Travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to the Sacred Valley will find this private tour from Cusco an excellent choice. For $165 per person, you get a full day of exploration, led by an expert guide, in a comfortable private vehicle. With stops at iconic sites such as Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, it’s a chance to see some of the most impressive remnants of Inca civilization and soak in breathtaking Andean landscapes.

We love how flexible and personalized the experience is—your guide makes sure to tailor the journey to your interests and pace. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba adds a satisfying break to recharge during the day’s adventures. Plus, the private nature means you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate, customizable outing.

One consideration is the entrance fees for various sites, which aren’t included in the initial price and will add roughly 70 soles (about $20). Also, if you’re particularly interested in archaeology or local crafts, these stops might inspire you to spend extra time or money exploring markets and artisan shops. This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free, enriching day with plenty of opportunity for photos and cultural insights. It’s perfect for those who prefer a structured itinerary but still want a personal touch.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private guide and transport tailored to your schedule.
Cultural & Historical Sites: Visit Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
Authentic Local Flavors: A buffet lunch in Urubamba featuring traditional dishes.
Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy dramatic views of the Andes and picturesque villages.
Flexible Schedule: You can customize how long you spend at each site.
Cost Consideration: Entrance fees are not included, so budget for about 70 soles.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Sacred Valley from Cusco: What to Expect

This full-day private tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the Sacred Valley’s most captivating sights, history, and culture—all without the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded tours. Your guide, who is fluent in English (and possibly Portuguese or Spanish), will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco, making the morning start smooth and stress-free.

Expect a comfortable, private vehicle that whisks you from site to site at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for photos and questions. The itinerary is packed, but your guide will keep it flexible enough to allow for personal interests or extra time at spots you find particularly fascinating.

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First Stop: Chinchero Village

Chinchero is a charming town famous for its traditional weaving techniques. We loved the vibrant local market—a lively place where artisans sell handmade textiles, and you can watch live demonstrations of weaving using ancient techniques. The town itself sits at a higher altitude, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and terraced fields. This is a great spot for photography or just soaking in the local life.

Many reviewers appreciate the authenticity of Chinchero, describing it as a window into rural Andean culture. One traveler noted, “It’s a perfect spot to buy unique souvenirs directly from artisans, and I loved seeing the traditional clothing and crafts.”

Discovering Moray

Next, you’ll visit Moray archaeological site, famous for its circular terraces that resemble an Inca-era agricultural laboratory. Here, the Incas experimented with different crops and farming techniques, making Moray an intriguing peek into their ingenuity.

The site is compact but memorable. You’ll see stunning concentric circles of terraces, and your guide will explain how the Incas adapted to different microclimates by planting various crops at different levels. Expect a quick 30-minute visit, but the views from the top are worth the climb. As one visitor remarked, “The terraces are surreal, and it’s easy to imagine how the Incas tested crops in this natural laboratory.”

Marveling at the Maras Salt Mines

Then, you’ll arrive at the Maras Salt Mines, a labyrinth of thousands of terraced salt pools carved into the hillside. The sight is mesmerizing—geometric patterns against the mountainside. For centuries, local families have harvested salt here, a vital resource and a source of income.

Your guide will explain the traditional salt extraction process, and you’ll have about 30 minutes to walk around, take photos, and marvel at the ingenuity required to maintain this centuries-old operation. Many visitors find the contrast of the white salt pools against the rugged mountain backdrop striking.

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Lunch Break in Urubamba

Midday, you’ll pause for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba. The meal features a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients—think hearty stews, potatoes, quinoa, and perhaps a side of corn or fresh fruit. It’s a good chance to relax, refuel, and chat about what you’ve seen so far.

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Exploring Ollantaytambo

Post-lunch, your journey continues to Ollantaytambo, home to an impressive Inca fortress and temple complex. The site’s massive stone terraces and imposing walls give a real sense of Inca engineering prowess. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views of the valley below.

We loved the way Ollantaytambo’s well-preserved architecture transports you back in time. As one review puts it, “The stones fit so perfectly, it’s like puzzle pieces that have lasted for centuries.” Expect about 40 minutes of exploration and photography here.

Final Stop: Pisac

Your last major site is Pisac, renowned for its terracing and ceremonial centers, and its bustling market. You’ll have about 40 minutes to walk the terraces, visit the temples, and take in the sweeping views of the Sacred Valley.

Many travelers comment on how Pisac combines archaeological wonder with vibrant local color. It’s a lively place to buy souvenirs or simply soak in the scenery. One visitor described it as “a perfect blend of history and lively commerce, with stunning vistas everywhere.”

Returning to Cusco

After a full day of exploring, your guide will take you back to Cusco, usually arriving in the early evening. The scenic drive provides a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the changing landscape.

The Practical Details

This tour costs $165 per person, which covers private transportation, the guide, and lunch. Entrance fees (around 70 soles or $20) to the archaeological sites are extra. It’s worth budgeting for these additional costs, especially if you want to fully access each site.

The tour runs on a flexible schedule—check availability for specific start times—and is suitable for most travelers in decent health. The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, and the multilingual guides can cater to Spanish, English, and Portuguese speakers.

What We Think

This tour offers a fantastic value for anyone wanting a comprehensive day in the Sacred Valley without the stress of planning or group crowds. The sites included—Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, Pisac—are some of the most iconic and photogenic in the region, and the private format allows for a more relaxed, tailored experience.

The inclusion of a local buffet lunch is a real highlight, offering tasty, authentic Peruvian flavors. The scenery throughout the day is stunning, with mountain vistas, terraced fields, and traditional villages providing countless photo opportunities.

A potential downside is the extra cost for entrance fees, which can add up, so travelers should plan accordingly. Also, if you’re deeply interested in Inca archaeology, you’ll likely want to spend even more time at certain sites, but as a day trip, it hits the highlights well.

This tour suits travelers who want a curated experience with expert guidance, stunning scenery, and cultural insights, all in one seamless day. It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see the heart of the Inca world.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about one full day, starting from your hotel in Cusco and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private round-trip transportation, a professional guide fluent in multiple languages, and a buffet lunch in Urubamba.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees to the archaeological sites (about 70 soles) and the salt mines (around 20 soles) are paid separately.

Can I customize the schedule?
As a private tour, your guide can tailor the timing and focus based on your interests and pace, within the limits of the day’s itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages, but be prepared for some walking and climbing stairs at sites like Ollantaytambo and Moray.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Drones are not allowed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve ahead, especially if you want to secure your preferred date and start time, and you can pay later with flexible cancellation.

Can I join a group or is it only private?
This tour is exclusively for private groups, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

What if I want to visit additional sites?
You might find extra time allows for exploring local markets or crafts, but the main sites are included in the schedule.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to the Sacred Valley from Cusco offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that balances cultural richness with stunning scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance, all packed into a single day. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply eager to see the Inca heartland without the crowds, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Peruvian heritage.

The combination of spectacular vistas, authentic sites, and personal service makes it a worthwhile investment—especially if you want to maximize your time in this fascinating region. Just be prepared for extra costs in entrance fees and plan accordingly. For those seeking a smooth, insightful introduction to the Sacred Valley, this tour hits the mark beautifully.