The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most visited regions in Peru, offering breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant local culture. Traveling by bus from Cusco is an affordable and convenient way to explore this incredible area. This guide explains how to get to the Sacred Valley by bus, the main departure points, travel times, and useful tips for a smooth journey.
Choosing Between Tourist Buses and Colectivos
There are two main types of buses to the Sacred Valley: tourist buses and colectivos (shared vans).
Tourist Buses
Tourist buses are designed for travelers and offer comfort, safety, and reliable schedules. These buses often depart from the historic center of Cusco or designated pick-up points.
Advantages of Tourist Buses:
Comfortable seating with air conditioning
Direct routes with fewer stops
Professional drivers and organized schedules
Disadvantages:
Higher cost compared to colectivos
Less flexible departure times
Colectivos (Shared Vans)
Colectivos are a budget-friendly option commonly used by locals. They leave once full and can make multiple stops along the way.
Advantages of Colectivos:
Affordable and frequent departures
Authentic local experience
Flexible pick-up depending on availability
Disadvantages:
Limited comfort and smaller seating
Travel time can be longer due to stops
Less predictable schedules
Main Departure Points from Cusco
Knowing where buses leave is key to planning your trip.
To Pisac
Departure point: Calle Puputi
Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
To Urubamba
Departure point: Calle Pavitos, near Avenida Grau
Travel time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes
To Ollantaytambo
Departure point: Calle Pavitos
Travel time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours
Tips for Traveling by Bus to the Sacred Valley
Arrive early to secure a seat, especially for colectivos
Carry small change to pay directly to the driver
Confirm your destination before boarding
Consider booking a tourist bus in advance during peak season
Final Recommendation
If you want comfort, safety, and a structured day, choose a tourist bus. If you’re traveling on a budget and want a local experience, a colectivo is ideal. Both options provide easy access from Cusco to Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, allowing you to explore the beauty of the Sacred Valley efficiently.
