The Sacred Valley formed one of the Incas' most valuable sources of food and natural resources. The terraced fields produce maize even today and the valley is filled with reminders of Inca cultivation. Dispersed ruins sit among old towns with beautiful colonial churches built by the conquistadors.

The Sacred River that flows through it has many names (Urubamba, Vilnacota, Wilcamayu), thus named by the successive civilizations that benefited from it. Only 30 km (18 miles) from Cusco, the soil of this basin provided nourishment and wealth to the Incas, Spaniards and modern Peruvians.

The fertile lands of the valley also formed a strategic natural barrier, to protect the Incas from raids by the wild jungle tribes. Surrounded by high mountains and steep hills, many ancient Inca cities were built there, to protect them from attack. Machu Picchu was one of them, and sits at the far west side of the Valley.

It is a beautiful place, with little tourist infrastructure, but rich in culture and one can witness genuine Peruvian daily life among its inhabitants. As a volunteer, you have the option of a visit here, as well as giving your time and effort in the town of Cai Cay.

Click here for even more pictures of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.