Full-Day Archaeological and Hiking Tour of the Sacred Valley From Cusco, Peru

Exploring the rich archaeological heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Peru’s Sacred Valley is a dream for many travelers. This full-day tour from Cusco promises an immersive experience, taking visitors to the enigmatic Moray ruins and the colorful Maras salt pools. With a focus on cultural insights and outdoor adventure, the tour offers an opportunity to witness the intersection of history, nature, and local traditions. Whether you’re a history buff or an avid hiker, this personalized journey is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more of Peru’s wonders.

About Your Stay

• A full-day tour from Cusco that explores the archaeological sites of Moray and Maras, as well as a scenic hike to a waterfall in the Sacred Valley.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers for a personalized experience, with a picnic lunch included.
• Highlights include visiting the Incan agricultural laboratory at Moray and the still-in-use salt pools of Maras.
• The tour requires a moderate fitness level and comfortable walking shoes, with cash recommended for entrance fees.
• The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, personalized experiences, and the opportunity to immerse in the archaeological and natural wonders of the Sacred Valley.

Tour Overview

This full-day archaeological and hiking tour allows visitors to explore the highlights of Peru’s Sacred Valley from Cusco.

It’s a hassle-free escape with a maximum of 10 travelers, offering an in-depth look at major sites like the Moray archaeological site and the Maras salt pools.

The tour includes a picnic lunch and a scenic hike through the Andean countryside to a waterfall.

With comfortable walking shoes recommended and moderate fitness required, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience led by knowledgeable guides at an attractive price point of $189 per person.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Moray archaeological site, believed to be an Incan agricultural laboratory. Next, guests explore the Maras salt pools, still in use by locals today. A picnic lunch is included, providing a chance to refuel. The hike through the Andean countryside culminates at a picturesque waterfall, offering a chance to take in the natural beauty.

| Site | Description |

|——|————-|

| Moray | Incan agricultural lab |

| Maras | Salt pools used by locals |

| Lunch | Picnic provided |

| Hike | Countryside to waterfall |

| Waterfall | Scenic natural wonder |

Tour Logistics

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Cusco hotel, with a start time of 8:00 am.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate physical fitness. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and a vegetarian option is available upon request. Service animals are allowed.

Travelers with heart problems or serious medical conditions are advised not to participate.

It’s recommended to bring cash for any entrance fees to parks or sites visited during the tour.

Additional Information

Children must be accompanied by an adult while on the tour.

Vegetarian options are available upon request. Service animals are allowed.

This tour isn’t recommended for those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

It’s best to bring cash for any entrance fees to parks or other attractions along the way.

The hiking portions require a moderate level of physical fitness, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is essential.

These additional guidelines help ensure all travelers have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the archaeological sites and hiking trails of the Sacred Valley.

Reviews and Feedback

Positive feedback on the professionalism and knowledge of the guides is a common thread in the reviews for this tour. Guests mention the guides providing personalized experiences and cultural insights that exceeded their expectations. The booking page clearly states the need for cash for entrance fees, which helps set proper expectations. The tour is described as an enjoyable day, with the highlights being the unique archaeological sites and scenic hikes through the Andean countryside.

| Rating | Sentiment | Frequency | Popularity | Relevance |

| —— | ——— | ——— | ———- | ——— |

| 4.9 | Positive | Frequent | High | Significant |

Exploring Moray Archaeological Site

Moray archaeological site stands as a captivating highlight of the tour, beckoning visitors to explore its unique Incan agricultural terraces.

The concentric circular depressions, believed to have been an experimental agricultural laboratory, offer a fascinating glimpse into the advanced farming techniques of the Inca empire.

As visitors descend into the site, the differences in temperature and microclimates across the levels become palpable, showcasing the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of environmental conditions.

With the towering Andes as a backdrop, Moray provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to connect with the site’s historical significance and the ingenuity of its Incan architects.

Discovering Maras Salt Pools

After exploring the impressive Moray site, the tour then leads visitors to the captivating Maras salt pools.

These ancient salt ponds have been in use for centuries by the local communities. Visitors can wander through the network of salt ponds, marvel at the stunning geometric patterns, and learn about the traditional salt-harvesting methods.

The pools are still actively used today, providing a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

With its striking visual appeal and historical significance, the Maras salt pools are a highlight of the Sacred Valley adventure.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Sites?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to focus on specific sites. The tour operator is flexible and can tailor the tour to your interests, so you can explore the archaeological wonders that most interest you.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour operator offers an option to extend the duration of the tour. Travelers can request a longer tour to explore additional archaeological sites or spend more time hiking in the Andean countryside at an additional cost.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour recommends comfortable walking shoes and layered, weather-appropriate clothing. Bring sun protection and a light jacket, as the Sacred Valley’s climate can vary throughout the day. Comfortable, active attire is advised for the hiking portions of the tour.

Do the Guides Speak Multiple Languages Besides Spanish and English?

The guides speak multiple languages, including Spanish and English. They’re able to provide cultural insights and commentary in various languages to accommodate the diverse backgrounds of tour participants.

Is There an Option to Include Additional Activities or Experiences?

Yes, the tour operator offers customizable options to add extra activities or experiences upon request, such as extended hikes, visits to local markets, or private transport. Visitors can discuss their interests with the guides.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This comprehensive tour provides a unique opportunity to take in Peru’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can expect an unforgettable adventure, exploring the captivating Moray archaeological site, the stunning Maras salt pools, and embarking on a scenic hike to a picturesque waterfall. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on cultural insights, this tour promises an unforgettable day in the heart of the Sacred Valley.