The Cusco Valley VIP Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley‘s cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can discover the Inca ruins of Chinchero, the unique agricultural terraces of Moray, and the centuries-old Maras Salt Mines. After an indulgent Andean lunch, the tour continues to the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress and the vibrant market in Pisac, immersing guests in Peru’s rich history and traditions. This captivating journey promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the heart of the Cusco region.

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Key Points

The Cusco Valley VIP Tour is a 10-hour excursion featuring visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and a bilingual guide, starting from $43 per person.
Chinchero offers an archaeological site and a colonial temple, while Moray features unique concentric terraces used for agricultural experimentation by the Incas.
The Maras Salt Mines showcase an intricate network of salt ponds used for salt production by the Inca Empire for centuries.
Ollantaytambo features an ancient Inca fortress with impressive stone terraces, and Pisac is known for its Andean terraces and historic cemetery.

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Tour Overview

The Cusco: Valley VIP Tour Maras Moray Salt Mines Chinchero Pisac is a comprehensive 10-hour excursion that takes visitors through the highlights of the Cusco Valley.

Priced from $43 per person, the tour offers exploration of archaeological sites, colonial architecture, and natural wonders, all while providing hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and a bilingual guide.

Participants will visit Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, with the tour concluding around 7:00 PM back in Cusco.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, though certain medical conditions may preclude participation.

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Chinchero District: Archaeological Site and Colonial Temple

Chinchero, a quaint highland town, serves as the first stop on the Cusco Valley VIP Tour. Visitors explore the archaeological site and colonial temple located in this picturesque district.

The ruins date back to the Inca Empire and showcase intricate stonework. Guides provide insights into the site’s history and significance.

Nearby, the 17th-century Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Natividad stands as a testament to the region’s colonial past. Tourists have two hours to enjoy Chinchero‘s rich cultural heritage before continuing on to the next destination.

Moray: Agricultural Laboratory With Terraces

After exploring the colonial charms of Chinchero, the Cusco Valley VIP Tour takes visitors to the unique site of Moray.

This ancient agricultural laboratory features a series of concentric terraces, descending like an amphitheater. Experts believe the Incas used Moray to study the effects of altitude and microclimates on crop cultivation.

Visitors can stroll along the terraces, marveling at the ingenious design and the breathtaking vistas. The tour guide provides insights into the site’s historical significance and the Incas’ advanced agricultural practices.

With its distinctive appearance and fascinating history, Moray is a highlight of the Cusco Valley experience.

Maras Salt Mines: Historical Salt Ponds

From Moray, the Cusco Valley VIP Tour takes visitors to the Maras Salt Mines, a captivating historical site known for its intricate network of salt ponds.

The ponds were used by the Inca Empire to produce salt, and the site has operated for centuries. Visitors can observe the harvesting process and purchase salt as a souvenir.

The Maras Salt Mines offer a unique glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage and provide an opportunity to explore an essential component of the region’s history and economy.

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Urubamba: Free Time for Andean Buffet Lunch

Upon departing the Maras Salt Mines, the tour heads to Urubamba, where participants are granted free time to enjoy an Andean buffet lunch.

The lunch provides a chance to sample a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes, including roasted potatoes, quinoa salads, and grilled meats.

Diners can savor the flavors of the region while taking in the scenic views of the Urubamba Valley.

This stop offers a leisurely break from the day’s activities, allowing travelers to recharge before continuing the journey through the Sacred Valley.

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Ollantaytambo: Archaeological Site and Train Terminal

The tour then travels to the archaeological site and train terminal of Ollantaytambo.

Visitors can explore the ancient Inca fortress, with its impressive stone terraces and remnants of an imperial estate. This important site was once the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti and a stronghold against the Spanish conquistadors.

After visiting Ollantaytambo, guests have the option to take the train (at an extra fee) to the iconic Machu Picchu or return to Cusco.

The tour provides an opportunity to experience this significant Inca archaeological complex as part of the comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley.

Pisac: Andean Terraces and Cemetery

Next, the tour ventures to the charming town of Pisac, known for its impressive Andean terraces and historic cemetery.

Visitors explore the ancient agricultural terraces, admiring the engineering feats of the Incas. The cemetery provides a glimpse into local burial practices, with stone tombs and ornate crosses.

The ancient terraces showcase Inca engineering prowess, while the cemetery’s stone tombs and crosses reveal local burial customs.

Travelers can wander the colorful market stalls, haggling for textiles, pottery, and traditional handicrafts. This stop offers a chance to immerse in Pisac’s vibrant culture and appreciate the region’s rich heritage.

The tour then returns to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 PM, completing the day’s exploration of the Sacred Valley.

Return to Cusco

After exploring the cultural highlights of Pisac, the tour group embarks on the return journey to Cusco.

The drive back takes approximately 2 hours, arriving at the Plaza Kusipata around 7:00 PM. Along the way, the guide provides commentary on the scenic Andean landscapes.

Upon reaching Cusco, travelers are free to continue exploring the historic city center or return to their accommodations.

The tour concludes with the drop-off at the original pick-up location, Plaza de Armas, in the Centro Histórico district. Participants depart with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley region.

Since You Asked

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified in the provided information. The tour details focus on the itinerary, inclusions, and logistics without mentioning the group size. Therefore, the group size is unknown.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly, as they may offer reduced rates or special accommodations for certain age groups.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or halal meals, with advance notice. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

The tour allows guests to customize and extend their experience by adding optional activities or extending the duration. Additional fees may apply for any customizations or add-ons requested beyond the standard itinerary.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Free Exploration at Each Site?

The tour allocates time for free exploration at each site, but the duration varies. For instance, visitors get 2 hours at Chinchero and 1 hour at Moray, allowing them to wander and take photos independently.

The Sum Up

The Cusco Valley VIP Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. From the Inca ruins of Chinchero to the breathtaking Maras Salt Mines, the tour immerses visitors in Peru’s history and traditions. With ample time for an Andean buffet lunch and visits to iconic sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac, this comprehensive experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the Sacred Valley.