The Sacred Valley tour offers an immersive cultural experience, taking visitors on a journey through the Inca Empire’s historic sites. From the vibrant Textile Interpretation Center in Chinchero to the awe-inspiring Maras Salt Mines, this 12-hour excursion unveils the ingenuity and resilience of the Inca civilization. With a delightful lunch in Urubamba and explorations of Ollantaytambo and Pisac, this tour promises to captivate the senses and ignite a deeper appreciation for Peru’s rich heritage.

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Key Points

Comprehensive 12-hour tour exploring Inca ruins and cultural sites in the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
Tour includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, buffet lunch, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide.
Visitors can learn about Inca agricultural techniques at the Moray site and observe traditional textile weaving at Chinchero.
The tour covers a wide range of altitudes, from 3,762 meters (Chinchero, Moray) to 2,780 meters (Urubamba).
Cancellation policy allows free refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour is highly rated at 4.7/5 based on 72 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley tour is a comprehensive 12-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the stunning Inca ruins and cultural sites of Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.

Included in the tour are hotel pickup in Cusco, shared transportation, a buffet lunch in Urubamba, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide.

The tour covers an impressive range of altitudes, from 3,762 meters in Chinchero and Moray to 2,780 meters in Urubamba.

With a cancellation policy that allows free refunds up to 24 hours in advance, the tour offers excellent value for money, as reflected in its stellar 4.7/5 rating based on 72 reviews.

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Itinerary Highlights

The Sacred Valley tour begins at Chinchero, where visitors can explore the Textile Interpretation Center and marvel at the stunning mountain scenery at an altitude of 3,762 meters (12,342 feet).

The next stop is Moray, where guests will go on a guided tour of the Inca Agricultural Laboratory.

Then, they’ll visit the Maras Salt Mines for a guided exploration.

After a Peruvian buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour moves on to Ollantaytambo to explore its archaeological site.

The final destination is Pisac Archaeological Park, including a visit to the artisan market at an altitude of 3,300 meters (10,826 feet).

Chinchero

Chinchero, the first stop on the Sacred Valley tour, awaits visitors with its Textile Interpretation Center and stunning mountain backdrop at an altitude of 3,762 meters (12,342 feet).

The center offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich textile heritage, showcasing traditional weaving techniques and colorful textiles. Guests can observe skilled artisans at work and learn about the cultural significance of these ancient practices.

The visit to Chinchero provides a unique opportunity to take in the indigenous traditions that have shaped the Sacred Valley for generations.

Moray

After visiting the Textile Interpretation Center in Chinchero, the tour heads to Moray, the next stop on the itinerary. Moray is known as the Inca Agricultural Laboratory, where the Incas experimented with different crops and microclimates. Visitors explore the site’s terraced circular depressions, marveling at the Incas’ advanced agricultural techniques.

| Highlight | Description | Altitude |

| — | — | — |

| Guided Tour | Explore the Inca Agricultural Laboratory | 3,762 m (12,342 ft) |

| Terraced Depressions | Unique circular agricultural terraces | 3,762 m (12,342 ft) |

| Microclimates | Incas’ experimentation with different crops | 3,762 m (12,342 ft) |

The tour then proceeds to the Maras Salt Mines, where visitors can witness the traditional salt-harvesting process.

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Maras Salt Mines

From Moray, the tour group ventures to the captivating Maras Salt Mines, where they can witness the centuries-old practice of salt harvesting.

Guided through the network of salt ponds, visitors marvel at the geometric patterns created by the evaporation of salt water. Locals have harvested salt from the mines for generations, carrying on a time-honored tradition.

The tour allows guests to explore the historic site and gain insight into the local culture and economy.

After the visit, the group continues on to Urubamba for a buffet lunch featuring Peruvian cuisine.

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Urubamba Lunch

Next, the tour group arrives at Urubamba, where they enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a variety of Peruvian cuisine. The spread includes:

Flavorful ceviche, a Peruvian seafood dish
Hearty lomo saltado, a stir-fried beef dish
Colorful quinoa salad, a superfood staple
Freshly baked bread and traditional sides

Sitting at communal tables, the travelers savor the authentic flavors while taking in the beautiful mountain scenery surrounding the Urubamba region.

Refueled and ready to continue their exploration of the Sacred Valley, the group departs for the next stop on their itinerary.

Ollantaytambo

The tour group now arrives at the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, a former Inca administrative center and fortress strategically located at the western end of the Sacred Valley. The site features impressive stone terraces, storehouses, and the remains of an Inca palace. Visitors can explore the ruins and climb up the steep steps to the ceremonial site at the top, offering panoramic views of the valley below.

| Feature | Details |

| — | — |

| Altitude | 2,790 m (9,153 ft) |

| Duration | 1 hour |

| Key Structures | Inca palace, stone terraces, storehouses |

| Activities | Guided tour, climbing to ceremonial site |

| Significance | Former Inca administrative center and fortress |

Pisac Archaeological Park

After exploring the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, the tour group continues its journey to the Pisac Archaeological Park.

This ancient Inca site sits atop a mountain ridge, offering breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.

The tour includes:

Wandering through the intricate system of agricultural terraces, once used for crop cultivation.
Marveling at the ingenious stone architecture, including temples, storehouses, and residential structures.
Browsing the vibrant artisan market, where local craftspeople sell handmade textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.
Discovering the remnants of an Inca fortress, which once guarded the entrance to the Sacred Valley.

Things To Know

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

While the tour includes a set itinerary, customers can often customize their experience by discussing additional sites they’d like to visit with the tour operator. Flexibility may be available, depending on logistics and time constraints.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Equipment or Gear?

No special equipment is required. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a light jacket or sweater are recommended. The tour provides all necessary tickets and transportation, so travelers can focus on enjoying the sights.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there is an option to book a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour operator offers private tours for those who prefer a more personalized experience with their own guide and vehicle.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs at the Artisan Markets?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional souvenirs at the artisan markets during the tour. The markets offer a variety of handmade crafts, textiles, and local products for visitors to browse and buy.

Is There a Vegetarian or Dietary Alternative for the Lunch?

Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian buffet lunch option. Customers with dietary restrictions can notify the tour operator in advance to accommodate their needs. The lunch features a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes.

Sum Up

This Sacred Valley tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors can enjoy the traditional weaving practices of Chinchero, marvel at the innovative agricultural techniques of Moray, and discover the captivating Maras Salt Mines. The tour culminates with a delightful lunch and the archaeological wonders of Ollantaytambo and Pisac, offering an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in Inca history and culture.