Wonders of the Sacred Valley VIP! Tour Full day with Food

Discover the Sacred Valley in Style: The VIP Full-Day Tour

When it comes to experiencing Peru’s sacred heart, few tours manage to blend history, culture, and natural beauty as seamlessly as the Wonders of the Sacred Valley VIP. For around $90 per person, you get a full day of exploring Inca archaeological sites, vibrant markets, and breathtaking scenery—all organized with the kind of care that makes the experience feel special yet comfortably accessible. Starting early in the morning with hotel pickup in Cusco, this tour offers roughly 10 to 11 hours of immersive sights and tasty local cuisine.

Two aspects stand out immediately: first, the knowledgeable guides who help bring each historical site to life, and second, the delicious buffet lunch featuring local ingredients. We also like how the tour balances simplicity with richness—covering a wide range of highlights without feeling rushed. One consideration? The entrance fee for Moray (about 70 soles) isn’t included in the base price, so be prepared for that extra expense.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic cultural encounters, enjoy stunning landscapes, and want a well-organized day with a small group. If you’re eager to see the Inca sites beyond Machu Picchu but prefer a structured, guided approach, this VIP tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Chinchero, Moray, Salinas de Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with engaging stories.
• Delicious buffet lunch: Offers a taste of local Peruvian cuisine in a scenic setting.
• Small group size: Max of 15 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• VIP experience: Includes visits to Moray and Salineras, with priority access.
• Cost considerations: The tour price excludes the Moray entrance fee (~70 soles).

A Detailed Look at the Sacred Valley VIP Tour

Starting in Cusco: The Gateway to Inca Wonders

The tour kicks off early, with a hotel pickup in Cusco around 7:00 am, so you’ll want to get an early start. The transportation is private, comfortable, and designed to keep the group moving smoothly through the scenic Andean landscape. We loved the way the guide sets a relaxed tone, sharing snippets of local culture while en route. This initial ride allows you to settle in and get excited about the day’s adventures.

Chinchero: Colorful Markets and Colonial Architecture

Your first stop is Chinchero, a charming village famously called the “City of the Rainbow.” Here, you’ll visit the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat, built in 1607 on the ruins of Tupac Yupanqui’s palace. Walking through Chinchero, you will see markets bursting with handicrafts and textiles that showcase pre-Columbian weaving traditions.

Reviews highlight how the market is a “true spectacle of color and movement,” with vendors offering textile garments and artisanal crafts that are perfect souvenirs. This stop (about an hour) is a great opportunity to observe local life and perhaps pick up a unique handmade gift.

Moray: Agricultural Experiments and Feminine Energy

Next, we head to Moray, about 7 km from Maras. This site is famous for its circular terraces, which served as agricultural laboratories for the Incas—an impressive feat of engineering. The terraces vary in size and depth, creating a visual spectacle of concentric circles.

Note: Entrance fees for Moray (~70 soles) are not included, so plan accordingly. Tour reviews emphasize the magnetic energy of this site, with many visitors feeling a special vibe. The guide’s insights help you understand its purpose in Inca society, adding depth to the visit.

Salinas de Maras: Salt Pans and Microclimate

The tour continues at the Salinas de Maras, where thousands of salt pans have been extracted since Inca times. The working salt mines offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional practices, with peasants continuing to harvest salt daily.

This stop is a favorite among travelers—“a super cool experience,” as one reviewer put it. The view of the terraces descending into the valley and the shimmering salt pans makes for memorable photos. The VIP tour includes this visit, giving you unhurried time to explore and observe.

Urubamba: The Perfect Spot for a Hearty Lunch

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba, a scenic town known for its agricultural abundance. The setting is lovely, with views of Inca-produced crops and lush countryside. The meal features local ingredients—think corn, fresh fruits, and regional flavors—that keep the experience authentic and delicious. Travelers often praise the variety and quality of the food, noting it’s more than just a quick bite.

Ollantaytambo: The Military and Religious Stronghold

In the afternoon, the group visits Ollantaytambo, a site that served as a strategic military, agricultural, and religious center. Its massive stone terraces and fortress walls speak to Inca ingenuity. The site offers a panoramic view of the valley, and the finely carved stones showcase their advanced masonry skills.

This site is an excellent example of Inca architecture and planning, with some reviewers calling it “impressive,” especially given the site’s historical significance. The guide explains how the structures likely served both defensive and ceremonial purposes.

Pisac: Market and Ruins

The final archaeological stop is Pisac, renowned for its market and impressive terraces. You can browse stalls with local handicrafts and textiles, and then explore the Inca ruins. The panoramic views from Pisac are stunning, and many find this to be a fitting end to a day full of discoveries.

Return to Cusco: The End of a Memorable Day

After a full day of exploration, the group heads back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon. The ride offers a moment to reflect on the sites visited, the scenery, and the knowledge gained.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour special is the combination of sites—from traditional markets to spectacular archaeological sites—and the personalized experience provided by a small group. Many reviews praise the guides’ expertise, mentioning guides like Gregory and Javier who are well-informed and genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge.

The VIP access to Moray and Salineras enhances the experience, giving travelers the chance to avoid crowds and spend more time soaking in each location. The included buffet lunch is another highlight, allowing you to enjoy authentic Peruvian flavors amid beautiful surroundings.

Some Practical Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value, remember that entrance fees for Moray (~70 soles) are not included in the price, so budget accordingly. Also, the tour lasts about 10 to 11 hours, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are a must. The group size is capped at 15, which helps keep things intimate and allows for more personal attention from guides.

Weather can vary, so it’s wise to bring sunscreen and a hat—especially since parts of the tour are outdoors—and a bottle of water. The tour’s timing—starting at 7:00 am—means you’ll get the most out of the daylight hours.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This VIP tour is ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and anyone who wants a comprehensive look at the Sacred Valley without the hassle of organizing each site independently. If you value small-group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of scenic beauty, archaeological marvels, and local life, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

It’s also a good choice for those who want to maximize their time and avoid long lines or transportation issues, thanks to the well-organized logistics. And if you’re keen on sampling authentic Peruvian cuisine, the included buffet lunch enhances the experience further.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco, making the day seamless and relaxing.

How long is the tour?
Expect around 10 to 11 hours, with the tour starting early at 7:00 am and returning in the afternoon.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides provide service in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations for international travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, a water bottle, small change for tips or shopping, and your passport (valid for at least 7 months).

Does the tour include all entrance fees?
No, the entrance fee for Moray (~70 soles) is not included. The Salineras fee is included in the VIP tour.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain at archaeological sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice results in no refund.

Final Verdict

The Wonders of the Sacred Valley VIP tour offers a well-balanced, in-depth look at some of the most captivating sites in the Peruvian Andes, all wrapped in a comfortable, small-group atmosphere. The combination of expert guides, authentic culinary experiences, and unspoiled sights makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a meaningful day in the Sacred Valley. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of natural beauty, or someone simply eager to see the Inca’s legacy, this tour delivers a memorable and worthwhile adventure.