Join us on an unforgettable day tour from Cusco to the impressive ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Explore ancient Inca history, marvel at stunning landscapes, and soak up the rich cultural heritage of these iconic sites. Perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth experience of Peru’s most fascinating historical monuments. Book your adventure now!
Customizable Itinerary
If you'd like to customize this trip, our travel specialists will create the perfect tour for you.
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Pisac and Ollantaytambo: A Must: See Tour through the Sacred Valley
Pisac & Ollantaytambo – A Complete Overview
Travel back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Inca Empire with our tour to Pisac and Ollantaytambo. This adventure is perfect for those looking to connect with Peru’s ancient past while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Marveling at the engineering genius of the Incas. These spectacular ruins not only offer a glimpse into the past, but also panoramic views of the lush Sacred Valley that stretches out below.
This tour offers much more than simple sightseeing; it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and history of one of the most powerful civilizations in history, while enjoying some of the most beautiful landscapes Peru has to offer.
Ruins of Pisac
The ruins of Pisac are one of Peru’s most important archaeological sites and offer a fascinating insight into Inca engineering and culture. Perched high on a mountain, the ancient ruins of Pisac were strategically designed to overlook the Sacred Valley that stretches out below. The site features impressive terraces used for agriculture, where the Incas ingeniously adapted to the steep slopes. The temple of Pisac, with its finely carved stones, was probably a sacred place for Inca ceremonies.
Pisac Ruins in the Sacred Valley
In addition to the ruins, the viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the lush landscapes of the Sacred Valley, making it a perfect place to take photos.
Main features: Agricultural terraces, Inca temple, and ceremonial areas.
Best time to visit: Morning visits offer the best light and fewer crowds.
Nearby: Pisac Market, perfect for buying colorful local crafts, fresh produce, and textiles made by local artisans.
Ruins of Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is often described as a “living Inca city” due to its continued use by locals. The ruins of Ollantaytambo are located on the outskirts of the city and feature monumental stone structures, including temples, terraces, and ceremonial platforms. These ruins were part of an Inca fortress and religious center, designed to control access to the Sacred Valley and protect it from invaders.
Exploring the Ruins of Ollantaytambo
The terraces of Ollantaytambo are among the most impressive in Peru and rise dramatically above the town. The large stone blocks used in their construction continue to baffle historians, as they were moved from a quarry miles away without modern technology.
Main features: The Temple of the Sun, the monumental terraces, and the Inca water channels.
Best time to visit: Late morning or early afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Nearby: The town of Ollantaytambo itself is a fascinating place to explore, with its traditional Inca street layout and the continued use of ancient water channels by the local population.
“This Pisac and Ollantaytambo tour is part of our Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco
, which covers the most important sites in the region in a full day experience.”
What to expect
What to expect
Pisac and Ollantaytambo Tour: At a Glance
Hotel Pick Up
We pick you up at 7:00 AM from your hotel in Cusco, starting your journey to explore the incredible Inca sites.
Local Alpaca Farm
Visit a local alpaca farm where you will learn about these iconic animals. Discover how alpacas play an essential role in Peruvian culture and economy, and enjoy the opportunity to interact with them up close.
Pisac Market
Stroll through the colorful Pisac Market, famous for its vibrant handicrafts, fresh produce, and textiles. Experience the local culture while shopping for unique souvenirs made by skilled artisans from the region.
Ruins of Pisac
Explore the ancient ruins of Pisac, with impressive agricultural terraces and a sacred Inca temple. Located high on a mountain, these ruins offer spectacular views of the Sacred Valley and provide insight into Inca engineering and spirituality.
Ruins of Ollantaytambo
Visit the ruins of Ollantaytambo, a huge Inca fortress and religious site. Admire the vast stone terraces and the famous Temple of the Sun, a remarkable example of Inca architectural skill. The ruins and the town are a perfect complement to your trip.
Cusco Hotel Drop Off
At approximately 4:00 PM, returning to Cusco after a day filled with history, culture, and adventure.
Tour Schedule
Tour Schedule
Pisac & Ollantaytambo Tour Schedule:
Discover the beauty of Peru with our tour to Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Here’s the full schedule for your adventure:
7:00 a.m. – Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
7:30 a.m. – Visit an alpaca farm.
9:00 a.m. – Explore Pisac Market.
10:00 a.m. – Visit Pisac Ruins.
12:00 p.m. – Optional lunch in Urubamba.
1:30 p.m. – Arrive at Ollantaytambo.
2:30 p.m. – Explore Ollantaytambo Ruins.
3:00 p.m. – Visit Ollantaytambo town.
4:30 p.m. – Return to Cusco.
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary
Pisac and Ollantaytambo Tour Itinerary
Cusco - Alpaca Farm - Pisac Ruins - Pisac Market - Ollantaytambo Ruins
Highlight of the day: Discover Inca ruins, colorful markets, and breathtaking landscapes on this tour to Pisac and Ollantaytambo from Cusco
7:00 a.m. – Pickup at your hotel in Cusco.
Location: Pickup at your hotel in Cusco.
Altitude: 3,400 meters (11,150 feet).
Start your day with pickup at your hotel in Cusco, where you will meet your guide and driver.
8:30 a.m. – Visit to the alpaca farm.
Location: Local alpaca farm in the Sacred Valley.
Altitude: 2,900 meters (9,514 feet).
At the local alpaca farm, you will interact with the alpacas and learn about their importance to Peruvian culture, especially during the Inca era. Alpacas are a vital source of wool and continue to play an important role in the lives of many locals.
9:30 a.m. – Explore the Pisac Market.
Location: Pisac Market, in the town of Pisac.
Altitude: 2,972 meters (9,750 feet).
Explore the Pisac Market, one of the most famous markets in the Sacred Valley, known for its vibrant selection of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and fresh local produce. You can also buy traditional Peruvian souvenirs and fresh food from local artisans.
11:00 a.m. – Visit the Pisac ruins.
Location: Pisac ruins.
Altitude: 2972 meters (9750 feet).
Duration of visit: 1-1.5 hours.
These ruins are located high on a mountain overlooking the Sacred Valley. The ruins of Pisac are famous for their agricultural terraces, which were used by the Incas to cultivate crops in different microclimates.
1:00 p.m. – Optional lunch in Urubamba
Location: Urubamba, a town in the Sacred Valley.
Altitude: 2,870 meters (9,416 feet).
Enjoy an optional buffet lunch (not included in the tour price) at a local restaurant in Urubamba. This is a great opportunity to try traditional Peruvian dishes such as cuy (guinea pig), alpaca meat, lomo saltado, and ceviche.
2:00 p.m. – Arrival in Ollantaytambo.
Location: Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca city.
Altitude: 2,792 meters (9,160 feet).
After lunch, you will travel to Ollantaytambo, a city known for its well-preserved Inca ruins and its still-intact Inca urban layout. The city is located on the banks of the Urubamba River, offering a picturesque backdrop of lush vegetation and imposing mountains.
2:30 p.m. – Exploration of the Ollantaytambo ruins
Location: Ollantaytambo ruins.
Altitude: 2,792 meters (9,160 feet).
Duration of visit: 1 hour.
The ruins of Ollantaytambo are an ancient fortress and temple complex built by the Incas to protect the Sacred Valley. Visit the Temple of the Sun, a site famous for its enormous stone blocks and terraces that were used for agriculture. The stones used in the ruins weigh over 80 tons and were transported from a quarry miles away without modern technology.
3:30 p.m. – Visit to the town of Ollantaytambo
Location: Town of Ollantaytambo.
Altitude: 2792 meters (9160 feet).
Duration of visit: 30 minutes.
Stroll through the narrow streets of Ollantaytambo, which retain their original Inca design. You will see the ancient water channels that still supply the village, just as they did in Inca times. The village offers a glimpse of what life was like in the past and is one of the most charming villages in the Sacred Valley.
4:00 p.m. – Return to Cusco.
Return to Cusco with an estimated arrival time of 4:30 p.m.
Altitude upon arrival: 3,400 meters (11,150 feet).
After a full day exploring Pisac and Ollantaytambo, we will return to Cusco. Your tour will conclude with an estimated arrival time at your hotel at 4:30 p.m to 5:00 p.m giving you time to rest and reflect on the incredible experience.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, water, camera, hat, and cash for any purchases.
Level of difficulty: Moderate hike, suitable for most ages, although there are some hills to climb in Pisac.
Weather: Be prepared for possible weather changes, as temperatures can vary depending on altitude.
Difficulty
Easy / Beginner
Trip Duration
Full Day
Minimum Elevation
2,792 m / 9,160 ft
Highest Elevation
3,347 m / 10,981 ft
Free Cancellation
Yes
Inclusions
Included
Private transportation
English speaking guide
Local taxes
No Included
Entrance Tickets (90 soles p/p)
Meals
Tips
What To Bring
What to Bring
What to Bring for the Pisac and Ollantaytambo Tour from Cusco
To fully enjoy your excursion to Pisac and Ollantaytambo from Cusco, we recommend bringing the following essential items to be comfortable and prepared:
Comfortable walking shoes.
Light jacket or sweater.
Hat or cap for the sun.
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen.
Reusable water bottle.
Small backpack.
Camera or smartphone.
Local currency (Peruvian soles).
Snacks.
ID or passport.
Rain poncho (depending on the season).
Pricing
Pricing
Pricing – Pisac and Ollantaytambo Tour from Cusco
Prices are per person, the more participants in your group, the lower the price per traveler.
When comparing prices for tours to Pisac and Ollantaytambo from Cusco, remember that the true value lies in the experience and quality of service, not just the cost.
Before booking a cheaper tour, consider the following: licensed agencies, professional English-speaking guides with years of experience and safe and modern transportation. We ensure that your trip is stress-free, personalized, and unforgettable, while you simply enjoy yourself.
Will was our guide and he was wonderful! The tour was everything we hoped for. The day was filled with so much and Will made sure we were having the best time we could. Ask for Will- he was wonderful!
We had an outstanding time in our private tour with Carlos and Michael. Better than expected. Beautiful county and they took great care of us! Sacred Valley is a must!
My sister and I were referred to Come See Peru from a friend, and we are so grateful for the referral. We did the Sacred Valley Cultural Experience. Carlos (our guide) and Michael (our driver) were knowledgeable, flexible, and fun!
Here are a few specific aspects that I would like to mention:
1. Flexible. We really appreciated the flexibility that we were afforded. We did our half day Sacred Valley trip in between accommodation switches. So we were picked up in Ollantaytambo and dropped off in Cusco. Additionally, we had to be picked up a bit later than the original start time, and Carlos and Michael were happy to accommodate.
2. Informative. Carlos expertly led us around the three sites we visited (Ollantaytambo ruins, The Salt Mines, The ruins of Moray). He actually took us in an order that allowed for there to be less tourists when we were present, which was really nice. He provided us with historical context and answered all of our questions.
3. Patient. Carlos and Michael gave us time to sit in the beauty that is these amazing locations. Carlos is a wonderful photographer as well and offered to take our picture at some really neat places in each location. When we did the Chicha tasting and salt demonstration, they waited while we shopped. We never felt rushed, which we appreciated.
4. Fun! Overall, we had a really good time with Carlos and Michael. We chatted and laughed about all sorts of things. We appreciated the private tour aspect so we could really go at our own flow and connect and just enjoy.
Thank you Carlos and Michael for a lovely exploration of the Sacred Valley! You will be at the top of our list when we return to see Pisac and Chinchero!
Wow! I booked a customizable 2-day tour to include all of the main Sacred Valley sights because I wanted to start the first day in Cusco and end in Ollantaytambo and use the tour as transportation as well. Come See Peru was so easy to work with, communicating extremely quickly via WhatsApp to design my perfect itinerary. They also suggested some stops that I did not know about.
Our guide Ruben was positively incredible and really made this tour amazing. He presented the history, culture, geography, & food information in such a compelling way! We learned SO MUCH because he is an incredible storyteller. None of the main sites (moray, maras, ollantaytambo, etc) have much signage and we wouldn’t have been able to appreciate them half as well without Ruben. He was also an amazing photographer, always choosing the best locations to take photos of my husband and I.
The vehicle was a comfortable van, which was private, and we had a driver who dropped off and picked up whenever we needed and also stayed with our luggage the day that it was in the car.
Overall, the price was fair for the value received and I would definitely recommend reaching out to Come See Peru to build a customized tour for your trip to the Sacred Valley!
My wife, and I actually took three tours in three dayswith Come See Peru. This were for Machu Picchu, Pisac / Llama farm and the half-day tour on the outskirts of Cusco. The company provided excellent tour guides and took care of every detail, so that our tours were totally stressed free.
All day tours may be cancelled up to 72 hours prior to departure. Cancellations made within this period will incur a 60% fee, in recognition of the time and resources our team has reserved for your visit.
Machu Picchu Tours:
Payments for Machu Picchu tours are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable, as tickets are purchased in advance. For additional details or specific inquiries, please contact your travel agent.
Travel Insurance Recommendation:
To protect your travel investment, we strongly recommend securing travel insurance. This coverage can help in case of unforeseen events such as flight delays, medical emergencies, or other unexpected situations during your trip.
Faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the excursion to Pisac and Ollantaytambo from Cusco last?
The excursion usually lasts a full day, between 8 and 9 hours, including visits to the ruins of Pisac, the market, and the fortress of Ollantaytambo.
2. What is the altitude of Pisac and Ollantaytambo?
Pisac is located at an altitude of approximately 3,347 m (10,981 ft) and Ollantaytambo at 2,792 m (9,160 ft).
3. Do I need to purchase the Tourist Ticket for the excursion to Pisac and Ollantaytambo?
Yes, the Cusco Tourist Ticket is required to enter the ruins of Pisac and the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo.
4. What should I bring on the excursion to Pisac and Ollantaytambo from Cusco?
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, local currency, and a light jacket.
5. Is this day trip suitable for families with children?
Yes, this excursion is ideal for families, with moderate walks and cultural experiences that are enjoyable for all ages.
6. Can I combine the to Pisac and Ollantaytambo tour with a visit to Machu Picchu?
Yes, many travelers use Ollantaytambo as a starting point to take the train to Machu Picchu. We can drop you off at the Ollantaytambo train station instead of Cusco.
7. How can I book the tour to Pisac and Ollantaytambo from Cusco?
You can secure your spot with a $10 deposit online and pay the rest in cash (USD or soles).
8. How to get to Pisac from Ollantaytambo?
It is very easy, there are different ways that you can considere, you can go by taxi, by public bus, for more detailed travel tips on how to get to Pisac from Ollantaytambo, check out our full guide to getting from Ollantaytambo to Pisac.
Reserve now with just $10! Secure your spot today by paying only $10 and pay the remaining balance later.
Free cancellation up to 72 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Need a Travel Experience Designed Just for You?
We get it your trip should be as unique as you are. Share your ideas, and we’ll create a personalized plan that’s perfect for your style and preferences.
Check out our reviews and see what our travelers say about their experiences with us. We’re 5-Star Rated on Tripadvisor
No Middlemen | Let Us Do the Work for You | Your Trip, Your Way
Come See Peru has earned TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for consistently receiving 5-star reviews of our tours in Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tours. This recognition highlights our exceptional service and dedicated attention to our clients.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Heather R
Verified
Stunning Sacred Valley
We had an outstanding time in our private tour with Carlos and Michael. Better than expected. Beautiful county and they took great care of us! Sacred Valley is a must!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Teri G
Verified
Sacred Valley Lovely Day
Will was our guide and he was wonderful! The tour was everything we hoped for. The day was filled with so much and Will made sure we were having the best time we could. Ask for Will- he was wonderful!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Jaydina B
Verified
Been on many tours, would have to say this tour was one of best tours that we’ve been on for the last 25 years
This company was quick to respond on setting up our tour to sacred valley from Ollantaytambo. The expert guide Carlos who accompanied us was outstanding informative, and entertaining. He knew his history and answered all of our questions on the ruins we visited. He brought us to the perfect spots for taking pictures and making our videos. The itinerary was very well thought out. Their attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting an educational and fun tour. they will deliver! I would also like to add that I forgot my camera in the tours car. They found it and returned it back to me at my hotel.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Marcelo C
Verified
Great Day Tour of Sacred Valley
Scheduling the tour on-line was very easy. Communication from tour coordinator was excellent, he helped us plan an extended tour for the day out of Cusco. Our driver and tour guide were great. We had a wonderful day touring around, seeing the sites, learning the history of the area and stopping to get a local drink and purchase some nice souvenirs. I will recommend this tour group to my friends and family.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Ginette P
Verified
Wonderful half-day tour from Ollantaytambo!
Our half-day tour of the Moray Ruins & Salt Flats was amazing. From the time of booking to the completion of our tour, the communication was great. We were picked up at our hotel punctually as discussed (and dropped off afterwards within the timeframe). From there, Carlos our guide provided us with a lot of interesting information and was always willing to take pictures of us or even make extra stops so that we can capture the beautiful landscapes around us. Enough time was allowed at every stop which was much appreciated. Our driver Christobal also assured that we were safe with his great driving skills. But the thing we appreciated the most was that the tour was available from Ollantaytambo (shorter drive than from Cusco) and that we were able to only have our small family group of 4 people for the tour. We would definitely recommend this tour to others.Ginette
Posted on Tripadvisor
Sun-Woong K
Verified
Get Carlos and Rene! Great experience
Carlos was an exceptional tour guide with great insight, great English, and very accommodating. Also gave us tips for our other destinations. Tour was informative, not intense walk, and facts were fun. He recommended a great restaurant too which we all enjoyed. Would definitely recommend. Rene was the driver, ride was smooth, efficient, and he was very helpful with luggage.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Dubaigateways
Verified
Excellent Pisac guide and tour.
A very entertaining and comprehensive tour ( from Cusco to Pisac to Ollantaytambo) excellently delivered by our guide Carlos. A fabulous day, and we cannot recommend him more highly!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Judy H
Verified
Outstanding tour. Don't miss learning more about Sacred Valley with a pro guide/driver
This was our second half-day tour with our guide Carlos and his sidekick (driver) Rene, who was an expert navigator through some very narrow roadways and along mountain trails. On this day we visited the ruins of Olantaytambo, Pisac, and the Pisac market. As we were passing through Calca, the town famous for cuy, Carlos allowed us to detour so that we could taste it in the most local restaurants where it is made traditionally. We were so grateful to have this experience, which for sure you would miss on a group tour. We are staying in Ollantaytambo, and while we could possibly have visited these ruins on our own, we would have missed so many nuances and history that only a seasoned guide like Carlos could give us. We were thrilled for everything we learned and saw here. I almost felt like nothing could have been better, but the Pisac ruins also are outstanding. Carlos taught us about the architecture and is a great storyteller about so many things we would have glossed over. He pointed out so much valuable information to us that we would have lost with a group tour or self-exploration. Also, you have to do a bit of climbing, and it was helpful to have Carlos's steady hand a time or two during the descent. HIGHLY recommend Come See Peru Tours if you really want to understand about these historic places, the culture of the people, and so much more. We are so glad we added these stops in Sacred Valley to our itinerary. We know they will enhance our time when we get to Machu Picchu.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Judy H
Verified
Do this tour with Come See Peru Tours! Such a worthwhile experience!
Our tour was from Ollantaytambo, not Urubamba, but Carlos (guide) and Rene (driver) provided an outstanding experience. We highly recommend you spend a few days acclimating in Sacred Valley and include the Moray ruins and salt flats on your itinerary. Carlos's English was impeccable and his knowledge of the ruins, the salt flats, and all the areas we were driving through—and more—is vast. We had two smaller stops throughout the day including for some local chocolate and vanilla bread, which was very delicious and also a visit to sample chicha and also learn all about how it is made, we tasted some delicious Peruvian chocolates that were enhanced with salt from Maras along with a few other salted seasoning mixes, which was actually a fun and interesting experience. There is so much more to Peru than Machu Picchu (although we certainly are including that in our trip). But understanding Sacred Valley really is enhancing our trip, and visiting from Ollantaytambo also means that we also were the first to arrive at the salt mines before all the visitors arriving from Cusco, which made our picture taking experience much better! We highly recommend Come See Peru if you are looking for an excellent and rich experience.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Jason S
Verified
Exceeded Expectations
The entire team exceeded our expectations from start to finish. Julio, Renee, Rose, and Rebecca are the best. Detail orientedFriendlyAccommodating ProfessionalThere are many controls in place to keep Machu Picchu special. This team navigated us through them with ease. The tour itself was amazing, and we learned a lot about the Inca civilization. It was truly a once in a lifetime experience. Thank you team. -Jason Sheffey-United States
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