Things To Know About Hiking The Sacred Valley of the Incas

Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour – Full Day

Overview

The Sacred Valley was once the agricultural, economic, and spiritual center of the Inca Empire. Surrounded by towering mountains and nourished by the Urubamba River, this fertile corridor sustained Cusco and supported some of the most important settlements of the Andean world. Its geography was not only productive but symbolic — a landscape carefully integrated into Inca cosmology and political organization.

This full-day journey explores key sites such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where monumental terraces, temples, and stone structures reveal the sophistication of Inca engineering. Along the way, travelers experience traditional villages, local markets, and panoramic viewpoints that highlight the valley’s enduring cultural identity. More than a scenic excursion, the Sacred Valley provides essential context for understanding Machu Picchu and the broader vision of the Inca civilization.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Short walking sections at archaeological sites
Highest Elevation: 3,762 m / 12,342 ft
Good For: Travelers seeking cultural insight and scenic exploration