Cusco: Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac

Cusco’s Sacred Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to enjoy the captivating history and rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization. From the traditional weaving techniques of Chinchero to the awe-inspiring agricultural terraces of Moray, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through some of the region’s most iconic sites. But what truly sets this experience apart is the chance to witness the ancient engineering feat of the Maras salt ponds, a testament to the ingenuity of the Incas.

Key Points

• This comprehensive one-day tour explores the Sacred Valley, including the traditional weaving town of Chinchero, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the ancient fortress of Ollantaytambo.
• Guests can learn about Inca farming techniques, the history of textile weaving, and the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization from expert guides.
• The tour includes transportation, a buffet lunch, and partial access to archaeological sites, with a maximum group size of 10 participants for a personalized experience.
• Customers can check availability, select their desired date and number of participants, and benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour starts from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco and provides the opportunity to visit the markets of Pisac.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley, taking visitors to the renowned sites of Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.

Priced from $44 per person, the tour lasts one day and is limited to 10 participants. Available in English and Spanish, it features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later. The itinerary highlights traditional weaving, Inca agricultural terraces, the Maras salt mines, an ancient fortress, and a local market.

Guided by experts, the tour provides insights into Inca history and culture. Inclusions cover transportation, lunch, and partial tourist ticket.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, where visitors embark on their journey through the Sacred Valley.

The highlights include:

Visiting Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac market to explore Inca history and culture.

• Visiting Chinchero, a traditional weaving town, to learn about Inca farming techniques and history.

• Exploring the agricultural terraces of Moray, an engineering marvel built by the Incas.

• Seeing the Maras Salt Mines, with over 500 salt ponds used by the Incas.

• Touring the ancient terraced fortress of Ollantaytambo, featuring over 200 steps.

• Discovering the local market of Pisac, offering a variety of souvenirs and crafts.

Cultural Insights

Throughout the tour, expert guides provide valuable insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Incas.

Guests learn about the Inca’s advanced farming techniques, including the unique agricultural terraces at Moray.

At Chinchero, they discover the centuries-old tradition of textile weaving.

The tour also explores the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo and the bustling markets of Pisac, where ancient crafts and customs are on full display.

With the guidance of knowledgeable local experts, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization across the Sacred Valley.

Inclusions

The tour includes pickup from the historic city center, a bilingual guide to provide commentary throughout the day, and comfortable bus transportation to navigate the Sacred Valley.

The tour also includes:

• A buffet lunch at a restaurant in Urubamba, the capital of the Sacred Valley

• Entrance to the first archaeological site with a partial tourist ticket

• Availability to purchase an entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines for 15 new soles

• Return transportation to Regocijos Square in Cusco

• Opportunities to learn about Inca farming techniques and history from the expert guide.

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Booking and Availability

Customers can check availability for starting times on the tour’s booking page. They can select the desired date and number of participants.

Customers can check availability for starting times on the tour’s booking page, selecting the desired date and number of participants.

The meeting point is provided and can be opened in Google Maps. Booking is available online, and customers pay nothing today to reserve their spot.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour operates with a limited group size of 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Travelers can enjoy this comprehensive 1-day tour of the Sacred Valley’s highlights, including Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.

Chinchero: Traditional Weaving Town

As visitors arrive at Chinchero, they’ll be immersed in the vibrant culture of traditional Andean weaving. This quaint town is renowned for its centuries-old textile traditions passed down through generations.

Visitors can:

• Witness skilled weavers demonstrating the intricate process of creating vibrant tapestries and garments using natural dyes and ancient techniques.

• Browse local markets brimming with colorful woven goods, including ponchos, shawls, and wall hangings.

• Learn about the significance of weaving in Inca and Andean cultures from knowledgeable guides.

• Explore the town’s colonial-era church and ruins, providing a glimpse into its rich historical heritage.

• Participate in hands-on weaving workshops to create their own unique souvenirs.

Moray: Agricultural Terraces Built by Incas

Next, visitors explore the remarkable Inca ruins of Moray. These ancient agricultural terraces were an Inca experimental crop station, with concentric circular depressions that create various microclimates.

The deepest level is 15 degrees Celsius cooler than the shallowest, allowing the Incas to cultivate a variety of crops. Guides explain how the Incas harnessed this unique microclimate system for food production.

Visitors can walk through the terraces, marveling at the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of agriculture and climate. This stop provides fascinating insights into Inca ingenuity and their mastery of the land.

Maras Salt Mines: Over 500 Salt Ponds Used by Incas

After exploring the remarkable Inca terraces of Moray, the tour then takes visitors to the Maras Salt Mines.

This ancient site features over 500 salt ponds that were used by the Incas to harvest salt. Visitors can witness the process of extracting salt from the natural saltwater springs that flow into the ponds.

The tour provides insights into this centuries-old practice:

• Ponds are filled with salty spring water

• Water evaporates in the sun, leaving salt crystals

• Salt is manually harvested and processed

• Maras has been an active salt production site for the Incas and locals

• Stunning views of the Andes mountains set the backdrop

Since You Asked

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at various stops along the tour, including at the lunch restaurant in Urubamba. The guide will point out the restroom locations at each site visited during the day.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a buffet lunch at a restaurant in Urubamba is included in the tour package. Bringing snacks and water is recommended to enhance the experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Physical Disabilities?

The tour may not be suitable for all travelers with physical disabilities, as it includes walking on uneven terrain and steps at some sites. Travelers should check with the tour operator about accessibility accommodations.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Travelers can take photos at the various Inca sites and cultural attractions visited throughout the day. However, some locations may have restrictions, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions.

Is There an Option to Visit Additional Sites Beyond the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour offers an optional additional visit to the Maras Salt Mines for an extra 15 new soles. Guests can explore this unique Inca site not included in the standard itinerary if they’d like to extend their experience.

The Sum Up

The Cusco’s Sacred Valley tour offers a captivating journey through the region’s historic sites. Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage and engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. From the traditional weaving techniques in Chinchero to the impressive agricultural terraces in Moray and the ancient salt ponds at Maras, this tour provides an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: