10 Best Things to Do in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Introduction

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located just a short drive from Cusco, is one of the most stunning and culturally rich regions in Peru. Surrounded by the Andes Mountains and nourished by the Urubamba River, this valley was once the heart of the Inca Empire — and today, it’s a paradise for travelers seeking nature, history, and authenticity.

From majestic archaeological sites to vibrant local markets and outdoor adventures, the Sacred Valley offers a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery. Here are the 10 best things to do in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, curated for travelers who want to experience the very best of this Andean treasure.

Explore the Ancient Ruins of Pisac

Start your Sacred Valley adventure in Pisac, one of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites. The ruins rise high above the village, offering panoramic views of the valley below. You’ll find agricultural terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas built with perfect Inca precision.
After exploring the ruins, wander through the Pisac Market, famous for its colorful textiles, jewelry, and handmade crafts.

Tip: Visit on Sunday or Tuesday when the market is most active.

Discover the Inca Fortress of Ollantaytambo

Known as the “Living Inca Town,” Ollantaytambo is both an archaeological wonder and a vibrant village that has preserved its original Inca layout.
Climb the stone terraces of the fortress to admire the breathtaking view of the valley, and imagine the fierce battles fought here against the Spanish conquistadors.
Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets of the village, where traditional houses and water channels still remain from Inca times.

Bonus: Ollantaytambo is also the main train station for Machu Picchu — making it a perfect stop before heading to the Lost City.

Visit the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)

The Maras Salt Mines are one of the Sacred Valley’s most photogenic attractions. Thousands of white salt ponds cascade down the mountain slopes, forming a surreal geometric landscape.
These pools have been used since Inca times to harvest pink salt using natural spring water. Visitors can walk along the edges, take incredible photos, and even buy pure Maras salt directly from local families.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.

Experience the Circular Terraces of Moray

Just a few kilometers from Maras lies Moray, an extraordinary Inca agricultural laboratory. The site features concentric circular terraces that descend into the earth, creating microclimates used to experiment with crops.
This innovative design reveals the Inca mastery of agriculture and environmental adaptation.

Pro tip: Combine Moray and Maras in one half-day tour — they’re only 20 minutes apart.

Visit Chinchero, the Land of Weavers

Known as the “Birthplace of the Rainbow,” Chinchero is a picturesque Andean village where time seems to stand still.
Here, women dressed in traditional clothing demonstrate ancestral weaving techniques using alpaca wool and natural dyes.
You can participate in a weaving workshop, visit the colonial church built on Inca foundations, and enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped mountains.

Don’t miss: Buying authentic handwoven textiles — every purchase supports local families.

Enjoy Adventure Activities in Urubamba

The valley’s main town, Urubamba, offers a mix of culture and adventure. It’s the perfect base for activities like ATV rides, mountain biking, zip-lining, and river rafting on the Urubamba River.
Families can also visit organic farms or take cooking classes to learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche or lomo saltado.

Tip: Spend one or two nights in Urubamba — its lower altitude makes it a great place to acclimatize before Machu Picchu.

Discover Yucay and Its Peaceful Charm

If you’re looking for tranquility, Yucay is a hidden gem. This small village offers scenic walking trails surrounded by farmland and colonial architecture.
It’s also home to the beautiful Temple of Santiago, built in the 17th century, and several boutique hotels set in former haciendas.
Yucay’s quiet charm and mild climate make it an ideal place for families and couples seeking rest amid the Andes.

Visit Local Farms and Taste Andean Flavors

The Sacred Valley is famous for its fertile land and delicious local produce. You can visit eco-farms and traditional chicherías (corn beer houses) to learn how locals make products like corn beer (chicha), quinoa, and honey.
Many tours include tastings of Andean snacks, freshly made bread, and fruit juices — a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike.

Pro tip: Try the giant white corn of the valley (maíz gigante del Valle Sagrado) — it’s unique to this region.

Take a Short Hike to Pumamarca Ruins

For travelers who love hiking but prefer something less crowded, the Pumamarca ruins near Ollantaytambo are a fantastic option.
This moderate trek (2–3 hours) leads through terraces, streams, and small villages until you reach the ruins, which offer panoramic views of the Patacancha Valley.
You’ll likely have the site all to yourself — a peaceful contrast to the more visited Inca sites.

Experience an Andean Ceremony or Pachamama Offering

The Sacred Valley isn’t only about ancient stones — it’s a living spiritual landscape.
Many local shamans (called paqos) perform Andean ceremonies to honor Pachamama (Mother Earth).
Participating in one of these rituals, often accompanied by coca leaves and natural elements, is a profound way to connect with the Andean worldview and express gratitude for nature.

Important: Choose an authentic, respectful ceremony guided by local communities rather than commercialized versions.

Finally

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is more than a stop on the way to Machu Picchu — it’s a destination in itself. Every town, trail, and market reveals a piece of Peru’s living heritage.
From ancient ruins and salt terraces to weaving workshops and local flavors, the valley invites travelers to slow down, explore, and connect with the spirit of the Andes.

Whether you come for a day or a week, these 10 best things to do in the Sacred Valley of the Incas will leave you with unforgettable memories — and a deeper appreciation for Inca culture and Andean life.