Sacred Valley of Cusco: What to do and where to stay

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a beautiful part of Cusco located among the mountains and the mighty Vilcanota river. This part of Peru is pretty charming and has a lot of historic significance when it comes to America’s pre-hispanic civilizations. This region has been home to the Inca culture for centuries, and today remains a spiritual and cultural center for many peoples.

The Sacred Valley is surrounded by spectacular mountains and is home to numerous archaeological sites, such as the ruins of Ollantaytambo and Pisac. These sites are a proof of the incredible engineering skills of the Incas and are worthy of admiration. The valley offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and rafting, as well as cultural activities, such as visiting ancient ruins and attending festivals.

The Sacred Valley is also home to many traditional markets, where locals sell handmade crafts, textiles, and other souvenirs. These markets are a great way to experience the culture of Cusco inhabitants and purchase traditional items. The Sacred Valley is also famous for its cuisine, which is a mix of Inca, Spanish, and contemporary gastronomy, full of flavors and textures that will definitely delight your palate.

Each year, the Sacred Valley is host to many religious festivals, such as Inti Raymi, which celebrates the sun god. During these festivals, people from all over Peru come to the valley to participate in traditional ceremonies with music, dancing and lots of joy.

Where is the Sacred Valley located?

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located among the mountains in the andean highlands of Peru. This place has a very special energy and a great significance for locals and visitors. Located between the cities of Cusco and Machu Picchu, it is a beautiful land full of trees, potato, quinoa or strawberry fields, snow-capped mountains, and ancient Incan ruins.

The Sacred Valley of Cusco is situated between two mountain ranges, the Cordillera Vilcanota and the Cordillera Urubamba. These two mountain ranges are part of the Peruvian Andes and soar to heights between 11,000 and 20,000 feet (3,353 and 6,096 meters). The Sacred Valley of Cusco is situated at an average elevation of 10,500 feet (3,200 meters) above sea level. This elevation makes the Sacred Valley of Cusco one of the highest inhabited valleys in the world.

At such a high altitude, the temperature in the Sacred Valley of Cusco ranges from cold and dry at night to mild and sunny during the day. The climate here is typically sunny and warm during the day, but temperatures can drop significantly at night. The average temperature ranges between 59 and 77 °F degrees, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 32°F degrees.

The high altitude of Cusco Sacred Valley also means that it is susceptible to high levels of ultraviolet radiation due to the thin atmosphere. This makes it essential that visitors to Cusco Sacred Valley wear a high factor sunscreen lotion and an appropriate type of hat to protect themselves from the sun's rays.

When traveling to a place as high as Cuzco, you may experience some discomfort from altitude sickness. This occurs when the body is unable to deal with the decreased oxygen levels and symptoms can include nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath and headaches. To avoid this, go slowly, take your time when arriving in the Imperial City and head directly to the Sacred Valley if possible to facilitate acclimatization. To prevent altitude sickness, rest as much as you can, drink plenty of water and eat light meals at the beginning of the trip and you will feel great.

Things to do at the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of Cusco is an area rich in culture and tradition. In the Valley you may visit many ancient Incan ruins and archaeological sites, and for those looking for an unforgettable experience, this is the best place to find it. The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers plenty of things to do and to see.

For those interested in the extraordinary Inca history, the Sacred Valley is a great place to start learning about this ancient civilization. A visit to the ruins will allow you to learn more about the Inca culture and their impressive architectural achievements.

The Incan ruins of Ollantaytambo are another great destination you must visit. Ollantaytambo is closer to Machu Picchu than Urubamba and Pisac and is simply splendid. It has imposing stone structures and terraced platforms, and it's also home to a number of archaeological sites, where visitors can learn more about the Inca myths and legends.

For a more relaxed experience, the Sacred Valley has plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring. The Urubamba River runs through the valley, and there are many trails that wind along its banks. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and offer a chance to spot wildlife and unique flora.

The Sacred Valley is also home to a number of thriving markets and artisanal villages. The markets are a great place to buy traditional crafts, jewelry, and textiles. The villages offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the locals and the opportunity to taste some of the local cuisine.

No visit to the Sacred Valley is complete without staying in the bustling city of Cusco. Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Cusco is a living museum, with its cobblestone streets, colorful markets and colonial architecture. Cusco is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide variety of bars and restaurants to explore and enjoy. 

You can stay at Tambo del Inka while visiting the Sacred Valley. Tambo del Inka is a luxurious resort located in the Sacred Valley of Cusco, Peru. This 5-star hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and provides guests with a luxurious stay in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

From its incredible archaeological sites, its  stunning mountain peaks, ancient ruins, and unique climate, to its vibrant markets and villages, the Sacred Valley has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or an adventure, the Sacred Valley will definitely provide an unforgettable experience. Look at the right one for you by clicking at The Full Experience and enjoy the best trip of your life.

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