Sacred Valley: Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo & Pisac+Lunch

If you’re headed to Cusco and want to see the best of the Sacred Valley in one day, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for a reasonable price—just $27 per person. It spans around 12 hours, and you’ll visit some of the most iconic sites, from the terraced archaeological remains of Ollantaytambo to the colorful artisan market in Pisac. The tour promises a good mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery, led by knowledgeable guides who keep the experience lively and informative.

Two things we especially love about this trip are the chance to explore Moray’s fascinating agricultural terraces—sometimes called the Inca “experimental laboratory”—and the included buffet lunch, which offers authentic Peruvian cuisine in a scenic setting. We also appreciate how well-organized the day seems, with timing that balances multiple stops without feeling rushed. That said, if you’re sensitive to altitude or prefer a more relaxed pace, keep in mind the long day and high elevations involved.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see a variety of sites without the hassle of planning each detail themselves, especially those interested in Inca architecture, traditional textiles, and local markets. It’s an active, full day that offers a taste of the Sacred Valley’s diverse attractions, making it suitable for those ready to hop on a bus and soak in Peru’s vibrant culture.

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Key Points

Authentic Experiences: Visit local communities, textile centers, and markets for a taste of everyday life.
Diverse Sights: From Moray’s terraces to Ollantaytambo’s fortress, each stop has unique archaeological or cultural significance.
Delicious Cuisine: The buffet lunch features traditional Cusco dishes, enjoyed with scenic views in Urubamba.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich each site with stories and context, making history come alive.
Good Value: At $27, the tour covers transportation, guide, and lunch, making it a cost-effective way to see the Sacred Valley.
Active Day: Expect some walking and altitude challenges, so come prepared with essentials like water and sun protection.

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In-Depth Review of the Sacred Valley Tour

Starting Point: Cusco Hotel Pickup and Early Departure

The tour begins with hotel pickups from your Cusco accommodation, typically 30 minutes before departure. This convenience saves you the hassle of finding a meeting point and gets you on the road early, which helps avoid crowds and makes the most of your day. The journey to the Sacred Valley starts with a comfortable coach ride, usually lasting around 45 minutes, giving you time to settle in and get oriented.

Chinchero: The Textile Community and Archaeological Site

Your first stop is Chinchero, a charming town famous for its vibrant markets and traditional textiles. Here, you will visit a Textile Interpretation Center, where local artisans demonstrate their weaving techniques—an opportunity to learn about Andean fiber arts and maybe pick up a souvenir. The guided tour of the archaeological site reveals Inca ruins with terraced slopes and agricultural terraces that display the ingenuity of Inca farming methods at altitudes over 3,700 meters.

Guests often comment on the authenticity of this experience. One reviewer noted, “The tour was amazing, William was an awesome guide and had so much information for us!” The connection to local communities adds depth to your visit, making it more than just sightseeing.

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Moray: Inca Agricultural Laboratory

Next, the group heads to Moray, a site that looks like giant stepped amphitheaters carved into the earth, which served as a planting experimentation station for the Incas. The circular terraces are a marvel of engineering, designed to create microclimates for different crops. We loved the way Moray offers insights into Inca innovation—an ancient science lab that still fascinates visitors. It’s a short walk from the bus, but be prepared for some uneven terrain.

Reviews highlight this stop as a highlight: “We visited a lot of beautiful places, and the guide was great with a lot of information.” The site’s unique shape and purpose make it a must-see for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

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Salt Mines of Maras

Passing through the scenic town of Maras, your tour visits the Salt Mines, where hundreds of salt ponds have been in use since pre-Inca times. The shimmering salt flats are a surreal sight, and the guides usually explain how salt extraction works. There’s some free time to snap photos and maybe buy small salt souvenirs, though some reviews suggest the shop here doesn’t offer much beyond typical market fare.

Urubamba: Buffet Lunch with Views

After these archaeological stops, your journey continues to Urubamba for a buffet lunch. The included meal is a delightful chance to sample Peruvian cuisine—think hearty stews, fresh vegetables, and local grains—served at a scenic restaurant overlooking the valley. Reviewers often praise the quality of the food, describing it as “incredible” and “exquisite Cusco cuisine.” It’s a well-deserved break after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Ollantaytambo: Fortress and Tambo

The next highlight is Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress and village that once served as a strategic military and administrative center. Its massive stone terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and the impressive fountain of the Princess Baths reveal advanced Inca engineering. The guide often points out the precision of the stonework and the strategic view from the site, which offers excellent photo opportunities.

Many reviews mention how well the guide’s knowledge enhances the visit: “All ran on time and it was very varied.” Given its role as a starting point for trips to Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo’s grandeur makes it a favorite among travelers.

Pisac: The Market and Archaeological Park

The day concludes at Pisac, a lively town famous for its market and hillside archaeological site. You’ll ascend to the Pisac archaeological park, built on a mountain ridge with terraces and ruins overlooking the town. The site is a fascinating mix of agricultural terraces, ritual spaces, and watchtowers. Visitors often appreciate the stunning views and the opportunity to walk through ancient stone pathways.

Afterward, you get free time to explore Pisac’s colorful market, where local artisans sell textiles, minerals, and jewelry. One reviewer raved, “The local residents are experts in working with minerals, and we were able to make some purchases.” It’s a great spot to pick up authentic souvenirs and experience local life.

Return to Cusco

The journey back takes about 80 minutes, with the tour concluding around 6:30-7:00 p.m. at Plaza Kusipata in Cusco. The smooth organization and the varied stops make it a satisfying day trip, especially for those who want a comprehensive look at the Sacred Valley’s treasures without extra planning.

Practical Considerations

Transportation: The shared coach provides a comfortable ride, though expect some long stretches of driving. The group size tends to be manageable, and the guides keep things moving efficiently.

Altitude: The sites are high—up to 3,762 meters (12,342 feet)—so it’s wise to stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and take it easy if you’re altitude-sensitive. Some review mentions the challenge but also the rewarding views at these elevations.

Cost and Value: At just $27, the overall value is excellent considering the included guide, transport, and buffet lunch. The only extra costs are your entrance tickets—worth budgeting around 70 soles for the archaeological sites and 20 soles for the salt mines if you want to visit them.

Timing and Flexibility: The tour operates with some flexibility on the order of sites, which can help avoid crowds and make the experience more enjoyable. Booking ahead is recommended, but the “pay later” option offers some flexibility.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour suits travelers eager to see multiple highlights of the Sacred Valley in one day, especially those interested in Inca archaeology, traditional textiles, and local markets. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and some altitude, it offers great value and a well-rounded experience. It’s perfect for those who want an active tour with expert guides, delicious food, and authentic cultural insights.

Final Thoughts

For those with limited time in Cusco, this tour packs a lot into one day—covering everything from stunning ruins to lively markets. The combination of engaging guides, scenic stops, and hearty meals makes it a practical choice for curious travelers who want to make the most of their visit. While some sites like the salt mines might be less impressive, the overall experience feels thoughtfully curated, balancing history, culture, and natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a way to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing individual tickets or transportation, this trip offers real value. Just be prepared for a full day of activity and some altitude—bring your camera, your curiosity, and a good pair of walking shoes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Cusco, typically 30 minutes before departure, making logistics easier.

How long is the bus ride? The total driving time is about 2 hours, spread throughout the day with several stops, offering scenic views of the valley.

What should I bring? Pack your passport, camera, cash, food and drinks, a daypack, and sportswear for walking and altitude.

Are food and drinks included? Yes, a buffet lunch is included at Urubamba, with traditional Cusco dishes. Drinks inside the vehicle are not allowed.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour? Yes, at the markets in Pisac and other stops, local artisans sell textiles, minerals, and jewelry.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s generally suitable for active, outdoor-loving travelers but consider the altitude and walking involved.

How much do the entrance tickets cost? Expect to pay around 70 soles for archaeological sites and 20 soles for the salt mines, not included in the tour price.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour bilingual? Guides speak both English and Spanish, often switching seamlessly, with the ability to accommodate most travelers.

Does this tour go to Machu Picchu? No, this particular trip focuses on the Sacred Valley, but some similar experiences also include Machu Picchu as a separate tour.

If you’re seeking an affordable, well-organized day that showcases the best of the Sacred Valley, this tour is a solid choice. It combines archaeological marvels, local culture, and hearty Peruvian cuisine in a way that makes your trip to Cusco truly memorable.