Cusco: Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray

Cusco’s Sacred Valley provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers can explore this remarkable area, visiting the textile center of Chinchero, the agricultural marvel of Moray, and the ancient salt mines of Salineras de Maras. Along the way, they’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas and learn about the Andes’ enduring traditions. It’s an opportunity to take in the captivating history that has shaped this remarkable corner of the world.

Key Points

• This guided tour explores the Cusco region, including the Sacred Valley, Maras salt mines, and the unique circular terraces of Moray.
• The tour is priced from $50 per person, with hotel pickup, a buffet lunch, and flexible booking and cancellation policies.
• Highlights include visiting a textile center, archaeological sites, and colonial structures in Chinchero, as well as the Moray agricultural laboratory and Salineras de Maras salt mines.
• The tour provides insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage, blending pre-Columbian and colonial influences, and showcasing indigenous traditions.
• Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with a guide offering commentary on the history and culture during the journey through the scenic Andean landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour, titled "Cusco: Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray," offers a captivating one-day exploration of the region’s cultural and archaeological highlights.

Priced from $50 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 participants and provides guided commentary in both English and Spanish.

This intimate, guided tour of Cusco’s highlights is priced from $50 per person and offers commentary in English and Spanish.

With complimentary hotel pickup and a buffet lunch, the itinerary features iconic sites like Chinchero, Moray, the Salineras de Maras salt mines, and the archaeological centers of Ollantaytambo and Pisac.

Guests can take advantage of the flexible "reserve now, pay later" booking option and receive a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup from the Historical Center at 6:30 am, setting the stage for a day of immersive cultural exploration.

First, visitors discover Chinchero’s textile center, archaeological site, and colonial temple. Next, they explore the circular agricultural laboratory of Moray, followed by the salt mines of Salineras de Maras dating back to Pre-Inca and Inca times.

After a delicious Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, the group visits the archaeological center of Ollantaytambo and the well-preserved site of Pisac before returning to Cusco around 7:00 pm.

Hotel Pick-up and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from the Historical Center of Cusco at 6:30 am. Participants are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Along the way, the guide provides insights into the region’s history and culture, setting the stage for the day’s adventures. The journey takes travelers through the stunning Sacred Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscape.

The transportation is efficient, ensuring a smooth transition between the tour’s various destinations. With limited group size, the experience feels personalized, allowing participants to engage with the guide and fellow travelers throughout the day.

Chinchero: Textile Center, Archaeological Space, and Colonial Temple

Participants begin their cultural exploration at Chinchero, a quaint Andean village renowned for its vibrant textile traditions. They visit a local weaving cooperative, where skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of dyeing and weaving alpaca wool. The group then explores the impressive archaeological site, which features Inca-era stone structures and terraces. Finally, they step inside the colonial Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Monserrat, marveling at its ornate altarpiece and frescoed walls. The experience offers a glimpse into Chinchero’s rich cultural heritage, blending pre-Columbian and colonial influences.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Weaving Cooperative | 1 hour |

| Archaeological Site | 1 hour |

| Colonial Church | 30 minutes |

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Moray: Circular Agricultural Laboratory

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

These deep depressions were used as an experimental agricultural laboratory, with each level having a different microclimate. By manipulating the depth, shape, and orientation of the terraces, the Incas could test the optimal conditions for growing a variety of crops.

Exploring this ingenious system provides a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and their understanding of the region’s diverse ecosystems.

Salineras De Maras: Salt Mines From Pre-Inca and Inca Times

Nestled in the heart of the Andes, the Salineras de Maras are a captivating network of salt mines dating back to pre-Inca and Inca times.

Visitors are mesmerized by the thousands of salt-evaporation ponds, each meticulously maintained by local families. The ponds glisten in the sun, creating a breathtaking patchwork of white, pink, and brown hues.

Centuries-old techniques are still used to harvest the salt, providing a sustainable income for the community.

Exploring the Salineras offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and the resilience of its indigenous traditions, making it a must-visit destination on any tour of the Sacred Valley.

Lunch in Urubamba and Ollantaytambo: Archaeological Center

After exploring the captivating Salineras de Maras, the tour group makes its way to Urubamba, where they’ll enjoy a delicious Andean buffet lunch.

The spread includes:

Hearty stews and casseroles showcasing regional ingredients, vibrant vegetable dishes bursting with Andean flavors, freshly baked breads and corn-based staples, sweet treats infused with local fruits and spices.

• Hearty stews and casseroles showcasing regional ingredients

• Vibrant vegetable dishes bursting with Andean flavors

• Freshly baked breads and corn-based staples

• Sweet treats infused with local fruits and spices

Following the satisfying meal, the group continues on to Ollantaytambo, an impressive archaeological center that provides a glimpse into the region’s Inca heritage.

The towering stone ruins and intricate terracing offer a captivating contrast to the earlier salt mines.

Pisac: Well-Preserved Archaeological Site

The tour group’s final stop is the well-preserved archaeological site of Pisac.

Situated in the Sacred Valley, Pisac boasts impressive Inca ruins that include terraced agricultural fields, temples, and an elaborate irrigation system.

Visitors can explore the site’s stone buildings, plazas, and fortifications, gaining insights into the engineering feats and urban planning of the Inca civilization.

The site also features a traditional Andean market, where local artisans sell handicrafts, textiles, and produce.

After a full day of exploration, the group returns to Cusco, completing their immersive journey through the region’s sacred landscapes and cultural heritage.

Since You Asked

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Dressing in layers is advisable as the weather can be variable throughout the day.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and water, but the tour includes a delicious Andean buffet lunch. Alcoholic beverages aren’t allowed on the bus, and any outside food should be consumed during the lunch stop.

Is There Any Age Limit or Restriction for the Tour?

There’s no age limit or restriction for this tour. Participants of all ages can join, as long as they’re able to comfortably participate in the day’s activities. The tour is designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.

What Is the Policy for Solo Travelers?

The tour welcomes solo travelers of all ages. There’s no single supplement, and solo travelers can join the group tour without any additional fees. However, the group size is limited to 15 participants for a more personalized experience.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Site Visit?

The tour allocates around 1-2 hours for each site visit, allowing travelers ample time to explore the archaeological sites, textile center, and salt mines. The itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive experience within the 1-day tour.

The Sum Up

The "Cusco: Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray" tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Andes’ cultural and historical treasures. Visitors will explore the region’s rich heritage, witness the breathtaking landscapes, and engage with the local communities, making for an immersive and unforgettable experience. With a range of activities and sights, this tour caters to travelers seeking to uncover the essence of the Sacred Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: