From Cusco: Sacred Valley With Maras & Moray Without Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley, exploring the captivating ruins of Chinchero, the enigmatic terraces of Moray, and the mesmerizing salt mines of Maras. This comprehensive day tour from Cusco promises an immersive cultural experience, minus the midday meal. With the perfect balance of history, geography, and stunning vistas, this expedition into the heart of the Andes is sure to leave you enchanted. But the real question is, what secrets will you uncover along the way?

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Key Points

Tour includes visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley.
Round-trip transportation from Cusco and a bilingual professional guide are provided.
Entrance fees for the Sacred Valley sites and Maras salt mines are not included in the tour price.
Travelers should bring necessary documents, sun protection, and personal medications.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Sacred Valley with Maras & Moray tour is a popular day trip from Cusco, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s rich Inca history and stunning natural landscapes.

Priced from £17.78 per person, this one-day excursion provides excellent value. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

With a duration of approximately 12 hours, the tour allows ample time to visit iconic sites like Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.

This comprehensive itinerary promises an immersive cultural experience at a reasonable cost.

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Itinerary and Highlights

This tour kicks off with an early 6:30 am pickup from guests’ hotel lobbies, allowing ample time to explore the day’s itinerary.

First, visitors explore the history and culture of Chinchero, marveling at the Inca and colonial temples before connecting with a local family to learn about Andean textile traditions.

Next, the circular terraces of Moray captivate with their geological and agricultural mysteries, while the salt mines of Maras showcase the region’s natural resources.

After a filling lunch, the tour culminates at the impressive archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, the perfect prelude to returning to Cusco.

Transportation and Guide

Round-trip transportation is included in the package, ensuring a seamless experience for guests.

A bilingual professional guide accompanies the group, providing commentary in both English and Spanish.

Travelers merely need to walk within the archaeological sites, as transportation between locations is provided.

For those who wish to end their tour early, an optional drop-off in Ollantaytambo around 3:00 pm is available.

The guide’s expertise and the convenience of transportation create a hassle-free exploration of the Sacred Valley’s highlights, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the region’s rich history and culture.

Entrance Fees and Tickets

A Tourist Ticket is required to access the Sacred Valley sites. It covers entrance fees to Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, costing 70 soles total.

An additional 10 soles is needed for the Salineras (salt mines) in Maras. The total cost for entrance fees is 130 foreign soles for the general ticket plus 10 soles for Salineras.

Visitors should come prepared with the required documents, sun protection, and insect repellent.

While tips and extra expenses aren’t included, the pre-paid entrance fees ensure a seamless experience exploring the highlights of the Sacred Valley.

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What to Bring and Important Information

While visitors are required to bring their passport or ID card, they should also pack biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect themselves during the day-long tour.

Binoculars are also recommended for a closer look at the stunning Inca ruins.

Remember to pack any necessary personal medications, as well as travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Although the tour package covers transportation and entrance fees, tips and extra expenses aren’t included, so be prepared with some extra cash.

With the right preparations, travelers can fully enjoy the Sacred Valley’s rich history and natural beauty.

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Pickup and Arrival

The tour begins with a prompt 6:30 am pickup from the hotel lobby, allowing travelers just 10 minutes to gather before departing.

It’s an early start, but the excitement builds as the minivan winds through Cusco‘s narrow streets. Glimpses of the Andes emerge, foreshadowing the incredible sights to come.

Travelers settle in, eager to explore the Sacred Valley‘s highlights. The guide provides a brief overview, setting the stage for the day’s adventures.

With everyone on board, the journey continues, leaving the city behind and immersing participants in the region’s rich cultural and natural wonders.

Exploration of Chinchero

Leaving the city behind, the tour arrives at the Inca ruins of Chinchero, a quaint highland town steeped in history and culture. The group explores the Inca temple, a colonial church, and visits a local family to learn about Andean textile-making. The guide shares insights about the site’s significance, sparking fascination.

| Site | Significance | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Inca Temple | Spiritual and cultural center | Impressive stone architecture |

| Colonial Church | Fusion of Inca and Spanish influences | Ornate altarpiece and murals |

| Local Textile Workshop | Preservation of ancient weaving traditions | Vibrant alpaca textiles, live demonstration |

The visit offers a glimpse into the enduring traditions of the Sacred Valley.

Discovering Moray and Maras

Next, the tour ventures deeper into the Sacred Valley, captivating visitors with the mystical allure of Moray and the unique salt pans of Maras.

At Moray, the remarkable Inca ruins reveal a series of circular terraces, once believed to be an agricultural laboratory. Travelers are awed by the sheer scale and precision of this ancient site.

Nearby, the Maras salt mines sparkle in the sun, with salt-encrusted ponds and paths crisscrossing the hillside. Visitors witness the traditional salt-harvesting methods, marveling at the locals’ resilience and ingenuity.

Both Moray and Maras leave a lasting impression, showcasing the Sacred Valley’s remarkable heritage.

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?

The tour may not be suitable for those with physical disabilities. It involves extensive walking within archaeological sites and transportation between locations, which could be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. Accommodations may be necessary to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Take Photos at the Sites or Do I Need a Permit?

Travelers can take photos at the sites without needing a special permit. However, they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines set by the sites to preserve their cultural and historical integrity.

Will There Be Opportunities to Interact With Local Quechua People?

The tour provides opportunities to interact with local Quechua people, such as visiting a family’s home in Chinchero to learn about Andean textiles. This offers a unique culture experience.

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

Bringing your own food and drinks isn’t recommended on this tour. The itinerary includes a buffet lunch stop, and the tour company likely discourages outside food to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for all participants.

What Is the Language Proficiency of the Tour Guide?

The tour guide is a bilingual professional, fluent in both English and Spanish. They’ll provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the tour, ensuring you fully experience the highlights of the Sacred Valley.

Sum Up

This captivating tour through the Sacred Valley showcases the region’s remarkable history and natural wonders. Travelers will be awestruck by the ingenious agricultural terraces of Moray and the mesmerizing salt mines of Maras. Coupled with the rich cultural heritage of Chinchero, this immersive experience leaves an indelible impression, cementing the Sacred Valley’s status as a must-visit destination in Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: