The Sacred Valley stretches from the town of Pisac to the citadel of Machu Picchu and encompasses several small towns and villages, each with its own unique attractions. Visitors can explore ancient Inca ruins, admire stunning landscapes, learn about traditional arts and crafts, and enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking, biking, and river rafting.
One of the most popular activities in the Sacred Valley is visiting the various Inca ruins that dot the landscape. The most famous of these is the fortress of Ollantaytambo, which was built by the Incas to protect their capital city from the invading Spanish. This impressive complex features massive stone walls, terraces, and staircases that were ingeniously designed to withstand attacks and provide strategic advantages in battle.
Another must-see site is the town of Pisac, which is known for its impressive ruins and colorful artisan market. Pisac’s ruins include the Intihuatana, a stone that was used by the Incas to track the movement of the sun, as well as several impressive temples and fortresses. The market, which takes place every Sunday, is a great place to shop for local crafts such as textiles, pottery, and jewelry.
For those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures, the Sacred Valley offers plenty of options. The most famous trek is the Inca Trail, which takes hikers on a four-day journey through stunning mountain scenery and past several ancient ruins before culminating at Machu Picchu. However, there are also many shorter treks that allow visitors to experience the region’s natural beauty on a more manageable scale.
One such trek is the Salkantay Trek, which takes hikers to the foot of Mount Salkantay, one of the most spectacular peaks in the Andes. Along the way, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the valley, pass by crystal-clear mountain streams, and visit traditional Andean villages.
Another popular activity in the Sacred Valley is river rafting, which allows visitors to experience the region’s rushing rivers and stunning scenery up close. The Urubamba River is the most popular rafting spot, offering rapids ranging from class II to IV and some of the most beautiful scenery in Peru.
Finally, no trip to the Sacred Valley would be complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, the famous citadel perched on a mountain top that was once the center of the Inca empire. Visitors can reach Machu Picchu by hiking the Inca Trail, taking a train from Cusco, or hiking one of several alternate routes. Upon arrival, visitors can admire the citadel’s impressive stonework, explore the various temples and buildings, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
In conclusion, the Sacred Valley of Peru is a destination that offers a little bit of everything for travelers looking to explore all that Peru has to offer. From its ancient ruins and traditional markets to its beautiful landscapes and outdoor adventures, this region is sure to capture the of anyone who visits. So, if you’re planning a trip to Peru, be sure to add the Sacred Valley to your itinerary – you won’t regret it.