The fertile Sacred Valley was an essential region for the Inka Empire, providing the Inka with prime farming land, rare in the Andes.

During their rule half a millenium ago, the Inka built stone temples, palaces, fortresses, agricultural terraces, and other structures throughout the valley. From Willka T’ika, a visit to any of the sacred ruins, from Pisaq to Ollantaytambo, is an easy day trip.

Willka T’ika’s front gate opens onto meandering pathways that lead through the Rumichaka farming community or toward the town of Urubamba. A stroll through the town may include a visit to its colorful fruit and vegetable market, local alpaca stores, or the studio of world-famous ceramic artist Pablo Seminario. The Maras salt farms, which have been producing salt from Inkan times to the present, are a short hike away. Horseback riding and river rafting are available.

An abundance of hiking trails lead up adjoining valleys and gorges toward ancient Inkan trails that disappear into the spectacular mountains above the valley.