Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour

Exploring the Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour: An In-Depth Review

If you’re considering a full-day journey into the heart of the Inca world, the Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour from Cusco offers an experience that combines cultural richness with comfort and personalization. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-curated, engaging day surrounded by stunning scenery, fascinating history, and excellent guides.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its private setup—meaning you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a truly tailored experience. Plus, including lunch, private transportation, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a well-rounded, hassle-free way to explore some of the most iconic Inca sites and natural wonders.

One possible consideration is the cost, which at $162 per person, is a bit of an investment. But when you factor in private transport, a buffet lunch, and entrance to key sites, the value begins to look quite reasonable for a full day of sightseeing.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and more intimate exploration of the Sacred Valley, especially those interested in Incan culture, stunning landscapes, and avoiding the often crowded group tours.

Key Points

• Private, fully-guided tour personalized to your interests
• Visits include Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo, with options to continue to Machu Picchu
• Includes buffet lunch and bottled water, making it convenient and comfortable
• Carefully planned itinerary offers a mix of cultural, archaeological, and scenic highlights
• The experience is approximately 8.5 hours, with pickup from Cusco hotels
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful views

A Full Breakdown of the Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour

Starting the Day: From Cusco to Chinchero

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup at 8:00 am, setting the stage for a day filled with Inca treasures. Your private guide is there to bring history to life with stories and insights, making each stop more than just a photo opportunity.

The first stop is Chinchero, a village known for its traditional textiles. Visiting the Centro Textil Acllas, you’ll learn how the local artisans weave stunning textiles using techniques passed down through generations. The emphasis here is on alpaca wool extraction and weaving traditions, offering a glimpse into the living culture of the Andes. From the textile center, you’ll enjoy a view of the Chinchero archaeological site, where ruins of Inca and colonial origins tell stories of past civilizations.

Moray: An Incan Agricultural Laboratory

Next, the tour takes you to Moray, a site often described as an Inca experiment in agriculture. Here, you’ll see a series of concentric terraces, each with different microclimates. Over 250 plant species were cultivated in this area, making it an ancient center of agricultural innovation.

We love the way Moray’s design showcases the Incas’ ingenuity. It’s a place where science and nature intersect, and you’ll have plenty of time to walk around and imagine how ancient farmers tested different crops in this natural laboratory.

While an entrance fee isn’t included, the site’s marvels justify a quick stop, allowing you to visualize the Incas’ advanced farming techniques.

Maras and Salinas de Maras: Salt and Scenery

From Moray, the journey continues to Maras, a charming town with colonial and Inca influences. A quick 15-minute stop allows you to soak in its local atmosphere before heading to the famous Salinas de Maras.

The salt mines are truly extraordinary—thousands of salt pans form a patchwork of shimmering terraces. These mines have been used by local communities since Inca times for salt extraction, still operational today. It’s fascinating to see how such a traditional method has persisted for centuries, and you’ll find ample opportunities for photos and to appreciate the ingenuity behind local salt harvesting.

Lunch by the Urubamba River

By this point, you’ve earned a restful break. The tour includes a buffet lunch in Urubamba, surrounded by lush scenery. This is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy Peruvian cuisine in a scenic setting. Many reviews mention the satisfaction of having a well-organized, tasty lunch included in the price, which removes the hassle of finding a good spot on your own.

Ollantaytambo: A Living Inca Fortress

Post-lunch, the next highlight is Ollantaytambo, an incredibly well-preserved Inca town that served as a strategic military and administrative center. The site features impressive terraces, temples, and stonework that showcase the Incas’ architectural mastery.

The guide will help you understand the significance of the Ollantaytambo Fortress, its role in Inca history, and the remarkable urban planning that still makes the town feel like a living museum. Many visitors praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, with some reviewers specifically mentioning their guides Walter and Manuel as highlights of the trip.

Optional: Continue to Machu Picchu or Return to Cusco

If your schedule allows, you can opt to continue to Machu Picchu by train from Ollantaytambo, making this a seamless, one-day package. Alternatively, the tour concludes with a return to Ollantaytambo train station for a 16:45 departure back to Cusco, arriving around 6 pm.

This flexibility is valuable—whether you want to extend your adventure or head back and rest after a full day.

What Visitors Say: Authentic Perspectives

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise of the guides as a standout feature. “Domingo, Manuel, and Walter” are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, energetic delivery, and personalized attention.

One reviewer mentions, “Walter was great! He made sure my daughter, who was feeling sick from altitude, was okay,” emphasizing the personal care and flexibility that a private tour offers.

Others note the beautiful views and cultural insights, making the day more than just a sightseeing trip. The ability to ask questions and receive detailed explanations makes this tour particularly enjoyable for those eager to learn about Inca history.

Strengths That Shine Through

• The private nature of the tour allows for a flexible pace and tailored experience
• The knowledgeable guides bring history alive with engaging storytelling
• The scenic stops at Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo deliver both visual and educational value
• The included buffet lunch is a welcome break and adds value
• The timing and logistics are well-organized, with hotel pickup and drop-off at the train station

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the price point—$162 per person. For some travelers, this might be an investment, but considering all inclusions and the personal service, many find it justifiable.

Plus, the tour’s success depends on good weather, especially since some sites are outdoors and require walking. Cancellations for poor weather are possible, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or a refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience fits travelers seeking a comprehensive, personalized day exploring the Sacred Valley’s highlights. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, guided approach rather than large group tours.

It’s especially suitable for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and photo lovers who want to absorb the region’s beauty without the rush. The option to continue to Machu Picchu makes it perfect for those with limited time but a strong desire to see as much as possible.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who value expert guidance, comfortable transportation, and a well-planned itinerary, this private Sacred Valley tour offers excellent value and convenience. It combines iconic sites with local culture, all within a day that feels personalized and relaxed.

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience more meaningful than a generic sightseeing run. Plus, the scenic stops like Moray and Maras provide both visual delight and historical intrigue.

While it’s definitely on the higher end in terms of cost, the quality of experience, inclusions, and flexibility justify the price for many travelers. It’s a smart choice for those who prefer a curated, hassle-free day—and who want to walk away with a deeper appreciation for Inca ingenuity and Peruvian landscapes.

FAQs About the Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour

What is included in the tour cost?
The tour price of $162 per person includes private transportation, a certified guide, hotel pickup, drop-off at the Ollantaytambo train station, a buffet lunch, and bottled water.

Can I visit Machu Picchu after this tour?
Yes. The tour offers the option to continue to Machu Picchu by train from Ollantaytambo, or you can return to Cusco at 4:45 pm.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some site entrance fees like Moray and Ollantaytambo are not included, so you should budget for those if you wish to access them.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, with a start time of 8:00 am, ending in the late afternoon or early evening depending on your choice to continue to Machu Picchu or return to Cusco.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as some walking and outdoor activity are involved. It’s advisable for travelers who are comfortable on their feet and able to navigate uneven terrain.

How personalized is the tour?
Being a private tour, it allows for flexibility and tailored attention, making it more suited for travelers wanting a custom experience.

Is hotel pickup guaranteed?
Yes, pickup from your Cusco hotel is included, making the start of your day stress-free.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. A light jacket might be useful for higher altitudes and varying weather.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed look at the Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour should help you decide whether this adventure matches your travel style: a flexible, insightful, and comfortably paced way to explore the wonders of Incan civilization.