Cusco: Sacred Valley Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo

The Cusco Sacred Valley tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through the heart of Incan heritage. From the stunning Chinchero terraces to the mesmerizing Moray agricultural site, this tour immerses visitors in the region’s rich cultural tapestry. But the real highlight? Witnessing the dramatic salt pans of Maras and the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins – a true testament to the engineering prowess of the Incas. What secrets do these ancient sites hold? Dive in to uncover the fascinating history that lies within.

Key Points

• The Sacred Valley tour covers the highlights of Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, providing an immersive cultural experience.
• Chinchero features well-preserved Incan terraces and a colonial church, with a traditional Andean weaving workshop demonstration.
• Moray’s circular agricultural terraces were used by the Incas for experimental farming, showcasing their innovative agricultural practices.
• The Maras Salt Mines are known for their traditional salt extraction methods and picturesque salt pans.
• Ollantaytambo boasts impressive Incan ruins and well-preserved terraces, offering a glimpse into the region’s historical significance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Sacred Valley tour from Cusco is priced from $35.00 per person and lasts 9 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "reserve now & pay later" option is available.

The tour includes hotel pickup, visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, a traditional Andean weaving demonstration, a buffet lunch, and an experienced guide.

Participants will explore Incan terraces, a colonial church, experimental farming terraces, and traditional salt mines.

The tour ends in Ollantaytambo between 3:00 and 3:30 pm.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from Cusco and a 1.5-hour visit to Chinchero, where participants can admire the well-preserved Incan terraces, explore a colonial church, and witness a traditional Andean weaving demonstration.

Next, the tour heads to Moray, a site featuring circular agricultural terraces used for experimental farming. After a 30-minute stop, the group continues to the Maras Salt Mines, where they’ll see the picturesque salt pans and learn about traditional salt extraction methods.

The tour concludes with a 45-minute visit to the historic town of Ollantaytambo and its impressive Incan ruins.

• Chinchero: Incan terraces, colonial church, weaving demonstration

• Moray: Circular agricultural terraces

• Maras: Traditional salt extraction, picturesque salt pans

Key Attractions

Chinchero boasts well-preserved Incan terraces and a colonial church, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Nearby, Moray’s circular agricultural terraces were used for experimental farming by the Incas. The Maras Salt Mines still utilize traditional salt extraction methods, resulting in picturesque salt pans.

Ollantaytambo, a historic town, features impressive Incan ruins and well-preserved terraces that showcase the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

These key attractions provide a dynamic and immersive experience, allowing travelers to connect with the cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley region.

Chinchero

As one of the first stops on the Sacred Valley tour, Chinchero offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The town’s well-preserved Incan terraces and colonial church set the stage for an immersive experience. Visitors can explore a traditional Andean weaving workshop, where skilled artisans demonstrate their time-honored techniques:

• Vibrant alpaca wool

• Intricate patterns

• Natural dyes

Chinchero’s blend of Incan and colonial influences provides a fascinating introduction to the Sacred Valley’s remarkable history and enduring traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Moray

Continuing on the Sacred Valley tour, visitors will arrive at Moray – a unique archaeological site that captivates with its remarkable circular agricultural terraces.

These terraces were used by the Incas for experimental farming, as the varying levels and microclimate created by the terraces allowed them to test different crops and growing conditions.

The Inca utilized the varying levels and microclimates of Moray’s terraces to experimentally cultivate diverse crops and conditions.

Descending down the terraces offers stunning views and a chance to appreciate the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

After a guided tour and photo opportunity, travelers will depart Moray, eager to explore the next stop on the Sacred Valley adventure.

Maras Salt Mines

Next, the tour arrives at the Maras Salt Mines, a captivating site known for its traditional salt extraction methods and picturesque salt pans.

Visitors marvel at the geometric pattern of the salt pools, each one manually carved and maintained by local families. The process involves channeling spring water into the pools, allowing it to evaporate and leave behind the valuable mineral.

Highlights include:

• Observing the salt harvesters at work

• Exploring the maze-like network of salt pans

• Purchasing artisanal salt products as souvenirs

The Maras Salt Mines offer a unique glimpse into a centuries-old tradition that continues to thrive in the Andes.

Ollantaytambo

From the captivating Maras Salt Mines, the tour now heads to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, a place that showcases the impressive engineering feats of the Incas.

Travelers will explore the well-preserved Inca ruins, including terraced agricultural steps and a massive ceremonial fortress. The visit offers insights into the advanced construction techniques used to build this strategic site.

With its charming cobblestone streets and traditional architecture, Ollantaytambo provides a glimpse into Inca life. After the guided tour, travelers can enjoy free time to wander the town before the tour returns to Cusco.

Inclusions

The tour package includes several key services and features to enhance the Sacred Valley experience.

Travelers can expect a comfortable tour vehicle to transport them between sites. Plus, the tour includes a knowledgeable local guide to provide insights during visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo.

The package also covers:

• Traditional Andean weaving demonstration

• Buffet lunch with local Andean cuisine

• Necessary entrance fees and tickets

These inclusive offerings allow visitors to fully enjoy the cultural and historical richness of the Sacred Valley.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals due to safety and comfort considerations for all participants. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour company offers a private tour option. The private tour allows you to customize the itinerary and enjoy a more personalized experience with just your group. Prices for the private tour start at $70 per person.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 people. This allows for a more personalized experience while still keeping the tour cost-effective. The small group size also makes it easier to navigate the various sites on the itinerary.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Documentation?

No, you don’t need any special permits or documentation for this tour. Just make sure to bring your valid ID or passport. The tour company will handle all the necessary arrangements and entrance fees.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration. The operator offers a flexible itinerary, allowing you to spend more time at the sites that interest you most. Additional fees may apply for customized tours or extended durations.

Sum Up

The Cusco Sacred Valley tour offers a captivating blend of Incan history, stunning natural beauty, and culture. From the terraced landscapes of Chinchero to the unique Moray ruins and the Maras Salt Mines, travelers can explore the region’s rich heritage. The tour culminates in Ollantaytambo, where impressive Incan ruins and well-preserved terraces provide a fitting finale to this enriching exploration of the Sacred Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: