Sacred Valley (VIP) – Full Day Trip

The Sacred Valley (VIP) – Full Day Trip offers an immersive experience in the stunning Andean highlands near Cusco, Peru. This small-group tour includes visits to iconic sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the salt mines of Maras. With convenient hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, and a hearty buffet lunch, travelers can explore the region’s rich cultural and natural beauty. What makes this tour stand out, though, is the personalized attention and the opportunity to discover the valley’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• A comprehensive full-day tour exploring the iconic sites of the Andean highlands near Cusco, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the salt mines of Maras.
• Small-group tour with a maximum of 15 participants, providing a more personalized experience.
• Includes hotel pickup in Cusco, a bilingual guide, and a hearty buffet lunch with vegan options.
• Tour has a high rating of 4.6 based on 67 reviews, with positive feedback on knowledgeable guides and beautiful sites.
• Cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Tour Overview and Details

The Sacred Valley (VIP) – Full Day Trip offers a comprehensive exploration of the Andean highlands near Cusco, Peru.

A comprehensive exploration of the Andean highlands near Cusco, Peru, is offered by the Sacred Valley (VIP) – Full Day Trip.

This small-group tour (max 15 people) takes visitors to iconic sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the salt mines of Maras. Travelers will also see ancient agricultural terraces and the serene Lake Piuray.

Hotel pickup in Cusco is included, and a partial Tourist Ticket is required to access certain sites. Expect a buffet lunch in Urubamba, with a vegan option available.

Additional fees apply for the Maras and Moray sites. While a popular choice, some reviews note issues with pacing and communication about costs.

Tour Inclusions

This Sacred Valley (VIP) – Full Day Trip includes a Cusco hotel transfer, a bilingual guide (English and Spanish), a buffet lunch in Urubamba, a guided tour, and entrance to the salt mines of Maras (with an additional 10 soles per person fee).

The tour inclusions provide:

1. Convenient hotel pickup in Cusco

2. Expert bilingual guidance throughout the day

3. A hearty buffet lunch with a vegan option

4. Comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley sites

These inclusions aim to offer a well-rounded and informative experience for travelers exploring the rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Andean highlands.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, with a 4.6 rating across 67 reviews. Positive experiences highlight knowledgeable guides, beautiful sites, and a comprehensive itinerary.

However, some reviews mention issues with additional fees and communication about costs. A few travelers complained about overcrowding, a rushed itinerary, and commercial stops.

The host has acknowledged these concerns and offered refunds for poor experiences. The tour provides an engaging way to explore Inca culture and history, though pacing and organization could be improved based on traveler feedback.

Common Concerns and Suggestions

Although the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, some common concerns and suggestions emerge from traveler reviews.

Reviewers note the tour can feel rushed, desiring more time at each site. Issues with bus noise and comfort have also been raised.

Tour reviewers find the pace too rushed, wanting more time at sites. Bus noise and comfort also raised as concerns.

Plus, mixed feedback on guide quality and organization, as well as concerns over commercial stops, have been mentioned.

To address these, suggestions include:

1. Improving pacing and reducing commercial stops

2. Enhancing guide training and communication

3. Ensuring comfortable transportation

4. Providing clear information about additional costs

Tour Highlights

Amidst the common concerns, the tour nevertheless offers a wealth of highlights for travelers to experience.

The stunning sites of Ollantaytambo and the alpaca processing business provide a unique window into Inca culture and history. Many reviewers praise the engaging and knowledgeable guides, who bring the itinerary to life.

The tour receives positive feedback for its comprehensive approach to experiencing the Sacred Valley.

While improvements can be made, the tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, allows travelers to plan their adventure with confidence.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers travelers flexibility in booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Booking can be done through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their team directly. Here are the key details regarding the booking and cancellation policy:

1. Booking: Travelers can reserve their spot online or by phone, with payment due at the time of booking.

2. Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure. Cancellations made after this window may incur fees.

3. Partial Refunds: Partial refunds may be offered for no-shows or late arrivals, at the tour operator’s discretion.

4. Changes: Tour participants can make changes to their booking, such as adding additional travelers, subject to availability and any applicable fees.

Getting to the Tour

Getting to the tour is straightforward for those staying in Cusco. The tour operator provides hotel pickup from Cusco accommodations, but not from private residences.

Travelers should meet the guide at their hotel lobby at the scheduled departure time. The drive to the Sacred Valley takes around 1.5 hours from Cusco. Along the way, the guide will provide commentary on the Andean landscape and Inca history.

Travelers should be prepared for the high altitude with proper clothing and hydration. Once at the first site, the guided tour of the Sacred Valley’s highlights will begin, so punctuality is important to make the most of the day.

What to Expect on the Tour

As travelers embark on the full-day Sacred Valley tour, they can expect a comprehensive exploration of the region’s Inca heritage and natural wonders.

The tour features several highlights, including:

1. Visiting the ancient agricultural terraces and salt mines of Maras, where guides share insights into sustainable farming practices.

2. Exploring the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress with stunning mountain backdrops.

3. Discovering the traditional weaving techniques and alpaca processing at a local business.

4. Enjoying a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, catering to various dietary needs.

Throughout the day, travelers will be guided by knowledgeable bilingual experts, immersing them in the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the Sacred Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. However, a buffet lunch in Urubamba is included in the tour, so bringing additional food may not be necessary unless you have dietary restrictions or preferences.

Is There Time for Shopping at the Sites?

Yes, the tour provides time for shopping at the sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Several reviews mention opportunities to browse local artisan markets and shops, though some note the visits can feel rushed or commercialized.

How Much Gratuity Should I Give the Guide?

The typical gratuity for the guide on this tour is 10-15 soles per person. It’s based on the quality of service and your satisfaction with the guide’s performance. Consider tipping at the higher end if you had an exceptional experience.

Can I Take a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can take a private tour instead of a group tour. The company offers private tours that provide more personalized attention and flexibility in the itinerary, though they may cost more than the group tour option.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Travelers should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves walking at historical sites. Dressing in layers is also recommended due to the changing weather conditions.

The Sum Up

The Sacred Valley (VIP) – Full Day Trip offers an immersive and personalized experience in the stunning Andean highlands near Cusco. With convenient transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a hearty lunch, travelers can fully explore the region’s iconic sites and rich cultural heritage. This small-group tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth and hassle-free exploration of the Sacred Valley.