From Cusco: Sacred Valley, Salinera, Moray, and Machu Picchu

Traverse the captivating landscapes of Peru's Sacred Valley, uncover the enigmatic secrets of Inca engineering, and witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of Machu Picchu.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Cusco, exploring the Sacred Valley’s stunning landscapes and rich Inca heritage. This comprehensive 2-day tour takes visitors through the captivating Salinera salt mines, the enigmatic Moray agricultural site, and the iconic Machu Picchu citadel. With professional guidance, seamless logistics, and delectable meals, this adventure promises to immerse you in the wonders of an ancient civilization. But what secrets will you uncover along the way?

Key Points

  • This 2-day tour from Cusco explores the Sacred Valley, including visits to the Textile Interpretation Center in Chinchero, Inca agricultural laboratory at Moray, and salt mines of Maras.
  • The tour includes a guided visit to the Ollantaytambo archaeological site and a train journey to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.
  • On the second day, the tour provides an early train to Aguas Calientes, a guided bus transfer to Machu Picchu, and lunch in Aguas Calientes.
  • The tour package includes hotel/Airbnb pick-up, transportation, professional guides, buffet lunch, train tickets, and entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users, and comfortable clothing and personal items are suggested.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a 2-day adventure exploring the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Priced from $500 per person, it’s available in English and Spanish. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To secure your spot, you can reserve now and pay later. The tour includes hotel pickup, guided visits, transportation, entrance fees, and meals.

Participants should be prepared for varying weather and wear comfortable shoes.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Itinerary

On day one, the tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.

You’ll visit the Textile Interpretation Center in Chinchero, explore the Inca agricultural laboratory at Moray, and tour the salt mines of Maras.

After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, you’ll see the Ollantaytambo archaeological site before taking the train to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

On day two, you’ll take an early train to Aguas Calientes, then a guided bus transfer to the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.

After a 2-hour guided tour, you’ll have lunch in Aguas Calientes before the return train to Cusco and transfer to your hotel.

Highlights

Discover ancient Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray, where the Incas experimented with different climatic conditions to cultivate a variety of crops.

Uncover the Inca’s agricultural experimentation at the ancient site of Moray, where diverse crops were cultivated.

Explore the famous salt mines of Maras, where salt has been harvested for centuries.

Visit Ollantaytambo’s Inca archaeological site, a well-preserved example of Inca urban planning.

Experience a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu citadel, learning about Inca history and Andean culture.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the secrets of the Sacred Valley and stand in awe of one of the world’s most remarkable ancient wonders.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive package to ensure you have a seamless and memorable experience. The inclusions cover all the important aspects of your Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu adventure. From hotel pickup to guided tours, transportation, and meals, every detail is taken care of.

| Inclusions |

| — | — | — | — |

| Hotel/Airbnb pick-up | Sacred Valley transportation | Professional guide | Buffet lunch |

| Tourist train tickets | Entrance to Machu Picchu | Lunch in Aguas Calientes | Bus transfers |

With these inclusions, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the rich history and stunning landscapes of this iconic Peruvian destination.

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Important Information

Some important things to note about this tour are that it may not be suitable for certain individuals.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothing, be prepared for varying weather conditions, and arrive on time at the designated pick-up location.

It’s advisable to bring personal items like a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu exploration.

Explore the Textile Interpretation Center in Chinchero

Why not start the day’s journey by exploring the Textile Interpretation Center in Chinchero?

This hub showcases the rich textile traditions of the Andes. Visitors can:

  1. Witness local artisans weaving intricate textiles using traditional Inca techniques.

  2. Learn about the significance of natural dyes derived from local plants.

  3. Admire the vibrant patterns and symbols woven into the fabrics.

  4. Browse the on-site shop to purchase unique handmade souvenirs.

The center provides an immersive introduction to the importance of textiles in Andean culture.

It’s an ideal first stop before delving deeper into the Sacred Valley’s archaeological wonders.

Discover the Inca Agricultural Laboratory at Moray

The Inca Agricultural Laboratory at Moray is a remarkable archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices.

The Inca Agricultural Laboratory at Moray offers a remarkable glimpse into the Inca’s sophisticated agricultural practices.

Nestled in a natural depression, this intriguing site features a series of massive, concentric stone terraces that served as an experimental crop-growing facility.

Researchers believe the Incas used this site to study the effects of altitude and microclimate on various crops, an innovative approach that contributed to their agricultural success.

Visitors can explore the terraces and imagine Inca farmers tending to their experiments centuries ago, providing a fascinating window into the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of their environment.

Guided Tour of the Iconic Machu Picchu Citadel

After visiting the remarkable Inca agricultural site of Moray, the tour continues to the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.

Atop the mountain, the guide leads guests on a 2-hour exploration of this breathtaking wonder:

  1. Admire the iconic stone architecture and terraces built seamlessly into the mountainside.

  2. Learn about the history and significance of this "Lost City of the Incas", a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  3. Marvel at the stunning vistas overlooking the Urubamba River and surrounding Andes peaks.

  4. Discover hidden nooks and crannies that reveal the ingenuity of Inca engineering and construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Include Extra Activities?

Yes, the itinerary can be modified to include extra activities. The tour operator is typically flexible and willing to customize the tour to suit the traveler’s interests and preferences, subject to availability and additional costs.

Is It Possible to Upgrade the Train Tickets to First-Class?

Yes, you can upgrade the train tickets to first-class for an additional fee. First-class tickets offer more space, amenities, and a more comfortable journey to Machu Picchu. Just let the tour operator know when making your booking.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Visit Machu Picchu?

Yes, visitors need to purchase an entrance ticket to access Machu Picchu. This ticket can be booked in advance online or through a tour operator. The number of visitors is limited, so it’s best to plan and reserve your ticket early.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. The tour itinerary includes accommodation in Aguas Calientes, but you’re free to stay longer if you’d like to explore the town further on your own.

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour Dates?

The weather during the tour dates is typically mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C). Visitors should prepare for changing conditions and bring layers, as the mountains can be cooler and wetter at times.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive experience exploring the Sacred Valley, Salinera salt mines, Moray agricultural site, and the iconic Machu Picchu. With guided visits, transportation, meals, and entrance fees included, it’s a comprehensive and seamless way to discover the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the wonders of Inca civilization on this unforgettable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: