The Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Perfect Route Before Machu Picchu

Introduction

The Sacred Valley of the Incas stretches along the Urubamba River and is home to some of Peru’s most impressive archaeological sites and landscapes. It is a highly recommended stop before visiting Machu Picchu due to its lower altitude and rich cultural heritage.

Main Attractions

• Pisac: known for its archaeological site and colorful artisan market.
• Ollantaytambo: a living Inca town and impressive fortress.
• Moray: circular agricultural terraces used for experimentation.
• Maras Salt Mines: thousands of salt pools still used today.

Why Visit the Sacred Valley?

The Sacred Valley allows gradual acclimatization and offers authentic experiences with local communities. Many travelers choose to stay overnight in Ollantaytambo before boarding the train to Machu Picchu.

Recommended Experiences

• Cultural and gastronomic tours.
• Easy hikes between Andean villages.
• Community-based and experiential tourism.