The "Cusco: Complete Sacred Valley | Maras and Moray" tour offers an immersive journey through the captivating agricultural heritage of the Inca Empire. Priced affordably, this one-day adventure promises to unveil the vibrant town of Chinchero, the innovative Moray, and the stunning salt wells of Maras. Complemented by an Andean buffet lunch and explorations of archaeological wonders, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Sacred Valley. What secrets might this remarkable region hold?

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Key Points

This guided tour explores the Sacred Valley near Cusco, visiting Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac archaeological sites in a single day.
Highlights include the Inca agricultural laboratory at Moray, the 3,000 salt pools of Maras, and an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba.
Visitors can learn about traditional Andean textiles at a weaving cooperative in Chinchero and gain insights into Inca farming techniques and legacy.
The tour is suitable for most travelers but not recommended for those with mobility issues, babies under one, or individuals over 209 lbs.
The tour is priced from $43 per person and includes a professional guide, transportation, and an Andean buffet lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour, called "Cusco: Complete Sacred Valley | Maras and Moray," is priced from $43.00 per person.

The tour lasts one day and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can reserve now and pay later.

The itinerary includes exploring the Sacred Valley, visiting Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo. An Andean buffet lunch and professional guide are included.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, wheelchair users, babies under one, or individuals over 209 lbs.

Travelers should bring their passport, comfortable clothes, and cash, and avoid alcohol and drugs during the tour.

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

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour explores the Sacred Valley, located 35 kilometers from Cuzco, which was the main food bastion of the Inca Empire.

Visitors will start with a guided tour of Chinchero.

They’ll then discover the experimental center of Moray, the Incas’ agricultural laboratory.

Next, they’ll admire the 3,000 salt wells of Maras from a viewpoint.

After an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour visits the archaeological centers of Ollantaytambo and Pisac.

The day ends with a return to Cusco around 6:30 to 7:00 pm.

Explore the Sacred Valley

Situated 35 kilometers from Cuzco, the Sacred Valley was the main food bastion of the Inca Empire. Visitors can explore this lush, fertile region and discover its rich history and cultural heritage. The tour includes a guided visit to Chinchero, known for its traditional Andean textiles. Travelers will also get to see the experimental center of Moray, the Incas’ agricultural laboratory, and admire the 3,000 salt wells of Maras from a viewpoint. An Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba provides a taste of the local cuisine. The tour also visits the archaeological centers of Ollantaytambo and Pisac.

| Site | Highlights |

|——|———–|

| Chinchero | Traditional Andean textiles |

| Moray | Experimental agricultural center |

| Maras | 3,000 salt wells |

| Urubamba | Andean buffet lunch |

| Ollantaytambo | Archaeological center |

| Pisac | Archaeological center |

Visit Chinchero

Although known for its traditional Andean textiles, Chinchero offers visitors much more than just a textile workshop.

The tour takes you to the main plaza, where you’ll find the impressive 17th-century Andean Baroque church. Nearby is an Inca archaeological site with impressive stone ruins and agricultural terraces. Your guide will provide insights into the site’s history and significance.

After exploring the ruins, you’ll visit a local weaving cooperative to learn about the intricate textile-making process and have the opportunity to purchase high-quality handmade products.

The visit to Chinchero provides a well-rounded cultural experience.

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Discover the Experimental Center of Moray

Why does the Inca’s experimental center of Moray fascinate visitors?

Moray is an archaeological site that features concentric, circular terraces descending into the earth. Researchers believe these terraces were used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory, where they could experiment with different crops and soils at varying temperatures.

The layout of the site creates microclimates at each level, allowing the Incas to determine the optimal growing conditions for their produce.

Today, visitors can explore the unique terraced bowls and marvel at the Inca’s impressive agricultural innovations. The site offers remarkable insight into the advanced farming techniques of the Inca Empire.

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Admire the Salt Wells of Maras

After exploring the impressive agricultural laboratory of Moray, the tour continues to the salt wells of Maras.

These ancient salt mines, dating back to pre-Inca times, consist of over 3,000 individual salt pools carved into the mountainside. Visitors can admire the intricate system of saline pools from a scenic viewpoint, observing the local workers harvesting the salt.

The stark white pools contrast beautifully with the surrounding green landscape, creating a striking visual. This unique site offers a glimpse into the Incas’ ingenious use of natural resources and their advanced knowledge of salt production.

Enjoy an Andean Buffet Lunch

Following the exploration of the captivating salt wells of Maras, the tour pauses for an Andean buffet lunch in the charming town of Urubamba. Guests are treated to a spread of traditional Peruvian dishes, perfectly complementing the journey through the Sacred Valley. The lunch provides a welcomed respite and opportunity to savor the flavors of the region.

| Dish | Description | Price |

| — | — | — |

| Cuy | Roasted guinea pig, a Peruvian delicacy | $10 |

| Quinoa Salad | Fresh quinoa with vegetables and herbs | $5 |

| Lomo Saltado | Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and french fries | $8 |

| Aji de Gallina | Shredded chicken in a creamy, spiced sauce | $7 |

| Chicha Morada | Traditional Andean purple corn drink | $3 |

Explore the Archaeological Centers

Next, the tour explores the remarkable archaeological centers that dot the Sacred Valley.

Visitors will journey to Ollantaytambo, home to the impressive Temple of the Sun. They’ll uncover the secrets of this former Inca fortress, marveling at the massive stone blocks and intricate engineering.

The tour then heads to Pisac, where guests can wander the archaeological site and admire the impressive Inca agricultural terraces.

Throughout, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the Inca civilization and its enduring legacy. These stops offer a window into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the ingenuity of the Inca people.

Since You Asked

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

The tour’s inclusions specify that the buffet lunch is provided. However, travelers are allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks not mentioned in the inclusions, if they prefer. Bringing personal snacks or beverages is permitted during the tour.

What Should I Do if I Have Special Dietary Requirements?

Travelers with special dietary requirements should contact the tour operator in advance. The operator may be able to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary needs with the included buffet lunch or by recommending alternatives.

Is There a Possibility to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour’s duration is fixed at 1 day, but travelers can request an extension for an additional fee. They’ll need to contact the supplier directly to discuss options and pricing for extending the tour length.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The tour itinerary allows ample time for participants to capture the scenic landscapes and cultural sites along the way. However, it’s important to respect any restrictions or guidelines provided by the guide.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum number of participants required. Travelers can book the tour individually, and it will operate as long as there’s at least one person signed up. The tour size is flexible to accommodate solo travelers or larger groups.

The Sum Up

The "Cusco: Complete Sacred Valley | Maras and Moray" tour offers an immersive journey into the Inca Empire’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore iconic sites, witness innovative farming techniques, and savor Andean cuisine, all led by a knowledgeable guide. With its diverse cultural and historical highlights, this one-day adventure provides an enriching experience for anyone seeking to uncover the wonders of the Sacred Valley.