From Cusco: Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray Day Trip

Nestled in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley, the captivating sites of Maras and Moray await adventurous travelers. This comprehensive day trip from Cusco promises an immersive exploration of the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With private transportation and a knowledgeable guide, visitors will unravel the mysteries of the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and marvel at the ancient salt pools still in use today. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this itinerary offers a unique glimpse into the wonders of the Sacred Valley.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley, including Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, priced from $95.00 per group of up to 3 people.
• Includes hotel pickup, private transportation, knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees, with an optional buffet lunch in Urubamba.
• Itinerary highlights: Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, with the option to continue to Machu Picchu after the tour.
• Recommended items: comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and cash, with acclimatization in Cusco advised for altitude sickness.
• Not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems, and pets and smoking are prohibited.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Cusco offers a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley, taking visitors to the renowned archaeological sites of Moray and Maras, as well as the charming Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

Priced from $95.00 per group (up to 3 people), the tour includes hotel pickup, private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees.

Travelers can opt for a buffet lunch in Urubamba. The tour lasts one day and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

A reserve now and pay later option is also available, making this an accessible and flexible way to discover the highlights of the Sacred Valley.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with hotel pickup in central Cusco, typically between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM.

First, you’ll visit Chinchero to see Inca walls and a textile exhibition center.

Next, explore the archaeological site of Moray, known for its concentric terraces used as an agricultural laboratory.

Then, head to Maras to witness over 5,000 salt pools in use since Inca times.

After exploring Ollantaytambo‘s iconic fortress and continuously inhabited town, the tour concludes at the local market and archaeological site in Pisac.

An optional buffet lunch in Urubamba is available.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in central Cusco, private tourist transport, a tour guide, and entrance fees.

Lunch is also included if selected. However, the tour excludes extra expenses and travel insurance.

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and cash, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems.

Pets and smoking aren’t allowed during the tour.

Important Information and Recommendations

Not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems, this tour requires comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and cash – as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.

Hotel pickup is between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM from central Cusco locations.

Altitude sickness may be a concern, so acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand is recommended.

For those continuing to Machu Picchu by train from Ollantaytambo, drop-off near the station can be arranged, although the Pisac tour portion will be excluded.

Pets and smoking aren’t allowed during the tour.

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Health and Safety Considerations

Altitude sickness may be a concern for travelers on this tour, so it’s recommended to acclimate in Cusco beforehand.

Acclimating in Cusco before the tour is recommended to address the potential concern of altitude sickness for travelers.

Wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for outdoor exploration and fluctuating temperatures. Bring cash for personal expenses, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere on the itinerary.

It’s important to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen to protect against the strong Andean sun. Smoking and pets aren’t permitted during the tour.

Following these health and safety guidelines will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience exploring the Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray.

Exploring Chinchero: Inca Walls and Textile Wonders

As the tour departs from Cusco, one of the first stops is the charming town of Chinchero, known for its well-preserved Inca walls and vibrant textile exhibition center.

Visitors can explore the impressive Inca-era terraces and stone walls that have stood the test of time.

The local textile exhibition showcases the remarkable weaving skills of the Andean people, with demonstrations of traditional dyeing and weaving techniques.

This stop offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, setting the stage for the day’s exploration of the Sacred Valley.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Moray

After departing Chinchero, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Moray, a true marvel of Inca engineering.

Visitors descend into a series of concentric terraces, each carved into the earth like a giant natural amphitheater. This unique structure is thought to have been an agricultural laboratory, where the Incas experimented with different microclimates to optimize crop cultivation.

Exploring the site, one can imagine the Incas’ ingenuity, as the temperature varies by several degrees between the highest and lowest terraces.

This captivating site offers a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and climate manipulation.

Discovering the Salt Terraces of Maras

From Moray, the tour descends into the captivating Maras salt terraces, a remarkable site that has been in use since Inca times.

Over 5,000 small, individual salt pools dot the mountainside, each one meticulously maintained to evaporate the salty spring water. Visitors can observe the ancient salt-harvesting techniques still in use today, as local workers collect the valuable mineral.

The striking white terraces contrast beautifully with the surrounding green hills, creating a visually stunning landscape. Exploring Maras offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and the resilience of traditional salt-production methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation To/From Cusco Included in the Tour Price?

Yes, the tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off in central Cusco. The private tourist transport takes participants from their Cusco hotels to the various sites throughout the day.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional stops. Guests can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who may be able to accommodate special requests, though this may impact the overall duration and price of the tour.

Are There Opportunities to Interact With Local Artisans?

Yes, the tour offers opportunities to interact with local artisans. At the Chinchero textile exhibition center, visitors can watch skilled weavers demonstrate traditional techniques and even purchase handmade textiles directly from the artisans.

Is There an Option to Hike Down Into the Moray Site?

Yes, visitors can hike down into the Moray archaeological site. The site features concentric circular terraces that were likely used as an agricultural laboratory, allowing visitors to explore and experience this unique Inca engineering up close.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows photography throughout, though visitors should avoid obstructing other guests or distracting from the experience. There are no specific restrictions, but travelers should be respectful and mindful of their surroundings when taking photos.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating Sacred Valley on this comprehensive day trip from Cusco. Marvel at the ancient Inca wonders of Moray and Maras, and gain insights from a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and free cancellation, making it an ideal excursion to experience the rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: