The Sacred Valley of the Incas (or Urubamba Valley) is one of the most stunning destinations near Cusco. The weather in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September is dry, sunny, and very pleasant, making it an ideal month to visit. It also marks the beginning of the Andean spring, so the landscapes begin to fill with flowers and lush vegetation.
Many travel agencies offer tours to the Sacred Valley in September, including visits to Pisac, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, with the option to connect with Machu Picchu. In addition, September offers an excellent combination of good weather, clear views, and authentic cultural experiences.
Weather in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September
- Dry season: September is part of the dry season, with minimal chances of rain.
- Pleasant temperatures: During the day, the average temperature is 18°C (64°F), and at night it can drop to between 6 and 10°C (43–50°F).
- Start of spring: Vegetation starts blooming and the skies are mostly clear.
- High UV index: Due to the altitude, the sun is very strong. It’s recommended to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- More daylight hours: The days are longer, allowing for better use of time during excursions.
- Relative humidity: Around 52%.
Advantages of Visiting the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September
- Dry and sunny weather, ideal for hiking and outdoor tours.
- Andean landscapes in green tones, thanks to occasional light rains.
- Low probability of rain, which enhances the experience at archaeological sites.
- Excellent tourist season, with good infrastructure and all services available.
- Greater visibility at viewpoints and ruins.
- Blooming landscapes: Start of spring brings green fields and wildflowers around the archaeological sites.
Disadvantages of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September
- Cold nights: Warm clothing is necessary for sleeping.
- High tourist traffic: It’s high season, so there may be more visitors and higher prices.
- Possible symptoms of altitude sickness, as the valley sits between 2,000 and 2,800 meters above sea level (6,561–9,186 ft).
- Cold afternoon breezes, especially in elevated areas of the Sacred Valley.
- Risk of sunburn if you don’t use proper protection.
Best Places to Visit in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September
- Pisac: Famous for its Inca terraces and artisan market. Great for experiencing local culture and enjoying panoramic views.
- Ollantaytambo: Ancient Inca military and ceremonial center, with monumental ruins and a well-preserved traditional town.
- Moray: Known for its circular agricultural terraces, unique in their design.
- Maras Salt Mines: Thousands of white salt ponds creating an impressive landscape.
- Chinchero: Colonial village with a historic church and a market selling handmade textiles.
- Urubamba: An ideal base for accommodation, with easy access to all tourist sites in the valley.
- Other towns: Yucay, Lamay, Calca, and more, offering tranquility and authentic Andean rural life.
Activities and Adventures in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September
- Hiking and trekking: September is perfect for hiking routes like Huchuy Qosqo or trails between Pisac and Urubamba.
- Biking and ATVs: Explore rural and archaeological areas by bike or quad, such as Maras and Moray.
- Horseback riding: Enjoy scenic rides through valleys and viewpoints.
- Cultural experiences: Visit local markets, weaving workshops, and artisan centers.
- Guided tours: Full-day or overnight excursions to the Sacred Valley.
- Adventure sports: Some operators offer ziplining, rock climbing, or rappelling in nearby areas.
Travel Tips for the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Prior acclimatization: Stay at least one day in Cusco before your tour to adapt to the altitude.
- Layered clothing: Wear light clothes during the day and warm clothes at night. Don’t forget a windbreaker.
- Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Proper footwear: Comfortable hiking shoes or boots for ruins and dirt trails.
- Water and snacks: Carry a refillable bottle and light snacks.
- Tickets and bookings: Buy your tickets and tours in advance, especially if also visiting Machu Picchu.
- Practical packing: For excursions, only bring the essentials: water, camera, sunscreen, cash, and a light jacket.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sacred Valley in September
1. What is the weather like in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September?
The weather is dry, mild during the day, and cool at night. It’s one of the best months to visit, with clear skies, little rain, and temperatures around 20°C (68°F) during the day and between 6–10°C (43–50°F) at night.
2. What clothes should I bring to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September?
Bring layered clothing: light t-shirts for the daytime, and thermal wear or a jacket for the evenings. Also pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
3. Which places can be visited in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September?
The main spots are: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Chinchero, and Urubamba. Each one offers a unique mix of archaeology, natural landscapes, and living culture.
4. What activities and adventures can I enjoy in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September?
You can enjoy hiking, biking, ATV rides, horseback riding, cultural tours, and adventure sports like zip-lining. The dry and mild weather allows you to enjoy all these activities without interruptions.
5. What is the altitude of the Sacred Valley of the Incas?
The valley sits between 2,000 and 2,800 meters (6,561 to 9,186 feet) above sea level, depending on the location. It’s recommended to acclimate in Cusco before starting any excursions.
6. What’s the best way to explore the Valley in September?
Choose full-day tours that include minivan transportation, a Spanish or English-speaking guide, and entrance tickets to archaeological circuits. For more independence, rent a car or hire a private tour.
7. Can you combine Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley in September?
Yes. Many travel agencies offer packages that include train transportation from Ollantaytambo and a guided visit to Machu Picchu, making it ideal to take advantage of their proximity.
Traveling to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in September is an excellent choice due to its dry and sunny weather, blooming landscapes, and clear visibility at archaeological sites. Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the Maras Salt Mines are among the top highlights. Popular activities include hiking, biking, and cultural visits, although the high tourist traffic and cold nights can be considered drawbacks. Book now with Travel Peru Agency to start planning your trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Sacred Valley Tours You May Be Interested In:
- Sacred Valley VIP – 1 Day
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- Sacred Valley Vip, Machu Picchu, Palccoyo – 5 Days
- Sacred Valley vip, Machupicchu, City Tour, Rainbow Mountain – 6 Days
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- Sacred Valley, Machupicchu, Manu Cultural Zone, Red Valley, Rainbow Mountain – 8 Days
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