Imagine starting your day with a comfortable hotel pickup in Cusco, heading out to explore some of the region’s most iconic sights. For about $129 per person, you’ll spend roughly seven hours immersed in the natural beauty and ancient wonders of the Sacred Valley. This tour offers a blend of cultural sites, scenic vistas, and a truly memorable meal in a private Andean tipi—what’s not to love?

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the combination of authentic visits—a visit to Chinchero’s artisan community, the salt mines of Maras, and the agricultural experimentation site of Moray—paired with a relaxing picnic with spectacular views. The opportunity to interact with llamas and other Andean animals adds a charming, hands-on touch that makes this trip feel genuine and engaging.

One potential consideration is that the entry fees for Moray and Maras are not included in the base price, adding a modest extra cost. Also, while the tour is well-paced and includes a lot of ground covered, travelers should be prepared for some walking and photo stops.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of cultural exploration, stunning scenery, and relaxed outdoor dining. It’s especially good for those wanting a comprehensive day out without the stress of planning multiple logistics or transportation.

Key Points

Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit Chinchero, Moray, and Maras salt mines, gaining insights into ancient agricultural and salt extraction techniques.
Scenic Picnic: Enjoy a private meal in a traditional Andean tipi with breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
Interactive Animal Encounters: Meet llamas and other regional animals, adding a playful, hands-on element.
Comfortable Transport & Guides: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with expert bilingual guides sharing local knowledge.
Flexible Food Options: Choose between a light fruit and cheese tasting with wine or a full three-course meal.
Ideal for Sightseers & Foodies: Perfect for those wanting a well-rounded taste of Cusco’s countryside and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Cusco

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center at 8:30 am. From there, you’ll sit back in a comfortable vehicle, heading out to explore some of the Sacred Valley’s most iconic sites. The transportation is included, which means no need to worry about navigating or parking—your guide handles the logistics. This setup is especially convenient if you’re staying centrally in Cusco.

Chinchero: Artisans and Wool

The first stop is Chinchero, a vibrant artisan community renowned for its llama wool textiles. Here, you’ll learn about the traditional methods of wool treatment, and you might get a chance to watch local artisans at work or buy handcrafted souvenirs. The guided visit typically lasts about 40 minutes, and many travelers appreciate the chance to see local weaving techniques firsthand. As one visitor noted, “It was fascinating to see how they dye and weave the wool—the colors and craftsmanship are incredible.”

Moray: The Agricultural Laboratory

Next, you’ll visit Moray, an ancient site that resembles a terraced circular amphitheater. This is actually an experimental agricultural site where indigenous Quechua farmers once tested and cultivated crops from different regions. The guided tour provides insights into how these terraces allowed ancient farmers to adapt and experiment with diverse crops, a technique that’s still relevant today. The 40-minute stop offers ample time for photos and questions, and many find this site unexpectedly inspiring—an outdoor laboratory that’s over a thousand years old.

More Great Tours Nearby

Maras Salt Mines: A Unique Industry

Following Moray, you’ll head to the Maras salt mines, where sparkling white salt terraces stretch across the hillside. The salt extraction process has been in operation since Inca times, with salt water flowing through natural evaporation ponds. Your guide will explain the process, and you’ll have time for photos and some light shopping at the local stalls. The salt mines are a spectacular sight, offering excellent photo opportunities—”The contrast of white salt against the green terraces is simply stunning,” one reviewer remarked.

While you're exploring Cusco, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Sacred Valley’s Hidden Gem: Mountain View

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to a lesser-known spot called “Mountain View,” a peaceful vantage point overlooking the Sacred Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy a private picnic in a traditional Andean tipi setup, complete with blankets, cushions, and pompoms—adding authentic charm. You’ll choose between two food options:

A lively tasting platter of fruits, cheeses, and wines
A full three-course meal with a starter, main, and dessert

Many travelers highlight the quality of the food and the breathtaking views. One guest shared, “The wine was surprisingly good, and the setting couldn’t have been more peaceful.” Whether you prefer a light snack or a hearty lunch, this break offers a chance to relax and soak in the scenery.

Final Drop-off and Additional Notes

After the picnic, you’ll return to central Cusco, with drops at either the Plaza de Armas or your hotel. The entire day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the sites but not feel rushed.

About the Cost and Value

While $129 covers transportation, guides, and the picnic, keep in mind that the entry fees for Moray (70 SOLES) and Maras (20 SOLES) are additional. When you factor in the experience, the quality of guides, and the chance to see a variety of sites in one day, this tour generally offers good value. It’s a relaxed, well-organized way to see key highlights of the Sacred Valley without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience works best for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food. It’s ideal if you prefer a balanced mix of cultural sites and nature, with comfortable transportation and an emphasis on authentic experiences. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate interactive moments, like meeting llamas and sampling regional cheeses and wines.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Bring essentials: sunglasses, water, and ID are recommended, especially for photo stops.
Dietary restrictions: if you have any, let the tour operator know in advance.
Walking: some sites involve walking and uneven terrain, so wear comfortable shoes.
Cost considerations: remember to budget for the Moray and Maras entrance fees if you want to visit those sites.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center, making it very convenient.

How long are the stops at each site?
Most stops—including Chinchero, Moray, and Maras—are around 40 minutes each, giving you enough time for photos and brief tours.

What are the food options during the picnic?
You can choose between a selection of fruits, cheeses, and wines, or a full three-course meal with starter, main, and dessert.

Are the site entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Moray (70 SOLES) and Maras (20 SOLES) are paid separately.

Is the picnic private?
Yes, the picnic in the Andean tipi is a private setup, offering an intimate dining experience with stunning views.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, water, toiletries, and your ID. Dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor conditions.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about seven hours, with pickup starting around 8:30 am.

Can I modify the food options?
If you have dietary restrictions, inform the tour operator in advance; the picnic offers two main options.

Final Thoughts

This Cusco Sacred Valley tour offers a well-rounded experience blending culture, nature, and cuisine. The highlight is undoubtedly the private picnic with panoramic views, which makes this outing stand out among many group excursions. You’ll enjoy the chance to see ancient agricultural sites, local artisan communities, and spectacular landscapes, all with the comfort of guided transportation.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an immersive, relaxed day that balances sightseeing with delicious regional food. While there’s an extra cost for site entrance fees, the overall experience provides a meaningful glimpse into the traditions and natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

If you’re seeking a thoughtfully curated day that combines scenery, culture, and a taste of authentic Andean life, this tour will likely meet your expectations—just remember to bring your camera and your appetite.