From Cusco: Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo

Venture beyond Cusco’s grand plazas into the enchanting Sacred Valley, where ancient Inca sites and vibrant Andean culture await. From the surreal salt pans of Maras to the agricultural wonders of Moray, this captivating journey offers a tantalizing glimpse into the ingenious engineering of the Incas. Uncover the secrets of this storied region, and discover why it continues to captivate travelers from around the world.

Key Points

• Explore the Sacred Valley’s rich Inca heritage, from the picturesque town of Chinchero to the archaeological sites of Moray and Ollantaytambo.
• Discover the ingenious Inca agricultural practices at Moray, where circular terraces were used for crop experimentation and adaptation.
• Marvel at the Maras Salt Mines, where local families have been harvesting salt through a traditional evaporation pond system since Inca times.
• Indulge in a traditional Peruvian feast in Urubamba, savoring local specialties and refreshing chicha morada to recharge for the next adventure.
• Enjoy the living Inca legacy at Ollantaytambo, with its towering stone ruins, intricate water channels, and resilient community.

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Exploring Chinchero: Inca Ruins and Colonial Charm

Though the tour begins in Cusco, the first stop takes visitors to the picturesque town of Chinchero, where they’ll discover the remnants of the Inca Empire alongside the colonial charm of a local church.

Travelers explore Inca buildings and admire the intricate textiles at a weaving center, learning about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The highlight is the stunning Chinchero church, a blend of indigenous and European architectural styles, with its ornate frescoes and altarpieces.

The stunning Chinchero church blends indigenous and European architectural styles, showcasing ornate frescoes and altarpieces.

This introduction sets the tone for a day of immersing in the Sacred Valley’s captivating history and natural beauty.

Discovering the Wonders of Moray

After exploring the charming town of Chinchero, the tour continues its journey deeper into the Sacred Valley, arriving at the remarkable site of Moray. Here, the Incas constructed a series of concentric, circular terraces – an impressive feat of engineering and agriculture. These terraces were used as an agricultural research laboratory, allowing the Incas to experiment with different crops and growing conditions.

| Moray’s Significance |

| — | — | — | — | — |

| Inca Agricultural Research | Microclimate Experimentation | Crop Diversification | Elevation Adaptation | Sustainable Practices |

The tour explores these unique terraces, marveling at the Incas’ advanced understanding of agronomy and their ability to thrive in the challenging Andean environment.

Uncovering the Secrets of Maras Salt Mines

Moving on from the intriguing Inca agricultural experiments in Moray, the tour now directs its attention to the captivating Maras salt mines.

Nestled in a dramatic setting, over 3,000 salt pools dot the hillside, each meticulously maintained by local families. Visitors marvel at the intricate system of evaporation ponds, where salt is harvested from the saline spring water.

The process remains virtually unchanged since Inca times, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Strolling through this picturesque landscape, one can’t help but appreciate the ingenuity and resilience of the Andean people who’ve sustained this unique industry for centuries.

Dining in Urubamba: A Culinary Delight

Leaving the striking salt pools of Maras behind, the tour group looks forward to indulging in a delightful Peruvian feast in the charming town of Urubamba.

Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Urubamba offers a culinary experience that tantalizes the senses. The group savors a mouthwatering buffet featuring local specialties like cuy (roasted guinea pig), creamy potato-based soups, and an array of colorful vegetable and grain dishes.

Urubamba’s culinary delights tantalize the senses with a mouthwatering buffet of local specialties and vibrant vegetable and grain dishes.

Sipping on refreshing chicha morada, a traditional purple corn drink, they relish the flavors that embody the rich Andean culture.

Stomachs satisfied, the travelers are energized for the next stop on their adventure.

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Stepping Into the Past at Ollantaytambo

As the group bids farewell to the flavorful lunch in Urubamba, they eagerly anticipate the next stop on their Sacred Valley tour – the ancient Inca stronghold of Ollantaytambo.

With its towering stone ruins and winding cobblestone streets, Ollantaytambo offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Inca Empire.

Wandering through the site, one can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and reverence:

1. The massive stone terraces and fortifications, an engineering marvel.

2. The awe-inspiring Sun Temple, a testament to Inca spirituality.

3. The intricate water channels, showcasing their advanced agricultural practices.

4. The enduring spirit of the Inca people, evident in the living community.

Browsing the Vibrant Pisac Market

After exploring the awe-inspiring ruins of Ollantaytambo, the group eagerly sets out for the vibrant Pisac Market.

Rows of colorful stalls entice visitors with handcrafted textiles, intricate jewelry, and local delicacies. The group navigates the bustling maze, haggling playfully with vendors and discovering hidden gems. From alpaca-wool sweaters to carved wooden trinkets, the market overflows with unique treasures.

Pausing for a taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine, the group savors the flavors of the region. As the afternoon sun dips, they reluctantly bid farewell, carrying memories and mementos of this vibrant cultural experience.

Experiencing the Archaeological Marvels of Pisac

The group eagerly turns their attention to the archaeological marvels of Pisac, a captivating site brimming with Inca ruins.

Exploring the expansive Inca citadel, they discover:

1. Impressive agricultural terraces, once used for cultivating a variety of crops.

2. Intricately carved stone temples and structures, showcasing the Inca’s architectural brilliance.

3. A vast network of channels and aqueducts, demonstrating the Inca’s advanced water management system.

4. Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, offering a breathtaking glimpse into the Inca’s strategic placement of their settlements.

The group marvels at the ingenuity and scale of this archaeological wonder.

What to Expect on the Tour

Leaving the awe-inspiring Inca ruins of Pisac behind, the tour group eagerly anticipates the next chapter of their Sacred Valley adventure. As the bus winds through the lush landscape, the guide shares captivating insights about the region’s history and culture. The first stop, Chinchero, unveils a vibrant textile workshop where locals demonstrate traditional weaving techniques. Next, the group explores the mesmerizing concentric terraces of Moray, a testament to the Incas’ agricultural prowess. Lunch in Urubamba refuels the adventurers before they venture to the captivating Maras salt mines and the "Last Living Inca City" of Ollantaytambo.

| Destination | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Chinchero | Inca buildings, colonial church, textile workshop |

| Moray | Impressive circular agricultural terraces |

| Maras | Picturesque salt mines with over 3,000 salt wells |

| Ollantaytambo | Inca ruins and "Last Living Inca City" |

| Pisac | Indigenous market, archaeological park with Inca ruins |

Things To Know

Can We Request a Pick-Up From a Different Location?

Yes, guests can request pickup from a different location, though it may incur an additional fee. The tour company offers flexible pickup options to accommodate travelers’ needs and preferences.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour offers a pre-set itinerary, but travelers can customize their experience by requesting additional stops or skipping certain sites. Flexibility is available, though any changes may impact the tour duration and pricing.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this full-day tour from Cusco isn’t specified, but it’s likely a small group experience to provide a more personalized adventure through the Sacred Valley’s highlights like Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

There don’t appear to be any discounts or special offers mentioned for this tour. However, you can secure your spot by reserving now and paying later, which might be a convenient option.

Can We Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers private group options, allowing you to customize the itinerary and experience the Sacred Valley at your own pace.

Sum Up

The journey through the Sacred Valley offers a captivating blend of Inca history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant Andean culture. From the ancient salt mines of Maras to the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, this adventure promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you in awe of the region’s enduring heritage and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: