Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour

The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers a unique window into Peru’s rich cultural heritage. This 12.5-hour tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through stunning Incan sites, from the 17th-century church in Chincheros to the remarkable agricultural research center at Moray. Whether it’s exploring the Maras salt mines or discovering the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo, this tour promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you eager to uncover more about the Inca civilization.

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Key Points

Immersive 12.5-hour tour exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including visits to Chincheros, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
Tour priced from $50 per person, with hotel pickup, English-speaking guide, and minibus transportation included.
Buffet-style lunch provided, and partial tourist passes included for citizens.
Highlights include the 17th-century Chincheros church, Inca agricultural research center in Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines.
Booking available through the tour’s website or platform, with deposit required to secure reservations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the rich cultural and historical legacy of this renowned region. Priced from $50 per person, the 12.5-hour tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and transportation by minibus.

Guests will visit Chincheros, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, learning about Inca architecture, agriculture, and spiritual traditions. A buffet-style lunch is provided, and partial tourist passes are included for non-Peruvian and Peruvian citizens.

Travelers are advised to bring sunscreen and cash, while alcohol, drugs, and littering are prohibited. Last-minute reservations can be checked for availability via email.

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Itinerary Highlights

The Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour takes guests on an immersive journey through the region’s rich cultural and historical highlights. The tour includes a visit to Chincheros, a 17th-century church, and Moray, an Inca agricultural research center with remarkable terraced experiments. Next, guests marvel at the Maras Salt Mines, a natural spring that has produced over 3,000 salt wells for centuries. After a traditional Andean buffet lunch, the tour explores the Inca cultural center of Ollantaytambo and the famous archaeological complex of Pisac.

| Site | Description |

| — | — |

| Chincheros | 17th-century church |

| Moray | Agricultural research center and cultivation experiments |

| Maras Salt Mines | 3,000 salt wells from a natural spring |

| Ollantaytambo | Inca cultural center with ceremonial temple |

| Pisac | Famous archaeological complex and legend of Inquill |

Inclusions

This Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour includes an array of complimentary services and features.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and transport by minibus are provided. Guests will enjoy a buffet-style lunch in Urubamba.

The tour also includes a partial tourist pass, which covers admission fees for non-Peruvian citizens and Peruvian citizens. Plus, entry to the Maras Salt Mines is included.

Travelers should bring sunscreen and cash, as alcohol, drugs, and littering aren’t allowed. Ensuring a correct contact number and having WhatsApp for communication is recommended, especially for last-minute reservations.

Important Information

Travelers should bring sunscreen and cash for this Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour, as alcohol, drugs, and littering aren’t allowed.

Ensure the correct contact number with country code is provided, and have WhatsApp for communication. For last-minute reservations, check availability with the supplier by email.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, transport by minibus, and a buffet-style lunch, depending on the selection. A partial tourist pass is also included, costing S/ 70 (US$ 18.70) for non-Peruvian citizens and S/ 40 (US$ 10.70) for Peruvian citizens.

Admission to the Maras Salt Mines is S/ 20 (US$ 5.40) for non-Peruvian citizens and S/ 15 (US$ 4) for Peruvian citizens.

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Booking and Availability

To book the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour, travelers can check availability for starting times on the tour’s website or platform.

Once the preferred date and participants are selected, the tour can be booked. A deposit may be required to secure the reservation, with the remaining balance due later.

Travelers should ensure they provide accurate contact information, including a phone number with the country code, and have WhatsApp for easy communication.

For last-minute bookings, travelers should check availability with the supplier by email before completing their reservation.

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Chincheros: 17th-century Church

The tour begins with a visit to the charming town of Chincheros, known for its well-preserved 17th-century church.

The charming town of Chincheros is home to a well-preserved 17th-century church, the starting point of the tour.

This stunning ecclesiastical landmark features:

Intricate Inca-style stonework on the exterior, blending indigenous and colonial architectural styles.
Vibrant murals and religious iconography adorning the interior walls, showcasing the fusion of Andean and Catholic traditions.
A magnificent wooden altarpiece, intricately carved and gilded, serving as the centerpiece of the church’s ornate design.
A lively artisan market, where visitors can browse and purchase traditional textiles, ceramics, and handicrafts made by local craftspeople.

Moray: Agricultural Research Center

Nestled amidst the Andes, Moray captivates visitors with its unique agricultural terraces. This Inca complex was an experimental agricultural site, with concentric terraces descending into a central depression.

Researchers believe the site was used to study the effects of different microclimates on crops. Each terrace level had varying temperatures, allowing the Incas to test which crops thrived in specific environments.

Today, travelers explore the well-preserved ruins, marveling at the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and climate. The site offers a glimpse into their innovative farming techniques and commitment to food production.

Maras Salt Mines: 3,000 Salt Wells

Perched along the Qaqawinay River, the Maras Salt Mines captivate visitors with their 3,000 salt wells carved into the hillside.

These ancient, natural salt mines have provided the region with salt for centuries. Visitors can explore the terraced ponds and witness the salt harvesting process:

Salty water from a natural spring fills the ponds.
The water evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals.
Workers collect the salt by hand, packing it into sacks.
The salt is then processed and sold throughout Peru.

The Maras Salt Mines offer a unique glimpse into the Inca’s sustainable practices and the region’s enduring salt production.

Since You Asked

What Languages Are the Tours Conducted In?

The tours are conducted in English by an English-speaking guide. This is mentioned in the itinerary highlights, which state that an "English-speaking guide" is included in the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own food and drinks, though a buffet-style lunch is typically included. Passengers should avoid consuming alcohol or littering during the tour.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for walking and bring layers in case of changing weather conditions during the tour.

Do I Need to Know Spanish to Participate in the Tour?

No, you don’t need to know Spanish to participate in the tour. The tour includes an English-speaking guide who will provide commentary and assistance throughout the day’s activities. Visitors from any language background can comfortably enjoy the Sacred Valley tour.

Are There Any Age or Physical Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific age or physical requirements. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can join, though some walking and mildly strenuous activities are involved. The tour operator can accommodate travelers with special needs upon request.

The Sum Up

The Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru. With a comprehensive itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation, this tour provides an exceptional value for those seeking to explore the cultural and natural wonders of the region. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: