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Published: 24-11-2021
The Incas actually gave The Sacred Valley its name, due to its incredible fertility and ability to produce different grains and vegetables, that do not usually grow at such high elevations. The unique microclimates found in this region, have aided cultivation for generations. The Sacred valley remains culturally unique with traditions dating back even beyond the Inca civilization and the Inca fortresses are every bit as spectacular as Machu Picchu. From ancient Inca citadels, to spectacular mountainside hotels, here are some of the best things to see and do, in the stunningly impressive Sacred Valley of The Incas.
Handicraft Seller in Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
The ruins of Ollantaytambo are some of the best-preserved Inca ruins in the whole of Peru. Although, they have undergone some restoration by local archaeologists, this impressive Inca site is an essential stop off point, on your way to Machu Picchu. Historians believe it was a strategical fortress to stop any invaders heading to the important Inca city of Machu Picchu and was one of the few places where the Incas were able to halt the advancing Spanish conquerors, under the leadership of the Inca resistance leader, Manco Inca Yupanqui.
Ollantaytambo
impressive archaeological site is even more spectacular due to its setting, amid rolling mountains, snow peaks and green valleys, characteristic of the Sacred valley. Ollantaytambo in fact, offers some of the best viewing spots in the whole of the valley. Today the small quaint cobbled-street town of Ollantaytambo, is a launching spot to head to Machu Picchu, either by train or along the classic Inca trail.
Moray – an experimental agricultural site or something more?
To simplify what Moray is, it is an Inca archaeological site consisting of a set of circular terraces that plunge deep into the ground. The ruins of Moray, differ somewhat to majority of the other Inca Sites in the sacred valley and it is thought to have been used by the Incas as an experimental, agricultural site. This is the most widely accepted theory, in any case. The principle is to create a range of mini-microclimates, and experiment with growing a variety of different crops at different elevations. The temperatures in each of the circular formations of Moray can vary as much as 15°C (59°F) from the top to the bottom of the downward slopes.
Moray
Another interesting fact is the remarkable drainage systems in place. These plunging circular holes would normally become inundated with rainwater in wet season, however, the terraces never actually flood, due to the impressive Inca irrigation system on its terraces. Inca engineering at its best! Locals from the nearby communities will tell you that Moray is an ancient Inca ceremonial site. Even today, locals gather in October to celebrate Moray Raymi in the vast circular formations of Moray. While it is likely that Moray was used as an amphitheatre for ceremonial purposes, its distance from Cusco city, suggests that it was not merely for such types of celebrations. Other theories about Moray include that it was once an open-pit mine used by Inca or pre Inca civilizations. After the mine had been depleted, it was then repurposed for Inca farming and ceremonial uses. Some even believe that the circular depressions in the earth are crop circles, or the evidence that the area was visited by aliens and the indentations are what remain from a UFO landing. Whatever theory aligns with you, there is no escaping that they are an impressive sight built into the Andean landscape of The Sacred Valley.
Maras Salt Pans
The Salt Pans of Maras are a remarkable site visible on the hillside. They consist if small, Individual salt pools spread as far as the eye can see. These pools fill with spring water and when the water evaporates, it leaves salt encrustations, which are then harvested by the local families of the area.
Maras salt Pans
You can find pink Maras salt in local Peruvian markets and in health stores across the world. The filtration system it goes through, means that the salt is lower in sodium that your regular sea-salt. There are also other elements of nutritional value in the minerals that naturally accompany the salt. So not only are they spectacular to look at, they are also better for your health!
Pisac
Just 40 minutes away from Cusco is the small town of Pisac, with some enormous ruins on the top of the hill. You can only truly appreciate the size of this site once you are there and the Ina stone terracing, will accompany you all along the way. There is a religious section, an agricultural section and even a sun dial which all combine at this magnificent site, which is 5 times bigger than Machu Picchu.
Pisac Ruins
Down in the small town the traditional markets are still in evidence today, with the local women of the surrounding communities, exchanging their potatoes for corn for broad beans. Pisac is also a great souvenir market with original handicrafts available from all parts of the Sacred Valley.
Chinchero
Chinchero is an ancient Andean weaving village found atone of the highest points of the Sacred valley at 4000 metres elevation (13,000ft). The surround snow peaks and green valleys combine as the perfect backdrop and the terraces and tiny church with a hand painted roof are the central features to this archaeological site.
Chinchero weavers
The town is famous for its famous weaving and the local people still use their traditional dress, made by their own hands in this beautiful, Andean town. The local women of the Chinchero community will be more than happy to show their traditional weaving techniques that have been handed down from generation to generation and still used to this day.
Hike Huchuy Qosqo
Yet another Inca archaeological site in the Sacred Valley. In the case of this site, you have to hike to it for 1 (preferably 2) days. You can take horses or mules to help you carry your backpack or even yourself, as you see fit. This archaeological site was once the royal estate of the emperor Viracocha.
Huchuy Qosqo
When the Spanish arrived, they used the pre-existing irrigation system to set up a farm to feed their troops. From Huchuy Qosqo you not only have a privileged view of the whole of the Sacred Valley and the towns of Lamay and Calca, but also of the imposing Pitusiray mountain. As the local condor flies, these are some of the best sites over the sacred valley of the Incas.
Hanging Hotel Capsules
If waking up in a transparent glass capsule, suspended 400metres (1,300ft) up a cliffside sounds like your cup of tea, The Skylodge Adventure Suites, near Ollantaytambo.
SKYLODGE Hotel
Your adventure will begin on arrival, with an option to climb the cliff face to reach the lodge. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the glass capsules: all the suites include an on-suite bathroom and fine-quality linens and mattresses, luxurious adventure with an element of unique madness!
