Chinchero, Maras & Moray + Picnic with llamas

Chinchero, Maras & Moray + Picnic with Llamas: An Authentic Day in the Cusco Region

Traveling through the Cusco area, we often find ourselves chasing after the well-trodden sites like Machu Picchu or Sacsayhuamán. But for those wanting something a bit different—more personal, more rooted in local tradition—this full-day tour offers a refreshing mix of indigenous craft, ancient agricultural terraces, and striking salt mines, all wrapped up with a scenic outdoor picnic featuring llamas. With a price of $150 per person, the day is packed with visits to Chinchero, Moray, Las Salineras, and a special picnic spot, making it a well-rounded experience for curious travelers.

Two things we particularly like are the opportunity to learn about Inca textile techniques directly from local artisans and the chance to walk through impressive salt wells dug by hand—a rare sight these days. The tour’s relaxed pace and inclusion of a delicious outdoor picnic are also big pluses, allowing for genuine enjoyment rather than rushing from site to site.

A potential consideration is the need for early mornings and some walking at high altitudes, which might be challenging for some. But overall, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see less-frequented corners of the Cusco region and deepen their understanding of Inca traditions. This tour is perfect for those who want a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty in a single day, especially if you’re keen on authentic experiences and unique photo opportunities.

Key Points

Authentic Learning: Discover traditional weaving techniques directly from local artisans in Chinchero.
Unique Sites: Visit Moray’s terraced circles and Las Salineras’ hand-dug salt wells for a glimpse into ancient Inca ingenuity.
Scenic Picnic: Enjoy a private outdoor lunch with llamas, savoring local flavors in a beautiful setting.
Convenient Transport: Round-trip transfers from Cusco make the journey comfortable and hassle-free.
Flexible Booking: Options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now-pay later provide peace of mind.
Cultural Depth: Gain insight into Inca traditions and local customs, enriching your understanding of Peruvian heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and First Stop in Chinchero

The adventure begins early, around 8:30 a.m., with a pickup from your Cusco hotel or a nearby location. This early start is key to avoiding crowds and making the most of the day. Your guides, bilingual in English and Spanish, will set the tone with their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the journey both informative and friendly.

Our first destination, Chinchero, is a small town famed for its textile complex. Here, you’ll see local artisans weaving using techniques passed down over thousands of years. We loved the way our guide explained the significance of each pattern and the meticulous process involved. It’s a real privilege to witness craftsmanship so deeply rooted in tradition, and you’ll have chances to ask questions or even buy authentic souvenirs directly from the weavers—much more meaningful than shop stalls in tourist spots.

Exploring Moray’s Terraces

Next, we headed to Moray, an archaeological site that looks like a set of enormous, concentric terraces carved into the earth. These terraces weren’t just for farming—they’re believed to have served as experimental agricultural laboratories for the Incas. We loved the way the different microclimates created by the terraces could have helped the Incas test crop varieties in a controlled environment.

As our guide explained, “This site shows how the Incas understood microclimates and experimented with crop cultivation,” adding a layer of insight into their sophisticated farming techniques. Walking through Moray, you’ll see the impressive engineering and think about the ingenuity that allowed the Incas to adapt to diverse terrains.

The Salt Wells of Las Salineras

After Moray, the tour takes you to Las Salineras, an extraordinary site perched at 3,380 meters altitude. Over 3,000 hand-dug salt wells carve into the mountain, a living legacy of Inca salt extraction techniques. The pink salt, one of only four places in the world where it’s harvested this way, is still collected by local workers today.

We loved the visual spectacle of the salt wells, especially with the sunlight reflecting off the pinkish salt crystals. The guide explained that this traditional method has remained unchanged for centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into Peruvian ingenuity. Visiting Las Salineras is not just about the salt; it’s about witnessing a living cultural practice.

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The Picnic with Llamas: A Rest and Reflection

Following the salt mines, the group heads to a private spot for the picnic. It’s a relaxed, scenic environment where you can unwind, enjoy a delicious outdoor meal, and interact with llamas wandering nearby. The provided cheese, nuts, seasonal fruit, bread, and local juice set the tone for a laid-back and authentic dining experience. We appreciated the inclusion of hot drinks, water, and even wine—perfect for toasting the day’s adventures.

The setting allows time to reflect on what you’ve seen, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The chance to get close to llamas adds a fun, memorable element, especially for animal lovers.

Return to Cusco

By around 3:30 p.m., the tour wraps up with the return trip to Cusco, dropping you off at Plaza Regocijo in the historic city center. The journey back offers a chance to chat with fellow travelers or review the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included: The tour covers all transportation, guide services in English and Spanish, and the Picnic with drinks and snacks. Entrance to the Maras Salt Mines is S/15 for adults and students, and access to the hotel zone may require a short walk or transfer.

Not included: If your hotel is outside Cusco, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or ask about extra costs for private pickups. Tips, additional drinks, and meals outside the scheduled picnic are extra.

A common review point is the value of the price—$150 for a full day of exploration, local culture, and scenic beauty feels fair, especially given the personalized touches like the private picnic and guided explanations.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience suits travelers eager to see less touristy sites while gaining insight into Inca traditions and local craftsmanship. It’s perfect if you enjoy walking through archaeological sites, appreciate authentic cultural exchanges, and want a day away from crowds. The outdoor picnic and llama interactions make it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a balance of adventure and relaxation.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded peek into the living legacy of the Incas—from textiles and terraces to salt extraction—and adds a personal touch with a scenic picnic with llamas. It’s a fantastic way to experience Peru’s natural beauty and cultural depth without the rush of larger group tours or the expense of private excursions.

For those wanting an active, meaningful day, combining history, tradition, and nature, this trip provides plenty of value. You’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll carry stories of a vibrant way of life that still flourishes in these remote, awe-inspiring places.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour typically starts around 8:30 a.m., so plan to be ready at your hotel or designated pickup point by that time.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transport is arranged for the full-day trip, making the journey comfortable and stress-free, especially after early mornings of exploring.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
While you can reserve your spot in advance, the tour allows cancellations up to 24 hours before, offering flexibility.

Are meals included?
The tour features a delicious outdoor picnic with snacks, drinks, and wine, but other meals are not included.

Can I ask for guides in languages other than English and Spanish?
Availability depends on the day, but English and Spanish are standard. Check with the provider if you need other languages.

How strenuous is the tour?
Most stops involve walking, and the altitude can be high, so some light physical activity is involved. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable at altitude.

Is the salt mine entrance fee included?
No, the entrance fee of S/15 for adults and students is paid separately.

What about group size?
It’s a shared tour, typically with small groups that promote a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Don’t forget some cash for optional entrance fees.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities and learning about history, but keep in mind the early start and walking involved.

This trip strikes a delightful balance between culture and scenic discovery, making it a smart pick for curious, active travelers ready to explore beyond the usual highlights of Cusco.

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