From Ollantaytambo: Moray, Maras, and Chinchero Guided Tour

Discover the cultural gems of Peru’s Sacred Valley on this guided tour. Explore the unique agricultural terraces of Moray, the historic salt pools of Maras, and the vibrant textile traditions of Chinchero. With round-trip transportation and a professional guide, you’ll learn about ancient practices and breathtaking scenery. But the journey doesn’t end there – there’s more to uncover about this captivating region.

Good To Know

• A guided day tour from Ollantaytambo exploring the Inca sites of Moray, Maras, and Chinchero, including transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees.
• Moray’s unique concentric circular terraces, designed as an agricultural laboratory to create microclimates for diverse crop experimentation.
• The salt pools of Maras, where traditional salt extraction methods have been practiced since Inca times, showcasing a complex irrigation system.
• Chinchero’s rich textile heritage, with opportunities to witness natural dye demonstrations, participate in artisan workshops, and interact with local weavers.
• Seamless logistics, including round-trip transportation and an expert guide to provide insights throughout the journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This guided tour from Ollantaytambo takes visitors on a journey to explore the rich cultural heritage and remarkable landscapes of the region.

Lasting one day, the tour is available in Spanish and English. Priced from $71.73 per person, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes round-trip transportation and a professional guide, along with entrance fees to the sites.

Visitors will discover ancient Inca agricultural terraces, traditional salt-making, and traditional textile practices during this comprehensive excursion.

Exploring Moray

Although the Moray site may appear to be a cluster of concentric circular terraces at first glance, visitors quickly learn that this ancient Inca structure served as an agricultural laboratory.

The terraces were designed to create microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with diverse crops and growing conditions. Guides explain how the unique design and irrigation system enabled the Incas to cultivate a wide variety of plant species at different temperatures and elevations.

Exploring Moray provides fascinating insight into the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and their ability to adapt to the challenging Andean environment.

Understanding Maras

After exploring the ancient agricultural site of Moray, the tour group proceeds to the majestic salt pools of Maras.

Visitors marvel at the 2,000 salt pools, still used by local families to extract salt through traditional methods. The guide explains the history of this unique site, where salt has been harvested since Inca times.

The 2,000 salt pools of Maras, harvested by local families using traditional methods since Inca times, captivate visitors with their stunning visual display.

Guests learn about the complex irrigation system that feeds the pools and allows the salt to crystallize.

With the dramatic Andes mountains as a backdrop, the salt pools offer a stunning visual experience, showcasing the ingenious Inca engineering and the enduring local traditions.

Discovering Chinchero

The tour next ventures to the historic town of Chinchero, known for its rich textile traditions. Visitors discover the Chinchero Textile Interpretation Center, where they learn traditional techniques for transforming wool and cotton into yarn, including natural dyeing processes. A table outlines the highlights:

| Activity | Description |

| — | — |

| Textile Interpretation Center | Learn traditional weaving and dyeing techniques |

| Natural Dye Demonstration | Observe the creation of vibrant natural dyes |

| Handwoven Textile Viewing | Admire the intricate handmade textiles on display |

| Artisan Workshop | Interact with local weavers and purchase handicrafts |

| Cultural Immersion | Experience the living textile heritage of Chinchero |

Chinchero offers a fascinating glimpse into the enduring textile legacy of the Andes.

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Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip transportation from the designated meeting point in Ollantaytambo.

Travelers will be picked up and dropped off at this location, making the logistics of the day seamless. This convenience allows participants to relax and focus on the sights and experiences, without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.

The included transportation ensures a smooth and efficient start and finish to the guided tour. With pickup and drop-off provided, guests can fully enjoy the ancient Inca sites of Moray, Maras, and Chinchero, without worrying about the logistics of getting there and back.

Inclusions

The tour includes a professional guide, a tourist ticket (40 soles for nationals, 70 soles for foreigners), and entrance to the Salineras (10 soles).

The guide will provide expert knowledge and insights throughout the journey. The tourist ticket grants access to the archaeological sites. The entrance fee covers access to the Salineras, the ancient salt pools still in use by local families.

A professional guide will share expert insights throughout the journey. The tourist ticket grants access to archaeological sites. Entrance covers the ancient Salineras salt pools.

All transportation is included, with round-trip pickup from a designated meeting point in Ollantaytambo.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, a camera, sunscreen, and water to ensure they’re prepared for the day’s activities.

What to Bring

To fully enjoy the guided tour, travelers should pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

The terrain at Moray, Maras, and Chinchero can be uneven, so proper footwear is essential. A sun hat will protect against the strong Andean sun, and sunscreen is a must.

Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant colors. Don’t forget to pack a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

With these items in tow, visitors will be well-prepared to fully enjoy the cultural and historical wonders of this guided tour.

Benefits of the Tour

Embarking on this guided tour from Ollantaytambo offers several benefits.

Travelers gain expert insight into the fascinating Inca history and agricultural practices at Moray and Maras. The tour provides a hassle-free experience with round-trip transportation included.

Visitors can learn about traditional textile techniques in Chinchero without navigating on their own. The cost-effective package covers entrance fees, making it a great value.

Plus, the flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to adjust plans if needed.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a culture, this guided tour is a well-rounded and convenient way to explore these remarkable sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can be customized, though the base tour covers Moray, Maras, and Chinchero. Travelers can discuss preferences with the tour operator to adjust the schedule and focus based on their interests.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size isn’t explicitly stated, but it’s typically a small group experience. Travelers should inquire about the group size when booking to ensure it meets their preferences.

Are There Any Child Discounts or Family Packages Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any child discounts or family packages. Pricing is based on a per-person rate, so families would pay the standard $71.73 per adult. However, the cancellation policy allows for free changes up to 24 hours prior.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The provider offers private tours for an additional fee, allowing for a more personalized experience. Contact them to inquire about availability and pricing for a private Moray, Maras, and Chinchero tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can request a longer tour duration when booking to explore the sites in more depth or add additional stops along the way.

The Sum Up

This guided tour offers a compelling opportunity to take in the Sacred Valley’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the unique agricultural terraces of Moray, the historic salt pools of Maras, and the vibrant textile traditions of Chinchero, all while enjoying convenient logistics and expert insights from a professional guide. This comprehensive experience provides a well-rounded introduction to the region’s ancient practices and breathtaking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: