The Best of Sacred Valley Full-Day Walking Tour

The Best of Sacred Valley Full-Day Walking Tour promises an immersive exploration of Peru’s stunning Andes region. This small-group tour takes participants on a journey through the ancient Inca civilization, visiting iconic sites like the Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo Fortress. With knowledgeable guides, a traditional Peruvian lunch, and seamless transportation, it’s an opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of the Sacred Valley. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on providing an authentic and memorable experience for every traveler.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day walking tour of the Sacred Valley in Peru’s Andes, showcasing the region’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and iconic Inca archaeological sites.
• Explore the impressive Pisac Ruins, the well-preserved Ollantaytambo Fortress, and the vibrant Chinchero Market with traditional weaving demonstrations.
• Discover the ancient Inca agricultural terraces of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, gaining insights into their innovative farming practices and sustainable production methods.
• Enjoy a buffet-style lunch featuring traditional Peruvian dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, providing an authentic dining experience.
• Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 12 participants.

Overview of the Sacred Valley Tour

The Best of Sacred Valley Full-Day Walking Tour takes participants on an immersive exploration of the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this renowned region in Peru’s Andes mountains.

Over the course of the day, travelers will visit a maximum of 12 people per group, with hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, transportation, a guide, and a buffet lunch all included.

The tour covers a range of iconic sites, allowing visitors to discover the history and traditions that have shaped this sacred valley for centuries.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Although the tour covers a range of iconic sites, some of the key highlights include visiting the Pisac Ruins, exploring the Ollantaytambo Fortress, and discovering the vibrant Chinchero Market. The itinerary is designed to showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

| Site | Highlights |

|—————–|——————————————————————-|

| Pisac Ruins | Explore the impressive Inca archaeological site with stunning views.|

| Ollantaytambo | Discover the well-preserved Inca fortress and its impressive terraces.|

| Chinchero Market| Immerse in the vibrant local market and witness traditional weaving demonstrations.|

Exploring Ollantaytambo Ruins

Ollantaytambo Fortress stands as a testament to the Inca Empire’s architectural prowess, its massive stone structures and terraced walls providing a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the impressive archaeological site, wandering through the ancient streets and discovering remnants of Inca-era buildings. The Inca baths, granaries, and ceremonial plazas offer a fascinating look at the daily life and rituals of the Inca people.

With its dramatic setting against the Andes mountains, Ollantaytambo presents a stunning visual experience, making it a highlight of the Sacred Valley tour.

Visiting the Moray Circular Terraces

After exploring the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, the tour ventures to the remarkable Moray Circular Terraces.

These ancient Inca agricultural terraces are a highlight of the Sacred Valley. Descending into the massive natural amphitheater-like depressions, visitors marvel at the concentric circular terraces.

Experts believe the Incas used these unique terraces for agricultural experimentation, taking advantage of the microclimate differences between the levels. Guests wander the terraces, learning about Inca farming techniques and the innovative ways the Incas adapted to their environment.

The Incas used the Moray Circular Terraces for agricultural experimentation, taking advantage of the microclimate differences between the levels.

The Moray Circular Terraces offer a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and their ingenious use of the natural landscape.

Discovering the Maras Salt Mines

Leaving the Moray Circular Terraces behind, the tour group now heads to the nearby Maras Salt Mines.

These mines have been a source of salt for the Inca and colonial eras. Visitors can see the thousands of small pools where salt is extracted from the salty spring water. As the water evaporates, the salt deposits are harvested by local community members.

The tour guide explains the history and importance of this sustainable salt production method. Guests have the opportunity to purchase salt products directly from the on-site vendors before continuing the tour.

Enjoying a Locally-Sourced Lunch

Next, the tour group enjoys a locally-sourced lunch at a nearby restaurant. The buffet-style meal features a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes made with fresh, locally-grown ingredients. As the group dines, they have the opportunity to learn more about the regional cuisine and culinary traditions.

| Dish | Description |

| — | — |

| Cuy Chactado | Crispy fried guinea pig, a Peruvian delicacy |

| Quinoa Salad | Fresh salad made with the nutrient-rich Andean grain |

| Lomo Saltado | Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and french fries |

| Chicha Morada | Traditional purple corn-based refreshing drink |

The locally-sourced lunch provides a flavorful and authentic dining experience, allowing the tour group to enjoy the gastronomic heritage of the Sacred Valley.

Practical Information and Tips

When planning the Best of Sacred Valley Walking Tour, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so there’s no need to worry about transportation. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves extensive walking.

Bring sun protection, as the Andean sun can be intense. The tour includes a buffet lunch, but it’s a good idea to bring snacks and water to stay hydrated.

Finally, the tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, but travelers may prefer to bring additional snacks or beverages if desired.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. Travelers can choose a private tour instead of a group tour, which allows for a more personalized experience. The private tour typically costs more but offers greater flexibility and exclusivity.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Walking?

Travelers don’t need any special equipment or gear for the walking tour. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing should be sufficient. The tour operator provides all necessary transportation and entrance tickets.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention any age limit or minimum age requirement. As long as participants can handle the full-day walking activity, there’s no age restriction to join this tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities Based on My Interests?

Travellers can’t customize the itinerary or activities on this tour. The tour follows a fixed schedule to visit the key attractions in the Sacred Valley. However, guests can discuss their interests with the guide to ensure they get the most out of the experience.

The Sum Up

The Best of Sacred Valley Full-Day Walking Tour offers an immersive and memorable experience in Peru’s stunning Andes. Travelers will explore iconic Inca sites, witness the region’s natural beauty, and savor local cuisine. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a small group size, this tour provides an in-depth look into the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley.