Cusco Region – The Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley, also known as Valle Sagrado, lies between Cusco and Machu Picchu and follows the fertile course of the Urubamba River through the Andes mountains. The valley was a central area of the Inca Empire, not only spiritually but also agriculturally, thanks to its mild microclimate and advanced terraced landscapes. Here, you’ll find some of Peru's most significant archaeological sites: Pisac with its high-altitude ruins and one of the region's most well-known markets, Ollantaytambo – a living Inca town with monumental stone temples – and Moray, where circular terraces served as an experimental agricultural center. Beyond the ruins, Quechua culture thrives in small villages, where traditional clothing, hand-weaving, and farming still shape everyday life. Markets offer handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and local crops, while visits to local families provide a rare insight into daily life in the Andes. The Sacred Valley is best experienced at a slow pace, where nature, history, and vibrant culture merge, serving as the natural gateway to Machu Picchu.