The Misminay Community Tour offers travelers an immersive glimpse into Andean culture. Explore ancient salt pools, visit agricultural terraces, and experience traditional music and dance. Engage in local farming, witness alpaca weaving, and savor Andean cuisine. This 2-day adventure provides a memorable journey into the heart of this vibrant community. Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment or simply an unforgettable getaway, this tour promises an experience that’ll leave you captivated.

Key Points

A 2-day overnight tour from Cusco to experience the Misminay community, priced at $349 per person with no upfront payment required.
Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, private transportation, guide, meals (breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner), and activities like visiting ancient salt pools and Moray.
Day 1 features a welcome in Misminay, a hike to Waninmarca viewpoint, and an evening fireside gathering with local myths and stories.
Day 2 offers participation in traditional farming practices and a visit to Misminay weavers, culminating in a final Andean stew before returning to Cusco.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Misminay Community Tour offers a 2-day overnight experience, priced at $349.00 per person.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later with no upfront payment required. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, 1 night of homestay accommodation, entrance fees, and recommended gratuities.

Breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner are provided.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or medical conditions.

Travelers should bring essentials like passport, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.

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Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, the tour begins with a 7:00 AM hotel pickup.

Guests visit the ancient salt pools of Maras, an Inca agricultural laboratory in Moray, and arrive in the Andean village of Misminay for a warm welcome with music and dance.

After a home-cooked Andean lunch, they hike to the Waninmarca viewpoint for stunning vistas of Moray and the Sacred Valley.

In the evening, locals share myths and stories around a fireside gathering.

On the second day, guests enjoy a breakfast featuring quinoa and native cereals.

They participate in traditional farming with the locals and visit Misminay weavers crafting alpaca textiles with natural dyes before returning to Cusco.

Day 1: Discovering the Enchanting Misminay Community

Guests start their enchanting Misminay community tour with a 7:00 AM hotel pickup.

They’ll visit the ancient salt pools of Maras, harvested since Inca times, before exploring the circular terraces of Moray – an Inca agricultural laboratory.

Arriving in Misminay (12,139 ft), they’re welcomed with music and dance.

After a home-cooked Andean lunch, they’ll hike to the Waninmarca viewpoint for panoramic views.

Following their hearty Andean lunch, guests embark on a hike to the Waninmarca viewpoint, taking in panoramic vistas.

As evening falls, guests gather by the fire, listening to local elders share myths and legends.

It’s an immersive, cultural experience, offering a glimpse into the traditional Andean way of life.

Arriving in Misminay: a Warm Welcome With Music and Dance

After a scenic drive through the Andes, guests arrive in the charming village of Misminay (12,139 ft).

They’re immediately greeted with a warm welcome, complete with:

Lively Andean music played on traditional instruments.
Colorful dancers in traditional dress performing for the newcomers.
Friendly locals offering handshakes and genuine smiles.

This spirited reception sets the tone for the immersive cultural experience to come.

Guests feel a sense of excitement and anticipation as they set foot in this vibrant mountain community, eager to learn about the Andean way of life.

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Exploring the Waninmarca Viewpoint

After exploring the charming village of Misminay, the group sets off on a short hike to the Waninmarca viewpoint.

The trail winds through picturesque farmland, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains. As the group reaches the top, they’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Moray terraces and the Sacred Valley below.

The guide points out key landmarks, sharing insights into the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices. Participants take in the breathtaking scenery, snapping photos and soaking in the tranquility of the high-altitude setting.

This peaceful moment allows travelers to connect with the land and the local way of life.

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Day 2: Taking in Traditional Andean Experiences

The second day in Misminay begins with a nourishing breakfast featuring quinoa and native Andean cereals.

Travelers then have the opportunity to actively participate in traditional farming practices alongside the local community members. This hands-on experience provides a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture in the region.

Afterward, the group visits the talented Misminay weavers who craft intricate alpaca textiles using natural dyes.

The day concludes with a final Andean stew before the group returns to Cusco, leaving with a newfound appreciation for the vibrant Andean culture.

Participating in Local Farming Activities

As the second day in Misminay begins, travelers have the opportunity to actively participate in traditional farming practices alongside the local community members.

They’ll learn how to tend to the crops, harvest vegetables, and care for the land using sustainable methods passed down for generations.

This hands-on experience provides a deeper understanding of the Andean way of life and the importance of agriculture in the community.

Travelers can expect to get their hands dirty, connect with the locals, and gain a newfound appreciation for the vital role farming plays in the Misminay way of life.

Departing Misminay: A Final Andean Stew and Return to Cusco

Before departing Misminay, travelers enjoy a final Andean stew, a hearty and flavorful dish that exemplifies the community’s culinary traditions. This meal serves as a bittersweet farewell, as the group prepares to return to Cusco:

The rich, savory broth warms the soul, a comforting reminder of the hospitality experienced in the village.
Tender chunks of meat and vibrant vegetables reflect the land’s bounty, a testament to the community’s self-reliance.
As the last bites are savored, an air of gratitude and appreciation lingers, a lasting impression of the immersive cultural exchange.

With full stomachs and hearts, the group departs Misminay, the journey back to Cusco marking the end of this transformative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Single Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The tour operator welcomes individual bookings and provides private transportation and a professional guide to ensure a personalized experience for each guest.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. It involves hiking at high altitudes and participating in physical farming activities. The itinerary and accommodations are better suited for older children and adults.

Can I Customize the Itinerary for My Group?

While the core itinerary is set, the tour operator may accommodate customizations for your group. It’s best to discuss any special requests or needs directly with them to see what can be arranged.

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

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you need to change your dates, you can do so without any upfront payment required.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an upgrade option for the accommodation. The tour includes a one-night homestay in Misminay, which is part of the culture experience. Travelers must stay in the provided homestay accommodations.

The Sum Up

This immersive 2-day tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of Andean culture. Travelers will explore ancient sites, engage in traditional practices, and enjoy authentic Andean cuisine, all while being welcomed by the friendly Misminay community. With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour provides a seamless and memorable journey back to Cusco.

From Cusco: 2-Day Overnight Misminay Community Tour