Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, cradle of Andean civilization, stretches between Pisac and Ollantaytambo along the Vilcanota River. Between authentic villages, millenary terraces and sacred peaks, each stop reveals a part of Inca history and preserved local life.
Whether you are looking for colorful markets, spectacular ruins or isolated communities, this guide takes you to discover the 16 must-see villages of the Sacred Valley, listed from Cusco.
Famous for its spectacular Inca ruins and its colorful artisan market (especially lively on Sundays). The site overlooks the valley with its terraces, Intihuatana and mysterious tunnels.
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Taray is located just 15 km northeast of Cusco, on the road connecting Cusco to Pisac (the so-called "lower" route). The village is located just before reaching Pisac.
The altitude of Taray is approximately 3,050 meters. This intermediate altitude, slightly lower than Cusco (3,399 m), makes it an interesting stop for a first acclimatization in the Sacred Valley.
Taray is a small, authentic Andean farming village, often passed through without stopping. However, it has a peaceful charm with its quiet streets, adobe houses and terraced fields. Its main asset is its viewpoint, which offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the entire Sacred Valley of the Incas.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Pisac (departure from the Puputi district, near the Rosaspata market). The journey takes about 20-25 minutes for 3 to 5 soles. Ask the driver to drop you off at Taray. By taxi, count 30 to 40 soles. By private car, follow the Cusco-Pisac road.
This is the village's main attraction. A developed lookout offers breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, the Vilcanota River, the agricultural terraces and the snow-capped peaks. Price: free. Opening hours: open access. Recommended duration: 20 to 30 minutes.
Stroll through the quiet streets of Taray to observe daily Andean life. The viewpoint is also a renowned spot for photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Taray is a very small village, so accommodation options are limited: a few very simple family guesthouses (from 30-50 soles per night). For dining, it is best to go to Pisac (5 minutes by colectivo) where there is a wide choice.
Coya is located approximately 25 km northeast of Cusco, on the left bank of the Vilcanota River. The village is on the main road connecting Cusco to Pisac and then to Calca, between Taray (5 km) and Lamay (3 km).
The altitude of Coya is approximately 2,950 meters. This relatively low altitude for the Sacred Valley makes it an ideal stop for acclimatization, especially for travelers sensitive to altitude sickness.
Coya is a small, peaceful Andean village, often overlooked by tourists. Yet it has a rich colonial heritage and an authentic atmosphere. Its name comes from the Quechua "Qoya" meaning "princess" or "queen". The village is particularly known for its patron saint festival in September and its alpaca farms in the surrounding area.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Pisac or Calca (departure from the Puputi district). The journey takes about 30-35 minutes for 4 to 6 soles. Ask to be dropped off at Coya. By taxi, count 40 to 50 soles from Cusco. By car, follow the Cusco-Pisac-Calca road: Coya is signposted after Taray.
Built in the 17th century, this small stone church is a fine example of Andean colonial architecture. Its sober façade and typical bell tower are worth a detour. Inside, there are a few altarpieces and paintings from the Cusco school. Price: often free (or small donation). Opening hours: open during services and sometimes in the morning.
In the hills around Coya, several family farms raise alpacas. Some open their doors to visitors to demonstrate shearing, wool processing and traditional weaving. Ask locals or your guide. Price: variable (generally 10-20 soles donation).
Every year, the village celebrates its patron saint festival in honor of the Virgen de la Natividad. It is a lively time with processions, traditional dances, Andean music and typical dishes.
Coya offers few accommodation options – a few homestays (from 40-60 soles). For dining, you will find 2-3 small family restaurants serving basic Andean dishes (soup, chicken, trout). It is recommended to bring a picnic or eat in Lamay (nearby, famous for its gastronomy) or Calca (more options).
Lamay is located approximately 28 km northeast of Cusco, on the right bank of the Vilcanota River. The village is on the main road between Coya (3 km) and Calca (5 km).
The altitude of Lamay is approximately 2,930 meters. It is one of the lowest villages in the Sacred Valley, ideal for gradual acclimatization.
Lamay is a quiet little Andean village, but it is very popular among Peruvians for its gastronomy. On weekends, families from Cusco come especially to Lamay to taste roast cuy (guinea pig), prepared according to traditional recipes. The village also has a nice central square and a colonial church.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Calca (departure from Puputi). The journey takes about 35-40 minutes for 5 to 7 soles. Ask to be dropped off at Lamay. By taxi, count 45 to 60 soles.
Lamay is famous throughout the region for its roast cuy (guinea pig). Small family restaurants along the main road prepare this traditional dish baked or spit-roasted, with crispy skin and tender meat. Average price: 35-50 soles for a whole cuy (for 2 people). Best days: Saturday and Sunday.
The small colonial church and its tree-lined square are worth a stop. It is a peaceful place to observe daily village life.
Lamay is not really a village for accommodation – better to sleep in Calca (5 km). However, for dining, it is an essential stop: several small family restaurants line the main road, specializing in roast cuy, but also trout and Andean dishes. Budget 15-25 soles per person without cuy.
Authentic, less touristy village, ideal base for exploring the Ankashmarca site (a little-visited Inca fortress) and the Lares hot springs. Its daily market offers a local immersion experience.
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Arin is located in the province of Calca, about 5.6 km from the town of Calca and close to Huayllabamba. This small populated center is part of the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, nestled between mountains and agricultural terraces.
The altitude of Arin is between 2,900 and 3,000 meters. This relatively moderate altitude for the region allows for a pleasant climate and a hike accessible to most visitors.
Arin is a peaceful haven unknown to mass tourism. This authentic Andean village is especially famous for its magnificent natural waterfalls, locally nicknamed "Cataratas de las Sirenas" (Mermaid Waterfalls) because of the elegant shape of their water falls. The place is ideal for travelers seeking nature, tranquility and light adventure, away from the crowds of the Sacred Valley.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Urubamba (departure from Puputi street) and get off at the "Arín" stop, located between Calca and Huayllabamba. The journey takes about 1h30. From Calca, count 10 to 15 minutes by mototaxi or taxi to the start of the trail.
From the drop-off point, a walk of about 45 minutes to 1 hour takes you along a path lined with rustic houses, colorful flowers and lush vegetation. The path follows small streams whose sound announces the approach of the falls. The ascent is gentle and accessible to anyone in good physical condition.
The main attraction consists of two waterfalls born from the runoff waters of the high altitude lagoons Pawaray and Kellwa Ccocha.
First waterfall: accessible after about 45 minutes of walking, it forms a small natural pool where you can cool off and enjoy the water.
Main waterfall: just 10 minutes beyond the first, it is higher and more spectacular. Its waterfall forms an impressive liquid curtain, ideal for photos and contemplation.
Access: free. Opening hours: open access (preferably during the day). Recommended duration: 2 to 3 hours for the round trip and swimming.
The site is known as a place of natural purification. Many visitors come to meditate to the sound of the water, have a family picnic or simply relax in a preserved setting. Viewpoints dot the route.
The village of Arin allows you to discover traditional Andean life (textiles, agriculture). Nearby are the sacred ruins of Urco, linked to local legends and the sacred mountain Pitusiray.
Arin has a few lodges and residences for those who wish to extend the experience. Some establishments specialize in meditation and yoga retreats, offering a stay in the heart of nature. For meals, bring a picnic or ask the locals (possibility of simple meals on request).
Huayoccari is located in the district of Huayllabamba, province of Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley. The village is about 45 km from Cusco, on the main road between Pisac and Urubamba (10-15 minutes before reaching Urubamba when coming from Cusco).
The altitude of Huayoccari is between 2,900 and 3,200 meters, depending on the exact location within the area. An altitude similar to that of Urubamba, offering a temperate climate.
Huayoccari is a small Andean village with a peaceful character, less frequented than the major tourist sites of the Sacred Valley. The locality is known for its mountain setting, its terraced fields and its preserved rural atmosphere. It is a possible stop for travelers wishing to discover a quieter aspect of the region.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Urubamba (departure from Puputi street) and ask to get off at the Huayoccari stop on the main road. The journey takes about 1h15. From Urubamba, count 10-15 minutes by taxi (about 15-20 soles). It is also possible to go through a local agency or a private tour.
Built in 1916, this family mansion still belongs to the same owners. The building features a private art collection mixing pre-Hispanic, viceregal and republican pieces. A restaurant serves cuisine prepared with local products. It is advisable to book in advance to visit or have lunch on site.
Horseback rides are organized through the cultivated fields and the Urquillo ravine. These walks allow you to discover the hilly landscapes and views of the snow-capped peaks.
The village offers contact with the daily life of the inhabitants. You can observe terraced crops, livestock and, for nature lovers, bird watching or simple walking.
Accommodation options are limited on site. Most visitors prefer to stay in Urubamba (10-15 minutes) or Ollantaytambo. For dining, the Hacienda Huayoccari has a restaurant by reservation. A few small local shops may offer refreshments, but it is better to bring your own picnic.
Huayllabamba is a district located in the province of Urubamba, in the center of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The village is located between Yucay and Piskacucho, near the famous starting point of the Inca Trail (Km 82). It is surrounded by cultivated fields that descend towards the Vilcanota River.
The altitude of Huayllabamba is between 2,800 and 2,900 meters. This altitude, lower than Cusco (3,399 m), makes it a suitable place for gradual acclimatization before undertaking more demanding hikes.
Huayllabamba (from Quechua "grassy plain") is an agricultural district famous for its white corn production, considered one of the best in the Cusco region. Unlike the more touristy villages of the Sacred Valley, Huayllabamba has retained a peaceful pace of life, with adobe houses, flower-filled patios and a predominantly Quechua population. The village is crossed by the road leading to the Inca Trail, but few travelers stop there.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Urubamba (departure from Pavitos street) and ask to get off at the Huayllabamba crossroads. The journey takes about 1h30. From Urubamba, count 10-15 minutes by taxi (10-15 soles) or local colectivo. It is also possible to go as part of an organized tour or an excursion towards the Inca Trail.
Huayllabamba is famous for its giant white corn, whose kernels are larger and sweeter than elsewhere. A walk through the terraced fields allows you to observe traditional cultivation methods. The harvest period (May) is particularly interesting.
Huayllabamba is the first traditional campsite for hikers taking the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (departure at Km 82). The village serves as a stopover before the ascent to the Warmiwañusca pass (4,200 m). Local families provide logistical support to trekking groups.
Near the village are the ruins of Patallacta, an Inca archaeological complex that is part of the network of sites linked to Ollantaytambo. You can also observe terraces and Inca walls scattered throughout the region.
The village celebrates every year:
Huayllabamba has a covered communal swimming pool, basic but functional, used mainly by residents. It is accessible to visitors. Price: between 5 and 10 soles (to be confirmed on site). Ask locals for opening hours and access conditions.
Huayllabamba's cuisine is naturally focused on corn. You can taste:
Dining options are limited: a few small family shops and, for hikers, trekking lodges usually include meals.
Accommodation in Huayllabamba is mainly limited to campsites and basic lodges intended for hikers on the Inca Trail. For a more comfortable stay, it is recommended to stay in Urubamba (10-15 minutes) or Ollantaytambo.
Yucay is located in the province of Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley. The village is about 60 km from Cusco (1h30 by road) and only 3 km west of Urubamba. Its central location makes it a practical starting point for exploring Pisac, Ollantaytambo or the Maras salt flats.
The altitude of Yucay is approximately 2,857 meters. This moderate altitude, combined with a particularly mild microclimate, makes it an ideal place for acclimatization before visiting Cusco (3,399 m) or to rest at the end of your trip.
Yucay (from Quechua "encanto") is a small village with a peaceful character, crossed by alleys lined with colonial houses on Inca foundations. Once a royal garden and vacation spot for Inca rulers, it has retained a calm atmosphere, far from the tourist bustle of other stops in the Sacred Valley. The village is surrounded by some of the largest agricultural terraces in the region, still cultivated today.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Urubamba (departure from Pavitos street, 1h30, about 8-10 soles). Get off at Urubamba, then take a local taxi (10-15 soles, 10 minutes) or a colectivo to Yucay. From Ollantaytambo, count 20-25 minutes by taxi. Visiting Yucay is generally not included in classic Sacred Valley tours, so you need to go there on your own.
Yucay has some of the largest Inca terraces in the Sacred Valley. Accessible by a stone staircase, they offer a panoramic view of the village and the mountains. These andenes are still cultivated by local farmers (corn, potatoes, quinoa). Access: free.
These are the remains of the residence of the last Inca of Vilcabamba, Sayri Túpac. You can observe stone and adobe walls, trapezoidal niches and a remarkably well-preserved pre-Hispanic ceramic kiln. Access: free. Allow 20-30 minutes.
Built in the 17th century on Inca foundations, this colonial church has a sober facade and an interior with golden altarpieces and paintings from the Cusco school. It is surrounded by a green space offering a view of the mountains.
From the village, several short distance trails lead to natural viewpoints over the valley, the Vilcanota River and the snow-capped peaks (Chicon, Veronica). These walks are accessible without special equipment.
Horseback rides are organized in the surrounding area, connecting Yucay to Urubamba along the river or through wooded areas. Additionally, some local apiaries offer visits to discover honey production and taste derived products.
Thanks to its calm and natural setting, Yucay has become a popular place for yoga retreats, meditation and Andean ceremonies (florecimiento baths, offerings to Pachamama). Some structures also offer stays linked to sacred traditions.
Local gastronomy highlights local products: giant white corn, native potatoes, trout from the Vilcanota and dishes prepared in clay ovens. There are a few family restaurants and, for a more immersive experience, Quechua families offer shared meals as part of vivencial tourism (accommodation and meals with locals). Charming hotels and lodges are also present in the village and its surroundings.
Urubamba is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, about 60 km from Cusco (1h30 by road). The town is centrally located: 20 km from Pisac, 20 km from Ollantaytambo and 30 km from Chinchero. This strategic location makes it the logistics capital of the entire region.
The altitude of Urubamba is approximately 2,870 meters. This relatively low altitude for the region, combined with a temperate climate, makes it an ideal place for acclimatization before visiting Cusco (3,399 m) or undertaking a trek.
Urubamba is the most important and best-served town in the Sacred Valley. Unlike Pisac or Ollantaytambo, it does not have a large archaeological site in its center, but it offers a wide range of services: hotels, restaurants, markets, and a transport terminal (combi terminal) from which colectivos depart for Cusco, Pisac, Calca, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero. It is a practical base for exploring the entire valley.
From Cusco: colectivos and minibuses depart from Pavitos and Av. Grau. The journey takes 1h30 to 2 hours and costs 15-20 soles. Organized tours (Full Day Sacred Valley) generally include Urubamba as a lunch stop. By private taxi, count about 80-100 soles. Once there, the combi terminal allows you to easily reach neighboring villages.
Urubamba's main square is a quiet space shaded by pisonay trees. The colonial church that borders it is worth a quick visit.
A renowned workshop that merges pre-Columbian techniques with contemporary design. You can observe the creation of unique pieces and buy ceramics on site. Price: varies depending on the visit (inquire locally).
The central market is less touristy than Pisac's. You'll find fresh local produce, including famous giant white corn, fruits, vegetables, cheeses and crafts. It's a good place to observe daily life.
A local brewery offering craft beers made on site. Ideal for a tasting break after a day of sightseeing.
A short distance from Urubamba, a moderate hike leads to an impressive waterfall (about 80 m high) and the pre-Hispanic ruins of Raqaypata. Allow 2-3 hours round trip. Free access.
Urubamba is a classic starting point for rafting on the Vilcanota River. Class II to IV rapids are navigable depending on the season (preferably April-November). Count 100-150 soles for a half-day.
Urubamba offers the largest range of accommodation in the Sacred Valley: hostels (from 50 soles), mid-range hotels (150-300 soles) and luxury lodges (from 500 soles). Many restaurants serve Andean and international cuisine. The central market is a good option for an economical lunch (10-20 soles).
Yanahuara is located in the district of Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley. The village is halfway between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, about 55 km from Cusco (1h30 by road). Its strategic position makes it a possible base to easily reach Ollantaytambo and its train to Machu Picchu.
The altitude of Yanahuara is approximately 2,920 meters. This altitude, slightly lower than Cusco, offers a pleasant climate and good acclimatization.
Yanahuara is a small peaceful populated center, surrounded by mountains and cultivated fields. Unlike the more touristy villages of the Sacred Valley, Yanahuara has developed a rural and relaxed atmosphere, with a population mixing locals and foreign residents. The locality is particularly appreciated for its boutique hotels and lodges offering spectacular views of the snow-capped Chicon peak (5,530 m).
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Ollantaytambo (departure from Pavitos street) and get off at the Yanahuara crossroads. The journey takes about 1h30 (15-20 soles). From Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, a local taxi reaches Yanahuara in 10-15 minutes (10-15 soles). It is also possible to walk from Urubamba (about 45 minutes).
Yanahuara is a recognized spot for climbing and via ferrata. The natural rock faces overlooking the village are equipped with routes suitable for different levels. Local guides can organize sessions (inquire locally or in Urubamba).
An experience dedicated to night sky observation and Andean cosmovision. The planetarium offers evening sessions to discover how the Incas interpreted the stars, the Milky Way and the constellations. Booking recommended.
Yanahuara has several charming accommodations (boutique hotels, lodges, guesthouses) often set in natural surroundings with unbeatable views of Chicon and the valley. Some offer wellness activities (yoga, spa).
The surrounding area offers hiking trails through cornfields and hills. It is a quiet place for a walk without a specific goal, with open views of the valley.
Due to its proximity to Ollantaytambo (10-15 minutes), Yanahuara can serve as a base camp to take the train to Machu Picchu without having to leave Cusco very early in the morning. The lower altitude than Cusco also facilitates acclimatization.
Accommodation is Yanahuara's strong point: you will mainly find boutique hotels, lodges and guesthouses ranging from mid-range to high-end (from 150 soles). For dining, options are limited – most visitors eat at their accommodation or go to Urubamba (5-10 minutes by taxi) which offers a wide choice of restaurants.
Pachar is located in the district of Ollantaytambo, a few kilometers downstream from the famous Inca fortress. The village lies between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, on the right bank of the Vilcanota River. It is surrounded by the Vilcanota and Huarocondo rivers, in a fertile valley area.
The altitude of Pachar is approximately 2,800 meters, one of the lowest in the Sacred Valley. This gives it a particularly mild climate and more abundant vegetation.
Pachar is a small populated center that long served as a simple technical stopover on the road to Ollantaytambo. Recently, the village has been transformed thanks to the Rainbow Project (Proyecto Arcoíris): 34 house facades and the local church have been covered with colorful murals depicting scenes of local life, traditions and old photographs provided by residents. Some walls are equipped with QR codes to listen to stories told by the villagers themselves.
From Cusco: take a colectivo heading to Ollantaytambo (departure from Av. Grau) and ask to get off at the Pachar stop. The journey takes about 1h45 (15-20 soles). From Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, a taxi or mototaxi reaches Pachar in 10-15 minutes (10-15 soles). The village is also accessible by quad tours or hikes from Moray or Maras.
The village has become an open-air art gallery. The colorful murals cover approximately 900 square meters of facades. Each wall tells a local story: agricultural scenes, traditions, historical figures. Wandering through the streets of Pachar allows you to discover this participatory project born from an alliance between Turismo Cuida, TOTEMIQ, the Instituto Khipu and the municipality of Ollantaytambo. Access: free.
Pachar's most popular activity. A 400-meter via ferrata allows you to climb a rock face safely (cables, rungs). The descent is via a series of zip lines (canopy) flying over the Urubamba River with spectacular views of the valley. Price: variable (approximately 80-150 soles depending on the provider). Duration: 2 to 3 hours. Level: accessible to beginners (equipment provided).
Several pre-Hispanic sites can be found in the vicinity of Pachar:
These remains are accessible via short hikes or by quad.
A short distance from Pachar, a moderate hike leads to the Perolniyoc waterfall (about 80 m high) and the ruins of Raqaypata. This is a possible additional excursion.
Pachar can serve as a starting point for quad tours or hikes to the Maras Salt Flats and the Moray terraces, using agricultural tracks and ancestral paths.
Pachar is a small village with no major hotel infrastructure. Most visitors come for the day or for adventure activities. For accommodation, it is better to go to Ollantaytambo (10 minutes) or Urubamba (15 minutes). For dining, a few small local shops may offer refreshments and snacks, but it is advisable to bring a picnic or eat in Ollantaytambo.
The only Inca town still inhabited with its original streets. Its monumental fortress overlooks the valley. Train station for Machu Picchu. Many craft shops and restaurants.
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Impressive circular terraces in the shape of an amphitheater, creating microclimates. The Incas experimented with crop adaptation there. Breathtaking aerial view.
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Unique site: more than 3,000 salt terraces exploited since Inca times, still in operation. Spectacular white landscape on the mountain slopes. A must-see with Moray.
📖 See the full page on Maras →High place of traditional weaving (natural dyes, Quechua patterns). Ruins of Túpac Yupanqui's palace, colonial church on Inca foundations, and magnificent view of Piuray lagoon.
📖 See the full page on Chinchero →