At a lower altitude to the dizzying heights of Cusco, the Sacred Valley offers a welcome place to stay for a few days, acclimatise and enjoy an old-world charm whilst exploring traditional market towns and impressive Inca sites.
For those seeking adventure, the Sacred Valley can also be explored on horseback or by raft along the raging rapids of the Urubamba River. It also serves as the starting place of many trekking routes, including the celebrated Inca Trail.
To the Incas, the Urubamba River symbolised the flow of life and was therefore guarded by the watchful gaze of numerous ancient citadels perched on the lofty mountain ridge above. Constructed for worship and astronomical observation, the first of these is at the lively market town of Pisac. Etched out of the terraced hillsides, the ruins comprise some of the finest examples of Inca masonry in the valley with the Templo del Sol (Temple of the Sun) being the most impressive. Pisac, itself, is a quaint town, famous for its artisan markets where you can find extraordinarily fine jewellery, ceramic and textile craftwork.
Known for their docile character, comfortable gait and willing nature, the beautiful Peruvian Paso horse offers one of the smoothest rides to explore the land of the Incas. Originally from Spain, the Paso was bred for its endurance and hardiness, making light of the toughest terrains from deserts to mountains. From the delightful Sol y Luna Lodge, armed with a picnic, spend a day riding through the Sacred Valley, passing maize fields, local communities, the mighty Urubamba River and abandoned Inca terraces.
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Reaching the sun gate and marvelling over Machu Picchu unveiled one of the most impressive landscapes that Paul has seen in his global travels.
If your passion is the outdoors and you are looking to delve into South American culture, Roxy recommends one of the lodge-to-lodge hiking programmes to explore the Sacred Valley and beyond. Hopping between the quiet mountain towns, meet the locals that live off the grid and immerse yourself in the welcoming spirit of Peru.
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