From Cusco: Sacred Valley &Salt Mines & Moray With Buffet

This captivating full-day tour from Cusco immerses travelers in the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley. Visitors will explore ancient Inca ruins, witness the unique salt-harvesting methods of Maras, and marvel at the agricultural terraces of Moray. With a delectable Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, this enriching experience promises to leave a lasting impression. Uncover the wonders that lie beyond Cusco’s city limits and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Cusco to explore Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, including archaeological sites, agricultural terraces, and iconic salt ponds.
• Discover the blending of Inca and Spanish cultures at the Chinchero archaeological site and colonial temple.
• Experience Moray’s circular terraces, an Inca agricultural laboratory for crop experimentation and microenvironments.
• Visit the traditional salt-mining operation at Maras, where locals have harvested salt by hand for centuries.
• Enjoy an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba as part of the comprehensive tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley tour offers visitors a chance to experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.

Enjoy the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Sacred Valley.

This full-day excursion takes guests to Chinchero, Moray, and Maras. At Chinchero, they’ll explore an archaeological site and colonial temple.

Next, they’ll marvel at the agricultural terraces of Moray, used as an Inca laboratory. The tour then visits the iconic Maras salt ponds, in use since the Inca period.

After an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, guests head to Ollantaytambo and Pisac to discover more Inca ruins and terraces.

The tour provides hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, and all entrance fees.

Pricing and Booking

Saving up to 15%, the cost for this Sacred Valley tour ranges from Kč 760 to Kč 646 per person.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

The tour can be booked without any upfront payment, making it convenient for those unsure of their plans.

With these affordable pricing options and flexible booking policies, this immersive Sacred Valley experience is accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Itinerary Highlights

One of the first stops on this immersive Sacred Valley tour is Chinchero, where visitors can explore the archaeological site and colonial temple.

Next, the group travels to Moray, an ancient agricultural site with intriguing circular terraces.

At Maras, they’ll witness the iconic salt ponds that have been in use since the Inca period.

After an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to Ollantaytambo, a Inca fortress located at the train terminal for Aguas Calientes.

The final stop is Pisac, where guests can discover Andean terraces and a preserved cemetery.

Chinchero

Chinchero, the first stop on this immersive Sacred Valley tour, boasts an archaeological site and colonial temple that showcase the region’s rich history.

Visitors will explore the well-preserved ruins, marveling at the Inca stonework and intricate terraces. The colonial church, built atop Inca foundations, impresses with its ornate architecture and murals.

Here, travelers gain insight into the blending of Inca and Spanish cultures. The Chinchero experience sets the stage for the day’s adventure, whetting appetites for the stunning Moray terraces and iconic Maras salt ponds that lie ahead.

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Moray

The Moray site, once an Inca agricultural laboratory, captivates visitors with its ingeniously designed terraces.

Descending into the massive concentric circles carved into the earth, one is struck by the sheer scale and precision of this remarkable archaeological site.

The terraces, believed to have been used for crop experimentation, create microenvironments with varying temperatures, allowing the Incas to test the ideal conditions for growing a variety of crops.

Exploring the diverse levels, visitors gain insight into the advanced agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

Moray stands as a testament to their innovative spirit and deep understanding of the land.

Maras

Leaving the magnificent Moray terraces behind, the journey continues to the remarkable Maras salt ponds.

There, hundreds of salt pools dot the hillside, glimmering in the sun. This traditional salt-mining operation has been in use since the Inca period. Visitors can observe the locals harvesting salt by hand, a process that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

The vivid colors and orderly layout of the salt ponds make for a breathtaking sight. Guests can wander amid the terraces, marveling at the ingenuity of the Inca engineers who constructed this remarkable system.

Urubamba

After exploring the captivating Maras salt ponds, the tour continues to the town of Urubamba, where participants enjoy an Andean buffet lunch. This hearty meal features a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy the local cuisine.

| Dish | Description |

| — | — |

| Cuy | Roasted guinea pig, a Peruvian delicacy |

| Quinoa | Nutrient-dense Andean grain, often used in soups and stews |

| Aji de Gallina | Shredded chicken in a creamy, spiced sauce |

| Lomo Saltado | Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and french fries |

The Urubamba stop provides a chance to refuel and recharge before continuing the exploration of the Sacred Valley’s archaeological wonders.

Ollantaytambo and Pisac

From Urubamba, the tour proceeds to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, located at the train terminal for Aguas Calientes.

Ollantaytambo is an Inca fortress with impressive terraced ruins. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its strategic location and role in the Inca empire.

The tour then continues to Pisac, known for its Andean terraces and preserved Inca cemetery. Guests can stroll through the terraces and discover the architectural wonders of the Inca civilization.

This portion of the tour provides a deeper understanding of the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and urban planning.

Things To Know

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light jacket, camera, and water. It’s also a good idea to bring extra cash for any optional purchases or tips.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is generally suitable for children, though it may not be ideal for very young kids. The walking and terrain can be challenging for some children. It’s best to consider a child’s age and fitness level before booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary?

While the standard itinerary can’t be customized, the tour operator may accommodate special requests if notified in advance. Travelers should inquire about any modifications or additional activities they’d like to include in the one-day Sacred Valley tour.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this Sacred Valley tour is not specified. However, the tour includes hotel pickup and transportation, suggesting it likely accommodates a range of group sizes in a comfortable setting.

Are Any Dietary Requirements Accommodated?

The tour accommodates various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Customers are encouraged to inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure their needs are met during the buffet lunch.

Sum Up

This full-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley‘s cultural and natural wonders. Travelers will discover the archaeological marvels of Chinchero, the unique agricultural site of Moray, and the captivating salt mines of Maras, all while enjoying a delicious Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba. It’s an enriching experience that showcases the region’s Inca and Spanish heritage amidst breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: