Peru is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a destination that should not be missed. Located just a short drive from the famous Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is a beautiful area filled with ancient ruins, stunning scenery, and traditional Andean villages. Whether you’re planning a Peru tour or simply looking for things to do during your Peru vacation, here are 10 of the best activities in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Pisac is a small town located in the Sacred Valley, and it is home to some of the most impressive Incan ruins in the area. The ruins include an impressive fortress, terraced hillsides, and a series of ceremonial baths. Visitors can explore the ruins on their own, or take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
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After visiting the ruins, be sure to check out the colorful market in Pisac. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of locally made crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected and can be a fun way to interact with the local merchants.
One of the most popular things to do in the Sacred Valley is to take a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu. The train ride is a beautiful journey through the Andean mountains, and it’s the perfect way to get to the famous Incan citadel.
The salt mines of Maras are an interesting and unique destination in the Sacred Valley. The mines have been in use for over 500 years, and they are still in operation today. Visitors can tour the mines and learn about the traditional salt-making process.
Ollantaytambo is another ancient Incan site in the Sacred Valley that is worth visiting. The ruins include a fortress, terraces, and a temple. The highlight of Ollantaytambo is the steep stone staircases that lead to the top of the ruins. Hiking to the top provides a great workout and stunning views of the surrounding area.
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Another fun and exciting activity to add to the list of things to do in the Sacred Valley is taking an ATV tour. ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) tours offer a unique and adventurous way to explore the valley’s rugged terrain and remote areas. The tours typically take visitors through picturesque landscapes, off-road trails and traditional Andean villages that can be hard to reach by foot or car.
Moray is an ancient Incan site that is believed to have been used as an agricultural research station. The site is made up of several large circular terraces that were used to create microclimates for different crops. The terraces are an impressive sight and are definitely worth visiting.
Chinchero is a traditional Andean village located in the Sacred Valley. The village is known for its beautiful colonial-style church and its traditional textile weaving. Visitors can take a guided tour of the village and learn about the local customs and traditions.
Another unique and luxurious way to experience the Sacred Valley is through glamping. Glamping, which stands for “glamorous camping”, is a new way of camping where you can enjoy the outdoors with all the comforts of a hotel room. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort.
There are several glamping options available in the Sacred Valley, from tents and yurts to luxurious tipis and villas. Glamping tents and yurts are usually equipped with comfortable beds, electricity, and private bathrooms, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of traditional Andean ingredients and flavors with influences from Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese cuisine. The Sacred Valley is a great place to learn about and experience Peruvian food. Visitors can take a cooking class and learn to make traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina.
In conclusion, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a destination that should not be missed on a Peru vacation. The area is home to many ancient ruins, stunning scenery, and traditional Andean villages. From visiting ancient Incan ruins, to taking a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, to learning about Peruvian cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this beautiful and historic region of Peru.
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