The Sacred Valley of Peru offers a treasure trove of Inca wonders just waiting to be explored. This day trip takes visitors on a captivating journey through some of the region’s most renowned sites, from the mesmerizing Maras salt mines to the enigmatic agricultural terraces of Moray. Guests will also discover the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo and the charming town of Pisaq, all while indulging in a delectable local lunch. What secrets might these ancient sites hold?

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Key Points

Comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley’s archaeological sites, including visits to Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq.
Transportation provided in a tourist van with a professional driver.
Lunch buffet featuring local cuisine and private tour for personalized attention.
Pricing starts from $240.00 per group (up to 3 participants) with additional fees for Boleto Turistico and Maras Salt Mines.
Pickup and drop-off arranged from any hotel in Cusco city center or designated meeting point.

Tour Overview

This Sacred Valley day trip provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s most renowned archaeological sites.

The tour includes visits to Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq, accompanied by a professional guide. Transportation is provided in a tourist van with a professional driver, ensuring a seamless experience.

Explore the Sacred Valley’s renowned archaeological sites, including Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq, with transportation and a professional guide.

A buffet lunch is included, allowing travelers to savor the local cuisine. The tour is conducted privately, with only your group participating, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

The tour covers the highlights of the Sacred Valley, offering an immersive cultural and historical experience.

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Pricing and Tickets

The price for this Sacred Valley day trip starts from $240.00 per group (up to 3 participants).

A Boleto Turistico (partial or full) is required, costing S/70 or S/130. Entry to the Maras Salt Mines is an additional S/10.

The tour doesn’t include water, snacks, or any other personal expenses. Travelers should come prepared with cash in Soles for optional souvenirs.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and the company offers a lowest price guarantee.

Reviews for this tour average 4.4 out of 5, with no 5-star ratings.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup for the Sacred Valley day trip can be arranged from any hotel in the Cusco city center or at the designated meeting point located at C. Espinar 208, Cusco 08002, Peru.

The tour will end back at the same meeting point. Guests will receive confirmation of their booking, including the pickup details. The tour includes a professional driver and transportation, making the journey to the Sacred Valley sites convenient and comfortable.

Arriving at the meeting point on time is crucial, as the tour will depart as scheduled to make the most of the day’s activities.

Visiting Maras and Moray

After being transported to the starting point, the tour heads out to the first stop – the unique Maras Salt Mines.

Situated in an impressive natural setting, the Maras Salt Mines feature thousands of salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since Inca times. Visitors can observe the traditional salt-harvesting techniques and witness the vivid colors of the ponds.

Next, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Moray, known for its mysterious circular terraces. Experts believe these were used by the Incas as an agricultural research laboratory due to the distinct microclimates created by the unique design.

Exploring Ollantaytambo

From Maras and Moray, the tour continues on to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, an important Inca archaeological site.

Visitors explore the impressive stone fortress and temple complex, marveling at the engineering feats of the Incas. The guide explains the site’s strategic importance, with its towering terraces and storehouses.

Visitors marvel at the Inca engineering feats at the impressive stone fortress and temple complex, whose towering terraces and storehouses reveal its strategic importance.

Travelers wander through the charming cobblestone streets, lined with traditional Inca buildings. They visit the local market, browsing handcrafted textiles and souvenirs.

Ollantaytambo offers a glimpse into the Inca past, showcasing the advanced construction techniques and planning of this ancient civilization.

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Discovering Pisaq

As the tour departs Ollantaytambo, the group journeys eastward to the picturesque town of Pisaq. Nestled in the Andes, Pisaq is renowned for its impressive Inca ruins and vibrant indigenous market.

Wandering through the archaeological site, visitors marvel at the terraced hillsides, ceremonial plazas, and Temple of the Sun.

Afterwards, the group explores the bustling market, where local artisans sell colorful textiles, ceramics, and handicrafts. The tour provides ample time to browse the stalls and soak in the lively atmosphere before returning to Cusco.

Pisaq offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley.

Buffet Lunch Experience

The tour includes a delightful buffet lunch at a local restaurant, offering a diverse array of authentic Peruvian dishes.

The spread features a selection of savory stews, roasted meats, and vibrant vegetable dishes. Theres some good fragrant rice, flavorful potatoes, and an assortment of fresh salads.

Desserts like creamy custards and traditional sweets provide a sweet conclusion to the meal. The buffet caters to diverse dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying and authentic dining experience.

With ample time allocated, visitors can leisurely savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

Preparing for the Tour

To prepare for the Sacred Valley day trip, visitors should first ensure they’ve all the necessary items. This includes:

A valid tourist ticket (boleto turistico) to gain entry to the archaeological sites.
Their passport or identification document.
A small backpack with a water bottle and snacks.
Extra cash in Peruvian Soles for any optional purchases, such as souvenirs.

Plus, visitors should dress in comfortable, lightweight, and warm clothing, and bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.

A waterproof jacket or rain poncho is also recommended, especially during the rainy season from October to March.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is likely available in languages other than English, as the provider typically offers tours in multiple languages to accommodate international travelers. However, the specific language options are not explicitly stated in the information provided.

Are Children’s Tickets or Family Discounts Available?

The tour does not offer discounted children’s tickets or family packages. The price is a flat rate of $240 per group of up to 3 people, regardless of the group composition.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

The tour allows limited customization. Travellers can request to visit additional sites, but this is subject to availability and may incur extra costs. It’s best to discuss any modifications with the tour provider in advance.

What COVID-19 Safety Protocols Are in Place During the Tour?

The tour provider requires all participants to wear masks, practice social distancing, and undergo temperature checks. Hand sanitizer is provided, and vehicles are sanitized between tours. COVID-19 safety protocols are strictly followed to ensure a safe experience.

Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations for the Buffet Lunch?

The buffet lunch includes various local dishes, but the operator does not offer specific dietary accommodations. Guests with dietary restrictions should notify the operator in advance to discuss options.

The Sum Up

The Sacred Valley Day Trip provides an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the region’s remarkable archaeological sites and natural wonders. Guided by a professional, the tour offers a well-rounded itinerary, including the captivating Maras Salt Mines, the unique Moray terraces, the historic Ollantaytambo fortress, and the picturesque town of Pisaq. Travelers can also enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, making this a comprehensive and enriching day excursion.