Salineras Tour of Maras, Moray and Sacred Valley of the Incas

A Full-Day Adventure in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

If you’re arriving in Cusco with a few days to spare, this Salineras, Moray, and Sacred Valley tour offers a fantastic way to soak up the region’s highlights in one well-organized day. For $52 per person, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring iconic sites like the salt mines of Maras, the fascinating terraces of Moray, the historic Ollantaytambo ruins, and the lively Pisac archaeological park. Guided by bilingual experts, you’ll enjoy a mix of breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant local culture.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it packs some of the most picturesque and historically significant spots into a manageable day with comfortable transportation. Plus, the buffet lunch included adds value, especially considering the full itinerary. The small group size—capped at 15 travelers—means you get a more personal experience, not just a herd of travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is that the entrance to Salineras de Maras is not included in the ticket price, so expect a small additional fee if you want to visit this impressive salt-producing site. Also, since the day is quite packed, travelers should have a moderate fitness level to enjoy the walking and exploring involved.

This tour suits travelers who love history, stunning scenery, and authentic local sites. It’s ideal if you want a rundown of the Sacred Valley in one day without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visits to Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
• Affordable value: Full-day tour including transport and buffet lunch.
• Small group size: Up to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Expert guides: Bilingual guides who share insights into each site.
• Flexible drop-off: Ends conveniently in central Cusco.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees to Salineras de Maras are not included.

Exploring the Sacred Valley: An In-Depth Review

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour offers a well-paced itinerary, with each stop revealing a different facet of Incan ingenuity and Peruvian life. The day begins early—around 7:00 am—with pickup at your hotel, setting the tone for a day full of discovery.

Stop 1: Complejo Arqueológico Chinchero

The first stop is the charming town of Chinchero, known for its vibrant textiles and traditional architecture. Though only about 30 minutes, this guided visit offers a glimpse into local craft traditions and the area’s importance as a historical Inca site. It’s a gentle start that sets the stage for the day.

Stop 2: Moray

Next, you’ll visit Moray, famous for its astonishing circular terraces that resemble a giant Incan amphitheater. These terraces are thought to have been an agricultural laboratory, where different microclimates allowed the Incas to experiment with crops. A short guided tour here reveals how the terraces are ingeniously designed to optimize microclimates, which still fascinate scientists today. You’ll have a brief time to walk around and marvel at the view.

Stop 3: Salineras de Maras

This is often the highlight for visitors. The salt mines of Maras are a surreal landscape of thousands of shallow pools carved into the hillside, shimmering as they catch the sunlight. Guided by local experts, you’ll learn how the saline water from a natural spring is channeled into these terraced pools. The salt is harvested through a traditional process that has been in place for generations.

Reviews praise this site for “an incredible wonder of nature,” though many mention that the short 15-minute visit feels rushed. Entrance fees are separate, but locals sell salt and souvenirs, adding to the experience. Be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain; good shoes are recommended.

Stop 4: Ollantaytambo

The Ollantaytambo ruins are one of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites—an ancient fortress with enormous stone terraces and temples perched on a hillside. The guide will point out fascinating details about the Incan military and religious architecture. Many travelers note how beautiful and well-preserved this site is, making it a favorite stop. You’ll get about 30 minutes to explore on your own afterward.

Stop 5: Pisac

Finally, the tour visits Pisac, famed for its Inca cemetery and lively market. The archaeological park here features terraced hillsides and intricate stonework, and you’ll learn about its significance as a ceremonial and agricultural center. The short visit lets you appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of the Incas, and many find the views of the valley breathtaking.

Logistics and Experience

Transportation on this tour is shared but comfortable, with pickup from your hotel and drop-off in central Cusco. The early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds, which enhances your experience at popular sites like Moray and Ollantaytambo.

Guides are bilingual, knowledgeable, and friendly—many reviews highlight guides like Mariana and Russell for their attentive and informative approach. The tour’s small group size ensures a more personal experience, allowing questions and interaction along the way.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $52, the price is quite reasonable considering the transportation, guide, and buffet lunch. The lunch is a generous buffet, offering a chance to relax and refuel before the afternoon’s explorations.

However, the entrance to Salineras de Maras is not included, so expect a small additional fee if you choose to enter. No breakfast is offered, so plan accordingly. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

One of the reasons travelers love this tour is its authentic feel. From the salt farms to the terraces of Moray, each site reveals real Incan ingenuity. The local vendors at Maras offer salt and souvenirs, allowing you to interact with residents and support local economy.

Reviews emphasize the safety, friendliness, and professionalism of the guides and staff, making this a reliable choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a well-rounded taste of the Sacred Valley.

Value for Money

Compared to more expensive full-day tours or private guides, this experience offers great value. It covers essential sites efficiently, includes a substantial lunch, and keeps group size intimate. Travelers often comment on how well-organized the day is, with punctual pickups and thoughtful itinerary planning.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re keen on seeing a variety of iconic Inca sites in one day, this tour suits you perfectly. It’s especially good for those who prefer a structured experience with guide insights and a small-group setting. It’s also a good choice if you want to experience both scenic landscapes and cultural heritage sites without the hassle of organizing multiple transport options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day Sacred Valley tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture, making it an excellent introduction to the region. With knowledgeable guides and carefully chosen stops, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of Inca ingenuity and Peru’s natural beauty.

The experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic sites, enjoy moderate physical activity, and value good value for money. The short visits mean you won’t get to spend hours at each location, but the highlights are thoughtfully included, giving you a rundown of this remarkable part of Peru.

If you prefer a relaxed pace with more time at each site, or are traveling with very young children or with mobility issues, you might want to consider a private tour or a different itinerary. But for most visitors eager to maximize their Sacred Valley experience in one day, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes shared tourist transport, with pickup at your hotel and drop-off in central Cusco.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, starting around 7:00 am and ending in Cusco later in the afternoon.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance to Salineras de Maras is not included, so you should budget for an additional fee if you wish to visit this site.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended, as some sites involve uneven terrain. Also, dress in layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should have a moderate physical fitness level to comfortably handle walking and exploring.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a fixed tour, but the small group size allows some flexibility to ask guides questions or adjust brief stops.

Final Word

In all, this Sacred Valley tour from Cusco offers a comprehensive, well-balanced look at some of the most iconic Inca sites — with a friendly guide, good transport, and authentic experiences. It’s a great option for those seeking value, convenience, and a genuine connection with Peruvian heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or cultural explorer, you’ll find this tour a fitting way to deepen your understanding of the Incas and their incredible legacy.