportation if for nothing more than a fun and exciting joy ride! My niece, her Madrina and I stopped a driver on the side of the road asking him to take us in circles around town then bring us right back to the same spot. He seriously must have thought we were crazy as we giggled and cried out at every crazy tight turn he took. It was so much fun!

Do not miss the opportunity to visit the colorful Urubamba municipal market where locals come to gather and proudly display endless varieties of fruits and vegetables, dried herbs and beans, flowers and meats.

This colorful indigenous market is housed in a 2-story building in the heart of town. Locals gather outside with live animals, plants and shrubs. As you enter the building, the aroma of exotic spices envelopes you and the buzz of activity fills the air creating indelible memories engrained in you forever.

✨ Pro Tip: I highly suggest staying in Urubamba your first night in Sacred Valley (see my full itinerary), picking up some fruit and nuts in the morning at the market, then heading to Ollantaytambo to explore the incredible ruins for the day.

Skylodge Adventure Suites

Photo courtesy of Natura Vive — An incredible lodging option to consider between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, just an hour from Cusco, is the incredible Skylodge Adventure Suites, sleeping pods hanging from the cliffs.

A truly unique experience where visitors spend the night in completely transparent hanging bedrooms that are literally suspended off the side of the mountain. Just imagine staring up at the stars in dark skies as you drift off to sleep and awakening as the sun rises, its golden rays lighting up the Sacred Valley below.

Climbers are tied to steel cables that run the entire route. You must be at least 8 years old, in good health and good physical shape to make the climb. The weight limit is 265 lbs. (120 kg).

To descend the mountain, you can either rappel or use the 6 thrilling zip lines down! What an incredible adventure!

Maximum dining room capacity is 12 people.

👉 For more information or to book a visit, contact Natura Vive.

Ollantaytambo

The massive Incan ruins cover a mountainside towering over the town where Manco Inca Yupanqui fought Spanish colonizers centuries ago. Many of its buildings were damaged or destroyed but the site is still really well preserved. T

There are terraces to climb and structures with massive stones so perfectly wedged together that you will stop and ponder just how on Earth did they get there and how did they build them with such precision absent mortar and steel or iron tools.

The climb to the top is rigorous but worth it. The ceremonial center offers a panoramic view of the Sacred Valley that is quite incredible. Just stop for breaks and take it slow if you need to. Trust me, nobody is looking. They are all too busy standing there staring out at the view in awe to care or notice your snail pace.

Ollantaytambo is also where the Inca trail to the citadel of Machu Picchu begins. If you are adventurous and in good physical shape, I would definitely consider it.

It is a 20.5 mile hike and the trail is best used from May through September. Although we did not have time to make this trek, I absolutely want to return and hike it next time around. I imagine it’s an adventure of a lifetime.

Pisac

Many see it as a great place to shop with all its artisan handicrafts and the Sunday Pisac Market, but its true treasure is the archaeological complex stretched atop a hillside full of terraces, temples, plazas and the oldest pre-Hispanic cemetery in all of the Americas which is literally built into the side of the cliffs that grave robbers somehow managed to loot. It will boggle your mind thinking not only how did they possibly bury people there, but how did robbers get to them?

There is little known about the origins and history of Pisac and much remains a mystery. Is it an agricultural site or a fortress with agricultural terraces for self-sufficiency? Could it be a place of royal significance?

To add to the conundrum, there is a stone structure there thought to be a sun-dial but nobody knows for sure what its true purpose was. There’s also a 16-meter tunnel wide enough for one person to pass through at a time which clearly took a lot of time and effort to build. Yet, the passage has no known meaning.

If anything, Pisac is worth a visit just to let yourself ponder in the enormity of the mysteries surrounding it while standing in the silence of the wind high above the city.

Moray

The terraces are built in circular patterns where moisture levels vary depending on the altitude of the terrace. The depth, design and orientation with respect to wind and sun creates microclimates with temperatures varying up to 27 °F from top to bottom which is essential for growing wide ranges of crops from other regions and climates, much like a modern greenhouse. Soil samples have even shown that soils were brought from other regions to the area to facilitate crop growth.

Moray is a great day trip that can be combined with the salt mines known as Salineras de Maras.

✨ **Pro Tip:** Moray is a great day trip that can be combined with the salt mines known as Salineras de Maras.The drive between the two is incredible, taking you through long stretches of road backed by the snow-capped Andes.

Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)

Not only do the Salineras de Maras salt ponds offer unique photo opportunities, they are still used today. There are over 3,000 ponds wedged between mountainsides on a hilltop where salt accumulates in pools that date back to Incan times.

The sun dries the water and through evaporation, the salt can easily be collected. The ponds vary in color depending on the level of moisture in them creating unique shades of silver, tan and white.

Again, it’s a great day trip to combine with Moray.

Sacsayhuaman

Archaeologists believe the earlist occupation may date back to 900 CE based off pottery that was collected, and research shows some of the boulders used as foundations were already there when the site was built. However, it is believed that most stones were carried by hand from quarries over 20 miles away by 20,000 men or more-- quite a feat given their massive size.

In 1983, Sacsayhuaman, together with Cusco, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for international recognition and protection. You will understand why when you visit.

Travel Tips for Visiting Sacred Valley Peru

⛰️ Do Not Start in Cusco - Start at a Lower Elevation

Most people start their trip in Cusco since this is where you’ll fly into. One of the best decisions I made was starting my trip in Urubamba instead. Luckily my sister had been there several times before and knew this insider trick. Once you arrive, head immediatelty to the Sacred Valley and add exploring Cusco at the end of your trip. Urubamba sits about 2,000 feet lower in elevation which gives your body time to adjust before exploring higher elevations.

I experienced no altitude sickness using this approach.

💧 Take It Easy Your First Day to Avoid Altitude Sickness

Drink plenty of water, avoid excessive alcohol, and take it easy during your first day at higher elevations. Even healthy, active travelers can experience altitude sickness, and every trip is different. If you're concerned about the altitude, skip heavy meals, stay hydrated, and give your body time to adjust before tackling long hikes or full days of sightseeing. Many hotels also offer complimentary coca tea, a traditional drink that many visitors enjoy while acclimating. One thing that worked well for me was starting my trip in Urubamba, which sits at a lower elevation than Cusco, giving my body time to acclimate before exploring higher elevations.

🚉 Book Your Machu Picchu Tickets Early

Machu Picchu entry tickets, PeruRail trains, and popular time slots often sell out well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Reserve them as soon as you know your travel dates and before leaving home to avoid being disappointed.

🦙 Stay in Urubamba for a More Relaxed Base

Instead of rushing from Cusco each day, consider spending your first few nights in Urubamba. It’s centrally located in the Sacred Valley which makes it easy to visit Ollantaytambo, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and Machu Picchu while acclimating to the altitude. End the trip with Cusco.

📷 Ask Before Photographing Locals

The people of Peru are incredibly welcoming, but not everyone is comfortable having their photo taken. In popular tourist areas like Cusco, you'll often see locals dressed in traditional clothing posing with alpacas or llamas. For many families, taking photos with visitors provides an important source of income.

Always ask permission before taking someone's photo, be respectful of local customs and traditions, and be prepared to offer a small tip or pay the requested fee if you're photographing people who pose for visitors.

🧳 Pack for Changing Weather

Temperatures can change dramatically throughout the day in Sacred Valley. Dress in layers and pack:

🧥 Light jacket
☀️ Sunscreen
🧢 Hat
🕶️ Sunglasses
💧 Reusable water bottle
👟 Comfortable walking shoes

✨ Pro Tip: Even when it's cool outside, the sun at high elevation is surprisingly strong so plan accordingly.

💲 Carry Some Cash on You

While large hotels and restaurants generally accept credit cards, many markets, small shops, and local vendors prefer cash. Having a few Peruvian soles on hand makes shopping much easier. You will also need them if you want to take photos of locals who will often charge you.

✈️ Reserve a Window Seat on Your Flight

The flight from Lima to Cusco is one of the most stunning flights I have ever been on - like a scene from a movie. If possible, request a window seat for incredible views of the snow-covered Andes Mountains as you approach Cusco. It's one of those travel moments that I will forever remember.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peru's

Is the Sacred Valley worth visiting?

Absolutely! Sacred Valley was the highlight of my trip to Peru. With its breathtaking mountain scenery, Inca ruins, colorful markets, vibrant rich culture, and charming villages, it offers a more relaxed experience than Cusco while still providing incredible history and culture. Many travelers rush through on their way to Machu Picchu, but it's well worth spending a few days exploring.

How many days should you spend in Peru's Sacred Valley?

Most travel guides recommend spending 3-5 days. I don’t think this is enough time. In my opinion, plan on spending at least 8-10 days between Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This gives you enough time to spend a couple of days in Machu Pichu and still visit popular sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines without feeling rushed. Get my 12 day itinerary which includes Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco for my recommendations on the best way to see the most of everything this area has to offer.

When is the best time to visit the Sacred Valley?

May through September is the dry season and generally considered the best time to visit. The days are sunny, skies are blue, and conditions are ideal for hiking and sightseeing. November through March recieved a lot of rain which brings greener landscapes and fewer crowds but also a greater chance of afternoon showers. I visited in August, during the dry season, and the weather was fantastic the entire trip.

Where do you fly into when visiting the Sacred Valley?

There isn't an airport in the Sacred Valley itself. Most visitors fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco, then drive about 1-2 hours down to the Sacred Valley depending on where they are staying.

Is Cusco part of the Sacred Valley?

No. Cusco is not physically located within the Sacred Valley. The city sits at approximately 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level, while the Sacred Valley lies about 9=19 miles (15–30 km) northeast of Cusco along the Urubamba River at lower elevation. Because it's lower, many travelers, including me, find it easier to acclimate in the Sacred Valley before spending time in Cusco or hiking at higher elevations.

Is Machu Picchu part of the Sacred Valley?

Yes. Machu Picchu is considered part of the greater Sacred Valley region and is by far it’s most popular attraction. It sits along the Urubamba River and was an important part of the Inca Empire. Most travelers visit the Sacred Valley before continuing by train to Aguas Calientes where you can take a bus or hike up to Machu Picchu.

👉 **Pro Tip:** If taking a train from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, take the Vistadome by PeruRail or the 360 Machu Picchu Train by Inca Rail.

These trains offer floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows designed so that you can look up out at the Sacred Valley landscape all around you on your journey.

Should you stay in Cusco or the Sacred Valley?

Both are excellent bases, but they offer different experiences.

Stay in Cusco if you:

Want vibrant nightlife and restaurants
Prefer being close to museums and historic sites
Have limited time

Stay in the Sacred Valley if you:

Want a quieter, more scenic atmosphere
Plan to explore the valley's archaeological sites
Want an easier introduction to Peru's altitude
Are taking the train to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo

✨ Personally, I loved staying in Urubamba first. The lower elevation helped me adjust to the altitude before visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Can you visit the Sacred Valley without a tour?

Absolutely! It's easy to explore the Sacred Valley independently by rental car, taxi, or the region's inexpensive colectivos (shared vans). Many travelers also hire a private driver for the day communicating via WhatsApp, which offers flexibility while avoiding the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. Guided tours are convenient but definitely not required.

👉 My Recommendation: Hire a private driver which is easy to do and gives you a more personalized experience with a lot of flexibility. You can ask the front desk where you’re staying for recommendations to help you find a driver.

Is the Sacred Valley higher than Machu Picchu?

Yes. Most of the Sacred Valley sits between 9,000 and 9,800 feet (2,750–3,000 meters) above sea level, while Machu Picchu is located at about 7,970 feet (2,430 meters). Cusco, however, is higher than both at approximately 11,150 feet (3,400 meters).

What are the best towns to stay in the Sacred Valley?

The best town depends on the type of trip you're planning.

Urubamba – The best all-around base with beautiful resorts, excellent restaurants, and a central location. It's also at a lower elevation than Cusco, making it ideal for acclimating.
Ollantaytambo – Perfect if you're taking the train to Machu Picchu or want to stay in a charming Inca town with impressive ruins.
Pisac – Known for its artisan market, archaeological site, and laid-back atmosphere.
Yucay – A peaceful village with boutique hotels that's close to Urubamba but quieter.

👉 My Recommendation: Urubamba.

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