Cusco: Sacred Valley, Salt Mines of Marás and Moray & Lunch

Explore the captivating Cusco region on this comprehensive tour through the Sacred Valley. Witness the ancient Inca wonders of Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, each showcasing the ingenuity of this iconic civilization. After marveling at the salt mines and agricultural terraces, indulge in a delectable Urubamba lunch before continuing to the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage that has shaped the Cusco landscape. Uncover the fascinating stories behind these remarkable sites and prepare to be enchanted.

Key Points

• This guided tour takes visitors to the Sacred Valley near Cusco, exploring cultural and historical sites like Chinchero, Moray, Maras salt mines, and Ollantaytambo.
• The tour includes a buffet lunch and features highlights such as Inca agricultural terraces, traditional textile production, and innovative farming methods.
• Visitors can observe the unique circular terraces of Moray, which were used by the Incas for crop experimentation and temperature manipulation.
• The tour provides an opportunity to witness the natural salt extraction process at the Maras salt mines, a visually striking landscape.
• The tour duration is 12 hours, with hotel pickup, transportation, and entry fees included in the $26 per person price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour is titled "Cusco: Sacred Valley, Salt Mines of Marás and Moray & Lunch" and is priced from $26.00 per person.

Set out on a cultural odyssey through the Sacred Valley, Salt Mines of Marás, and Moray, all for $26 per person.

It lasts 12 hours and includes hotel pickup, transportation, a buffet lunch, and entry fees. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is available in Spanish and English. Highlights include visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.

Travelers will experience the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Based on 2 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 5/5.

Itinerary Highlights

After hotel pickup between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m., the tour begins with a visit to the Chinchero District, where travelers can explore the area’s agricultural terraces, colonial temple, and witness wool processing for 1 hour.

Next, the group will spend 30 minutes at the unique Moray agricultural terraces, before visiting the Maras salt mines for 10 minutes.

The tour then visits the historic Ollantaytambo Fortress for 50 minutes, followed by a buffet lunch stop in Urubamba.

Finally, the tour explores the archaeological complex of Pisac for 50 minutes before returning to Cusco by 7:00 p.m.

Chinchero District

Kicking off the tour, visitors explore the Chinchero District for an hour. They witness the well-preserved colonial temple, admiring its impressive architecture.

Next, they explore the history of Andean textile production, observing the traditional wool processing techniques.

The agricultural terraces provide a glimpse into the region’s vibrant agricultural heritage, showcasing the ingenious irrigation systems and cultivation practices of the local people.

This culture sets the stage for the day’s exploration of the Sacred Valley, as travelers gain a deeper understanding of the Inca’s relationship with the land and their innovative farming methods.

Moray

Upon arrival at Moray, visitors are greeted by the site’s unique agricultural terraces.

These circular depressions were used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation, allowing them to test different crops and growing conditions. The terraces descend in a steplike fashion, creating microenvironments with temperature variations of up to 15°C between the top and bottom.

The Inca’s circular terraces at Moray allowed them to experiment with crops and conditions, creating microclimates with temperature variations up to 15°C.

This innovative system enabled the Incas to cultivate a wide variety of crops, showcasing their advanced understanding of agricultural practices.

Exploring Moray offers a glimpse into the Incas’ ingenious approach to adapting to their environment and maximizing food production.

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Maras

From Moray, the tour continues to the nearby town of Maras, known for its remarkable salt mines.

Visitors descend into the valley to witness the natural salt extraction process. Thousands of salt evaporation ponds, or saltpans, dot the hillsides, each one privately owned and harvested by local families.

The whitewashed ponds create a striking visual against the rugged landscape. Guests spend about 10 minutes exploring the ponds and learning about the ancient techniques still used today.

The salt extracted here is prized for its exceptional quality and unique flavor, making it a must-see stop on any visit to the Sacred Valley.

Ollantaytambo Fortress

After visiting the salt ponds of Maras, the tour moves on to the Ollantaytambo Fortress.

This ancient Inca fortress sits atop steep terraces, offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. It served as a strategic military, religious, and administrative center.

Visitors can explore the impressive stone ruins, including temples, baths, and agricultural terraces. The fortress also protected the area from invasions during the Inca Empire.

Spending 50 minutes here allows travelers to enjoy the site’s historical significance and appreciate the impressive engineering feats of the Incas.

Urubamba Lunch

After visiting the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, the tour takes a break for a buffet lunch stop in the town of Urubamba.

The lunch provides a chance to refuel and experience local Peruvian cuisine. The buffet includes a variety of traditional dishes, allowing travelers to sample a range of flavors.

This midday meal is a welcome respite before continuing the exploration of the Sacred Valley.

The lunch stop not only nourishes the body but also provides an opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers and discuss the highlights of the morning’s activities.

Pisac

Concluding the lunch stop in Urubamba, the tour now heads to the archaeological complex of Pisac.

Located in a strategic mountain position, Pisac offers visitors the opportunity to explore:

Perched atop a strategic mountain, Pisac invites visitors to discover its impressive Inca ruins, bustling markets, and sweeping valley vistas.

1. Impressive Inca ruins and terraces.

2. A traditional Andean market, popular with locals and travelers alike.

3. Stunning views of the Sacred Valley.

4. Insights into the Inca’s advanced agricultural techniques.

After the 50-minute visit, the tour departs Pisac, returning to Cusco and arriving at Plaza San Francisco by 7:00 p.m. to conclude the day’s exploration of the Sacred Valley and its rich cultural heritage.

Things To Know

Do You Offer Pickup and Drop-Off Service From/To the Airport?

Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel and drop-off at Plaza San Francisco in Cusco. Airport transfers are not included, but you can arrange separate transportation to and from the airport.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children of All Ages?

The tour is suitable for children, but it may not be appropriate for very young kids. Families with children are welcome, though the duration and hiking involved may be challenging for some younger travelers.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary requirements. Travelers should inform the tour operator in advance so the buffet lunch can be adjusted to suit their needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Travel Dates?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also book their spot and pay nothing today, providing flexibility to change travel dates as needed.

Do You Provide Any Discounts for Groups or Students?

This tour company doesn’t offer group or student discounts, but they do provide free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You’ll need to book your spot and pay later to secure your reservation.

Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating journey through the Sacred Valley, showcasing the region’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the ancient Inca ruins of Moray and Maras to the vibrant local markets, this experience provides an immersive glimpse into the traditions of the Andes. At just $26 per person, it’s an affordable and unforgettable way to explore the heart of the Sacred Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: