Cusco: SacredValley, Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo, Pisac

Exploring the Sacred Valley of Cusco offers travelers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s storied past. From the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray to the iconic ruins of Ollantaytambo, this immersive tour invites visitors to uncover the ingenuity and enduring legacy of the Inca civilization. Along the way, they’ll discover the traditional salt mines of Maras, the vibrant market of Pisac, and savor a sumptuous buffet lunch in Urubamba. What secrets await those who embark on this remarkable journey through the heart of the Andes?

Key Points

• The Sacred Valley tour covers Inca ruins, colonial architecture, traditional markets, and natural wonders like the Maras Salt Mines and the agricultural terraces of Moray.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, and a buffet lunch, and can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Highlights of the itinerary include visiting the Inca ruins and colonial temple of Chinchero, exploring the Maras Salt Mines and Moray’s ancient agricultural terraces, and touring the significant Inca constructions in Pisac.
• The tour provides cultural insights into the Inca civilization, including the opportunity to experience local Andean cuisine, observe traditional weaving techniques, and gain appreciation for Inca architectural and agricultural achievements.
• The tour’s exploration of Chinchero includes a guided tour of the ancient Inca ruins and colonial-era church, as well as a visit to the vibrant local market to observe traditional weaving practices.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Sacred Valley tour offers an immersive experience into the living culture of the Incas, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore a range of historical sites and engage with local traditions.

Priced from $35 per person, the one-day tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, and a buffet lunch. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and payment can be made later.

The tour explores Inca ruins, colonial architecture, traditional markets, and natural wonders, delivering a comprehensive introduction to the region’s rich heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

Around 7 am, the tour picks up guests from their hotels to begin the day’s adventure.

First, they’ll explore the Inca ruins and colonial temple of Chinchero, followed by a local market tour.

Explore the Inca ruins and colonial temple of Chinchero, followed by a visit to a local market.

Next, they’ll visit the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray and the traditional salt extraction at the Maras Salt Mines.

After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour moves on to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll tour the Inca ruins, including the impressive 90-ton rock used in the Temple of the Sun.

The final stop is Pisac, where they’ll explore the astronomical observatory and significant Inca constructions before returning to Cusco around 6 pm.

Included Services

The tour includes several key services to enhance the overall experience.

The package includes hotel pickup service, ensuring a convenient start to the day.

Plus, the tour is led by a bilingual guide fluent in both English and Spanish, providing in-depth insights into the cultural significance of the sites.

On top of that, transportation throughout the Sacred Valley is provided by a comfortable bus, allowing participants to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey.

Lastly, a delectable buffet lunch in Urubamba is included, offering a taste of the local cuisine.

Entrance Fees

Two entrance fees are required for this tour. The first is for the Sacred Valley, which costs 70 soles. This provides access to the Inca ruins and sites throughout the region.

The second fee is for the Maras Salt Mines, which costs 20 soles. This allows visitors to explore the unique salt extraction process.

Both fees are included in the overall tour price, so travelers don’t need to worry about paying these separately. The tour guides will handle the entrance logistics, ensuring a seamless experience for participants.

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Cultural Insights

A major draw of this tour is the opportunity to get up close and personal with Inca culture. Participants can:

1. Explore the enigmatic Inca sites and uncover their historical significance.

2. Experience local Andean cuisine during the excursion.

3. Gain deeper insights into the living traditions and practices of the Inca people.

Through guided site explorations and immersive cultural experiences, travelers can develop a profound appreciation for the Incas’ architectural achievements, agricultural innovations, and enduring legacy.

This tour offers a unique window into a captivating civilization and its continued influence in the region.

Exploring Chinchero

What makes Chinchero a captivating stop on the Sacred Valley tour?

Chinchero offers a glimpse into the Incas’ enduring legacy. Explore ancient Inca ruins and a colonial-era church on a guided 30-minute tour.

Browse the vibrant local market, where indigenous artisans showcase their handcrafted textiles and wares. Learn about the region’s traditional weaving techniques and observe weavers in action.

Chinchero’s stunning setting, nestled amid snow-capped Andean peaks, completes the immersive cultural experience. This Inca site provides a rich introduction to the history and traditions that permeate the Sacred Valley.

Discovering Moray and Maras

After exploring the captivating Inca ruins and colonial architecture of Chinchero, the Sacred Valley tour continues its journey to Moray and Maras.

At Moray, visitors marvel at the mysterious Inca agricultural terraces, once used for crop experimentation. The site’s unique concentric circular design suggests it may have served as an Inca laboratory.

Next, the tour visits the Maras Salt Mines, where salt has been harvested for centuries using traditional methods.

Highlights include:

1. Observing the graduation of salt from saline springs into extensive terraced ponds.

2. Learning about the ancient salt-making process.

3. Purchasing locally-sourced salt products.

Visiting Ollantaytambo and Pisac

The tour next ventures to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, known for its impressive Inca fortress and ruins.

Visitors enjoy a guided tour of the site, marveling at the 90-ton rock used in the Temple of the Sun.

A guided tour of Ollantaytambo’s Inca fortress reveals the impressive 90-ton rock used in the Temple of the Sun.

The tour then travels to Pisac, where guests explore the enigmatic astronomical observatory and other significant Inca constructions.

Throughout these visits, the group gains insights into Inca culture and the historical significance of these archaeological wonders.

The day culminates with a return to Cusco around 6 PM, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the Sacred Valley’s rich heritage.

Things To Know

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Participants should dress for the weather and be prepared for some light hiking and walking during the day’s activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and water, but a buffet lunch is included in the tour. Bringing outside food is allowed, though the provided meal is part of the overall experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Guests of all ages are welcome to participate. Children under 5 may receive a discounted rate, and those with accessibility needs are encouraged to inquire about accommodations.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not specifically advertised as wheelchair accessible. Some sites may have limited accessibility due to the terrain and Inca ruins. Guests with mobility concerns should check with the tour operator before booking.

Can I Book Additional Activities for the Day?

Yes, you can book additional activities for the day. The tour provider offers customizable options, allowing you to enhance your Sacred Valley experience by adding extra excursions or experiences that align with your interests.

Sum Up

The Cusco Sacred Valley tour offers a captivating exploration of Peru’s storied past. Visitors will marvel at the Inca’s agricultural ingenuity, enjoy vibrant local markets, and uncover the architectural wonders of ancient ruins. This immersive journey through the Sacred Valley provides a profound appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Andean civilization and its rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: