Private tour Sacred Valley plus Moray and salt Mines Full Day including Lunch

A full day exploring the Sacred Valley with a private guide, visiting remarkable archaeological sites and local villages, costs around $160 per person. Starting from Cusco, this tour offers a comprehensive look at the heart of the Inca Empire, with visits to places like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras salt mines. It’s a flexible, personalized experience that typically lasts about eight hours, including a generous buffet lunch.

What we really love about this tour is how personalized the experience feels — you’re with your own guide and vehicle, making it easier to ask questions, linger at favorite spots, and skip places that don’t interest you. Plus, the chance to learn the stories behind ancient ruins from a knowledgeable guide makes a big difference. On the downside, the day can be quite packed, especially if you want to spend more time exploring rather than just passing through. Still, for those craving a full, authentic Sacred Valley experience, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who value local culture, history, and scenic landscapes but prefer to avoid the crowds that come with larger group tours. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a comfortable pace, with plenty of time to absorb each site, and for anyone looking to customize their day while gaining a deep understanding of Inca civilization.

Key Points

• Private Guide & Transport: Ensures a personalized experience and flexibility in timing.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to key sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Maras salt mines.
• Authentic Cultural Insights: Learn about Inca history directly from your guide.
• Delicious Buffet Lunch: Enjoy a hearty meal in Urubamba with scenic views.
• Value for Money: All-inclusive price with snacks, water, and entrance fees to the salt mines.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Perfect for those wanting an immersive, unhurried day.

Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Detailed Review

A Perfect Introduction to the Sacred Valley

Starting from Cusco, this private tour offers an excellent opportunity to see the best that the Sacred Valley has to offer. For around $160 per person, you get a full day filled with history, stunning scenery, and local culture. The tour lasts about eight hours, and with private transport and a guide, you can relax knowing everything is arranged for a seamless experience.

One of the standout features is the personalized nature of the tour, which travelers consistently praise. As Melissa, one reviewer, mentioned, “Our tour guide was AMAZING! You could see that he loves what he does.” This personal touch really enhances the experience, especially when navigating complex sites or asking questions about Inca traditions. Plus, with the flexibility to adjust your pace, you’re unlikely to feel rushed — a common complaint on larger tours.

Another aspect we love is the variety of sites covered. From the archaeological ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to the natural wonders of Moray and the salt pans at Maras, the tour offers a well-rounded view of Inca ingenuity and local life.

Consideration: The Packed Schedule

While this tour offers excellent value, be aware that it’s quite full — with many stops packed into a single day. If you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at a site or take time to absorb the scenery, this might feel a bit rushed. The stops at Moray and Maras, for example, are about an hour each, which is enough to appreciate their significance but not to explore extensively.

Who Should Book This?

If you’re a curious traveler eager to see a wide range of Sacred Valley highlights with a knowledgeable guide, this tour fits perfectly. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate customized experiences and want to learn about the sites’ history and significance firsthand. The inclusion of a buffet lunch also makes it a good choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with relaxing meals.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Sacred Valley Overview

The tour begins with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, an area renowned for its fertile farmland and traditional villages. This region was crucial to the Inca Empire, serving as a hub for agriculture and trade. Your guide will start by pointing out the valley’s natural beauty and explaining its importance.

Pisac: Markets and Ruins

The first stop is Pisac, famous for its Sunday handicraft market and the Incan citadel perched on a hilltop. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of traditional Quechua culture and stunning views over the valley. The site features terraces, temples, and water channels, illustrating the Incas’ mastery of engineering. Many visitors mention how “beautiful the landscape is,” and how the market offers a vibrant array of local crafts.

Salinas de Maras: Salt Pans

Next, you’ll visit the Salinas de Maras, a fascinating site of thousands of terraced salt pools. These salt pans have been worked since pre-Inca times and are still managed by local communities. While admission isn’t included, the site’s unique visual appeal makes it well worth a short visit. Expect to see stunning geometric patterns on the hillside and learn about the traditional salt extraction process.

Moray: Agricultural Terraces

Then, the tour takes you to Moray, an archaeological site with circular terraces that resemble an amphitheater. These terraces are believed to be an experimental agricultural area where Incas tested crop varieties in different microclimates. The depth of the largest depression, approximately 30 meters, amazes visitors. Travelers have commented on how fascinating it is to see such an innovative approach to farming.

Ollantaytambo: Inca Fortress & Charming Village

Ollantaytambo is perhaps the most famous stop. Known for its massive stone terraces and the Sun Temple, it served as a strategic military and religious site. The village itself has incredibly well-preserved Inca streets and buildings, giving visitors a real sense of stepping back in time. As Lourdes shared, “Patricia made us feel right at home,” highlighting how the guide’s warmth and knowledge add depth to this visit.

Chinchero: Traditional Village & Market

The last stop is Chinchero, perched high in the Andes. It’s less touristy than Pisac but equally vibrant, with a colorful Sunday market and traditional mud-brick houses. The views overlooking the valley and snow-capped mountains are spectacular. Many travelers enjoy the authentic atmosphere, and some mention how locals still wear traditional dress, making it a great spot for culture.

Lunch in Urubamba

A highlight of the day is a buffet lunch in Urubamba, offering hearty Peruvian dishes amid scenic surroundings. The meal provides a well-deserved break and a chance to discuss the day’s highlights before heading back to Cusco.

Final Remarks on the Experience

Throughout the day, water, snacks, and expert commentary keep you energized and informed. The tour includes entrance to the salt mines but not to other archaeological sites, so plan accordingly if you wish to buy a tourist ticket for additional access.

Why This Tour Stands Out for Travelers

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the sites come alive. Melissa notes, “Very knowledgeable and efficient making sure to make the most of the time,” which is crucial for a day packed with stops. The stunning views at each location, from the terraced hillsides of Moray to the mountains surrounding Ollantaytambo, make this tour highly memorable.

The personalized attention ensures that you get to ask questions and explore at your own pace. Many travelers, including Lourdes, mention how their guides made them feel at home, adding warmth and local insights that enhance the experience.

Final Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes — many sites involve walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen, especially for the high-altitude stops like Chinchero.
• The tour includes snacks and water, but consider packing your own if you have specific preferences.
• If you’re interested in exploring more sites or spending extra time, consider how the tight schedule might limit that.
• Since the tour is all-inclusive and private, it’s worth the value for travelers wanting a flexible, in-depth day.

The Sum Up

This private Sacred Valley tour from Cusco offers an excellent balance of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and convenience. For those who want to understand the Inca Empire’s legacy without the stress of large groups, it provides a deeply personalized experience. The knowledgeable guides, combined with stunning vistas and authentic sites, make it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers eager to see the Sacred Valley in comfort and style.

If you’re after a comprehensive, flexible, and well-led day with a focus on history and scenery, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for visitors who value quality over quantity, and who want to walk away with more than just photos — but stories and memories to last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the tour is private and includes some walking on uneven ground, it’s best to inquire directly for specific needs. Some sites involve walking on stairs or steep terrain.

How long does each stop last?
Most sites are visited for about an hour, allowing enough time to appreciate the significance without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
The tour includes the salt mines’ entrance fee but does not include other archaeological site tickets, which you might need to purchase separately.

Is lunch vegetarian?
Yes, vegetarian options are included in the buffet lunch.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 31 days ahead, suggesting good availability but early booking is advised during peak season.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, so you can discuss your interests with the guide beforehand and possibly tailor certain stops.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers participate comfortably, and the personalized aspect makes it adaptable for different ages and interests.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, layered clothing for high altitudes, and sun protection are recommended.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While offered year-round, the dry season (May through September) tends to offer the clearest views and most comfortable weather.

This comprehensive Sacred Valley tour from Cusco promises a meaningful look at Inca civilization with the comfort and flexibility today’s travelers seek. Whether you’re history buff, a landscape lover, or simply eager to experience authentic Peruvian culture, it’s a day well spent.