Visit Chinchero, a traditional Andean village 40 minutes from Inkaterra Urubamba Villas. This community is surrounded by a breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the mountain ranges of Urubamba and Salkantay snow peaks. Chinchero means the birthplace of the rainbow in Quechua. This excursion combines Inca archaeological sites, a typical Andean community, remarkable colonial church, mountain landscapes and a colorful traditional market which to date, on its market day practice the tradition of barter of goods.

Difficulty Level: I
Duration: Half day
Frequency: Daily
Schedule: Morning and Afternoon
Attractions: Archaeological sites & Handicrafts
Transport: Provided by Inkaterra
Assistance: English speaking certified Guide

Recommended for children

En route from Cusco 29 kilometers (18 miles) from the city, visit the historic Pisaq archaeological site, one of the finest in the Valley. See Pisaca, a curving wall; the Intihuatana group of temples; and the military area known as Q’allaqasa. Stop at Awanacancha, where you can meet native weavers and see South American camelid species, including llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas.

Difficulty Level: I
Duration: Half day
Frequency: Daily
Schedule: Morning
Attractions: Archaeological sites & Handicrafts
Transport: Provided by Inkaterra
Assistance: English speaking certified Guide

Note: This excursion is only available en route from Cusco to Urubamba Villas.

See Ollantaytambo, an Inca temple and a fortress, with extremely well-built stone walls and steep terraces, one of the few places where the Conquerors lost a major battle. The complex, still under construction at the time of the Spanish Conquest, was never completed. Next, browse the Museum and Cultural Center of Ollantaytambo (CATCCO) which promotes traditional products and handicrafts in the area and sell unique souvenirs made by the same local artisans.

Difficulty Level: II
Duration: Half day
Frequency: Daily
Schedule: Morning and Afternoon
Attractions: Archaeological sites & Photos
Transport: Provided by Inkaterra
Assistance: English speaking certified Guide

Visit the ancient salt mines near the village of Maras, where salty springs emerge from the hillside and the Incas built terraces to capture the flows and harvest salt. Continue on to Moray, with its huge circular agricultural terraces, built by the Incas on limestone sinks, which served to plant various crops. It is said to have a cosmological significance, however, the Incas used the terraces as an agricultural laboratory to determine the optimum conditions for each species in varying altitudes. Then visit Yahuarmaqui, a ceramic workshop, where you may select a piece of pottery and decorate it yourself. The finished piece will be fired and delivered to you before you leave the Valley.

Difficulty Level: I
Duration: Half day
Frequency: Daily
Schedule: Morning
Attractions: Archaeological sites, Handicrafts & Photos
Transport: Provided by Inkaterra
Assistance: English speaking certified Guide