Sacred Valley Hidden Gems

Explore the lesser-known treasures of the Sacred Valley—from Huchuy Qosqo hikes and textile workshops in Chinchero to tranquil vistas and rural rituals. Discover Peru’s authentic side with Peru Private Tours

Hidden Gems of the Sacred Valley You Can’t Miss

Most travelers explore the classic Sacred Valley highlights like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray, and chinchero.

At Peru Private Tours, we go beyond the usual routes, offering personalized journeys to hidden, magical places that will tour your visit into a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Top Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences

Below are less-visited sites, villages, and experiences that give depth to a Sacred Valley itinerary:

Taray Viewpoint

What Makes it Special

Stunning viewpoint of the Valley, Urubamba River, Vilcabamba mountain range. Excellent photo-stop early morning or at sunset.

Location

Located near Pisac, beside the road from Cusco to Pisac. Short walk from the road.

 

Places to Visit in the Sacred Valley

Awana Kancha

What Makes it Special

Camelid research & interpretation center; weaving demonstrations; shows how alpacas, llamas, vicuñas are raised and used in textiles. Very cultural and hands on.

Location

Close to Pisac; good half-day stop. Can be paired with Pisac Market, etc.

Natural Dyeing and Weaving Experience

What Makes it Special

This experience will take you to a magical place in the heart of the Sacred Valley, where you’ll have the oportunity to learn about the process and creation of tradicional textiles alongside skillerd master artisans.

Location

located just one hour from the city of Cusco, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, at an altitude of 2900 meters above sea level.

Huchuy Qosqo

What Makes it  Special

An ancient Inca royal estate (1420 CE) with terraces, two-story storehouses (qolqas), great views over the Valley. Best for hiking or horseback.

Location

Located above Lamay; challenging hike (3 hours from Lamay) or 4–6 hour trek from Tauca. Best to visit with a guide.

Maras and Moray

Moray’s Microclimates-t3

What Makes it Special

Not just the terraces, but exploring deeper zones, paths less trodden, seeing lesser-known terraces off to the side. Fewer visitors, more solitude.

Location

Best with morning light; guides help locate less accessible terraces.

Maras by smaller trails and sunset viewpoint-t3

What Makes it Special

Salt mines are often visited, but going via smaller dirt roads or watching the pans at sunset offers quiet beauty, better lighting, reduced crowds

Location

Close to Maras; accessible via local roads. Trails/dirt roads may be rough.

Ritual and Ceremonial Local Experience

What Makes it Special

Pachamama (Mother Earth) offerings, working with families in fields, local cooking/crop rituals; many villages still practice ancient Andean cosmology.

Location

Best arranged via local guide; respectful participation; small groups preferred.

 

Additional Information

How to Include These Gems in Your Luxury itinerary

• Stay an extra night or two, Take your time to explore, relax, and connect with the peaceful energy of the Andes.
• Hire a private guide, Learn the deep history and local histories behind every Inca ruin and hidden village.
• Start your days early, Beat the crowds and enjoy the Golden mornign light over the mountains
• Dress Smart and confortable, Layered clothing, sun protection, and proper walking shoes.
• Drink coca tea and stay hydrated, It helps with the altitude and keeps your energy up for adventures.
• Try a traditional Andean lunch, Experience local flavors in a countryside restaurant or a local home.
• Dont rush, Let the slow rhythm of the valley show you its true magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Huchuy Qosqo and how difficult is the hike?

Huchuy Qosqo, Little Cusco in the quechua languaje, is an Inca royal estate built 1420 CE. The hike from Lamay is steep, 3 hours, at high altitude 3,500-4,000 m. Good fitness, proper gear, acclimatization needed.

• Are these “hidden gems” accessible year-round?

Yes, mostly, though trails may be muddy or slippery in the rainy season (Nov-Mar). Best conditions are dry months (May-October). Some ruins require slowing down or alternative approaches when access roads are challenging.

• Can I add an extra stop to my Sacred Valley tour?

Some yes for example, Taray viewpoint, Awana Kancha, mercado artesanal Pisac, outdoor picnic, maras, moray. If there's any other place you’d like us to add to the tour, just le tus know.

• What altitude are these sites? Do i need to acclimatize?

Many are between 2,800-3,800 m. Spending a night or two in Cusco or Urubamba helps. Stay hydrated, take it easy first day.

• How do I ensure responsible and respectful tourism during these visits?

Use local guides. Participate in cultural experiences. Follow leave-no-trace. Respect local privacy. Avoid loud behavior in villages or during ceremonies.

• Is there transportation available to these hidden spots?

Yes, though for remote sites hiring private car & driver or using a guide is recommended. In many cases roads are dirt or gravel; some trails require hiking or horseback.

 

Publication date: 2025-09-18