Descending to the Sacred Valley – a suitable route for all hikers!

Apus Peru > Destination Guides > Descending to the Sacred Valley – a suitable route for all hikers!

As I have the opportunity to do some of the treks that Apus Peru offer, I can only be inspired every time I go on one. Every day hike that is available offers something different, new views of the surrounding mountains of the Cusco region and always an experience to be shared.

Photos and words tell only half of the story – you have to go there to really understand!

Last week I had the pleasure to accompany a group of keen and able trekkers on a stunning route through to the Sacred Valley.  It took approximately 4 hours to cover the 7kms (about 4.5 miles) of traverse down into a lush valley of trees and farms from the Inca market town of Chinchero to Urquillos in the Sacred Valley. We started from 3600m and ended down by the Urubamba river by the small town of Urquillos at 2900m.

We started by descending from some awesome Inca terraces at Chincheros.

photo 1

We then headed on down an ancient Inca trail that skirted some small streams and miniature waterfalls

photo 2

About 30 minutes in, the valley opened out and we were left with jaw-dropping views of the way down to the Sacred Valley

photo 3

On the way down we encountered a little forest and took shelter for a bit of a picnic

photo 4

At the bottom where we ended our trek we found the quaint town of Urquillos. I think most gave it a mark of 10/10

photo 5

Simply put, this is a great little intro to the Andes and an adequate warm up hike for those going on to do the 4 day Inca Trail, Salkantay or similar.

To book this trek or similar 1 day hikes within close reach of Cusco, please see our  Sacred Valley tours here

 

1 Response

Leave a Reply

Categories

Hiking in Peru

person enjoying views of inca site, private inca trail tour
Inca Trail Private tours to Machu Picchu: 4-Day Trek Expert Guide
15 February, 2024
Cusco Ruins, inca stones
7 AMAZING Inca Trail Ruins Plus More Inca Trail Attractions
24 June, 2022
group doing the inca trail
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A Complete Guide
25 March, 2022

Peru Trip Planning

inca-trail-5-day-valley
Ultimate Peru Packing List: A Travel Guide for Your Trip to Peru
17 September, 2026
cusco main plaza
How to Plan the Perfect Cusco Itinerary – 1-7 Days
23 February, 2026
peru private tours
Peru Private Tours: Why You Should Choose a Cusco & Machu Picchu Custom Private Tour
17 February, 2026

What our clients are saying about us

@apusperu
Apus Peru Adventure Trekking Specialists
  • 🏔️ Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path way to reach Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean valleys, high mountain passes, traditional Quechua communities, and breathtaking landscapes.

What makes this trek so special is the connection with local life. Along the way, you’ll encounter communities where traditional weaving, farming, and Andean culture are still part of everyday life.

After days of trekking through the mountains, the journey continues toward the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. A beautiful combination of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. 🇵🇪✨

#larestrek #machupicchutravel #apusperu #trek #perunature
  • 🌆 Discover Lima beyond the usual!

Lima is a city best explored on foot. You can visit the historic streets of the city center, explore colorful neighborhoods, local markets, beautiful architecture, and some hidden corners!

And there’s so much more to discover beyond the classic sights. Explore local food, culture, history, and everyday life while getting to know the many sides of Peru’s vibrant capital. 🇵🇪✨

#limaperú #apusperu #limacity #visitperu #southamericatrip
  • 🏔️ The Ausangate Trek is unlike any other!

Trekking around Ausangate Mountain means stepping into some of the most spectacular and remote landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. From colorful mountains and turquoise lagoons to vast valleys, glaciers, and traditional Andean communities, every day brings a completely different view!!

#ausangate #apusperu #andesmountains #trekkinglover
  • Look at our group enjoying the Inca Trail in April and having a great time!

#apusperu #incatrail #machupichu
  • The people who make our journeys possible are often the ones we see the least.

They carry the equipment, prepare the meals and work behind the scenes so thousands of travellers can experience the Inca Trail.

The recent death of porter Gabriel Ríos Mamani is a tragic reminder that we need to pay more attention to the working conditions of the people at the heart of tourism.

Choosing a responsible company is about more than a beautiful itinerary or a good price. It means asking who is behind the experience and whether they are treated with the respect, support and protection they deserve.

Travel can have a positive impact – but only if we care about the people who make it possible. #apusperu #responsibletravel
  • So many things to explore in Lima! Enjoy incredible street food, world-class restaurants, vibrant local markets, fascinating history, colorful neighborhoods, beautiful coastal views, and an exciting culinary scene. Let Apus Peru help you experience the very best of Peru’s capital! 🌊🍽️🇵🇪

#apusperu #lima #citylovers #visitperu
  • Discover the vibrant local markets of Peru – one of the best places to experience the country’s incredible food, fresh produce, and everyday culture. From exotic fruits to traditional dishes, there’s so much to explore! Planning a foodie adventure? Reach out to Apus Peru and we’ll help you create the perfect culinary tour. 🌽🍍🥑

#apusperu #culinarytravel #foodlovers #perufood
  • The journey to Machu Picchu begins with a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley. At Apus Peru, we take care of all the details, from train tickets to your complete itinerary, so you can simply enjoy the adventure. 🚆🏔️

#apusperu #machupiccu #trekkingperu
  • Tucked away in the Urubamba Valley, Aguas Calientes is the perfect place to unwind before or after exploring Machu Picchu. ✨

Leave us a message if you want to plan your trip to Machu Picchu! 

#machupicchu #visitperu #apusperu
🏔️ Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path way to reach Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean valleys, high mountain passes, traditional Quechua communities, and breathtaking landscapes.

What makes this trek so special is the connection with local life. Along the way, you’ll encounter communities where traditional weaving, farming, and Andean culture are still part of everyday life.

After days of trekking through the mountains, the journey continues toward the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. A beautiful combination of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. 🇵🇪✨

#larestrek #machupicchutravel #apusperu #trek #perunature
🏔️ Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path way to reach Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean valleys, high mountain passes, traditional Quechua communities, and breathtaking landscapes.

What makes this trek so special is the connection with local life. Along the way, you’ll encounter communities where traditional weaving, farming, and Andean culture are still part of everyday life.

After days of trekking through the mountains, the journey continues toward the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. A beautiful combination of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. 🇵🇪✨

#larestrek #machupicchutravel #apusperu #trek #perunature
🏔️ Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path way to reach Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean valleys, high mountain passes, traditional Quechua communities, and breathtaking landscapes.

What makes this trek so special is the connection with local life. Along the way, you’ll encounter communities where traditional weaving, farming, and Andean culture are still part of everyday life.

After days of trekking through the mountains, the journey continues toward the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. A beautiful combination of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. 🇵🇪✨

#larestrek #machupicchutravel #apusperu #trek #perunature
🏔️ Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path way to reach Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean valleys, high mountain passes, traditional Quechua communities, and breathtaking landscapes.

What makes this trek so special is the connection with local life. Along the way, you’ll encounter communities where traditional weaving, farming, and Andean culture are still part of everyday life.

After days of trekking through the mountains, the journey continues toward the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. A beautiful combination of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. 🇵🇪✨

#larestrek #machupicchutravel #apusperu #trek #perunature
🏔️ Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path way to reach Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean valleys, high mountain passes, traditional Quechua communities, and breathtaking landscapes.

What makes this trek so special is the connection with local life. Along the way, you’ll encounter communities where traditional weaving, farming, and Andean culture are still part of everyday life.

After days of trekking through the mountains, the journey continues toward the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. A beautiful combination of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. 🇵🇪✨

#larestrek #machupicchutravel #apusperu #trek #perunature
🏔️ Lares Trek to Machu Picchu Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path way to reach Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean valleys, high mountain passes, traditional Quechua communities, and breathtaking landscapes. What makes this trek so special is the connection with local life. Along the way, you’ll encounter communities where traditional weaving, farming, and Andean culture are still part of everyday life. After days of trekking through the mountains, the journey continues toward the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. A beautiful combination of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. 🇵🇪✨ #larestrek #machupicchutravel #apusperu #trek #perunature
2 days ago
15
View on Instagram |
1/9
🌆 Discover Lima beyond the usual!

Lima is a city best explored on foot. You can visit the historic streets of the city center, explore colorful neighborhoods, local markets, beautiful architecture, and some hidden corners!

And there’s so much more to discover beyond the classic sights. Explore local food, culture, history, and everyday life while getting to know the many sides of Peru’s vibrant capital. 🇵🇪✨

#limaperú #apusperu #limacity #visitperu #southamericatrip
🌆 Discover Lima beyond the usual!

Lima is a city best explored on foot. You can visit the historic streets of the city center, explore colorful neighborhoods, local markets, beautiful architecture, and some hidden corners!

And there’s so much more to discover beyond the classic sights. Explore local food, culture, history, and everyday life while getting to know the many sides of Peru’s vibrant capital. 🇵🇪✨

#limaperú #apusperu #limacity #visitperu #southamericatrip
🌆 Discover Lima beyond the usual!

Lima is a city best explored on foot. You can visit the historic streets of the city center, explore colorful neighborhoods, local markets, beautiful architecture, and some hidden corners!

And there’s so much more to discover beyond the classic sights. Explore local food, culture, history, and everyday life while getting to know the many sides of Peru’s vibrant capital. 🇵🇪✨

#limaperú #apusperu #limacity #visitperu #southamericatrip
🌆 Discover Lima beyond the usual!

Lima is a city best explored on foot. You can visit the historic streets of the city center, explore colorful neighborhoods, local markets, beautiful architecture, and some hidden corners!

And there’s so much more to discover beyond the classic sights. Explore local food, culture, history, and everyday life while getting to know the many sides of Peru’s vibrant capital. 🇵🇪✨

#limaperú #apusperu #limacity #visitperu #southamericatrip
🌆 Discover Lima beyond the usual! Lima is a city best explored on foot. You can visit the historic streets of the city center, explore colorful neighborhoods, local markets, beautiful architecture, and some hidden corners! And there’s so much more to discover beyond the classic sights. Explore local food, culture, history, and everyday life while getting to know the many sides of Peru’s vibrant capital. 🇵🇪✨ #limaperú #apusperu #limacity #visitperu #southamericatrip
1 week ago
11
View on Instagram |
2/9
🏔️ The Ausangate Trek is unlike any other!

Trekking around Ausangate Mountain means stepping into some of the most spectacular and remote landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. From colorful mountains and turquoise lagoons to vast valleys, glaciers, and traditional Andean communities, every day brings a completely different view!!

#ausangate #apusperu #andesmountains #trekkinglover
🏔️ The Ausangate Trek is unlike any other!

Trekking around Ausangate Mountain means stepping into some of the most spectacular and remote landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. From colorful mountains and turquoise lagoons to vast valleys, glaciers, and traditional Andean communities, every day brings a completely different view!!

#ausangate #apusperu #andesmountains #trekkinglover
🏔️ The Ausangate Trek is unlike any other!

Trekking around Ausangate Mountain means stepping into some of the most spectacular and remote landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. From colorful mountains and turquoise lagoons to vast valleys, glaciers, and traditional Andean communities, every day brings a completely different view!!

#ausangate #apusperu #andesmountains #trekkinglover
🏔️ The Ausangate Trek is unlike any other! Trekking around Ausangate Mountain means stepping into some of the most spectacular and remote landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. From colorful mountains and turquoise lagoons to vast valleys, glaciers, and traditional Andean communities, every day brings a completely different view!! #ausangate #apusperu #andesmountains #trekkinglover
2 weeks ago
18
View on Instagram |
3/9
Look at our group enjoying the Inca Trail in April and having a great time!

#apusperu #incatrail #machupichu
Look at our group enjoying the Inca Trail in April and having a great time!

#apusperu #incatrail #machupichu
Look at our group enjoying the Inca Trail in April and having a great time!

#apusperu #incatrail #machupichu
Look at our group enjoying the Inca Trail in April and having a great time! #apusperu #incatrail #machupichu
3 weeks ago
122
View on Instagram |
4/9
The people who make our journeys possible are often the ones we see the least.

They carry the equipment, prepare the meals and work behind the scenes so thousands of travellers can experience the Inca Trail.

The recent death of porter Gabriel Ríos Mamani is a tragic reminder that we need to pay more attention to the working conditions of the people at the heart of tourism.

Choosing a responsible company is about more than a beautiful itinerary or a good price. It means asking who is behind the experience and whether they are treated with the respect, support and protection they deserve.

Travel can have a positive impact – but only if we care about the people who make it possible. #apusperu #responsibletravel
The people who make our journeys possible are often the ones we see the least.

They carry the equipment, prepare the meals and work behind the scenes so thousands of travellers can experience the Inca Trail.

The recent death of porter Gabriel Ríos Mamani is a tragic reminder that we need to pay more attention to the working conditions of the people at the heart of tourism.

Choosing a responsible company is about more than a beautiful itinerary or a good price. It means asking who is behind the experience and whether they are treated with the respect, support and protection they deserve.

Travel can have a positive impact – but only if we care about the people who make it possible. #apusperu #responsibletravel
The people who make our journeys possible are often the ones we see the least.

They carry the equipment, prepare the meals and work behind the scenes so thousands of travellers can experience the Inca Trail.

The recent death of porter Gabriel Ríos Mamani is a tragic reminder that we need to pay more attention to the working conditions of the people at the heart of tourism.

Choosing a responsible company is about more than a beautiful itinerary or a good price. It means asking who is behind the experience and whether they are treated with the respect, support and protection they deserve.

Travel can have a positive impact – but only if we care about the people who make it possible. #apusperu #responsibletravel
The people who make our journeys possible are often the ones we see the least. They carry the equipment, prepare the meals and work behind the scenes so thousands of travellers can experience the Inca Trail. The recent death of porter Gabriel Ríos Mamani is a tragic reminder that we need to pay more attention to the working conditions of the people at the heart of tourism. Choosing a responsible company is about more than a beautiful itinerary or a good price. It means asking who is behind the experience and whether they are treated with the respect, support and protection they deserve. Travel can have a positive impact – but only if we care about the people who make it possible. #apusperu #responsibletravel
3 weeks ago
294
View on Instagram |
5/9
So many things to explore in Lima! Enjoy incredible street food, world-class restaurants, vibrant local markets, fascinating history, colorful neighborhoods, beautiful coastal views, and an exciting culinary scene. Let Apus Peru help you experience the very best of Peru’s capital! 🌊🍽️🇵🇪

#apusperu #lima #citylovers #visitperu
So many things to explore in Lima! Enjoy incredible street food, world-class restaurants, vibrant local markets, fascinating history, colorful neighborhoods, beautiful coastal views, and an exciting culinary scene. Let Apus Peru help you experience the very best of Peru’s capital! 🌊🍽️🇵🇪

#apusperu #lima #citylovers #visitperu
So many things to explore in Lima! Enjoy incredible street food, world-class restaurants, vibrant local markets, fascinating history, colorful neighborhoods, beautiful coastal views, and an exciting culinary scene. Let Apus Peru help you experience the very best of Peru’s capital! 🌊🍽️🇵🇪

#apusperu #lima #citylovers #visitperu
So many things to explore in Lima! Enjoy incredible street food, world-class restaurants, vibrant local markets, fascinating history, colorful neighborhoods, beautiful coastal views, and an exciting culinary scene. Let Apus Peru help you experience the very best of Peru’s capital! 🌊🍽️🇵🇪

#apusperu #lima #citylovers #visitperu
So many things to explore in Lima! Enjoy incredible street food, world-class restaurants, vibrant local markets, fascinating history, colorful neighborhoods, beautiful coastal views, and an exciting culinary scene. Let Apus Peru help you experience the very best of Peru’s capital! 🌊🍽️🇵🇪 #apusperu #lima #citylovers #visitperu
3 weeks ago
10
View on Instagram |
6/9
Discover the vibrant local markets of Peru – one of the best places to experience the country’s incredible food, fresh produce, and everyday culture. From exotic fruits to traditional dishes, there’s so much to explore! Planning a foodie adventure? Reach out to Apus Peru and we’ll help you create the perfect culinary tour. 🌽🍍🥑

#apusperu #culinarytravel #foodlovers #perufood
Discover the vibrant local markets of Peru – one of the best places to experience the country’s incredible food, fresh produce, and everyday culture. From exotic fruits to traditional dishes, there’s so much to explore! Planning a foodie adventure? Reach out to Apus Peru and we’ll help you create the perfect culinary tour. 🌽🍍🥑

#apusperu #culinarytravel #foodlovers #perufood
Discover the vibrant local markets of Peru – one of the best places to experience the country’s incredible food, fresh produce, and everyday culture. From exotic fruits to traditional dishes, there’s so much to explore! Planning a foodie adventure? Reach out to Apus Peru and we’ll help you create the perfect culinary tour. 🌽🍍🥑

#apusperu #culinarytravel #foodlovers #perufood
Discover the vibrant local markets of Peru – one of the best places to experience the country’s incredible food, fresh produce, and everyday culture. From exotic fruits to traditional dishes, there’s so much to explore! Planning a foodie adventure? Reach out to Apus Peru and we’ll help you create the perfect culinary tour. 🌽🍍🥑

#apusperu #culinarytravel #foodlovers #perufood
Discover the vibrant local markets of Peru – one of the best places to experience the country’s incredible food, fresh produce, and everyday culture. From exotic fruits to traditional dishes, there’s so much to explore! Planning a foodie adventure? Reach out to Apus Peru and we’ll help you create the perfect culinary tour. 🌽🍍🥑

#apusperu #culinarytravel #foodlovers #perufood
Discover the vibrant local markets of Peru – one of the best places to experience the country’s incredible food, fresh produce, and everyday culture. From exotic fruits to traditional dishes, there’s so much to explore! Planning a foodie adventure? Reach out to Apus Peru and we’ll help you create the perfect culinary tour. 🌽🍍🥑 #apusperu #culinarytravel #foodlovers #perufood
1 month ago
11
View on Instagram |
7/9
The journey to Machu Picchu begins with a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley. At Apus Peru, we take care of all the details, from train tickets to your complete itinerary, so you can simply enjoy the adventure. 🚆🏔️

#apusperu #machupiccu #trekkingperu
The journey to Machu Picchu begins with a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley. At Apus Peru, we take care of all the details, from train tickets to your complete itinerary, so you can simply enjoy the adventure. 🚆🏔️

#apusperu #machupiccu #trekkingperu
The journey to Machu Picchu begins with a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley. At Apus Peru, we take care of all the details, from train tickets to your complete itinerary, so you can simply enjoy the adventure. 🚆🏔️ #apusperu #machupiccu #trekkingperu
1 month ago
13
View on Instagram |
8/9
Tucked away in the Urubamba Valley, Aguas Calientes is the perfect place to unwind before or after exploring Machu Picchu. ✨

Leave us a message if you want to plan your trip to Machu Picchu! 

#machupicchu #visitperu #apusperu
Tucked away in the Urubamba Valley, Aguas Calientes is the perfect place to unwind before or after exploring Machu Picchu. ✨

Leave us a message if you want to plan your trip to Machu Picchu! 

#machupicchu #visitperu #apusperu
Tucked away in the Urubamba Valley, Aguas Calientes is the perfect place to unwind before or after exploring Machu Picchu. ✨ Leave us a message if you want to plan your trip to Machu Picchu! #machupicchu #visitperu #apusperu
1 month ago
14
View on Instagram |
9/9

Proceed Booking