Quick Picks: Choosing Your Ideal Sacred Valley Tour

Are you in a rush to plan? Choosing among the best Sacred Valley day tours depends on your energy. Some trips require steep hikes. Others focus on shopping and relaxed sightseeing. We have categorized the top picks below.

• Best Overall: Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park for history.
• Best for Families: Maras Salt Mines and Moray.
• Best for Hikers: Inti Punku (The Sun Gate) trek.
• Best for Culture: Chinchero textile demonstrations.
• Best Free Activity: Pinkuylluna Inca Granaries hike.

10 Best Sacred Valley Day Tours from Ollantaytambo

Identifying the top experiences in this region requires research. We have curated a list of varied top attractions near Ollantaytambo for your itinerary. Each entry includes essential visitor data for 2026 planning.

1. Name: Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is a massive Inca fortress with incredible stone masonry. Climbing the terraces offers amazing views of the valley. It is one of the most significant sites in the Sacred Valley.
   Best for: History enthusiasts and photographers.
   Where: Northern edge of the village.
   Time: 2 to 3 hours.
   Cost: Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turistico).
   Getting there: Walkable from any hotel in Ollantaytambo.
   Tip: Visit at 7:00 AM to avoid the large bus groups from Cusco. You can use our ruins visitor guide for more detail.
2. Name: Maras Salt Mines (Salineras)
   Type: sight
   Why go: Explore over 3,000 ancient salt evaporation ponds. The white terraces create a stunning visual contrast against the brown mountains. Locals still harvest salt here using traditional methods.
   Best for: Photographers and families.
   Where: 45 minutes south of Ollantaytambo.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Approximately 10-20 Soles (not on the tourist ticket).
   Getting there: Hire a taxi or join one of the Maras and Moray tours.
   Tip: Buy a bag of Pink Maras Salt at the entrance for an authentic souvenir.
3. Name: Moray Agricultural Terraces
   Type: sight
   Why go: See the circular terraces that served as an Inca laboratory. Each level has a different microclimate for testing crops. It is a masterpiece of early engineering and landscape design.
   Best for: Science fans and history buffs.
   Where: Near the village of Maras.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket.
   Getting there: Best visited as a combined trip with the salt mines.
   Tip: Walk around the rim to understand the scale of the circles.
4. Name: Pinkuylluna Inca Granaries
   Type: experience
   Why go: These ancient storehouses sit high on the mountain opposite the main ruins. The hike is steep but free and offers the best village views. It is much quieter than the main archaeological site.
   Best for: Budget travelers and active adventurers.
   Where: Entrance is on La Convencion street.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: A short walk from the village square followed by a hike.
   Tip: Wear shoes with good grip as the trail is very rocky. Read our granaries hiking guide before you go.
5. Name: Perolniyoc Waterfall and Ruins
   Type: day trip
   Why go: This hidden gem features a massive vertical waterfall. On top of the cliff sits the Racaypata ruins. Most tourists never visit this peaceful and powerful location.
   Best for: Nature lovers looking to escape the crowds.
   Where: Near the community of Socma.
   Time: 5 to 6 hours (including transport).
   Cost: Usually free ruins, but you need a taxi or guide.
   Getting there: Drive 30 minutes to Socma and hike for 45-60 minutes.
   Tip: Pack a lunch as there are no shops near the waterfall. Check the Perolniyoc day trip guide for path details.
6. Name: Pumamarca Ruins
   Type: trekking
   Why go: These pre-Inca ruins have a unique shape resembling a puma. The trail follows ancient canals and passes through traditional farming fields. It offers a remote feeling very close to town.
   Best for: Hikers wanting a moderate half-day activity.
   Where: North of Ollantaytambo in the Patacancha Valley.
   Time: 4 hours total.
   Cost: Approximately 10 Soles entry fee.
   Getting there: Take a mototaxi to the ruins and hike back down to town.
   Tip: The hike down is much easier than the hike up. Follow the Pumamarca trekking guide for the best route.
7. Name: Inti Punku (Sun Gate) Hike
   Type: experience
   Why go: This is a challenging trek to an Inca gateway facing Mount Veronica. You follow an original Inca trail through old stone quarries. The view from the gate is truly breathtaking.
   Best for: Experienced hikers with good stamina.
   Where: Across the river from the village center.
   Time: 7 to 9 hours.
   Cost: Free (no permit currently required).
   Getting there: Cross the bridge and follow the signs for the Cachicata quarry.
   Tip: Start by 6:00 AM to avoid the afternoon sun and wind. Review our Sun Gate hike details first.
8. Name: Chinchero Town and Textile Market
   Type: experience
   Why go: Known for its colorful markets and high-quality weaving. Local women show how to dye wool using natural plants. The town also features impressive Inca walls and a colonial church.
   Best for: Cultural shoppers and families.
   Where: 1 hour drive toward Cusco.
   Time: 2 to 3 hours.
   Cost: Market is free; ruins require the Tourist Ticket.
   Getting there: Take a collectivo (shared van) toward Cusco and ask for Chinchero.
   Tip: Sundays are the busiest and most colorful days to visit.
9. Name: Pisaq Ruins and Market
   Type: sight
   Why go: These ruins are famous for their vast agricultural terraces. The hillside site overlooks a bustling valley town. The market is one of the largest in Peru for pottery and textiles.
   Best for: Day trippers and souvenir hunters.
   Where: Eastern end of the Sacred Valley.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Ruins on Tourist Ticket; Market is free.
   Getting there: Private taxi or local bus via Calca.
   Tip: Do not miss the religious sector high above the main terraces.
10. Name: Ancient Inca Bridge
    Type: sight
    Why go: Located at the base of the village, this bridge is a quiet historical spot. It provides a great view of the Vilcanota River and the surrounding peaks. It is a quick and easy visit for any traveler.
    Best for: Short walks and river views.
    Where: Southern entrance to the village.
    Time: 30 minutes.
    Cost: Free.
    Getting there: Walk towards the river from the main square.
    Tip: It is a great spot to relax before heading to the train station.

Planning Your Sacred Valley Day Trips

Success in the Sacred Valley requires some preparation. You must buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turistico) for many sites. You can find ticket details on the official COSITUC website. Most travelers prefer the full 10-day ticket for better value.

Weather changes quickly in the Andes. Bring layers even if the sun is out in the morning. Rain is common from December to March. Always carry a waterproof jacket and high-SPF sunscreen. Hydration is vital at 2,792 meters (9,160 feet).

Transportation is flexible in Ollantaytambo. You can find shared vans, known as collectivos, at the main market. Private taxis offer more comfort but cost more. For general area information, check the Ollantaytambo District overview. This will help you understand the local geography better.