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5-Day Sacred Valley Itinerary: Your Complete Guide to Visiting

Welcome to the Sacred Valley! I’m so excited to have crafted my own experiences into a super helpful guide. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of immersing myself in the beauty and culture of the Sacred Valley, and I’m excited to share it all with you in this 5-day Sacred Valley Itinerary. From the moment I first arrived, I knew this area was special. It truly is the heart of the Andes and a true gem of South America.

In this five-day itinerary, I’ll take you through the highlights I’ve personally loved—whether it’s the jaw-dropping Maras Salt Mines, the hidden gems of Moray and Chinchero, or the thrill of white-water rafting on the Urubamba River. I’ve spent hours wandering through ancient Incan ruins, sipping coffee at local spots like Three Monkey’s Coffee, and even soaking in the breathtaking views during a horseback ride around the Huaypo Lagoon.

One of my favorite parts of this Sacred Valley itinerary is that there’s something for every pace—whether you’re taking on the challenge of a Humantay Lake hike or winding down with a relaxing spa day, I’ve found it all to be an unforgettable experience. Let me guide you through this beautiful region, where adventure, history, and peace come together in perfect harmony.

Happy travels in Peru!

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Is the Sacred Valley Worth Visiting?

The Sacred Valley is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited. With mountain views, friendly locals, and unique attractions, it’s truly unforgettable. Many travelers take day trips from Cusco, but staying in the Sacred Valley is better. You’ll have more time to explore and enjoy its charm.

How Many Days to Spend

If your Sacred Valley itinerary includes a trip to Machu Picchu, plan for at least three days. Ideally, spending 3-5 days gives you enough time to visit the top attractions and fully experience the area.

Having visited the Sacred Valley multiple times, I always recommend staying longer here and less in Cusco, if your schedule allows. The Sacred Valley is packed with incredible sites, fantastic restaurants, and natural beauty that’s worth savoring at a slower pace.

How to Get to the Sacred valley

The Sacred Valley is nestled in the Andes Mountains, and the easiest way to reach it is by flying into Cusco. Cusco is well-connected, with dozens of daily flights from cities across Peru, most commonly from Lima. While it’s possible to take a bus from Lima to Cusco, the journey takes around 24 hours. Unless you’re on a strict backpacker’s budget, flying is the better choice.

Travel Tip! Book your flight to Cusco separately from your flight to Lima. Flights to Cusco tend to be more expensive, and booking them as two separate reservations can save you hundreds of dollars. However, keep in mind that flights in and out of Cusco are often delayed or canceled due to weather. Be sure to allow extra time between connections, especially when departing.

Getting to the Sacred Valley from Cusco

There are several ways to reach the Sacred Valley from Cusco: public bus, taxi, private transfer, or rental car. Each option has its pros and cons. Depending on your budget and comfort level, you can choose the one that works best for your travels.

Public Bus

Taking a public bus is one of the most popular and affordable ways to reach the Sacred Valley. Buses depart from the terminal on Grau Street in Cusco, with the easiest route being to Urubamba, the largest city and a convenient base in the Sacred Valley.

The bus ride takes 1.5 to 2 hours, with buses running every 15 minutes until 6:30 PM. This option costs around $2 USD, making it ideal for budget travelers.

Taxi

If you prefer more comfort and direct service, taking a taxi is a great choice. A private taxi can take you directly from your hotel in Cusco to your destination in the Sacred Valley. This is especially helpful if your hotel is located outside the main towns.

The cost for a taxi from Cusco to Urubamba ranges from $30 to $50. To ensure a fair price, ask your hotel in Cusco to prearrange your taxi. Since taxis in Cusco don’t have fixed rates, booking through your hotel guarantees transparency and avoids haggling.

Private Transfer

For the ultimate convenience and comfort, hiring a private transfer is the best option. Private transfers provide door-to-door service at a fixed rate that is agreed upon and paid in advance. Many travelers find the ease and reliability of this option well worth the cost.

Travel Tip! Many private transfer services in the Sacred Valley communicate through WhatsApp. Make sure to download and set up the app before booking your transfer, as operators often use it to coordinate pickup details and stay in touch.

Renting a Car in Cusco

Renting a car in Cusco and driving through the Sacred Valley is surprisingly easy (trust me, I’ve done it). The most challenging part is navigating the busy streets of Cusco. Once you’re out of the city, the roads are safe, well-paved, and simple to follow.

What I loved most about renting a car was the freedom to stop along the way. You can explore charming small towns, take in stunning scenic overlooks, and discover unique roadside attractions—all experiences you might miss without your own transportation.

Perhaps the biggest perk is the flexibility to stay in some truly unique accommodations throughout the Sacred Valley. Platforms like Airbnb offer incredible places that are best accessed with a rental car.

Getting Around the Sacred Valley

Once in the Sacred Valley, there are three main ways to get around, depending on your travel style:

Hire a Private Driver or Taxi
For a stress-free experience, consider hiring a private driver or taxi for the day. This option offers personalized service and is perfect for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.

Drive Yourself
If you’ve rented a car, you can easily navigate the Sacred Valley on your own. Driving yourself saves money on guided day trips since you’ll only need to pay entrance fees to attractions.

Join a Day Trip
Guided day trips are a convenient option, typically departing from Cusco. However, some operators also run tours from Urubamba if you’re staying in the valley.

When Is The Best Time to Visit?

The Sacred Valley has two main seasons: dry and wet. The dry season, from May to early November, is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. The wet season, which starts in November and lasts until April, sees its heaviest rainfall between January and March.

The dry season is also the high season, meaning higher prices for tours and accommodations. However, it’s the best time for exploring Incan archaeological sites and enjoying outdoor adventures.

If you’re looking for fewer crowds and better deals, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to early May or October to mid-December). You might encounter occasional rain, but the trade-off is worth it.

Weather and Altitude

Thanks to its location in the Andes, the Sacred Valley enjoys a mild, temperate climate year-round, with variations depending on the season.

  • Dry Season: Highs range from 60–70°F, and lows dip to 30–40°F.
  • Wet Season: Slightly warmer, with highs between 70–75°F.

Evenings are generally colder due to the valley’s altitude, so be prepared with warm layers.

The Sacred Valley sits at an elevation of around 9,000 feet, slightly lower than Cusco’s 11,150 feet. While the lower elevation may help, visitors can still feel the effects of altitude.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in the Sacred Valley

Traveling to high elevations like the Andes can be a challenge for your body, especially if you’re unaccustomed to it. On my first visit, I experienced lightheadedness and fatigue for a few days, but on my second trip, I felt fine. Everyone’s experience can vary, but here are some tips to help you adjust:

  • Stay Hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of water. Bring a reusable bottle, like a Lifestraw that can be used with any water source, to keep yourself hydrated.
  • Drink Coca: This has been a traditional herb remedy by the people of the Andes for centuries. Coca leaves can be chewed on or, more typically, served in a tea. You’ll usually find this tea in any hotel in the Sacred Valley.
  • Take it Easy Upon Arrival: For the first day or two be sure to avoid highly tenuous activities, like hiking. Your body needs time to adjust to the lack of oxygen.

where to stay in the sacred valley

Best Towns to Stay in the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a collection of small communities nestled in the Andes, with Urubamba being the largest and most central town. Urubamba makes an excellent base for exploring the valley due to its prime location near key landmarks and its variety of restaurants that stay open into the evening.

For travelers without a rental car, Urubamba is the most convenient option as it offers easy access to transportation and amenities. On the other hand, if you plan to rent a car, you’ll have more flexibility to stay in rural and unique accommodations scattered throughout the valley. These hidden gems allow you to experience the Sacred Valley’s natural beauty and charm more intimately.

My Top Places to Stay

Sequeiros Garden $ | Located outside Ollayantambo, this small and clean property is perfect for those looking to stay closer to the train station before heading to Machu Picchu.

Chaska Valle Inn $ | In the heart of Urubamba this property is centrally located for a very affordable price.

My Top Pick!
San Agustin Monasterio de la Recoleta | I absolutely loved my stay here! A converted monastery, the hotel has some breathtaking views, great cocktail happy hour, and a quick walk from Urubamba’s center.

Andean Wings Valley | Quaint and charming are two words that come to mind about Andean Wings. It’s located a bit outside of Urubamba but can be worth it if you plan on having a rental car.

Luxury Places to Stay in the Sacred Valley

Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel | Located in a 17th century hacienda, this 5-star hotel includes a spa that specializes in medicinal treatments. The hotel has a pool, jacuzzi and is located on the river with beautiful views from every guest room.

Stardome | With a great location to take in the Sacred Valley, the Stardome is a unique place to stay perfect to add to your Sacred Valley itinerary. In addition to the unique stay, the hotel has a fantastic garden and restaurant.

Tambo del Inca | Getting to Machu Picchu is a lot easier at Tambo del Inca, which has a private train station that runs to Aguas Calientes. The hotel is located on the Urubamba River with every room including a balcony. 

Looking for something truly unique? Try staying in the Vertical Sky Suites! Not for those afraid of heights, these suites are located on the mountainside with stunning views.

Sacred Valley Itinerary: 5 Days

Day 1: Maras Salt Mines and Archeological Sites

Highlights: Local coffee, alpaca farm, Chinchero, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines

Start your day in Cusco and head toward the Sacred Valley. While I recommend renting a car for flexibility, hiring a driver is also an easy option. Be sure to grab a cup of coffee at Three Monkey’s Coffee, one of my favorite spots, before hitting the road.

First stop: Awana Kancha, an alpaca and llama farm just outside Cusco. This small farm offers the chance to pet and feed the animals and shop for handmade items crafted from the wool they provide. It’s a charming and quick stop before you dive into the Sacred Valley.

Next, visit Chinchero. It’s included with the Boleto Turístico, which costs 70 soles and grants you access to four archaeological sites. You can purchase your ticket upon arrival.

Why Chinchero? The panoramic views of the surrounding valley are stunning. Here, you’ll find stone terraces once used by the Incas for farming, as well as Incan ruins. After the Spanish conquest, the Our Lady of Monserrat Church was built atop the sacred site. Chinchero offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to roam—perfect for exploring these Inca ruins at your own pace.

Afterward, have lunch in town. Restaurante Merienda and Restaurante Antawara both serve excellent, reasonably priced Peruvian food.

Afternoon in the Sacred Valley

Next, head to Moray, another fascinating Incan site. The circular terraces here are truly remarkable. While Moray tends to be more crowded than Chinchero, it’s well worth the visit. These agricultural terraces were believed to be used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation, helping them test new crops in varying climate conditions.

Travel Tip! To get the best views of Moray, hike down into the circular platforms. The descent is easy thanks to the steps and trails, and it gives you multiple perspectives of this unique site.

Final stop: The Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras). These salt mines date back over 500 years, even before the Incas. Local families still operate the salt production here, harvesting salt from the pools annually. The pools themselves are a striking sight, with their pink and white hues set against the backdrop of the Andes.

The salt mines are easy to access, even without a guide. Just be cautious of steep drop-offs along the road, especially with tour buses coming through. Entrance is inexpensive, though guided tours are also available if you prefer one.

After your visit, head to your accommodation for the night. I recommend staying in Urubamba, just a 30-minute drive away. San Agustin Monasterio de la Recoleta is one of my favorite places, though I also loved staying at The Glass House on the Rock.

For dinner, try Mashua Restaurante for a more upscale, traditional Peruvian experience, or head to Kampu for a Peruvian take on Indian cuisine.

Day 2: Pisac + Traditional Andean Spa Experience

Highlights: Pisac ruins, craft beer, Andean spa

Welcome to your first full day in the Sacred Valley! Start your day with stunning mountain views. Enjoy your morning coffee while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. If you’re looking for a place to grab breakfast,  Yupi Restobar offers a great selection of Peruvian coffees and breakfast options. I loved it and highly recommend! 

Travel tip! If you're traveling to Urubamaba on a Wednesday or Saturday be sure to visit the Mercado De Urubamaba for a truly local market experience.

After breakfast, drive to the Pisac archeological site, about an hour’s drive from Urubamba. This town is known for the Pisac Archaeological Site and the Mercado de Pisac, both must-sees!

Start your visit with the Pisac Archaeological Site, perched 3,300 feet above the town. It’s easy to get there by hiking or driving. If you have a Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket), it’s valid here too. The site is well-preserved and offers amazing views. Plan for about an hour here if you’re going solo, or 2-3 hours with a guide.

After the ruins, grab a freshly baked empanada at Horno San Francisco, and explore the Mercado de Pisac (Pisac Market) for locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.

For a craft beer, stop by Cervecería del Valle Sagrado, a local craft beer brewery with locations in Pisac, Urubamba, and Cusco.

Head back to Urubamba for a relaxing evening. For an indulgent experience, visit the Kallpa Spa at Tambo del Inka for a traditional Incan-inspired treatment. For a more budget-friendly option, try Samay Spa in Urubamba.

Day 3: Take to a Guided Activity

Highlights: Options include horseback riding, zip-lining, or white water rafting

On Day 3, dive into one of the Sacred Valley’s thrilling guided activities. Choose from white water rafting, horseback riding, or zip-lining—each offering a unique way to experience the valley.

If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, white water rafting on the Urubamba River is a must. This full-day adventure is perfect for those wanting to combine scenic views with a bit of excitement.

For a more relaxed pace, opt for horseback riding at Huaypo Lagoon, just 20 minutes from Urubamba. This 3-hour guided tour lets you enjoy the valley’s beauty from the saddle.

If you prefer a mix of climbing and zip-lining, try an all-day zip-lining tour, which has become a popular adventure in the Sacred Valley.

Day 4: Machu Picchu

Visiting Machu Picchu is the highlight of many Sacred Valley trips, but it requires some preparation. Be sure to secure your park entrance and train tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.

Start your journey early by heading to Ollantaytambo, a picturesque town where you’ll catch your train. The town can get busy with tour buses, so be careful navigating the narrow streets. If you’re driving yourself, there are plenty of parking lots along Avenida Ferrocarril, but if you hire a driver, they’ll drop you right at the train station.

From Ollantaytambo, take the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. You’ll see portions of the Inca Trail along the route!

After arriving, board a bus that will take you up the winding road to the entrance of the Inca citadel. Upon arrival, explore the breathtaking ruins, taking time to soak in the history and stunning mountain views.

If you’ve booked a guided tour, you’ll be led through the site by an expert who can share fascinating insights into the history and significance of Machu Picchu.

For those looking to save money, visiting independently is a great option. However, if you’d prefer a more seamless experience, you can book a package that includes entry tickets, transport, and a guide. This removes a lot of the stress of organizing everything on your own.

>> I’ve put together an entire guide to visiting Machu Picchu. This includes a lot more details than I’ll include here, so be there to check it out.

After your time at Machu Picchu, make your way back to Aguas Calientes. While the town is often bustling with tourists and souvenir stalls, there are a few hidden gems. I recommend Mapacho, a riverside beer garden with delicious food and cold drinks. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day before heading back to Ollantaytambo.

Day 5: Hike to Humantay Lake or Free Day Back to Cusco

Highlights: Short hike to beautiful lake or free day back to Cusco

It’s your last day of your Sacred Valley itinerary and after a long day to and from Machu Picchu yesterday you’ll probably be ready to rest and recover. (I know I was both time I visited.) So depending on how you feel take it easy and head back to Cusco earlier or spend the morning hiking to the incredible Huantay Lake.

If you choose to hike to Humantay, keep in mind the lake is 3.5 hours from Urubamba but you can catch a guided tour from Cusco a bit easier than driving yourself. You can visit without a guided tour but signage isn’t well marked so be sure to bring a GPS-powered hiking app to ensure you stay on course.

>> If you’d rather, you could head back to Cusco the evening before to join a tour and trek to Rainbow Mountain.

Sacred Valley FAQs

Whats the best time of the year to visit the Sacred Valley?

Though you can visit the Sacred Valley anytime of the year, I personally thing shoulder season is the best time to visit. There are hardly any tourists making entry tickets easy to get and the prices are much cheaper than high season, too.

How much does it cost to go to Sacred Valley?

Peru can be relatively cheap or very expensive depending on how you want to visit. You can easily find hotel rooms for $30-50 a night or stay in luxury villas for $200-300+ a night. How you choose your transportation matters, too. Private transfers and group excursions will add up quickly. But on average a mid-range traveler will likely spend $800-$1000 for a week in the Sacred Valley.

More Peru Tips + Inspiration

I hope you enjoyed this Sacred Valley itinerary! For more Peru tips and recommendations be sure to check out some of my other helpful posts below:

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