Planning a trip to Peru and wondering how far the Sacred Valley is from the city of Cusco? You’re not alone. Many travelers wonder the same question. The Sacred Valley, replete with Inca ruins, picturesque villages and breathtaking views, is a short drive from the city of Cusco. In this guide we explain its distance, how to get there, travel tips and the best options according to your travel style.
Distance Between Cusco and the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas begins only 15 kilometers from Cusco (9 miles), in the town of Pisac, but the entire region extends more than 60 km (37 miles) through Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.
Cusco and Sacred Valley Distance Tab
The distance depends on where you are going in the Sacred Valley, between 45 minutes and 2 hours by road.
How to get from Cusco to the Sacred Valley
There are several ways to get from Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and your choice depends on your budget, travel style and time.
1)Private Tour or Transfer:
This is the most comfortable and flexible way to travel from Cusco to the Sacred Valley. Most private tours start with pick up from your hotel in Cusco and include stops at key sites like Pisac, Moray, the Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo dropping you in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba in the end of the tour.
Pros: Hotel pickup, guide included, fully customizable
Cons: More expensive than
Cost: The price depends on the number od participants and the route, starting from $100 per person for a group of 2 people (for private tour).
2)Public Bus or Colectivo
If you’re traveling on a budget, public buses or colectivos (shared transportation) depart from Calle Puputi in Cusco to go through Pisac route or Pavitos Street through Chinchero route.
Pros: Cheap, good for backpackers
Cons: No guide, less comfort, limited space for luggage
Cost: 15 Soles / $5 per person
3)Taxi or Private Driver
Hiring a private driver for the day is a great balance between comfort and cost. You set the schedule, and they take you directly to your destinations.
Tip: Always agree on a price before you get into!
What’s the Best Way to Explore the Sacred Valley?
If you are looking to make the most of your time, the most popular option is a full-day tour to the Sacred Valley from Cusco. This day trip usually includes:
- Pisac Ruins
- Moray Agricultural Terraces
- Maras Salt Ponds
- Lunch in Urubamba
- Ollantaytambo Fortress
- Alpaca Farm (Weaving demonstration)
Many travelers opt for the Classic Sacred Valley Tour but they prefer to spend the night in Ollantaytambo, which is the perfect gateway to Machu Picchu.
Conclusions: Cusco and Sacred Valley Distance
The Sacred Valley is not only close to Cusco,it is beautiful, unique and a must destination for any traveler visiting Peru. The trip from Cusco is relatively short and incredibly scenic whichever option you choose.
Distance: As little as 15 km (9 miles) and up to 72 km (45 miles) depending on your destination.
Travel time: 45 minutes to 2 hours by car.
Tip: If you want to se the highlights of the Sacred Valley fo the Incas and have plenty of time, take a full-day tour to the Sacred Valley from Cusco. If you’re heading to Machu Picchu, consider spending the night in Ollantaytambo to catch the train the next morning or carch the 7:04pm train to Aguas Calientes the same day.
