Sacred Valley VIP Tour Travel Information
The Sacred Valley VIP Tour is one of the best ways to discover the rich history, impressive landscapes, and living culture of the Peruvian Andes in just one day. This experience takes travelers through some of the most iconic destinations near Cusco, including ancient Inca sites, traditional villages, agricultural terraces, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Unlike the traditional Sacred Valley route, the VIP version includes additional stops such as Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, giving visitors a more complete experience of the region. Along the journey, travelers will learn about Inca engineering, agriculture, architecture, and the importance of the Sacred Valley during the Inca Empire.
Altitude Information
The Sacred Valley is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, where altitude can affect some travelers, especially during their first days in Cusco. Spending at least one or two days acclimatizing before the tour is highly recommended.
Approximate Elevations
- Cusco: 3,399 m / 11,152 ft
- Chinchero: 3,762 m / 12,343 ft
- Moray: 3,500 m / 11,483 ft
- Maras Salt Mines: 3,380 m / 11,089 ft
- Ollantaytambo: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft
- Pisac: 2,972 m / 9,751 ft
Some travelers may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches or shortness of breath. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and taking things slowly can help your body adjust more comfortably.
Weather and Climate
The weather in the Sacred Valley changes throughout the day, so it’s important to be prepared for different conditions. Mornings are usually cold, while midday temperatures become warmer under the sun.
Dry Season (May to September)
- Sunny days with clear skies
- Excellent visibility for photography
- Cool mornings and evenings
- Ideal season for outdoor activities
Rainy Season (November to March)
- Occasional rain showers during the afternoon
- Greener landscapes and fewer tourists
- Cloudier weather with changing temperatures
- Rain jackets or ponchos are recommended
Average Temperatures
- Daytime: 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F)
- Nighttime: 2°C to 8°C (35°F to 46°F)
What to Bring
To enjoy the Sacred Valley VIP Tour comfortably, travelers should bring a few essential items for the day.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or sweater
- Rain poncho during the rainy season
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack for personal items
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Cash for souvenirs or extra snacks
Physical Difficulty
This tour is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for most travelers. Transportation is provided between all destinations, but visitors should expect short walks, stairs, and uneven stone paths at some archaeological sites.
No hiking experience is necessary, making this tour ideal for families, couples, solo travelers, and older visitors who want to explore the Sacred Valley comfortably.
Cultural Experience
The Sacred Valley was one of the most important agricultural and spiritual regions of the Inca Empire. Today, many local communities still preserve ancient traditions, including farming methods, weaving techniques, and the Quechua language.
During the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to experience traditional Andean culture while visiting colorful villages, local markets, and impressive archaeological sites surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
About the Maras Salt Mines
The Maras Salt Mines are one of the most unique attractions in the Sacred Valley. Thousands of small salt pools have been used since pre-Inca times, and local families continue harvesting salt using traditional methods passed down through generations.
The bright white salt terraces against the mountains create one of the most photogenic landscapes in the Cusco region.
About Moray
Moray is famous for its circular agricultural terraces, believed to have been used by the Incas as an experimental farming center. Each terrace level creates a different microclimate, allowing the Incas to test crops in various conditions.
The site offers a fascinating look into the advanced agricultural knowledge of the Inca civilization.
Food and Lunch Information
The tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley. Travelers can enjoy a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes and regional ingredients.
Vegetarian options are usually available, and most restaurants offer a mix of local and international cuisine. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s recommended to inform the tour operator in advance.
Photography Opportunities
The Sacred Valley VIP Tour offers incredible opportunities for photography throughout the day. Visitors can capture panoramic mountain views, ancient Inca ruins, colorful villages, agricultural terraces, and the impressive salt pools of Maras.
Bringing a fully charged phone or camera is highly recommended, especially for panoramic viewpoints and archaeological sites.
Travel Tips
- Spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour to acclimatize
- Carry small amounts of cash in Peruvian soles
- Use sunscreen even on cloudy days due to the strong mountain sun
- Stay hydrated during the tour
- Respect archaeological sites and local communities
- Bring layers of clothing for changing weather conditions