Forget the hassle of separate payments—your entrance tickets are already included:

• Pisaq Archaeological Site (covered by the Tourist Ticket)

• Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site (covered by the Tourist Ticket)

• Chinchero Archaeological Site (covered by the Tourist Ticket)

• Buffet Lunch – After your descent, enjoy a delicious Peruvian buffet lunch, featuring a variety of local dishes before returning to Cusco.

Every traveler with Inside Peru Adventures receives a small and meaningful surprise. It’s our way of sharing a bit of Peru’s soul and making your experience even more personal and unforgettable.

By choosing Inside Peru Adventures, you're embracing a style of travel that uplifts local communities, supports fair-trade practices, and protects cultural and natural heritage throughout the Andean region. Every journey contributes to responsible tourism by generating positive impact, fostering cross-cultural connections, and preserving traditions for future generations. Travel with purpose—leave meaningful footprints.

Meals at the beginning and end of the day are not included. Since the tour starts early in the morning, we recommend having breakfast at your hotel. Dinner is also not included, giving you the opportunity to explore Cusco's diverse culinary scene at your own pace after returning from the tour.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers unforgettable experiences at high altitudes ranging from 2,800 to 3,800 m.a.s.l. (9,186–12,467 ft). For reference:

• Cusco: 3,400 m.a.s.l. (11,150 ft)

• Pisaq Archaeological Site: 3,300 m.a.s.l. (10,827 ft)

• Ollantaytambo: 2,800 m.a.s.l. (9,186 ft) 

• Chinchero: 3,760 m.a.s.l. (12,336 ft) 

Although the Sacred Valley tour is less physically demanding than treks like the Inca Trail or Rainbow Mountain, the elevation may still affect travelers, especially those arriving from low altitudes or sea level.

Why Acclimatization Matters

• Altitude sickness can affect anyone—regardless of age or fitness level. Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and fatigue are common when ascending too quickly. That’s why we strongly recommend arriving at least one full day in Cusco before starting any tour or trek.

• Starting with a moderate, half-day tour like City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour or Maras & Moray Tour gives your body time to adapt gradually while you explore unique archaeological landscapes and Inca ingenuity without strenuous physical effort.

Pro Tip for Trekking Travelers: Planning to hike legendary trails like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, or Ausangate Trek? Or visit iconic high-altitude sites like Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley, Palccoyo, Pallay Punchu, 7 Lakes in Ausangate or Humantay Lagoon? 

• Begin your journey with a cultural acclimatization tour such as City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour or Maras & Moray Tour.  These provide gentle exposure to altitude while enriching your travel experience with history, nature, and living culture.

Stay Healthy at Altitude: To minimize the effects of altitude and make the most of your tour:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Avoid heavy meals before the tour.

• Get a good night’s rest beforehand.

• Enjoy traditional coca tea, known to help naturally with high-altitude adaptation.

The Sacred Valley Tour is a relaxed and culturally immersive experience, suitable for travelers of all ages. Most of the day is spent exploring stunning archaeological sites such as Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, all accessible by vehicle and short, leisurely walks.

Although these locations sit at high altitudes—ranging from 2,800 to 3,700 m.a.s.l. (9,186 to 12,139 ft)—the tour involves only moderate walking over paved or cobbled paths, terraces, and gentle slopes. Proper footwear and sun protection are recommended, especially during the warmer hours.

This tour is ideal for your first or second day in Cusco, as it allows your body to gradually acclimate while you enjoy iconic Inca sites, Andean landscapes, and vibrant local traditions. No special training or trekking gear is required—just curiosity, a camera, and a love for discovery.

Know the Climate Before You Go: The weather in the Sacred Valley varies by altitude and season. Days are usually sunny and pleasant, while mornings and evenings can be cool—especially in the higher sites like Chinchero and Pisaq.

• Dry Season (Best Travel Time): April to October

  Expect clear skies, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall. Daytime temperatures can feel warm under the sun, while mornings and evenings are cooler—especially at higher elevations.

• Rainy Season: December to February

  Characterized by frequent rain showers, cloudy skies, and lush landscapes. Travel is still possible, but weather can be unpredictable.

• Shoulder Months (Transitional Weather): March and November

  These months often bring a mix of sunny days and occasional rain. Packing for both dry and wet conditions is highly recommended.

Smart Packing Essentials for Sacred Valley Tour

• Dress in Layers:

  Temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Start with thermal base layers, add a fleece or light jacket, and top it off with a windbreaker or rain shell if needed. Breathable, quick-dry fabrics are ideal.

• Sun Protection:

  The UV index in this region is very high. Don’t forget your sunscreen, UV-rated sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat. Even on cloudy days, sunburn is a risk.

• Rain Gear (Year-Round):

  A compact rain poncho or waterproof jacket is essential—especially during transitional and wet seasons. Sudden showers are common even in dry months.

• Footwear:

  Wear comfortable walking or trekking shoes with good grip. Surfaces around Pisaq, Ollantaytambo and Chinhero can be uneven, slippery, or dusty depending on the season.

• Lightweight Gloves & Warm Hat:

  Temperatures can drop significantly—especially in the early morning or when winds pick up near the summit. Lightweight thermal gloves and a warm hat help retain body heat.

• Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Pack:

  Staying hydrated is essential at high elevations. Bring a refillable water bottle or hydration pack to sip water steadily throughout your hike. Please check the Inclusions section to see if water refills are provided on this tour—otherwise, make sure to carry enough water for the day. Avoid single-use plastics to support sustainable trekking practices. 

• Energy Snacks:

  The trail requires sustained physical effort. Bring compact snacks like protein bars, dried fruits, or chocolate to boost your energy during the climb. Natural sugar and carbs can help counteract altitude fatigue.

• Small Daypack: Carry your essentials comfortably during visits to archaeological sites and markets.

• At Inside Peru Adventures, your well-being comes first. Whether you're exploring the Sacred Valley, trekking the Andes, or visiting remote destinations in the highlands, we ensure your journey is not only unforgettable—but also safe, supported, and professionally managed.

• Trained & Certified Guides: All of our professional tour guides are certified in first aid and emergency response, with regular training in high-altitude safety, evacuation protocols, and outdoor risk management. This ensures they're fully prepared to handle any situation—from minor injuries to altitude-related discomfort.

• First-Aid Kits on Every Tour: We carry a fully equipped first-aid kit on every excursion, including supplies for common travel issues such as scrapes, blisters, motion sickness, insect bites, and altitude symptoms.

• Oxygen & Altitude Support: On all tours that venture above 3,000 m.a.s.l. (9,840 ft)—including popular routes like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Humantay Lagoon Hike, Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Hike, Lares Trek and Ausangate Trek—our guides are equipped with portable oxygen tanks. They’re trained to monitor and respond to altitude-related symptoms, providing immediate relief when needed.

• Emergency Transport Access: All our routes are carefully selected not only for beauty and cultural value, but also for emergency accessibility. In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, we have established response plans with local authorities and transport services for rapid evacuation.

Why Travel Insurance Matters for Adventure Travel

While Inside Peru Adventures prioritizes safety and preparation on every journey, the nature of adventure travel always carries a degree of unpredictability. For your peace of mind, we highly recommend securing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.

What Should Your Policy Cover?

When exploring high-altitude regions or remote natural landscapes, make sure your insurance plan includes:

• Altitude sickness and medical emergencies

• Trip cancellations or itinerary interruptions

• Weather-related delays or disruptions

• Emergency evacuation and repatriation

• Lost or delayed luggage

• Coverage for adventure travel activities like trekking, hiking, and off-the-beaten-path exploration

Adventure destinations often involve rugged terrain, high elevation, and changing weather. A proper adventure travel insurance policy ensures you're covered in case of unexpected incidents. We recommend choosing a provider experienced in insuring active travelers and reviewing all terms carefully.

Pro Tip for Trekking Travelers: Not all travel insurance policies automatically cover high-altitude adventures. When choosing a plan, verify that your provider includes coverage for activities above 3,000 m.a.s.l. and for adventure sports or trekking. This ensures you're protected during iconic hikes like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or Ausangate Trek.

At Inside Peru Adventures, sustainability isn’t just a value — it’s a way of life. Our tours are designed with deep respect for nature, culture, and people. We proudly follow the principles of responsible travel in Peru to protect the destinations we love and empower the communities we partner with.

• Eco-Friendly Adventure Travel: We follow Leave No Trace guidelines and minimize our environmental footprint across every tour. From trekking to cultural immersion, we prioritize low-impact experiences that help preserve Peru’s diverse ecosystems, from high-Andean trails to tropical forests and coastal deserts.

• Plastic-Free Philosophy: We actively promote a plastic-free travel experience. Bring your reusable water bottle—please check if water refills are included in this tour under the Inclusions section. On treks and hikes where this service is provided, we’ll help you keep it full along the way. Reducing single-use plastic is one of the simplest and most powerful steps we take toward a greener Peru. 

• Respect for Local Culture & Traditions: Every destination we visit is treated with reverence. We engage with indigenous communities, sacred sites, and ancestral customs in a way that is ethical and culturally sensitive. Our team educates travelers on cultural respect to ensure tourism strengthens—not disrupts—local heritage.

• Community Empowerment & Fair Tourism: We believe in tourism that gives back. Every tour you book helps generate fair and sustainable income for local guides, craftswomen, organic farmers, transport providers, and indigenous cooperatives. We prioritize hiring local, sourcing handmade, and supporting projects that uplift Peru’s living cultural heritage.

• Valid Passport or Student ID

  Always carry official identification—helpful for entry records, hotel check-ins, or in case of emergencies.

• Immigration Card (if applicable)

  Provided upon arrival to Peru. Keep it safe as some accommodations may request it.

• Hiking Boots (Waterproof with Grip)

  Essential for the uneven and often steep terrain on the trail to Humantay Lagoon. Choose boots with ankle support and strong traction for optimal safety during the hike.

• Layered Trekking Clothing

  Temperatures vary dramatically between early mornings at Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l. / 12,795 ft) and midday at the lagoon (4,200 m.a.s.l. / 13,780 ft). Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers like fleece, and a waterproof outer shell for sudden weather changes.

• Sun Hat & Wool Beanie

  Protect against strong UV rays during the hike and stay warm in the early morning chill beneath the Humantay Glacier.

• Thermal Gloves & Wool Socks

  Crucial for warmth—particularly during early starts or during strong winds at the summit.

• Light Rain Poncho or Waterproof Jacket

  Sudden rain showers are common—even in the dry season. Choose compact, breathable gear that fits in your daypack.

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & UV Sunglasses

  The high-altitude sun is harsh—even on cloudy days. Protect your skin and eyes with high-SPF sunscreen and polarized UV-rated lenses.

• Lip Balm & Hydrating Face Cream

  Dry air can crack skin and lips. Travel-size skincare essentials are a must.

• Hand Sanitizer & Biodegradable Wet Wipes

  Maintain hygiene on the trail where running water is not always available.

• Personal Medication

  Include altitude sickness tablets, pain relievers, and any prescription medicine. If prone to altitude issues, consult a doctor before your trek.

• High-Energy Snacks

  Pack nutritious, compact snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit. They help replenish energy quickly during the hike.

• Camera or Smartphone

  Don’t miss the chance to capture panoramic views and unique landscapes. A power bank is also recommended.

• Cash in Soles

  Small denominations are useful for optional tips, snacks, or souvenirs from local vendors.

• Trekking Poles (Optional but Recommended)

  Great for added balance, especially during descents or muddy conditions. Available for rent through Inside Peru Adventures.

• Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Pack

  Stay eco-friendly and hydrated. Carry at least 2 liters of water for the day. Please check the Inclusions section to see if water refills are provided on your trail—refilling options may be limited otherwise