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Private Transfer from Cusco to Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo

Travel from Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas with a private transfer service. Our experienced drivers navigate the scenic mountain road through the Andes, passing traditional villages and stunning Inca terraces on the way to Ollantaytambo and the Urubamba Valley.

Distance
72 km
Duration
1.5-2 hours
From
$55

Why Choose Our Cusco to Sacred Valley Transfer?

The journey from Cusco to the Sacred Valley descends nearly 1,000 meters through some of Peru's most breathtaking Andean scenery. Our private transfer service ensures you travel comfortably while taking in the panoramic views of terraced hillsides and snow-capped peaks.

Scenic Route Expertise

Our drivers know every curve of the road from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, including the best viewpoints for photography stops along the way through Chinchero and Urubamba.

Altitude-Aware Service

Descending from 3,400m in Cusco to 2,800m in the Sacred Valley, our drivers carry supplemental oxygen and adjust the pace to help passengers acclimate comfortably.

Flexible Photo Stops

Unlike shared shuttles, our private transfers allow you to pause at scenic overlooks, local markets, or Inca sites like Chinchero and Moray along the route.

Direct Door-to-Door Service

We pick you up from your Cusco hotel and deliver you directly to your Sacred Valley accommodation, Ollantaytambo train station, or any specific location you need.

Choose Your Vehicle

Select the perfect vehicle for your transfer needs

Sedan

Couples or solo travelers exploring the Sacred Valley

From
$55
Up to 3 passengers
2 large suitcases + 2 carry-ons
Select Sedan

Minivan

Families or groups visiting Sacred Valley sites

From
$80
Up to 6 passengers
4 large suitcases + 4 carry-ons
Select Minivan

Route Information

Detail Information
Distance 72 km
Typical Duration 1.5 to 2 hours
Elevation Change 3,400m (Cusco) to 2,800m (Ollantaytambo)
Road Conditions Paved highway with mountain curves, well-maintained year-round
Availability Daily departures, any time between 4:00 AM and 9:00 PM

Landmarks Along the Route

The Cusco to Sacred Valley route passes through some of Peru's most iconic Andean landscapes and historical sites.

Chinchero — Ancient Inca town with a colonial church, traditional weaving cooperatives, and panoramic valley views
Moray — Circular Inca agricultural terraces believed to have been an experimental crop laboratory
Maras Salt Mines — Thousands of salt evaporation ponds cascading down the mountainside, in use since Inca times
Urubamba Town — The commercial heart of the Sacred Valley, nestled along the Urubamba River
Ollantaytambo Fortress — Massive Inca ruins with towering stone terraces guarding the entrance to the valley

About Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, known as the Urubamba Valley, stretches between Cusco and Machu Picchu along the Urubamba River at approximately 2,800 meters above sea level. This fertile valley was the agricultural heartland of the Inca Empire, and its mild climate and lower altitude compared to Cusco make it a popular acclimatization stop for travelers. The valley is home to remarkable Inca archaeological sites including Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray, as well as vibrant indigenous markets and traditional Quechua-speaking communities. Ollantaytambo, at the western end of the valley, serves as the main departure point for trains to Machu Picchu and features one of the best-preserved Inca fortress complexes in Peru.

About Sacred Valley
About Sacred Valley

Must-See Attractions:

Ollantaytambo Inca fortress and living Inca town with original stone streets

Pisac archaeological site and famous Sunday artisan market

Lower altitude (2,800m) offering easier breathing than Cusco (3,400m)

Train station for PeruRail and IncaRail departures to Machu Picchu

Traditional Quechua weaving communities in Chinchero and surrounding villages

Stay Connected in Peru - Sacred Valley

Get instant mobile data with eSIM - No physical SIM card needed! Activate before you land and stay connected throughout your journey.

Travel Tips & Information

Helpful advice for your transfer

Best Time to Depart

Leave Cusco early in the morning to enjoy the clearest mountain views and arrive in time to explore Ollantaytambo before the afternoon tour groups.

Altitude Adjustment

The Sacred Valley sits about 600 meters lower than Cusco, so you may feel more comfortable here. Many travelers choose to spend their first night in the valley to acclimatize before visiting higher-altitude sites.

Add Stops Along the Way

Ask your driver to stop at Chinchero for weaving demonstrations, or at Moray and Maras salt mines. These detours add about 1-2 hours but are well worth the visit.

Cash for Local Markets

Bring Peruvian soles in small denominations for purchases at local markets in Pisac and Ollantaytambo. ATMs in the Sacred Valley can be unreliable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our services.

How long does the transfer from Cusco to Sacred Valley take?

The direct drive from Cusco to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. If you add stops at Chinchero, Moray, or Maras, the total journey time increases accordingly.

Can I stop at Chinchero or Maras salt mines on the way?

Absolutely. Our private transfer allows flexible stops at any point along the route. Popular stops include Chinchero weaving village, Moray terraces, and Maras salt mines. Just let your driver know your preferences.

What is the road like between Cusco and the Sacred Valley?

The road is fully paved and well-maintained. It features mountain curves as you descend from Cusco into the valley, but our experienced drivers are thoroughly familiar with every section of the route.

Do you drop off at Ollantaytambo train station for Machu Picchu?

Yes, we can drop you off directly at the Ollantaytambo train station if you are catching a PeruRail or IncaRail train to Aguas Calientes for Machu Picchu. Just provide your train departure time so we plan accordingly.

Is the Sacred Valley lower in altitude than Cusco?

Yes, the Sacred Valley sits at approximately 2,800 meters compared to Cusco at 3,400 meters. Many travelers find it easier to breathe and sleep in the valley, making it a popular first stop for acclimatization.

What should I bring for the journey?

We recommend sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a light jacket, and water. The Andean sun is strong at altitude, and temperatures can vary between Cusco and the valley.

Can I book a round-trip transfer to the Sacred Valley?

Yes, you can book both your Cusco to Sacred Valley and return Sacred Valley to Cusco transfers together. We offer the same reliable service in both directions.

Is the transfer price per person or per vehicle?

All our transfer prices are per vehicle, not per person. Whether you travel alone or with up to 3 passengers in a sedan or 6 in a minivan, the price remains the same.

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