Private Sacred Valley Tours: The Ultimate Guide
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, offers one of the most breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences in Peru. For discerning travelers seeking a luxury experience, private Sacred Valley tours offer a way to explore this historic and stunning region in comfort, privacy, and style.
On our Peru: Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley trip we offer private Sacred Valley explorations that allow guests to immerse themselves in the region’s vibrant history, connect with local traditions, and enjoy exclusive, tailor-made experiences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key elements of a private Sacred Valley tour and why it should be at the top of your travel list.
Why Choose a Private Sacred Valley Tour with Terra & Tu?
Personalized Experiences: With Terra & Tu, every aspect of your Sacred Valley journey is tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re interested in ancient Incan ruins, immersive cultural workshops, or outdoor adventures, our tours are designed with flexibility in mind. You’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, ensuring a rich, personalized experience.
Exclusive Access and Comfort: A private tour means you’ll avoid the crowds and experience the Sacred Valley in a way most travelers can’t. Our private guides provide exclusive access to key locations like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Maras. Plus, you’ll travel in luxury vehicles with expert drivers who handle all logistics, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
Expert Local Guides: The Sacred Valley is rich with history and cultural significance. Our private tours come with knowledgeable local guides who offer deeper insights into the region’s historical landmarks, giving you a much fuller understanding of the Incan civilization and its lasting influence on Peru.
Key Highlights of Private Sacred Valley Explorations
Pisac Archaeological Site
One of the most iconic stops on any Sacred Valley private tour is the Pisac Archaeological Site. Nestled high on a hilltop, these ruins offer panoramic views of the valley below. With Terra & Tu, you’ll have the option to visit the site early in the morning or at sunset, ensuring a peaceful experience without the usual crowds. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the famous Pisac market, where local artisans sell traditional crafts, textiles, and jewelry.
Ollantaytambo Fortress
Ollantaytambo is not only one of the most important Incan ruins, but it’s also one of the few places where the Incas won a battle against the Spanish. This impressive fortress features stunning terraces, stonework, and an intricate water system. With our private exploration of this iconic ruin, you’ll delve into the history of this ancient military site with your guide, exploring parts of the ruins that are often overlooked by group tours. Your day at Ollantaytambo will also include a private lunch in a local village, allowing you to experience authentic Andean cuisine.
Maras Salt Mines
The Maras Salt Mines offer a glimpse into a unique tradition that dates back to pre-Incan times. Thousands of salt pools glimmer in the sun, creating a surreal landscape. On our private tour, you’ll get a closer look at the artisanal salt production process and even have the opportunity to harvest salt yourself under the guidance of local workers. This is a perfect stop for travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind, hands-on experience.
Moray Agricultural Terraces
Moray is an archaeological site known for its series of circular terraces, which were used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation. These concentric terraces created different microclimates, allowing the Incas to grow crops that otherwise wouldn’t thrive in the Andean climate. A private tour with Terra & Tu you the chance to explore this fascinating site at your own pace, learning about ancient agricultural practices and sustainable farming methods still used today.
Exclusive Cultural Activities in the Sacred Valley
At Terra & Tu, we pride ourselves on offering far more than just sightseeing; our private Sacred Valley tours provide an immersive journey into the heart of Andean culture. Thanks to our deep connections with local communities, artisans, and spiritual leaders, we are able to offer unique, authentic experiences that go beyond what typical tours can provide. Our exclusive partnerships allow guests to participate in private ceremonies, hands-on workshops, and traditional feasts, all designed to give a true sense of the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley
Meet with a Local Shaman
One of the most unique and intimate experiences we offer is the chance to meet with a local shaman. As part of your private Sacred Valley exploration, you can participate in a traditional Andean despacho ceremony, an offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus (mountain spirits). This sacred ceremony, led by an experienced shaman, invites you to connect with the spiritual side of the Andean people, adding depth and meaning to your journey.
Hands-On Workshops
For travelers who want to engage more deeply with the local culture, we offer a variety of workshops with skilled artisans. From traditional Andean weaving to pottery, these hands-on experiences provide insight into centuries-old techniques passed down through generations. This is more than just a demonstration—it's an opportunity to interact with the artisans and learn directly from the source.
Traditional Pachamanca Feast
A highlight of any visit to the Sacred Valley is the opportunity to enjoy a Pachamanca feast, a traditional Andean meal cooked underground with heated stones. In a private setting, you’ll watch and participate in the preparation of this special meal, which includes locally sourced meats, potatoes, and vegetables. It’s a truly unique culinary experience that brings together community, tradition, and flavor.
Luxury Accommodations at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba
On all of our Sacred Valley private tours, we provide accommodations at the luxurious Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, a stunning property located in the heart of the valley. Surrounded by the towering Andes, this five-star hotel offers an ideal retreat after a day of exploring.
Luxury Meets Sustainability: Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba blends luxury with a commitment to sustainability. The property features expansive rooms designed with a modern take on Andean architecture, offering both comfort and style. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley from private terraces, while also taking part in activities like guided nature walks through the hacienda’s organic gardens.
Farm-to-Table Dining: One of the standout features of Inkaterra is its farm-to-table dining. The hotel grows its own produce on-site, ensuring that every meal is fresh and sustainable. You’ll savor Peruvian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, prepared by world-class chefs.
Private Wellness Experiences: The property offers personalized wellness experiences, from yoga classes to spa treatments. After a long day of exploration, unwind with a massage that incorporates traditional Andean healing techniques or relax in the serene surroundings of the Urubamba Valley.
Best Time to Visit the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit for private Sacred Valley explorations is from April to October, during the dry season. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with clear skies and sunny days perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
During the wet season (November to March), the valley is lush and green, but it’s important to plan for occasional rain showers. However, visiting during the shoulder months of November or March can offer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the region’s highlights.
What to Expect from a Terra & Tu Private Sacred Valley Tour
At Terra & Tu, we pride ourselves on offering a seamless travel experience from start to finish. Our Sacred Valley private tours are designed to provide the highest level of comfort and luxury, ensuring that every detail is taken care of so you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the region.
Highly Personalized Service: We believe that no two travelers are alike, which is why every private tour is customized to your interests. Whether you want to spend more time exploring the ruins, delve deeper into the culture, or enjoy a leisurely day at your luxury accommodation, we’ll create an itinerary that fits your needs.
Exclusive Add-Ons: For those seeking even more, we offer additional experiences such as additional excursions to Machu Picchu, luxury dining experiences, and extensions in Cusco or Lima.
Practical Information for Sacred Valley Private Tours
What to Pack: Given the altitude of the Sacred Valley, it’s important to pack for a variety of conditions. We recommend layers for cooler mornings and warmer afternoons, as well as comfortable walking shoes for exploring archaeological sites. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat, as the high altitude means increased sun exposure.
Travel Tips: Acclimatization is key when traveling to the Sacred Valley, as it sits at a higher altitude than many visitors are used to. Our Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley itineraries are designed to ease you into the altitude change, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble as long as you drink plenty of water and take it easy during the first couple of days!
A private Sacred Valley tour with Terra & Tu, as part of our Peru: Machu Picchu and The Sacred Valley itinerary, offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of Peru’s most stunning regions in complete luxury and privacy. From exclusive access to ancient ruins and immersive cultural experiences to the finest accommodations at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, every detail is curated for your enjoyment. Contact us today at info@terraandtu.com to begin planning your personalized Sacred Valley adventure.
