Top 10 Must-See Places on a Sacred Valley Tour in 2025

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most awe-inspiring and culturally rich regions in Peru. Located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the valley offers stunning mountain views, lush landscapes, charming Andean villages, and impressive Inca ruins. Whether you’re planning your first visit to Peru or returning for more adventure, a tour of the Sacred Valley in 2025 should be high on your list.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 must-see places to explore on your Sacred Valley tour, with travel tips to help make the most of your journey.

1. Pisac – A Blend of History and Tradition

Pisac is the perfect introduction to the Sacred Valley. Its remarkable archaeological site features ancient terraces, ceremonial structures, and a cliffside fortress with sweeping views of the valley. The stonework here shows the Incas' deep understanding of both engineering and agriculture.

Pisac is also known for its bustling traditional market. Held daily, the market offers handmade crafts, textiles, silver jewelry, and organic produce. Sunday is the most vibrant day, when locals from nearby communities gather to trade goods.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike the entire ruins circuit it’s worth the effort!

2. Lamay – A Quiet Andean Escape

Tucked along the Urubamba River, Lamay is a peaceful town that many travelers overlook—but those who stop are rewarded with authentic charm. Surrounded by farms and green mountains, it’s a great place to slow down and experience Andean life.

You’ll find opportunities to try traditional dishes like trout or cuy (guinea pig), and some small community-based tourism initiatives offer cooking classes or farm experiences.

Travel Tip: Consider staying overnight if you’re interested in learning more about Andean traditions directly from locals.

3. Calca – Natural Beauty and Relaxation

Calca is ideal for those looking to blend nature with wellness. The town is surrounded by mountains and rivers and is known for its soothing hot springs. These thermal baths are perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking or sightseeing.

Just outside Calca, you’ll find lesser-known trails that lead to waterfalls and quiet viewpoints, offering a break from busier tourist spots.

Travel Tip: Pack a swimsuit and towel so you can take full advantage of the hot springs.

4. Yucay – A Walk Through History

Yucay is a small and charming village that once belonged to Inca royalty. It still retains an ancient and peaceful atmosphere. The agricultural terraces and ruins nearby are lesser known but offer quiet moments to reflect and explore.

The Palace of Sayri Túpac is a highlight—an example of Inca architecture that was later adapted by the Spanish during the colonial era.

Travel Tip: Take time to walk through the quiet streets and visit the church, which blends Inca foundations with colonial design.

5. Urubamba – The Heart of the Valley

Urubamba is one of the largest towns in the Sacred Valley and often used as a central base for exploring the area. It’s lively yet still holds plenty of local flavor. The town has excellent restaurants, artisan markets, and easy access to surrounding sites.

Because of its location and modern amenities, Urubamba makes a great lunch or overnight stop during a multi-day tour.

Travel Tip: Try dining at a local farm-to-table restaurant or sampling the region’s organic produce and craft beer.

6. Moray – The Agricultural Marvel

Moray is unlike any other archaeological site in Peru. It features a series of circular terraces built into natural depressions in the landscape. These terraces are thought to have been an Inca agricultural research center, used to test how crops grow at different temperatures and altitudes.

The design is functional, but also visually stunning—it's an ideal stop for photographers and those interested in Inca innovation.

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, as paths can be uneven. Bring a wide-angle lens if you enjoy photography.

7. Maras – The Salt Mines of the Andes

Just a short drive from Moray lies Maras, home to thousands of salt pans carved into a hillside. These pans have been used for centuries to harvest salt from a natural spring. Today, families still manage and harvest their own pools, using traditional techniques.

From a distance, the site looks like a patchwork of white and pink squares glistening under the sun a truly breathtaking sight.

Travel Tip: Buy a bag of local pink salt to take home. It’s tasty, natural, and makes a unique souvenir.

8. Ollantaytambo – The Inca Stronghold

Ollantaytambo is one of the most important and impressive towns in the Sacred Valley. It features an Inca fortress built into the mountainside, with terraces that climb steeply toward the sky. This site was the location of a major battle between the Incas and Spanish forces, and it remains incredibly well preserved.

The town itself is one of the few places where people still live in original Inca homes, making it a "living Inca village."

Travel Tip: Climb to the top of the ruins for the best views of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding peaks. The morning light is particularly beautiful.

9. Chinchero – Weaving, Ruins, and High-Altitude Views

Chinchero is known for its strong artisan tradition, especially weaving. Here, you can watch women spin and dye wool using natural techniques that have been passed down through generations. Their beautiful handmade textiles are available for purchase and make meaningful souvenirs.

The town also hosts an ancient archaeological site and a picturesque colonial church built on top of an Inca foundation. At over 12,000 feet in elevation, Chinchero also offers stunning views of the snow-capped Andes.

Travel Tip: Bring warm clothing it can get chilly due to the altitude. Consider buying directly from the weaving cooperatives to support local families.

10. Cusco – Where the Journey Begins or Ends

Although not part of the Sacred Valley itself, Cusco is the gateway city and a must-see destination. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco blends ancient stone walls with Spanish colonial architecture. There’s something to discover on every street plazas, museums, churches, and markets filled with history and culture.

Most Sacred Valley tours start or end here, and many travelers use it as a base for day trips. The city is also the ideal place to acclimatize to the altitude before venturing deeper into the Andes.

Travel Tip: Spend at least two nights in Cusco to adjust to the elevation and explore top sights like Sacsayhuamán and the Qorikancha temple.

Travel Tips for Touring the Sacred Valley in 2025

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (May to September) offers sunny days and clear skies perfect for sightseeing and photography.

Health & Altitude: Stay hydrated and take it slow, especially in higher places like Chinchero or Cusco. Consider drinking coca tea to help with altitude adjustment.

What to Pack: Bring layered clothing, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, and sturdy walking shoes. A lightweight rain jacket is helpful even in the dry season.

Transportation: Most tours travel by van or private transport, but you can also arrange guided hikes, cycling routes, or train connections.

Why the Sacred Valley Should Be on Your 2025 Travel List

The Sacred Valley is a magical region where ancient civilizations meet natural wonders. Whether you're climbing ruins, exploring artisan markets, or simply soaking in the views, the experience is unforgettable. Each town and site adds a unique piece to the puzzle of Inca history and Andean life.

In 2025, more travelers are seeking meaningful and immersive travel experiences and the Sacred Valley offers just that. You’ll walk through centuries of history, taste local flavors, and witness traditions that are still alive today.

Make your Sacred Valley tour an unforgettable part of your Peru adventure. With the right planning and a spirit of exploration, this journey will be one of the highlights of your travels.