Sacred Valley, Peru: An Honest Excursion Review

So, thinking about a trip to Peru and the well-known Sacred Valley? Is that, like, part of the plan? That place between Cusco and Machu Picchu? I’m going to tell you, straight up, about, like, my experience and hopefully, you know, give you some, very, pointers that are useful.

What to Expect from the Sacred Valley

Ok, right, the Sacred Valley. Its name is something you probably, commonly, see bandied about. Well, it is basically, the area next to Cusco that everyone often says is really important before you make your way to Machu Picchu. Its elevation is usually slightly lower than Cusco. Which actually could be a very welcome break if altitude has gotten the better of you. It might be that you’ve, sort of, been feeling the effects of the thin air.

Anyway, that you should think of a very tour around the Valley not just as some filler before the “big one” (yep, Machu Picchu), it’s, too, absolutely jam-packed with history and beautiful sights that are genuinely fascinating on their own, in a way. So you are heading there! Maybe allocate at least a full day, so that you get a really satisfactory look.

Pisac: Market Bargains and Inca History

First stop is, usually, Pisac. Mostly popular thanks to the enormous market that is a big draw there, especially on Sundays. You are trying to find those weaved blankets you can buy or possibly some alpaca sweaters? Well, this place really is it. Just very brace yourself because It tends to be a lot. It is often, like, very packed out, with tourists and locals wanting the best bargain.

That means: haggling! Yet do it respectfully, and with a smile. Also, be mindful of the local merchants. It can be a very livelihood for them, and what appears to be just a very bit of money to you actually could really make their day. Now, is that, after you have really had your fill of the commerce, go up the hill to Pisac’s Inca site. It definitely gives a glimpse into some seriously impressive Inca stonework and agriculture, so too it’s great.

Ollantaytambo: A Living Inca Town

This is a small town is basically an amazing place, which, as a matter of fact, manages to combine ancient history alongside the sort of very daily bustle of a Peruvian population in a way. Also, just a stroll through its very stone streets gives you that impression of how old everything basically really is, and that it still has its cultural heart after all this time, actually. Obviously, the Ollantaytambo ruins are something that is truly quite awe-inspiring.

These steep terraces, used for farming are what many archaeologists consider, really, an ancient fortress. Its huge rocks are all positioned so very carefully. How exactly? Well, they probably did it using big levers and with the power of many individuals, is that. Try to factor in enough time so you can have a wander, so that you appreciate everything fully, in a way. And you know what? If you are considering hopping on the train straight to Machu Picchu after, well, this is commonly, one of the jumping off points, actually!

Chinchero: Weaving Traditions and Inca Walls

Ok, so if you have a fascination for textiles, make a point to go visit Chinchero, and its traditional weaving demonstrations. Commonly, you see women using those old techniques so they can create very intricate and colourful fabrics. Yet not only are these clothes beautiful, in a way, they tell these amazing stories regarding the people’s past using symbols and also customary designs, too it’s great.

It might be that Chinchero’s main draw is, very arguably, its historical interest, with its Inca walls as well as a colonial church basically standing side by side. It is not too hard to picture past cultures at what was this Inca hub. Its views? Incredible too!

Extra Tips and Points To Consider

Book ahead: Mostly if you want very specific guides or transport then just make sure you plan it first, because a few good companies become fully booked up pretty fast, that is.

Bring cash: Smaller sellers are all over these areas! Its very handy to have that cash for souvenirs or for those small purchases at local markets, yet.

Adjust to the altitude: Spend two or three days acclimatising in Cusco. Also drinking heaps of that coca tea is, very arguably, a bit of a winner, too, right?

What to Wear: Layers! You need the freedom so you can easily add them/remove them during the course of that day, yet. Wear your hiking shoes or some that are very comfortable to walk around in. Oh – and take something warm.

Be sun safe: Do take your sunblock. The sun at altitude is much stronger than you anticipate, too, almost.

Learn some key phrases: Locals would appreciate the small gesture of learning some phrases. This can absolutely show that you admire the locals. A very little attempt at “Hola” or “Gracias”, and stuff, might make someone, arguably, be more welcoming.

Pace Yourself: Don’t overfill your to-do-list and see far too much each day. Give yourselves opportunities so you can, you know, relax, enjoy those views and actually really appreciate what exactly is happening.