Deep in the remarkable country of Peru sits the Sacred Valley of the Incas - an ancient site surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes. If, like us, you are fascinated by the Incan civilisation, dating back to the 15th century, this is an absolutely must-visit for you. However, planning for this trip independently is not easy, as you need to know the local areas very well. Using a reputable local travel agency is essential for a number of reasons.
Why opt for a Peruvian travel agency?
When looking for an agency for your Sacred Valley tour, be mindful to go with a local, Peruvian company. Here’s why:
Local knowledge
Local knowledge is particularly important when visiting such places as Sacred Valley, and agencies based in Peru will be more likely to have that expertise. They will not only speak the local language, but also understand all the cultural nuances that other agencies could miss. Additionally, they may know lesser-known attractions or travel routes, which will help avoid overcrowded sites.
Personalised service
Opting for a smaller travel agency that focuses on one country or an area will almost always guarantee a higher quality of service. Large, international brands are usually looking to achieve the highest profitability possible, meaning that certain aspects of your experience may not be as personal as they should be. Local agencies, on the other hand, will typically try to make sure that your needs are met or even customise certain experiences based on your interests.
Cost savings
With the deep knowledge that local agencies hold in the area, you are more likely to benefit from various savings. For example, they may have access to exclusive accommodation deals or discounts through their local network of businesses, which they worked with for many years now. So, not only does it save you a lot of time, but potentially some money too.
Community and sustainability
One of the most important things when visiting a sacred place like this is to ensure that your tourism doesn’t have a negative impact on the environment and communities. Local tours tend to put a greater care into responsible tourism, making sure that their activities can actually support the development of local communities. For example, they collaborate with the locals, whether that’s restaurants or souvenir shops, to help support their businesses and ensure the money you spend here goes towards the growth of the local economy.
Top travel agencies for Sacred Valley tours
Below are some of the best Peruvian travel agencies for those wanting to visit the Sacred Valley and the surrounding towns or attractions:
Guru Explorers
Guru Explorers - Sacred Valley tours offer full-day excursions to the Sacred Valley from Cusco. They work together with their customers to create the perfect itinerary for your group tour, considering your time frame, budget, preferences, and other needs. With local bilingual guides and a responsible outlook, Guru Explorers ensure that your experience is as unique and educational as possible. Beyond the Sacred Valley, you will also get to visit other wonders, including Pisac, Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and the salt mines of Maras.
SAM Travel Peru
Based in Cusco, SAM Travel Peru is another 100% Peruvian company that aims to bring tourism into the country sustainably. They are aiming to educate the visitors on the local history and culture, while also supporting the Peruvian businesses and the economy. Their comprehensive Incan tours include a range of trails, from the infamous Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, to day tours to lesser known locations.
Alpaca Expeditions
Alpaca Expeditions is a Peruvian agency owned by an indigenous person, which is why they take as much care of the clients as they do the local community. The agency is regularly involved in various social projects, fighting for the equality and safety of the indigenous people. One interesting offering of Alpaca Expeditions is their luxury travel packaged to the Sacred Valley and other sites. These tours are aimed to provide a comfortable, premium experience, with high-end culinary experiences, personalised tours, and other luxuries.
Sacred Valley Tours
With a primary focus on the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley Tours is a licensed agency that organises tour experiences. Starting either from Cusco, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, they take you on day trips to the most historically significant Incan sites, including indigenous villages in the Andean landscapes and traditional markets. Each holiday is tailor-made with Sacred Valley Tours, meaning the experiences or routes are chosen and designed for you specifically, to create your dream holiday.
Final note
What we’ve already established is that looking for a local company is not just beneficial, but super important when it comes to Sacred Valley tours in Peru. But, as you pick from various options, your final decision should be based on your personal expectations and needs for this trip of a lifetime.
