From Cusco: Sacred Valley Maras and Moray

Discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley as you embark on an all-inclusive day trip from Cusco. Witness the breathtaking beauty of Maras and Moray, where ancient agricultural techniques and natural salt extraction flourish amidst stunning landscapes. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, uncover the rich cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage site, culminating in a delectable buffet lunch in Urubamba. This captivating journey promises to leave you with unforgettable memories of the region’s unique blend of natural and human-made marvels.

Key Points

• This all-inclusive day trip from Cusco explores the Maras salt pans and Moray archaeological site in the Sacred Valley.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, buffet lunch, and admission to the Cusco Tourist Ticket.
• Highlights include visiting Chinchero, observing traditional salt extraction, and exploring the Ollantaytambo fortress.
• The tour duration is approximately 12 hours, concluding by 7:00 p.m. in Cusco.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and an option to reserve now and pay later is offered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers an all-inclusive day trip to explore the Sacred Valley‘s renowned sites of Maras and Moray. Priced from Kč 807 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The full-day adventure lasts approximately 12 hours, with pickup from your Cusco hotel between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m. The tour covers key highlights like Chinchero’s agricultural terraces, natural salt extraction in Maras, and the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, concluding in Pisac by 7:00 p.m.

Convenient inclusions like transportation, a buffet lunch, and entry fees make this an excellent value.

Itinerary and Highlights

The day begins with hotel pickup between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m., allowing travelers to start their exploration of the Sacred Valley‘s renowned sites.

Travelers begin their exploration of the Sacred Valley’s renowned sites with hotel pickup between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m.

First, visitors will witness the agricultural terraces and textile processing techniques in Chinchero.

Next, they’ll observe the natural salt extraction process at the Maras salt pans.

Afterward, they’ll explore the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, a well-preserved Inca town.

Lunch will be served in Urubamba before the tour concludes in Pisac, where guests return to Cusco by approximately 7:00 p.m.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, providing travelers with convenient transportation throughout the day.

Along With the ride, the tour package includes:

• A professional tour guide who can provide commentary in both English and Spanish

• A buffet lunch in Urubamba, ensuring participants are well-fed during their excursion

• Admission to the Cusco Tourist Ticket, granting access to the Sacred Valley‘s top sites

• Entry to the Salineras, where visitors can observe the traditional salt extraction process

• All necessary transportation to Chinchero, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.

Cultural Significance

Through this tour, visitors can discover the heart of the Inca Empire and explore the Sacred Valley‘s mysteries and wonders.

They’ll experience the region’s rich cultural heritage, from the ancient agricultural terraces of Chinchero to the natural salt pans of Maras.

At Ollantaytambo, they’ll marvel at the impressive Inca fortress, a testament to the engineering prowess of the civilization.

The impressive Inca fortress at Ollantaytambo stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the civilization.

Throughout the journey, travelers will enjoy the vibrant traditions and breathtaking landscapes that make the Sacred Valley a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a truly authentic cultural experience.

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Hotel Pickup and Availability

Where does the tour begin? Guests are picked up from their hotels in Cusco between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m. This ensures a prompt start to the day’s adventures.

To make the most of the experience, a few important details:

• Provide a WhatsApp number before the reservation to facilitate communication.

• Wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

• Check availability for different starting times if the morning slot doesn’t work.

• With complimentary hotel pickup, the tour gets underway smoothly and on schedule.

Exploring Chinchero: Agricultural Terraces and Textile Process

After being picked up from their hotels in Cusco, guests embark on their journey to Chinchero, a picturesque Andean town known for its well-preserved agricultural terraces and traditional textile processes.

Visitors explore the ancient terraces, marveling at the intricate system of irrigation and cultivation. They then visit a local family home, where skilled weavers demonstrate the centuries-old art of weaving and dyeing textiles using natural pigments.

Guests learn about the significance of these time-honored techniques, gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich cultural heritage. The visit to Chinchero provides a glimpse into the vibrant living traditions of the Sacred Valley.

Discovering Maras: Natural Salt Extraction

Leaving the agricultural wonders of Chinchero behind, the tour continues its journey into the heart of the Sacred Valley, where the striking salt pans of Maras come into view.

The vast, terraced salt flats, nestled amidst the rugged Andes, are a testament to the region’s rich natural resources and the ingenuity of the Inca people. Visitors can observe the timeless process of salt extraction, which has been practiced here for centuries:

• Crystalline pools of saltwater fed by natural springs

• Intricate network of canals and terraces carved into the hillside

• Arduous manual labor to harvest the precious mineral

• Stunning visual contrast of white salt against the earth’s hues

• Opportunity to purchase locally sourced salt as a memento.

Visiting Ollantaytambo Fortress and Urubamba Lunch

Next, the tour group ascends to the imposing Ollantaytambo fortress, a majestic Inca ruin perched atop towering terraces. They explore the site’s impressive architecture, massive stone structures, and panoramic views of the surrounding valley. After the fortress, the group enjoys a delightful buffet lunch in the charming town of Urubamba, savoring local Andean cuisine and taking in the picturesque atmosphere.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Perched atop terraces overlooking the Sacred Valley |

| Architecture | Massive stone structures, intricate design |

| Highlights | Panoramic views, impressive scale |

| Lunch | Buffet of local Andean cuisine in Urubamba |

| Experience | Explore Inca history, savor regional flavors |

Things To Know

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum group size. Travelers can reserve individual spots, as the tour operates with flexible scheduling to accommodate varying group sizes for this day-long exploration of the Sacred Valley’s highlights.

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place?

The tour adheres to COVID-19 safety measures. Guests must wear masks and sanitize their hands regularly. Capacity is limited to allow for social distancing. The tour follows local health guidelines to ensure a safe experience.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

While the tour has a set itinerary, you can discuss customization options with the tour operator. They may be able to accommodate specific requests or adjust the schedule to fit your preferences.

Is Storage Available for Larger Luggage During the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t provide storage for large luggage. However, the operator can hold smaller bags and personal items during the tour. Guests should plan to travel light and leave excess luggage at their hotel.

Can We Book This Tour in Other Languages Besides English and Spanish?

The tour offers guided services in English and Spanish, but it may be possible to arrange for other languages upon request. Travelers should inquire about language options when booking to ensure their preferred language is available.

Sum Up

This all-inclusive day trip from Cusco to the Sacred Valley offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Guests will marvel at the stunning landscapes, enjoy the ancient traditions, and savor a delightful lunch, all while learning from the knowledgeable guide. It’s a comprehensive experience that showcases the beauty and richness of this remarkable region.

You can check availability for your dates here: