Cusco: Sacred Valley Day Tour With Buffet Lunch

The "Cusco: Sacred Valley Day Tour With Buffet Lunch" promises an immersive cultural experience for travelers seeking to explore the renowned Inca sites of the Sacred Valley. This guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the region’s breathtaking landscapes, showcasing the architectural marvels and agricultural innovations of the ancient civilization. With a delectable buffet lunch featuring local cuisine, the tour allows guests to savor the flavors of the Andes while gaining insights into the vibrant legacy of the Incas. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this captivating adventure?

Key Points

• Explore the colonial town of Chinchero with its Inca wall constructions and 17th-century church featuring vibrant murals and cultural artifacts.
• Discover the remarkable Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, showcasing their innovative approach to agriculture and land connection.
• Visit the centuries-old Maras salt mines, learning about the enduring salt-harvesting traditions and Inca engineering.
• Experience the "Last Living Inca City" of Ollantaytambo, with its impressive Inca fortress and charming traditional houses.
• Explore the Inca ruins of Pisac, including terraced agricultural fields, ceremonial plazas, and fortified structures, as well as an indigenous market.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Chinchero

The tour begins at the colonial-era town of Chinchero, where visitors explore the Inca wall constructions and a 17th-century church that blends both Inca and Spanish architectural elements.

The Inca walls showcase the advanced masonry skills of the Inca people, with intricately fitted stones.

Inside the church, visitors discover vibrant murals and religious artifacts that reflect the cultural blending of the region.

Throughout this experience, the guide provides insights into the history and significance of Chinchero, offering a glimpse into the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.

Discovering Moray

Next, the tour takes visitors to Moray, an archaeological site known for its remarkable Inca agricultural terraces.

This unique site features:

1. Circular terraces descending into the earth, creating a series of microclimates.

2. Evidence that the Incas used this site for agricultural experimentation, testing different crops and growing conditions.

3. Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, offering a glimpse into the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of their environment.

Exploring Moray provides a fascinating insight into the Incas’ innovative approach to agriculture and their deep connection to the land.

Visiting the Maras Salt Mines

After exploring the fascinating Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, the tour proceeds to the Maras Salt Mines.

Here, visitors marvel at over 3,000 salt wells that have been harvested since Inca times. The saline ponds glisten in the sun, creating a striking visual contrast against the surrounding mountains.

Visitors marvel at over 3,000 salt wells harvested since Inca times, their saline ponds glistening against the surrounding mountains.

Guests learn about the centuries-old salt production process and have the opportunity to purchase salt products from local vendors.

The visit to this historic site offers a unique glimpse into the Andes’ enduring salt-harvesting traditions and the ingenuity of the Inca engineering that enabled their production.

Experiencing Ollantaytambo

Leaving the Maras Salt Mines, the tour group arrives at the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

Known as the "Last Living Inca City", Ollantaytambo offers a glimpse into the past.

Visitors can:

1. Explore the impressive Inca fortress, with its towering stone terraces and temple ruins.

2. Wander through the charming streets and plazas, lined with traditional houses and cobblestone paths.

3. Learn about the site’s historical significance as a strategic military, religious, and agricultural center during the Inca Empire.

This living archaeological site provides a captivating connection to Cusco’s rich cultural heritage.

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Exploring Pisac

As the tour group departs Ollantaytambo, they make their way to the final stop of the day – the ancient Inca site of Pisac.

Nestled in the Andes, the Pisac Archaeological Park boasts impressive Inca ruins, including terraced agricultural fields, ceremonial plazas, and fortified structures.

The group explores the site, learning about its historical significance and the advanced engineering feats of the Incas.

They also visit the indigenous market, browsing local handicrafts and interacting with the vibrant community.

The tour concludes with a sense of culture and appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.

Savoring the Buffet Lunch

With their exploration of the Inca sites complete, the tour group eagerly makes their way to a local restaurant in Urubamba for a well-deserved buffet lunch.

The spread before them is a mouth-watering array of regional specialties:

1. Authentic Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado, aji de gallina, and quinoa salad.

2. A selection of freshly baked breads, perfectly seasoned vegetables, and fragrant rice.

3. Desserts ranging from creamy custards to tropical fruit tarts, satisfying even the sweetest of cravings.

As they savor each delicious bite, the tour group reflects on the culture of the day, energized for their next adventure.

Appreciating Andean Textiles

During their visit to Chinchero, the tour group is captivated by the vibrant Andean textiles on display.

The skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of weaving and dyeing the textiles using traditional methods passed down for generations. Travelers learn about the significance of these textiles in Andean culture, with each design and color holding deep meaning.

They’re amazed by the vibrant hues extracted from natural sources like plants and minerals. The group has the opportunity to browse and purchase these unique, handcrafted textiles, gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Highlights of the Sacred Valley Tour

The Sacred Valley day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of some of the most significant historical and cultural sites in the region.

Highlights include:

1. Visiting the ancient Inca ruins and colonial structures in Chinchero, where travelers can learn about Andean textiles.

2. Discovering the circular agricultural terraces of Moray, which were critical for Inca farming practices.

3. Exploring the over 3,000 salt wells at Maras, a historic site used by the Incas.

The tour also includes a delightful buffet lunch in Urubamba and opportunities to interact with the local population and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, travelers can customize the tour itinerary to fit their preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the sites visited and duration of the tour to meet individual needs and interests.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified. However, many small-group tours in the Sacred Valley offer a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention from the guide. The exact group size may vary depending on tour operator and demand.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s recommended to inquire with the tour operator for any available discounted rates or special offers when booking the tour.

Can I Store My Luggage With the Tour Company During the Tour?

The tour company doesn’t offer luggage storage during the tour. Travelers will need to make their own arrangements for storing any bags or belongings they won’t need for the day’s activities.

Are There Any Health/Dietary Restrictions the Tour Accommodates?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for the buffet lunch. Travelers with health concerns can notify the tour company in advance, and first aid and oxygen are available if needed during the excursion.

The Sum Up

The Cusco: Sacred Valley Day Tour with Buffet Lunch provides an enriching journey through the stunning landscapes and remarkable Inca heritage of the Sacred Valley. Visitors can enjoy the region’s iconic sites, savor local cuisine, and gain deeper appreciation for the vibrant Andean culture. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the captivating wonders of this remarkable destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: