The Sacred Valley and Cusco area is prime territory for anyone keen to get out and stretch their legs in a spectacular mountain scenery. In addition to the famous Inca Trail, the area offers a variety of other treks and trails that cater to a range of fitness abilities. Whether you're a natural mountain goat or someone who prefers leisurely afternoon strolls, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes.  Ollantaytambo and Yucay, in particular, make excellent bases for exploring the hills of the Urubamba Valley. The Cusco office of the South American Explorerss is an excellent source for trip and trail reports. For most of the longer treks, permission from the Instituto Nacional de Cultura (Calle San Bernardo s/n, tel. 246-074 / 232-971) is required, and it is strongly suggested that guides accompany you on longer, more arduous trips.

The best time of year to hike is from May to November, and possibly December, when the trails are dry. Also, before embarking on any trip it is imperative that you acclimatize to the higher altitudes, as mountain sickness is a serious threat in this region. A few of the highly recommended hiking opportunities in the Sacred Valley are listed below:Pumamarca Ruins--Enjoy spectacular views of Andean mountains and remote Andean villages on your way to the Pumamarca Ruins.Pinculluna--Spend a great day hike through ancient Inca agricultural terracing.Huayoccari--Check out ancient Inca rock hangings and magnificent mountain views on this remote trek winding its way towards Huayoccari village.Salcantay--Summit the challenging slopes of Nevado Salkantay and descend towards the ruins of Patallacta, near the entrance to Machu Picchu.Ausangate and Cordillera Vilcanota--Visit one of the more remote and pristine areas in Peru. This tourist-free trek meanders past Andean llama herders and up to Nevado Ausangate. Vilcabamba--Challenge yourself with a trek that takes you to Espirítu Pampa and the famous Vitcos ruins.Choquequirao--Avoid the tourist trails and make the climb up to the Machu Picchu sibling ruins of Choquequirao.

Hiking, Trekking, Info.

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Reviews

Traveler Reviews of Sacred Valley Trekking

Real !!!!!!!!!!!

It is a must to go first to Yucay so you wont suffer from the altitude!!!!!! The people were wonderful so was the food and the climate. I can't wait to go back!!!!

Traveler from Miami, Fla. on Feb 17, 2006