From Cusco: Guided Tour in Sacred Valley With Maras Moray

Embark on an immersive journey through the Sacred Valley of Peru, departing from the captivating city of Cusco. This guided tour offers an opportunity to uncover the region’s rich cultural heritage, from the ancient Inca agricultural practices at Moray to the mesmerizing salt mines of Maras. Expert guides lead the way, sharing their deep knowledge and insights, as visitors explore remarkable sites that paint a vivid picture of Peru’s past. With an array of inclusions and a reasonable price tag, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those eager to dive into the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Key Points

• The guided tour covers five significant sites in the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
• The tour cost is $35 per person, including transportation, buffet lunch, entrance fees, and an expert guide.
• The tour includes a visit to the Moray Inca agricultural laboratory with its concentric terraces.
• Maras’ famous salt mines and the salt-harvesting process are part of the tour.
• The tour includes a visit to Ollantaytambo’s iconic stone terraces at the archaeological site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The guided tour in the Sacred Valley offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of five significant sites in just one day.

The 1-day excursion costs from $35 per person and includes transportation, a buffet lunch, entrance fees, and an expert guide. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence.

$35 per person for a guided tour with transportation, buffet lunch, entrance fees, and an expert guide. Travelers can book with free cancellation.

The tour visits Chinchero’s textile center, Moray’s Inca agricultural laboratory, Maras’ famous salt mines, Ollantaytambo’s iconic stone terraces, and Pisac’s mountain-top archaeological site with an artisan market.

Pickup is between 6-7 am, with return to Cusco around 7-7:30 pm.

Itinerary Highlights

Five significant sites are visited in just one day on this guided tour of the Sacred Valley.

First, you’ll stop at the Textile Interpretation Center in Chinchero to learn about the region’s rich weaving traditions.

Next, you’ll explore the Inca agricultural laboratory at Moray, marveling at its concentric terraces.

Then, you’ll visit the famous salt mines of Maras, where you can witness the ancient salt-harvesting process.

In Ollantaytambo, you’ll admire the iconic stone terraces of the archaeological site.

Finally, you’ll explore the mountain-top ruins of Pisac, capping off the day with a visit to its vibrant artisan market.

Schedule

Your day begins with pickup from your hotel in the historic center of Cusco between 6 and 7 a.m.

The tour then takes you to several highlights in the Sacred Valley:

• Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring Peruvian and Andean cuisine in Urubamba.

• Explore the iconic stone terraces of Ollantaytambo’s archaeological site.

• Cap off the day at the mountain-top archaeological site and artisan market in Pisac.

You’ll return to Cusco around 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., ending at Plaza de San Francisco or Regocijo.

Inclusions

This guided tour includes a professional guide who can provide commentary in both English and Spanish.

Transport is provided throughout the tour, allowing seamless transitions between the five significant sites. A buffet lunch featuring Peruvian and Andean cuisine is included, ensuring that guests are well-nourished during their exploration.

Plus, all entrance fees amounting to 85 soles per person are covered. Travelers can expect constant advice and assistance from the guide throughout the day, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.

With these inclusions, guests can focus on seeing the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Travelers are recommended to bring their passport, a sun hat, a camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes.

Bring passport, sun hat, camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes for a seamless and memorable tour experience.

This day tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Visitors are also encouraged to leave a WhatsApp number to receive necessary tour information.

Additionally:

• Bikes aren’t allowed on the tour.

• Cash is recommended for any additional purchases or expenses.

• The tour is designed for guests to fully experience the rich cultural and historical sites of the Sacred Valley.

The tour guide will provide constant advice and support throughout the day to ensure a memorable and seamless experience.

Exploring Chinchero: Textile Interpretation Center

The Chinchero Textile Interpretation Center provides visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the rich textile traditions of the Andes.

Travelers learn about the intricate process of dyeing and weaving, from harvesting natural dyes to the skilled techniques used to create the vibrant textiles. Knowledgeable guides demonstrate the various steps, allowing guests to appreciate the time and artistry required.

Visitors can even try their hand at weaving, gaining a deeper understanding of this centuries-old craft.

The center’s collection of weavings, from traditional ponchos to contemporary wall hangings, showcases the region’s enduring textile heritage.

Uncovering Moray: Inca Agricultural Laboratory

After exploring the rich textile traditions at the Chinchero Textile Interpretation Center, the tour moves on to the captivating Inca agricultural site of Moray.

Nestled in the Sacred Valley, Moray features a series of concentric circular terraces that descend into the earth, creating a unique microclimate. These terraces were used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with different crops and growing conditions.

Visitors can marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca engineers, who leveraged the natural landscape to advance their agricultural knowledge.

Key features of Moray include:

• Circular terraces descending 490 feet

• Experimentation with diverse microclimates

• Sophisticated Inca engineering and agriculture

Visiting Maras: The Famous Salt Mines

From Moray, the tour continues to the iconic Maras Salt Mines, where visitors can witness the ancient salt-harvesting techniques still in use today. The salt pools, carved into the mountainside, glisten in the sun, creating a mesmerizing sight. Locals gather the salt by hand, transferring it to sacks and transporting it to nearby villages. The process is both labor-intensive and visually striking.

| Sight | Description |

| — | — |

| Salt Pools | Carved into the mountainside, glistening in the sun |

| Salt Harvesting | Locals gathering salt by hand and transporting it |

| Surrounding Landscape | Rugged, awe-inspiring mountain views |

| Cultural Significance | A centuries-old tradition integral to the local economy |

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks for the tour. However, a buffet lunch featuring Peruvian and Andean cuisine is already included in the tour package.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?

The tour does not have a minimum or maximum group size. Travelers can expect to join a small group with an average of 8-12 participants to explore the Sacred Valley sites comfortably.

Is Photography Allowed at All Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at all sites visited during the tour. Visitors are encouraged to capture the stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, and unique features of each location to create lasting memories of their experience.

Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. There are no specific age or health restrictions, but participants should be able to walk and hike on uneven terrain. The tour may not be appropriate for those with mobility or health concerns.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Schedule?

The tour’s itinerary and schedule are fixed, but travelers can speak with the operator about any special needs or requests. Customization options may be available, though they’re limited due to the tour’s group format and logistics.

Sum Up

This guided tour of the Sacred Valley from Cusco offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will discover ancient Inca sites, learn about traditional weaving techniques, and marvel at the stunning salt mines, all while enjoying a delightful buffet lunch. With an expert guide leading the way, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable journey through the wonders of the Sacred Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: