Sacred Valley of the Incas With Maras and Moray

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a captivating realm where time-honored traditions intertwine with ancient wonders. Visitors can explore the intricate engineering of Moray’s terraced ruins, once used for agricultural experimentation, and marvel at the salt ponds of Maras, where locals still harvest salt using traditional methods. This immersive journey not only uncovers the ingenuity of the Incas but also showcases the vibrant cultural tapestry that continues to thrive in this enchanting landscape. What secrets might these hallowed grounds reveal to the curious explorer?

Key Points

• Immersive 12-hour tour exploring the archaeological sites and natural wonders of the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Pisaq.
• Highlights include visiting Inca agricultural terraces, witnessing traditional textile dyeing, and discovering the remarkable Maras salt mines.
• Priced from $30 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and an option to reserve and pay later.
• Includes bilingual guide, tourist transportation, and a buffet lunch.
• Offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the enduring legacy of Inca engineering and local ingenuity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The "Sacred Valley of the Incas" tour provides an immersive 12-hour exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

Priced from $30 per person, the experience includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and the option to reserve and pay later.

Highlights include visiting the archaeological sites of Chinchero, Moray, and Pisaq, discovering the salt wells of Maras, and exploring the last living Inca city of Ollantaytambo.

With a bilingual guide, tourist transportation, and a delicious buffet lunch, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Travelers kick off the day with a pickup from their hotel around 6:30 am in the historic center of Cusco, embarking on an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley. First, they visit the archaeological complex of Chinchero, where they’ll discover the traditional textile art and dye techniques. Next, they’re awestruck by the concentric farming terraces of Moray, a fascinating Inca engineering marvel. After, they descend into the Salas de Maras, a picturesque salt-producing valley with over 3,000 individual salt ponds. A delicious Andean-inspired buffet lunch fuels their journey to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca city, before ending at the remarkable ruins of Pisaq.

| Site | Highlights |

|————————|——————————————-|

| Chinchero | Traditional textile art and dye techniques |

| Moray | Concentric farming terraces |

| Salas de Maras | Over 3,000 individual salt ponds |

| Ollantaytambo | Last living Inca city |

Visiting Chinchero

Visitors first journey to the archaeological complex of Chinchero, a stunning Inca site nestled high in the Andes.

They’re greeted by well-preserved ruins, including an intricately carved stone church and an impressive central plaza. Tour guides share the site’s rich history, explaining how Chinchero served as an important religious and administrative center for the Incas.

Travelers explore the site’s agricultural terraces, where the Incas once cultivated crops. They also witness local artisans demonstrating the traditional textile dyeing techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Visitors explore Inca agricultural terraces and witness locals demonstrating traditional textile dyeing techniques passed down through generations.

The visit to Chinchero offers a glimpse into the Inca Empire’s remarkable engineering and cultural legacy.

Exploring Moray

After exploring the impressive ruins of Chinchero, the tour continues to Moray, an Inca site renowned for its intricate agricultural terraces.

Descending into the concentric circular depressions, visitors are captivated by the sheer scale and ingenuity of this ancient farming laboratory. The terraces were used to experiment with different microclimates, allowing the Incas to cultivate a diverse range of crops.

Key features include:

• Perfectly preserved stone-walled terraces

• Intricate system of irrigation channels

• Evidence of advanced agricultural techniques

• Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains

• Sense of stepping back in time to the Inca era.

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Discovering Maras Salt Mines

As the tour continues, visitors are struck by the otherworldly landscape of the Maras salt mines. Over 3,000 salt pools dot the hillside, each one a vibrant white against the rugged terrain.

Locals have harvested salt from these ponds for centuries, using traditional methods passed down through generations. Visitors wander through the network of pools, marveling at the process and the stunning vistas.

The shimmering pools reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. It’s a humbling reminder of the enduring legacy of Inca engineering and the ingenuity of the local community.

Savoring the Authentic Lunch

Following the mouth-watering vistas and historical exploration, the tour culminates with a savory buffet lunch featuring authentic Andean cuisine.

Diners delight in a cornucopia of flavors, including:

• Hearty quinoa soup, a nutritious staple of the Andes

• Succulent roasted guinea pig, a regional delicacy

• Vibrant vegetable stir-fry infused with fragrant herbs

• Creamy potatoes in a variety of colors and preparations

• Sweet, sticky corn pudding for a satisfying dessert

This bountiful spread allows travelers to enjoy the culinary traditions of the Sacred Valley, enriching the overall cultural experience.

Exploring Ollantaytambo

With the flavorful lunch in their bellies, the tour group sets out to explore Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca city.

Climbing the massive stone terraces, they’re struck by the ingenuity of Inca engineering. Rows of perfectly fitted boulders create a commanding fortress atop the hill.

The massive stone terraces, a testament to the ingenious Inca engineering, create a commanding fortress atop the hill.

Wandering the narrow cobblestone streets, they glimpse the daily life of modern Quechua inhabitants, descendants of the Incas.

At the ruins, the guide shares the captivating history of this strategic location, where the Incas staged their final resistance against the Spanish.

Awestruck, the group departs, carrying the spirit of Ollantaytambo with them back to Cusco.

Visiting the Pisaq Archaeological Complex

The tour group’s final stop is the grand Pisaq Archaeological Complex. Perched high in the Andes, this Inca marvel awes with its scale and grandeur.

Explore:

• Elaborate stone temples and plazas

• Impressive agricultural terraces stretching across the hillside

• Intricate stone carvings and building techniques

• Remnants of an advanced hydraulic system

• Panoramic views overlooking the sacred Urubamba River

Wander through this captivating site, marveling at the ingenuity of the Inca builders.

As the sun dips behind the mountains, the group heads back to Cusco, their Sacred Valley adventure complete.

Things To Know

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Personal Interests?

You can customize this tour to fit your personal interests. The tour operator offers flexible options, allowing you to adjust the itinerary and activities to match your preferences and create a uniquely tailored experience.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Site Visit?

The tour allocates specific time frames for each site visit, allowing visitors to thoroughly explore the highlights. Guests can expect to spend around 1-2 hours at each location, ensuring they don’t feel rushed.

Are There Any Physical Activity Requirements for This Tour?

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, indicating there may be moderate physical activity like walking or hiking involved. Guests should wear breathable clothing and bring water to stay comfortable during the excursion.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide luggage storage, but you can leave any extra bags at your hotel before the tour starts. Just check with your hotel about their luggage holding policy.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

No, you don’t need to bring your own snacks and water. The tour includes a buffet lunch featuring authentic Andean products, and you’re also advised to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day’s activities.

Sum Up

The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers a captivating journey through breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the intricate Inca sites of Moray and Maras, marveling at the ancient engineering and witnessing the vibrant traditions of the local communities. This immersive experience showcases the remarkable legacy of the Incas and the enduring spirit of the Andean people.

You can check availability for your dates here: