Sacred Valley of the Incas
Cusco
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, also known as the Urubamba Valley, is a lush and fertile valley in the Andes of Peru, located north of Cusco, the ancient Inca capital. This valley was progressively incorporated into the Inca Empire between 1000 and 1400 CE and became a crucial agricultural and ceremonial area, especially renowned for its maize production. The valley stretches from Pisac to Ollantaytambo along the Urubamba River and features numerous archaeological sites, including terraces and ruins that reflect the advanced Inca engineering and agricultural techniques. The valley's geography includes elevations ranging from about 2,050 to 3,000 meters above sea level, framed by towering peaks such as Sahuasiray and Veronica. Its climate is mild and suitable for diverse crops, which the Incas exploited with sophisticated irrigation systems. Today, the Sacred Valley attracts tourists worldwide who come to explore its archaeological treasures, vibrant indigenous towns like Chinchero and Pisac, and spectacular natural scenery. It is also recognized for its cultural heritage, including the cultivation of giant maize, a crop with ancestral significance and a protected designation of origin. The valley is a living landscape where pre-Hispanic traditions, colonial influences, and modern tourism blend, offering a unique glimpse into Andean history and culture.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season from May to September for pleasant weather and easier trekking. Advance booking of guided tours and entrance tickets to popular archaeological sites like Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo is recommended to avoid long lines. Visitors can benefit from combined tickets for multiple sites. Exploring local markets, especially in Pisac, offers opportunities to purchase traditional textiles and crafts. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are advised due to the high altitude and strong sunlight.
Interesting facts
- •The Sacred Valley was known as the 'Valley of Yucay' in colonial documents.
- •The valley was the heartland for maize production in the Inca Empire, essential for making chicha, a traditional fermented maize drink.
- •Inca warriors used skulls of defeated enemies as ceremonial chicha drinking vessels symbolizing transformation from war to peace.
- •The giant maize cultivated in the valley has a protected designation of origin since 2005 and is part of local cultural heritage.
- •The Sacred Valley contains over 350 archaeological sites including Pisac, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo.
- •The Vilcanota River flowing through the valley is called the 'sacred river' in Quechua language.
History
The Sacred Valley was originally inhabited by the Chanapata civilization around 800 BCE, followed by the Qotacalla from 500 to 900 CE, and the Killke civilization until the Inca Empire absorbed the region around 1420 CE.
The Incas valued the valley for its lower elevation and warmer climate, which allowed them to cultivate maize, a crop of great ceremonial importance.
The valley was a center for maize production, facilitated by agricultural innovations such as terraces and irrigation, and possibly experimental crop breeding at nearby Moray.
The Inca Empire controlled the valley for just over a century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century.
In modern times, the valley has been officially recognized as a Cultural Heritage Landscape and an important agricultural heritage site by international organizations.
Place Guide
Pisac Archaeological Site15th century
Pisac features extensive Inca ruins including agricultural terraces, an astronomical observatory, and a large pre-Columbian cemetery. The town below hosts a colorful market and traditional Quechua ceremonies.
Ollantaytambo Fortress and Town15th century
Ollantaytambo is a well-preserved Inca fortress and living town showcasing traditional Andean architecture, terraces, and waterworks. It served as a strategic military and religious center.
Chinchero Village
Chinchero is known for its colonial-era architecture, vibrant weaving traditions, and indigenous markets. It preserves many pre-Hispanic cultural practices and is a hub for textile arts.
Moray Agricultural TerracesInca period
Moray consists of concentric circular terraces believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory for crop experimentation and adaptation to microclimates.
Maras Salt MinesPre-Inca period
The Maras salt mines are a series of terraced salt evaporation ponds used since pre-Inca times and still in operation today, demonstrating ancient Andean salt extraction techniques.
