Situated in the breathtaking Cusco region, this half-day excursion unveils a captivating blend of Inca history, cultural traditions, and natural splendor. From the vibrant textile hub of Chinchero to the ingenious agricultural terraces of Moray, visitors will explore the remarkable accomplishments of the Inca civilization. The journey continues to the remarkable salt mines of Maras, leading to a delightful picnic amidst the serene mountain vistas and friendly llamas and alpacas. Uncover the layers of this enchanting Andean experience.

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Key Points

Explore the well-preserved Inca ruins and vibrant textile traditions in the Andean town of Chinchero.
Discover the unique Inca agricultural terraces at the archaeological site of Moray.
Wander through the ancient salt ponds of Maras and learn about traditional salt-making processes.
Enjoy a scenic picnic with the opportunity to hand-feed friendly llamas and alpacas.
Immerse in the stunning mountain landscapes and cultural experiences of the Cusco region.

Overview of the Tour

This half-day excursion takes visitors on a journey through some of the most captivating sites in the Cusco region.

The tour includes stops at Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, where travelers can explore ancient Inca ruins, marvel at the stunning salt mines, and enjoy a picnic lunch with friendly llamas and alpacas.

Priced at $95 per person, the tour provides private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all necessary entrance fees.

With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.

Accessibility is good, with options for strollers and infant seats.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Visiting Chinchero

What makes Chinchero such a captivating destination on this tour? Perched high in the Andes, Chinchero offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire.

Visitors will explore the well-preserved ruins of an ancient Inca royal estate, marveling at the intricate stonework and engineering feats. The town is also renowned for its vibrant textile tradition, with local weavers demonstrating their time-honored techniques.

Travelers can browse the colorful markets, haggling for handcrafted textiles and souvenirs. With its stunning mountain vistas and connection to Inca history, Chinchero promises an immersive cultural experience not to be missed.

Exploring Moray

After exploring the Inca ruins of Chinchero, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Moray.

Moray is known for its impressive Inca agricultural terraces, which were used as an experimental crop production site.

Visitors can:

Marvel at the multi-level circular terraces
Imagine the ingenuity behind this engineering feat
Observe the temperature differences between the terraces
Learn about the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices
Capture stunning photos of this unique and scenic location

The tour provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of agronomy and their remarkable adaptation to the Andean environment.

Discovering the Salt Mines of Maras

From the serene Inca terraces of Moray, the tour now heads to the striking salt mines of Maras.

This ancient system of salt ponds dates back to pre-Inca times and continues to be harvested today. Visitors can wander through the terraced ponds, marvel at the brilliant white salt, and learn about the traditional salt-making process.

The contrast of the pristine white against the rugged, mountainous landscape creates a mesmerizing scene. Guests have the chance to purchase local salt products before continuing the excursion to a scenic picnic location with llamas and alpacas.

Enjoying the Picnic With Llamas and Alpacas

As the tour moves on from the captivating salt mines of Maras, travelers are treated to a delightful picnic surrounded by friendly llamas and alpacas.

The scenic lunch spot offers stunning vistas of the Andes mountains. Guests can:

Guests can savor stunning Andean vistas while hand-feeding friendly llamas and alpacas during this tranquil picnic experience.

Hand-feed these gentle camelids
Take photos with the photogenic herd
Learn about the importance of these animals in Andean culture
Enjoy a leisurely meal with local Peruvian dishes
Appreciate the tranquility of the picturesque setting

The picnic with llamas and alpacas provides a memorable and immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the natural wonders of the region.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Meeting Point and Start Time

Travelers meet at a designated meeting point, which they select when booking the tour.

The excursion starts promptly at 8:00 am, so it’s important to arrive on time. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the half-day adventure.

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size ensures a personalized experience. The early morning start allows participants to beat the crowds and enjoy the sites in a more peaceful setting.

Whether it’s the historic town of Chinchero or the salt mines of Maras, the meeting point sets the stage for an unforgettable day.

Accessibility and Participation Details

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller friendly, and infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, as it doesn’t require participants to have any heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Some key details about accessibility and participation:

No wheelchair access
Stroller accessible
Infant seats available
No heart problems or serious medical conditions required
Most travelers can participate

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?

The tour can likely be customized to fit the traveler’s interests, though specific details would need to be discussed with the tour provider. Personalized experiences are often available upon request, subject to availability and any additional costs.

What Is the Group Size on a Typical Tour?

The typical tour has a maximum group size of 10 travelers. This allows for a more personalized experience and easier coordination during the excursion.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour company doesn’t require any special equipment. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection. The tour provides all necessary items, including access to the sites and a picnic lunch.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Infants seats are available, and most travelers can participate, though the activity may not be suitable for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Can I Take Photos of the Alpacas and Llamas?

Yes, participants can take photos of the alpacas and llamas on the tour. The tour provider encourages guests to interact with and photograph the animals during the experience.

The Sum Up

This half-day excursion in the Cusco region offers a captivating blend of Inca history, cultural traditions, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, marvel at innovative agricultural terraces, witness traditional salt harvesting, and enjoy a picnic amidst stunning mountain vistas while interacting with friendly llamas and alpacas. It’s an immersive experience that showcases the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of the Cusco area.