Sacred Valley & Salt Flats Tour (A Journey to the Heart of the Incas)

The Sacred Valley & Salt Flats Tour promises an immersive journey into the heart of the Inca Empire. Travelers can expect to uncover the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty, from the vibrant markets of Pisac to the terraced temples of Ollantaytambo. With a knowledgeable guide and delectable lunch included, this intimate tour offers a chance to witness the ancient salt-harvesting techniques at the Maras Salt Flats and explore the captivating Moray agricultural terraces. Prepare to be captivated by the Incas’ enduring legacy and the breathtaking landscapes that defined their world.

Key Points

• Explore the cultural and natural wonders of the Sacred Valley, including archaeological sites, indigenous markets, and the Maras Salt Flats.
• Gain insights from a certified bilingual guide on this immersive journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.
• Enjoy a delightful Peruvian buffet lunch and transportation to the various destinations, with the tour starting and ending at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
• Benefit from a small group size of up to 16 travelers for an intimate experience and the availability of infant seats for young children.
• Flexible cancellation policy and accessibility via public transportation or taxi using the Cathedral of Cusco as a reference point.

Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley & Salt Flats Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural and cultural wonders of Cusco, Peru.

The tour includes visits to archaeological centers, a buffet lunch featuring Peruvian cuisine, and admission tickets to tourist attractions.

Explore archaeological sites, savor Peruvian cuisine, and gain admission to top attractions on this comprehensive tour.

With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience led by a certified bilingual guide.

Pickup is available from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, and the tour concludes at the same location.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, making it a flexible and convenient option.

Inclusions

Certified bilingual guides (English & Spanish) lead the tour, providing insightful commentary throughout the day.

Transportation is included, taking guests to the archaeological centers in the Sacred Valley and the stunning Salt Flats.

Lunch is a delightful Peruvian buffet, ensuring travelers experience the local cuisine. A bottled water is provided for hydration.

Admission tickets to all tourist attractions, approximately $23 USD, are covered.

Infant seats are available for those traveling with young children, who must sit on laps.

This comprehensive package allows guests to fully enjoy the cultural wonders of the region.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup is available for travelers staying in Cusco city, with the Plaza de Armas suggested as the meeting point for those in more distant hotels.

The tour’s starting point is the iconic Plaza de Armas de Cusco, which can be easily reached by taxi from your hotel. Look for the Cathedral of Cusco as a handy reference point.

The tour will conclude at the same location, making it convenient for your onward plans. Please be on time as the tour departs promptly at 6:30 AM to make the most of the day’s activities.

Tour Details

This tour starts promptly at 6:30 AM, allowing travelers to maximize the day’s activities.

The tour ends at the iconic Plaza de Armas in Cusco, where guests can explore the city’s historic center on their own.

Along the way, travelers will visit archaeological sites and enjoy Peruvian culture.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.

Guests can easily access the meeting point via public transportation or taxi, using the Cathedral of Cusco as a reference.

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Cancellation Policy

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts in local time. This provides travelers with the ability to adjust their plans if needed without incurring any penalties.

On top of that, the tour company offers a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option, which adds to the flexibility of the booking process.

Key aspects of the cancellation policy include:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior

2. "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option available

3. Ensure cancellation is made in local time

4. Policy subject to change, so check details at time of booking

Exploring the Sacred Valley

What does the Sacred Valley tour have in store for visitors?

Travelers will journey through the heart of the Inca Empire, exploring ancient archaeological sites and seeing Peruvian culture.

The tour visits Pisac, a picturesque town known for its colorful markets and Inca ruins.

Next, it’s on to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with impressive terraced temples. Here, visitors can wander through the cobblestone streets and imagine life in the Inca era.

The tour also stops at the Moray agricultural terraces, a mysterious Inca site with circular depressions.

Throughout the day, travelers will savor a delicious Peruvian lunch buffet.

Discovering the Salt Flats

After exploring the ancient Inca ruins and cultural sites of the Sacred Valley, the tour then ventures to the remarkable Maras Salt Flats.

This unique natural wonder features thousands of small, salt-harvesting ponds carved into the mountainside. Visitors can witness the traditional salt-harvesting techniques used by local communities for centuries.

The highlights of the salt flats include:

1. Panoramic views of the stunning salt ponds against the backdrop of the Andes mountains.

2. Observing the salt-harvesting process, where workers collect and process the salt by hand.

3. Opportunities to purchase local salt products as souvenirs.

4. The chance to walk through the salt ponds and experience the unique landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Dress and Packing Recommendations for the Tour?

Dress in comfortable, breathable layers and wear sturdy walking shoes. Pack a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle. Bring extra cash for souvenirs and any additional activities not included in the tour.

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

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but a buffet lunch featuring Peruvian cuisine is already included in the tour price. Water bottles are also provided for participants.

Are There Any Fitness or Physical Requirements to Participate?

There are no specific fitness or physical requirements to participate in this tour. However, participants should be able to walk and climb stairs at archaeological sites. Those with mobility issues may need assistance.

What Is the Policy for Tips or Gratuities for the Guide?

The tour price doesn’t include tips, so tipping the guide is optional but appreciated. Travelers typically tip the guide 10-15% of the total tour cost if they’re satisfied with the service.

Can I Extend or Customize the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, you can customize or extend the tour to include additional activities. Contact the tour operator as they may offer options to personalize the itinerary to your preferences, such as visiting more sites or adding special experiences.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour immerses visitors in the rich cultural legacy of the Inca Empire. From the vibrant markets of Pisac to the majestic salt flats of Maras, the journey unveils the stunning landscapes and time-honored traditions that make the Sacred Valley so remarkable. With a knowledgeable guide and delightful lunch, this intimate experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s heritage.