Cusco: Valley VIP Tour Maras Moray Chinchero Pisac

The Sacred Valley of the Andes is a treasure trove of Inca history, and the Valley VIP Tour promises an unforgettable journey through its most iconic sites. From the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray to the centuries-old salt mines of Maras, this one-day excursion offers a glimpse into the ingenious engineering and cultural traditions that have endured in this breathtaking region. But what secrets lie buried beneath the ruins of Chinchero and Pisac? Prepare to be captivated as you uncover the valley’s hidden wonders.

Key Points

• This one-day excursion through the Sacred Valley of the Incas offers visits to archaeological sites, including Chinchero, Moray, Maras salt mines, and Pisac.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and admission tickets, lasting approximately 12 hours.
• Highlights include the Inca ruins, colonial architecture, traditional weaving demonstrations, and stunning natural landscapes.
• The tour showcases the advanced agricultural practices and resource management of the Incas, with a focus on the Moray terraces.
• The Maras salt mines, in use since Inca times, provide insight into the Incas’ effective use of natural resources.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Cusco: Valley VIP Tour Maras Moray Chinchero Pisac" is a popular one-day excursion that takes visitors through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Priced from $43 per person, the tour lasts approximately 12 hours and is available in English and Spanish. It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary includes visits to archaeological sites, colonial architecture, and natural wonders like the Maras salt mines.

Travelers receive hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and admission tickets.

The tour is subject to weather and other factors, and no refunds are provided for non-attendance.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour kicks off with a 6:30 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco.

The first stop is Chinchero, an Inca archaeological site and colonial temple.

Next, visit the unique agricultural terraces of Moray, an Inca-era laboratory.

Explore the historic Maras salt mines before enjoying a free-time Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba.

Then, discover the ruins of Ollantaytambo, a former Inca fortress and modern town.

The final destination is Pisac, with its impressive archaeological center, Andean terraces, and cemetery.

The tour returns to Cusco around 7:00 PM.

Chinchero: Archaeological Site and Colonial Temple

Although Chinchero’s Inca archaeological site and colonial temple stand in the shadows of the surrounding Andes mountains, their historical significance is no less prominent.

Visitors can explore:

1. The remarkable stone ruins of the Inca town, including terraces, plazas, and a sun temple.

2. The 17th-century Catholic church, featuring intricate murals and Baroque architectural elements.

3. A local textile workshop, where skilled artisans demonstrate the traditional weaving techniques used to create vibrant Andean textiles.

4. Stunning views of the snow-capped Vilcabamba mountain range in the distance.

Moray: Agricultural Laboratory With Terraces

Situated amid the dramatic Andean landscape, Moray’s terraced depressions captivate visitors with their unique design and purpose.

The Incas used this site as an agricultural research laboratory, experimenting with different microclimates to optimize crop cultivation. The multilevel terraces descend into a central depression, creating a series of concentric circular platforms.

This innovative system allowed the Incas to study the effects of temperature, air flow, and solar radiation on plant growth. Moray’s intricate engineering showcases the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and their deep understanding of the natural environment.

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Salt Mines: Exploited Since Inca Times

The Salt Mines of Maras have been exploited since Inca times, providing a vital source of salt for the region.

Visitors can explore this unique landscape, where thousands of salt ponds dot the hillside. The ponds are filled with salty spring water that evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals.

The process is:

1. Spring water flows into the ponds

2. Water evaporates, leaving salt behind

3. Salt is harvested and sold

4. The cycle repeats annually

This ancient salt-making tradition continues today, offering a glimpse into the Incas’ ingenious use of natural resources.

Urubamba: Free Time for Andean Buffet Lunch

After exploring the ancient salt-making traditions at the Maras Salt Mines, the tour heads to the charming town of Urubamba.

Here, travelers are treated to a complimentary Andean buffet lunch. The spread features a delightful array of traditional Peruvian dishes, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the region.

From succulent meats and fresh seafood to colorful vegetable dishes and hearty stews, the buffet satisfies even the most discerning palates.

This respite allows visitors to recharge before continuing the journey to the next archaeological site, Ollantaytambo, where they’ll uncover more of the Inca Empire’s enduring legacy.

Ollantaytambo: Archaeological Site and Train Terminal

After visiting the charming town of Urubamba and enjoying the Andean buffet lunch, the tour continues to the archaeological site and train terminal of Ollantaytambo.

This Inca fortress features:

1. Massive stone terraces that were once used for agriculture.

2. Impressive stone structures and temples that showcase Inca architectural prowess.

3. A train station that connects Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, providing a scenic journey through the Sacred Valley.

4. Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River.

Travelers have the opportunity to explore this important Inca site and witness its enduring legacy.

Pisac: Archaeological Center With Andean Terraces and Cemetery

From Ollantaytambo, the tour proceeds to the archaeological center of Pisac, which boasts impressive Andean terraces and a well-preserved Inca cemetery.

Perched on a hillside, the Pisac ruins display expertly-constructed stone walls, stairways, and agricultural terraces. Visitors can explore the site’s religious, administrative, and residential structures, as well as the intriguing Inca cemetery.

The scenic drive along the Urubamba River provides a stunning backdrop to this archaeological gem. Travelers have the opportunity to wander the historic site and learn about its significance within the Inca Empire before returning to Cusco.

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized to suit personal preferences. However, travelers can discuss any special requests with the tour provider, who may be able to accommodate them if feasible and within the tour’s scope.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time of year to take this tour is during the dry season from April to October, when weather conditions are generally favorable for outdoor exploration. Travelers can expect clear skies and mild temperatures during this period.

Are There Any Physical Requirements or Restrictions for This Tour?

This tour involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs at archaeological sites. Participants should be in good physical condition and able to manage these activities. There are no specific age or mobility requirements, but travelers with concerns should consult the tour operator.

Can I Obtain a Refund if I Need to Cancel the Tour Less Than 24 Hours in Advance?

According to the cancellation policy, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, no refunds are provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour.

Is It Possible to Book This Tour as a Private Group?

No, the tour cannot be booked as a private group. According to the details, the tour is offered with fixed departure times and shared transportation. Private tours are not mentioned as an option for this particular experience.

The Sum Up

The Valley VIP Tour provides an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley‘s cultural and historic wonders. Visitors will marvel at the engineering feats of the Incas, gain insights into traditional weaving practices, and savor the region’s natural beauty. With a comprehensive itinerary and delectable lunch, this day-long excursion offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore Cusco’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: