Top 5 Sacred Valley Cultural Tours: Reviews & Recommendations
The Sacred Valley in Peru, is that special, sprawling region set between Cusco and Machu Picchu, and is very much a must-see spot for anyone keen to soak up Andean culture and amazing historical places. Choosing the right tour, is that important for making your visit absolutely amazing. I’ve checked out some super tours that cover pretty important cultural spots, offer some fun activities, and, like, give you very authentic experiences. I’m going to chat about the five tours I reckon are pretty great, give you some tips, and, of course, share a little on why the Sacred Valley should really be high up on your travel must-do list.
1. Pisac, Ollantaytambo & Chinchero: A Valley Overview
If you fancy ticking off some pretty key sights in the Sacred Valley, tours that go to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero are often just perfect for grabbing a little bit of everything. So, you typically kick off at Pisac, pretty well known for its awesome market and seriously impressive Inca ruins perched way up high with awesome views. Then it’s on to Ollantaytambo, a town is that still boasts incredible Inca construction, really showing off some neat engineering. Chinchero, that features traditional textiles, and very pretty colonial church, is usually where it winds up.
Why it’s super: This tour provides a fantastic overview of Inca history, really giving a proper glimpse into traditional Andean crafts, and is that also handy if you are looking to get some cracking photos.
Good to know: Be prepared for a busy day and, you know, maybe factor in some extra time to properly wander about the Pisac market. It’s a hotspot for tourist souvenirs and, honestly, just little nick-knacks in general.
Read our full review: Pisac, Ollantaytambo & Chinchero Tour Full Review and Details
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2. Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras: A Different Side of the Valley
Fancy something a little bit different? Well, the Moray and Maras tour could just be right up your street. The terraced, circular depressions at Moray, used really way back for agricultural experiments by the Incas, are totally something to check out. Following this, you head to the salt mines of Maras, which is actually an awesome patchwork of salt pans are that has been in use since Inca times. It’s quite the sight to see!
Why it’s great: These places offer a peek into pretty awesome Inca innovation and, that is that, are genuinely great for some unique photo opportunities. Seeing those salt mines is something pretty else, really.
Things to consider: Because there is not much shelter and it tends to be sunny, don’t forget things such as hats and sunblock. The tour sometimes involves walking across uneven ground too, so, like, wear some sturdy shoes!
Read our full review: Moray and Maras Salt Mines Tour Full Review and Details
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3. Community Tourism in the Sacred Valley: Get Really Local
Keen to see some local life, so? Choosing a community tour is an ideal way for seeing that bit a Sacred Valley. Very often, these trips are geared to spend time with, well, smaller communities. I’m talking seeing how they go about everyday things. That includes getting the lowdown on weaving traditions and, like, experiencing proper home cooking.
Why it’s awesome: It is that kind of cultural thing you cannot put a price on, which is interacting with locals in the area. Community tours make for some pretty great memories, that’s what it’s all about.
Important stuff to bear in mind: Learn some very basic Spanish. That always seems to come in really handy, since there are few opportunities where people will have a full command of English.
Read our full review: Community Tourism in the Sacred Valley Full Review and Details
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4. Adventure Tours: Zip-lining or Rafting Fun
Fancy a rush of excitement while seeing the Sacred Valley? Why don’t you sign up for an adventure tour? As a matter of fact, zip-lining tours give you stunning views as you zoom across the landscapes, so they do. Or, it could be worth you choosing to try a river rafting trip on the Urubamba River which, frankly, can be quite exhilarating.
What’s good about it: Those who love their outdoor activities are really in for something pretty fun here. Adventure tours are great, especially when seeing such sights.
Just a heads-up: Always check the fine print about the difficulty level and, clearly, consider your comfort zone when doing extreme things. Moreover, paying for sufficient cover through the right travel insurance can be just smart.
Read our full review: Adventure Tours in the Sacred Valley Full Review and Details
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5. Culinary Tours: Tasting Local Flavors
What is more satisfying than Peruvian dishes? You can indulge with some yummy culinary tours right in the center of Sacred Valley and so explore dishes in local areas! Why not learn to whip up classic Peruvian fare yourself using traditional ways?
Why that sounds nice: Very keen cooks will so see real, pretty local dishes for themselves.
Stuff that should be borne in mind: Should it be there are allergies from dishes or your diet? As a matter of fact let cooking experts running trips get wind prior! They probably tend to give replacements.
Read our full review: Culinary Tours in the Sacred Valley Full Review and Details
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To choose some tour down Sacred Valley which, too, goes with personal likes then? I did touch ground across trips there, so do check which seems right, given just how long I want gone or personal pace for vacation!
Read our full review: Sacred Valley Cultural Tours Full Review and Details
