From Ollantaytambo:Private tour to Maras and Moray half day

Discovering the Sacred Valley: A Private Tour to Moray and Maras from Ollantaytambo

If you’re planning a trip to the Cusco region, this private half-day tour from Ollantaytambo offers a fantastic way to explore two of the area’s most iconic Inca sites—Moray and Salineras de Maras. At $76 per person, the roughly 4-hour experience (including pickup and drop-off) provides a well-balanced mix of stunning scenery, fascinating history, and engaging stories from knowledgeable guides. Your tour starts early at 8:00 a.m., making it perfect for those who want to beat the crowds and enjoy the sites in relative tranquility.

We love how this trip concentrates on the agricultural ingenuity of the Incas, showcasing Moray’s terraces used for experimental farming and the salt mines of Maras that have been operational since Inca times. Plus, the comfort of a private group means there’s plenty of space to ask questions, take photos, and truly soak in the atmosphere. One potential drawback? Entrance fees to Moray and Maras are not included, so be prepared to pay a small additional cost on-site. This tour suits travelers who enjoy learning about Inca agriculture, appreciate authentic experiences, and prefer a personalized approach over large group tours.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with a bilingual guide.
• Visit Moray’s experimental terraces and learn about Inca agricultural methods.
• Explore the salt mines of Maras, a breathtaking hillside site used since the Inca era.
• Flexible timing and cancellation options for peace of mind.
• Includes transportation and guide, but entrance fees are extra.
• Ideal for history buffs, photographers, and those seeking authentic Inca sites away from crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sacred Valley Experience

The Itinerary: From Ollantaytambo to Moray and Maras

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Ollantaytambo at 8:00 a.m.. This early start allows us to enjoy the sites before they fill up with day-trippers from Cusco. The first stop is the agricultural laboratory of Moray, which looks like a giant, ancient amphitheater carved into the hillside. The terraces, arranged in concentric circles, were used by the Incas to test different crops at various altitudes—an impressive feat of agricultural experimentation and adaptation. Our guides often highlight how Moray’s design maximizes climatic variation—a clever way to understand Inca agricultural innovation.

Many visitors find Moray’s visual impact striking. It’s not just a set of terraces but a window into the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of microclimates. You’ll want to take plenty of photos here—especially of the terraces stretching downward into the earth, providing a dramatic backdrop for photos and a tangible sense of ancient ingenuity.

Next, we head uphill to the Salineras de Maras, a hillside landscape dotted with thousands of salt evaporation ponds. These tiny, rectangular pools are still filled with saltwater from an Inca spring. As the water evaporates, salt crystals form, and local families harvest the salt by hand. The view here is mesmerizing, with a patchwork of white salt pans contrasting against the green hillside. According to reviews, even when the weather turns rainy, guides keep the energy high, and the photo opportunities are still outstanding.

What Makes this Tour Special?

What really sets this experience apart is the depth of information offered by guides who are eager to share their knowledge. We loved the way guides explained how the terraces of Moray were used for agricultural experimentation—a fascinating look at Inca ingenuity. Visitors also praise guides’ patience and friendliness, often noting how they go the extra mile to take photos or answer questions.

Another highlight is the stunning scenery. The combination of terraces, salt pans, and Andean mountains creates a landscape that is both photogenic and educational. The fact that it’s a private tour means you can customize your experience slightly, linger at points of interest, or ask more about Inca farming techniques.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is comprehensive, a few practical points are worth noting. Entrance fees to Moray cost around 10 soles, and the salt mines require a ticket from the Boleto Turistico—a small extra expense. These are paid on-site, so don’t forget your passport or ID. The transportation is comfortable and round-trip, so you won’t need to worry about logistics.

The tour lasts about 4 hours including travel time, making it a manageable option even if you have a busy schedule. Since this is a private experience, it’s especially suitable for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate personalized attention.

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What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides. One reviewer, Lauren, shared how her guide was “thoughtful, knowledgeable, and patient,” helping her practice Spanish and take photos. Bernardo raved about Roberto, his guide, who kept the group entertained despite rain and took incredible photos—highlighting how guides can make or break the experience.

Others appreciated the authenticity and scenic beauty of the sites. Wendy commented that her guide “made the trip,” even if the company was a little disorganized at times. These reviews remind us that the guides’ passion and knowledge often turn a good tour into a memorable one.

What to Expect: The Experience in Detail

Transportation & Timing: Expect to be picked up at your Ollantaytambo hotel around 8:00 a.m. and return by approximately 2:00 p.m. The journey is comfortably short, giving plenty of time at each site. The private nature of the tour means your guide can tailor the experience, whether that means more time at Moray or a quick walk through the salt mines.

At Moray: You’ll walk through terraces carved into the earth, feeling like you’re stepping into a giant natural laboratory. Guides often discuss how these terraces served as climate-controlled experiments, which helped the Incas cultivate crops in different regions.

At Maras Salt Mines: The hillside salt pans are a visual feast. You’ll see the multi-colored pools filled with saltwater, and might even see local families harvesting salt. The site’s history is palpable, as it has been exploited since Inca times, and remains a vital part of the local economy.

Guided Insights: Throughout, guides are eager to share stories of Inca ingenuity and answer any questions. Many reviews mention guides being patient and creating a relaxed, engaging atmosphere—making it especially good for those who enjoy meaningful conversation during their outings.

The Value for Travelers

At $76 per person, this tour offers excellent value for history enthusiasts and photographers. The entrance fees are extra but modest—adding to the overall expense but still reasonable given the quality of the experience. The private nature of the tour means you get personalized attention and the flexibility to focus on what interests you most.

Considering the expert guidance, the stunning scenery, and the chance to learn about Inca agricultural techniques firsthand, many find this tour to be a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to avoid large crowds and appreciate a more intimate view of these remarkable sites.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is best for history buffs, photographers, and adventure travelers seeking a meaningful connection with Inca culture. It’s ideal if you enjoy learning about agricultural innovations and want to see a less-touristy side of the Sacred Valley. Since the tour is private, it’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups who value personalized attention.

However, it might not be suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo, as walking and uneven terrain are involved. Keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance to Moray (approximately 10 soles) and Maras salt mines are paid separately on-site. It’s advisable to bring cash and your passport or ID.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), your passport or ID, and suitable clothes for the weather. The sites are outdoors and involve some walking over uneven terrain.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts about 4 hours, including transportation from and back to Ollantaytambo.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it can be suitable for families, especially those who enjoy history and photography. However, consider the walking involved and the terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and enriching the experience.

In essence, this private tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the Inca’s agricultural mastery and salt production heritage. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and personalized service, it’s an enriching addition to your Sacred Valley itinerary. Perfect for travelers who want a meaningful experience without the hassle of large groups, it promises memories and photos that will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby