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29 August, 2024
Exploring South America is a fascinating experience that allows you to discover ancient cultures, amazing landscapes and unique biodiversity. If you are looking for a complete adventure, Leading Peru Travel presents a 15-day tour that will take you through the most impressive destinations in Peru, Bolivia and Chile, starting with the iconic Sacred Valley of the Incas tour.
Discovering South America in 15 days is an experience that encompasses the contrasts and wonders of three countries: Peru, Bolivia and Chile. This tour will allow you to delve into the most fascinating corners of this region, starting with an unforgettable visit to Pisac, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a place full of history, legends and amazing landscapes. Located just 30 kilometers from Cusco, Pisac is one of the most emblematic towns in the valley, known for its archaeological ruins and vibrant craft market. This tour is an invitation to discover the secrets of Pisac, where the ancient past of the Incas merges with the living traditions of the local community.
The tour of Pisac begins in its main square, where you can feel the pulse of local life. This small Andean town is known for its mix of tradition and culture, with colonial houses overlooking the cobblestone streets and impressive views of the surrounding mountains. From here, the ascent begins towards the archaeological site of Pisac, a complex that rises majestically above the valley.
After touring the ruins, the tour continues to the famous Pisac market, one of the largest and most lively in the Sacred Valley. Here, every day is a celebration of colors and aromas, with stalls offering handmade crafts, traditional textiles, silver jewelry, painted ceramics, and a wide variety of local agricultural products. This market is known for its vibrant and authentic atmosphere, where locals and visitors mingle in a unique cultural exchange.
Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days, when merchants from all the nearby communities arrive to sell their products. In addition to buying unique souvenirs, you can interact directly with the artisans, learn about their ancestral techniques, and, if you wish, participate in weaving or pottery workshops.
Pisac is not only famous for its archaeological legacy and its market, but also for its spiritual atmosphere. The town is a meeting point for those looking to connect with the energy of the Andes. Many visitors take advantage of their stay to participate in Andean ceremonies, such as offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), or to practice yoga and meditation in the middle of nature.
In addition, Pisac has various hiking trails that allow you to explore its surroundings, such as the path to the Ñusta Encantada mountain, which offers panoramic views of the valley and is ideal for trekking lovers. This combination of history, culture and nature makes Pisac a versatile destination, perfect for both explorers and travelers looking for a more introspective experience.
For lovers of the outdoors, Pisac is a hiking paradise. From the village, there are several routes that take you through the mountains, valleys and agricultural fields. One of the most popular hikes is the one that goes up to the archaeological site of Pisac from the village, offering spectacular views as you ascend. Another recommended route is the one that leads to the Ñusta Encantada mountain, an ideal place to enjoy stunning landscapes and connect with nature.
Pisac is one of the largest and most significant archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, after Machu Picchu. The ruins are located on top of a mountain and are divided into several sectors that include ceremonial, residential and agricultural areas. As you walk along the terraces that extend along the slopes, you can see how the Incas ingeniously took advantage of the geography of the place to develop efficient and sustainable agriculture.
One of the most outstanding elements of the complex is the Intihuatana, a carved stone that the Incas used as an astronomical observatory and solar calendar. This place, considered sacred, was used for religious rituals and to determine the changes of seasons, essential for planning planting and harvesting. The views from the site are spectacular, offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the Sacred Valley and its fertile lands.
A trip through South America is an opportunity to delve into majestic landscapes, discover ancient cultures and live unique experiences. On a 15-day tour that covers Peru, Bolivia and Chile, Ollantaytambo, The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most fascinating destinations in Peru, full of history, culture and imposing landscapes. Located along the Urubamba River, among the Andean mountains, this valley was a vital center for the Inca civilization. Among the many incredible places that make up this valley, Ollantaytambo stands out as a gem to be discovered. This picturesque Inca town, with its cobblestone streets, agricultural terraces and its majestic fortress, offers you a unique experience that combines the charm of the old with the vitality of a living city. explores how this historic Inca town fits into an unforgettable trip through South America.
Ollantaytambo is one of the few places in Peru where Inca urban planning is still intact. Also known as “Ollanta”, it is a city that has been continuously inhabited since the times of the Tahuantinsuyu, making it a “living Inca city”. As you walk through its narrow cobblestone streets, you can see stone houses that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries, and crystal-clear water channels that flow alongside the sidewalks, carrying water from the nearby mountains.
Ollantaytambo’s main attraction is its impressive fortress, located on the side of a mountain overlooking the town and the surrounding valley. This archaeological complex was built by the Inca Pachacútec in the 15th century as an administrative, military and religious center.
One of the most striking aspects of the Ollantaytambo fortress is its agricultural terraces, which rise in perfectly designed steps from the base of the mountain. These terraces not only served to grow food, but also to prevent erosion and make the most of the fertile soil of the valley. Walking along these terraces offers a clear view of the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Inca engineers.
At the highest part of the fortress is the Temple of the Sun, built with enormous blocks of stone perfectly carved and assembled without any mortar. This temple, strategically oriented to receive the first rays of the sun at the solstices, is a testament to the astronomical and architectural knowledge of the Incas. The views from this point are spectacular, offering panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
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Within the complex, you can also explore other areas such as the Enclosure of the 10 Niches, a ceremonial space with precisely carved stone walls, and the Baths of the Ñusta, water fountains that the Incas used for religious rituals. Each of these spaces has a unique history and reflects the complex spirituality and advanced technology of the Incas.
In front of the fortress, on a steep hill, are the Granaries of Pinkuylluna. This hike will take you to a set of ancient Inca warehouses used to preserve food. The climb offers not only an additional adventure, but also a stunning view of the Ollantaytambo fortress and the valley below.
Ollantaytambo is also a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture through its gastronomy. You can enjoy typical dishes such as roasted guinea pig, pachamanca, or choclo con queso, in local restaurants or at the market. It is also possible to purchase handmade artisanal products, such as alpaca textiles, silver jewelry, and ceramics.
In the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a magical place full of history, lies one of the most unique and fascinating landscapes in Peru: the Maras Salt Mines. This site, known for its traditional salt terraces that extend like a white mosaic over the mountains, is an essential stop on any Sacred Valley of the Incas tour. On a 15-day tour of South America, covering Peru, Bolivia and Chile, the Maras Salt Mines offer a unique insight into the ancestral engineering and daily life of the ancient Incas.
The Salineras de Maras, also known as the Maras Salt Mines, are a stunning system of salt terraces located on the side of a mountain in the Maras region near Cusco. This ancient salt evaporation system has been in use since pre-Incan times and remains a vital source of salt for local communities. The salt is extracted from natural springs of salt water that emerge from the mountain, which is channeled through a series of shallow ponds. By exposing the water to sunlight, the water slowly evaporates, leaving behind the salt, which is then collected and processed.
The Maras Salt Mines consist of approximately 3,000 small terraces or pools, arranged in a series of steps on the mountainside. These bright white terraces create a striking contrast to the green of the surrounding fields and the brown of the mountains. Each pool has a system of channels connecting it to the others, allowing water to flow from one terrace to another before evaporating. This ingenious design ensures efficient and sustainable salt extraction.
When visiting the Maras Salt Mines, you will marvel at the surreal beauty of the landscape. You will walk along the walkways surrounding the terraces and observe the traditional salt extraction process up close. Local guides will provide information about the history and technique used, explaining how the community has managed and preserved this resource over the centuries.
An integral part of visiting the Salineras de Maras is the opportunity to interact with the local inhabitants who still work in salt extraction. These traditional workers, dressed in traditional regional costumes, are eager to share their knowledge and traditions. You can learn about ancestral techniques and the crucial role that salt plays in the daily life of the community. In addition, you can buy salt directly from local producers, a great way to take home an authentic souvenir of your visit.
On the itinerary of a 15-day tour of South America, covering Peru, Bolivia and Chile, the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour stands out as one of the richest regions in history and archaeological wonders. Within this valley, Moray stands as one of the most enigmatic and fascinating sites, offering a unique insight into the sophistication of Incan agricultural engineering. This article explores how Moray, with its impressive circular terraces, fits into an unforgettable experience in the Sacred Valley.
Moray is an archaeological complex located about 50 kilometers northwest of Cusco, in the heart of the Sacred Valley. This site is famous for its concentric circular terraces, which descend in depth towards the center, creating an unusual landscape that seems to defy logic. Although the exact purpose of Moray is still a matter of debate among archaeologists and scientists, it is believed that these structures functioned as an agricultural laboratory.
Most widely accepted theory is that Moray was used by the Incas to experiment with different types of crops and adaptations to various altitudes and climates. The terraces of Moray, with their varying altitudes and microclimates, allowed Incan farmers to test how different plants behaved under specific conditions, thus optimizing agricultural production in the vast Incan empire.
Moray complex is composed of three main sets of terraces: Moray Central, Moray North and Moray South. Each of these sets features concentric terraces that spiral downwards towards the centre. The construction of the terraces, with their perfectly fitted stone walls and ingenious drainage systems, reflects the advanced technology of the Incas in water and soil management.
Visiting Moray is an immersive experience that allows you to walk among the terraces and appreciate Incan engineering up close. You can descend the stone stairs and explore the different levels of the terraces, admiring the precision with which they were built and the ingenuity behind their design.
landscape of Moray is spectacular and offers numerous photographic opportunities. The combination of the circular terraces, the mountainous surroundings and the blue Andean sky creates a stunning setting. The best views are usually found from the viewing points located around the site, which offer a panoramic perspective of the complex.
During your visit, you will also have the opportunity to learn about the life and customs of the ancient Incas. Local guides offer information about the history of the site, the agricultural techniques used, and the importance of Moray in the Incan economy and society. This interaction will allow you to better understand the context in which this innovative agricultural technology was developed.
On a 15-day tour of South America spanning Peru, Bolivia and Chile, the Sacred Valley of the Incas stands out as a region of extraordinary cultural and scenic richness. Among the hidden treasures of this region is Chinchero, a picturesque Andean town that offers a fascinating window into the world of the ancient Incas and the indigenous traditions that persist to this day. This article explores how Chinchero, with its rich cultural heritage and impressive ruins, becomes an essential stop on a Sacred Valley of the Incas tour.
Chinchero, ubicado a unos 28 kilómetros al noroeste de Cusco, es conocido por su profunda conexión con la historia incaica y su papel en la vida cotidiana de los pueblos andinos. Durante el periodo inca, Chinchero fue un importante centro agrícola y ceremonial, y su nombre se traduce aproximadamente como “lugar de los quechuas”. El sitio ha mantenido su relevancia cultural a lo largo de los siglos, y sigue siendo un lugar donde se preservan tradiciones ancestrales.
One of the main attractions of Chinchero is its archaeological site, which includes remains of an ancient Inca fortress and agricultural terraces. The complex is located on a hill with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for exploring the ruins.
The Plaza de Armas and the Colonial Church
At the heart of the town is the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial buildings and the local market. The church of San Sebastián, built on a foundation of Inca walls, stands out for its baroque architecture and colonial frescoes. The combination of Inca and colonial structures illustrates the rich history and cultural syncretism of the region.
Visiting the ruins of Chinchero is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the Inca civilization. The agricultural terraces, built into the mountainside, reflect the Incas’ advanced knowledge of agriculture and water management. These spaces, once used to grow corn, potatoes and other crops, now offer a stunning view of the Andean landscape.
Chinchero’s market is a lively and colorful place where you can experience everyday village life. Here you will find a variety of fresh produce, handicrafts and textiles. It is the perfect place to pick up authentic souvenirs and support local artisans.
Chinchero is also known for its vibrant market and traditional textile workshops. The local community is famous for its weaving skills, using ancient techniques that are passed down from generation to generation. You can visit the workshops of local weavers, learn about traditional dyeing and weaving methods, and purchase handmade crafts such as blankets, ponchos, and rugs.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, a magical region in Peru, is an essential destination for any South America itinerary, especially on a 15-day tour that spans Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. This valley, with its stunning combination of Andean landscapes, historic ruins, and vibrant communities, offers a unique experience that requires careful planning. Here are some tips to make the most of your Sacred Valley of the Incas tour and ensure a memorable adventure.
Research and Plan Your Itinerary: Before you set off, research the top destinations within the Sacred Valley, such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras, and Chinchero. Each offers a distinct experience, from archaeological ruins to local markets and stunning scenery. Plan your itinerary to include a combination of these destinations, tailored to your interests and pace of travel.
Check the Weather: The weather in the Sacred Valley can vary, with cool morning temperatures and chilly nights, especially in the rainy season (November through March). Wear layered clothing, including a light coat, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Gradual Acclimatization: The Sacred Valley lies at altitudes between 2,800 and 3,000 meters above sea level. To avoid altitude sickness, acclimatize gradually. Arrive in Cusco at least a couple of days before your Valley excursion to allow your body to adjust.
Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and heavy meals upon arrival. Coca tea, available in many parts of Peru, can help relieve symptoms of altitude sickness.
Buy Tickets in Advance: For major archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season. This will allow you to avoid long lines and guarantee your access.
Respect Local Rules: Follow the rules of the archaeological sites, such as not touching the structures and not leaving trash. This helps preserve these valuable heritage sites for future generations.
Local Markets: The markets in Pisac, Chinchero, and other towns offer an excellent opportunity to purchase handicrafts and try local food. Negotiate prices respectfully and keep in mind that in some markets you may need cash, as credit cards are not always accepted.
Community Interaction: Interact with locals in a respectful manner. Learning about their customs and traditions will enrich your experience and allow you to appreciate Andean culture in a deeper way.
Appropriate Footwear: Wear comfortable, walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore ruins and trails. The terrain can be uneven and steep in places.
Sun Protection and Insect Repellent: Bring high-factor sunscreen and insect repellent. Solar radiation at high altitudes can be intense, and some sites may have mosquitoes, especially in warmer areas.
Local Transportation: Consider hiring a local guide or joining an organized tour to facilitate transportation between the different destinations in the Sacred Valley. This will allow you to maximize your time and enjoy a more enriching experience.
Time at Each Destination: Don’t rush. Take time to explore and enjoy each place. The Sacred Valley has a lot to offer, and each site has its own pace and charm.
Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and loss of belongings. This will give you peace of mind and prepare you for any unexpected events.
Consult a Doctor: If you have pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about altitude, consult your doctor before you travel. Also be sure to bring any medications you may need.
Keep an Open Attitude: Keep an open and flexible attitude. Unforeseen events can happen, and your ability to adapt and enjoy surprises will make your trip even more memorable.
Photography and Memories: Don’t forget to capture special moments and stunning scenery. Respect people’s privacy when taking photos and ask permission when necessary.
These places will allow you to experience the best of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, combining the majesty of ancient ruins with vibrant local culture.
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