From the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu: Following in the Footsteps of History in Cusco

16 April 2026 (5 reads)

If you’re spending the night in Ollantaytambo or catching the train, this tour is a great way to experience the best of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and make the most of your time. You will visit must-see archaeological sites, each with their own magic and sense of adventure.

Cusco isn’t just limited to its Inca stone walls; it’s just the starting point. If you’re looking for an experience combining history, ancient engineering and stunning landscapes, the route through Chinchero, Maras and Moray to Ollantaytambo is a must.

Read on for a guide to transforming a simple transfer into an unforgettable expedition through the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Are you ready to uncover the secrets that the Incas left engraved on the land?

Chinchero: Where the Sky is Woven

Just 45 minutes from Cusco lies Chinchero, a town known to locals as the place where rainbows are born. Located at a high altitude of 3,762 metres above sea level, the town boasts one of the most spectacular views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

The Market and Heritage: It is not just a place to shop; it is also a hub of cultural resistance. Skilled weavers use frijolilla and cochineal to dye alpaca wool here, just as they did 500 years ago.
The colonial church, built on top of an Inca palace, is a hidden gem whose Baroque interior blends Cusco art with Andean cosmogony.
The Archaeological Complex is noted for its terraces and ancient stone walls.

Moray: The Laboratory of the Gods

As you head towards the heart of the valley, you’ll come across one of Peru's most mesmerising sights: the concentric circles of Moray.

At first glance, they resemble a Roman amphitheatre, but they are actually a sophisticated agricultural experimental station. Thanks to its design and depth, the temperature difference between the upper and lower terraces can be as much as 15 °C. This allowed the Incas to acclimatise crops from different ecological zones in a single location.

The Maras Salt Mines: White Gold

Just a few miles from Moray, the landscape changes dramatically. Thousands of white salt pools dot the mountainside, creating a striking contrast with the brown mountain range.

It's an age-old process. These pools are fed by an underground spring of highly saline water. The local community continues to harvest the salt using the same traditional methods as their ancestors.
Travel tip: Be sure to buy a jar of Maras pink salt, which is renowned for its exceptional purity and is considered one of the finest gourmet salts in the world.

Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca City

The journey ends in Ollantaytambo, the only Inca town still inhabited today. Its cobblestone streets have retained their original layout, and water still flows through the channels running alongside the pavements.

The Fortress: Climb the hundreds of steps up to the Temple of the Sun. From the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley and see the 'colcas' (grain silos) perched on the mountains across the way.
The Final Connection: Ollantaytambo is the main hub for catching the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), providing the perfect conclusion to your journey through the Sacred Valley. You can also stay in one of its hotels, which offer views of the fortress or are located near the Patacancha River. These hotels blend history with the landscape of the Sacred Valley.

Tips for Your Trip

Recommendation	Details
Tourist Ticket	To enter Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo, you will need the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTG).
Entrance to Maras	Admission to the salt flats is an additional cost of 20 soles, paid directly to the community.
Best Time	Leave Cusco at 7:00 a.m. to see the sights while they're less crowded and to get the best lighting for your photos.
Hydration	It's dry and sunny, so always bring water and sunscreen.

This itinerary is more than just a tour; it's an in-depth exploration of the engineering and artistry of a civilization that still thrives in every corner of Cusco. It offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the city's rich history and culture.

Hierba Buena Tours offers customized tours based on your schedule and preferences. Our tours always include friendly drivers, comfortable vehicles, and expert guides who will ensure that every minute of your trip is worthwhile.

From the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu: Following in the Footsteps of History in Cusco