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Sacred Valley
Sacred Valley, Peru
Visited
2-3 Days
The Sacred Valley is a breathtaking Andean region nestled between Cusco and Machu Picchu, filled with ancient Incan sites, terraced landscapes, and traditional villages. A serene counterpart to bustling Cusco, it offers rich cultural experiences and stunning scenery.
About Sacred Valley
Located at a lower altitude than Cusco, the Sacred Valley is a lush, green corridor that runs alongside the Urubamba River. It was once the heart of Inca agriculture, evident from the terraced hills and intricate irrigation systems. The valley includes historic sites such as Pisac with its impressive ruins and artisanal market, the agricultural terraces of Moray, the salt pans of Maras, and the charming town of Urubamba. With its relaxed pace, artisanal shops, and eco-luxury lodges, the Sacred Valley is ideal for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
My Experience
We started our Sacred Valley journey with a scenic drive from Cusco, stopping first at the Pisac Ruins and vibrant local market. The views were magnificent, and the market was full of handmade crafts. From there, we visited the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, which felt like stepping into an ancient agricultural lab. The nearby Maras Salt Mines, with thousands of dazzling white salt pools carved into the mountainside, were equally mesmerising.
Our evening ended in Ollantaytambo, where we explored the imposing fortress before checking into El Albergue a charming boutique hotel next to the train station. Dinner at Café Mayu offered fresh, organic flavours with vegetarian-friendly options.
Gallery

Pros & Cons
Pros
- Spectacular mountain landscapes
- Less crowded than Cusco or Machu Picchu
- Traditional artisan markets
- Unique eco-lodges and boutique stays
Cons
- Requires travel from Cusco (1.5-2 hours)
- Limited public transport between towns
- Some ruins require climbing steep paths
- Cooler temperatures in the evening
Quick Info
May to October
2-3 Days
Where I Stayed