Sacred Valley Full-Day Private Tour from Urubamba & Ollantaytambo

A full-day private tour of the Sacred Valley from Urubamba or Ollantaytambo offers a chance to explore some of the most iconic Inca sites with personalized attention. For $129 per person, you’ll spend approximately 9 to 10 hours discovering the wonders of Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras Salt Pools, and Chinchero — all with the flexibility and comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

What sets this tour apart? First, the private experience means you won’t be part of a crowded bus group, giving you the chance to really soak in each site at your own pace. Second, the local guides’ deep knowledge and friendly approach make the history and culture come alive, often with engaging stories and insider tips.

A potential consideration? The admission fees for some sites — such as Ollantaytambo, Moray, and the Salt Pools — aren’t included in the tour price, so it’s wise to budget extra for tickets.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, intimate peek into the Sacred Valley, especially if you prefer a flexible schedule, personalized attention, and avoiding the typical crowded tour buses. It’s well suited for those who have just one day to see the highlights but want to do so comfortably and with local insights.

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: Enjoy a personalized experience with your own guide and transportation.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering key sites like Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras Salt Pools, and Chinchero.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and able to adapt the tour to your interests.
• Skip the Store Stops: Focus on the sites without wasting time at commission stands.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From Incan ruins to natural salt pools and traditional weaving villages.
• Cost Consideration: Entry fees are not included, so plan for additional expenses.

Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Deep Dive into the Full-Day Private Tour

When you look at the Sacred Valley, you’re essentially gazing at an open-air museum of Incan ingenuity. This tour, designed for those with limited time but big curiosity, offers a well-balanced mix of ancient ruins, natural wonders, and authentic local culture. For just $129, you get a chance to walk through history on a day that’s paced to your liking, with an expert guide leading the way.

Two things we really love about this experience are the depth of the guide’s knowledge and the personalized pacing. Many reviews mention guides like Ferdinand, Pablo, or Jimmy, who don’t just recite facts but weave stories that make the sites come alive. Also, the fact that it’s a private tour means you can linger at sites that catch your interest or skip over parts that are less appealing — perfect for tailoring your experience.

One possible drawback is the additional cost for entrance tickets. While the tour itself is reasonably priced, the sites like Ollantaytambo, Moray, and the Salt Pools require separate admission, so you’ll want to budget for that. Also, if you’re particularly interested in shopping or visiting commerce stops, this tour focuses on the sites and culture rather than retail.

This experience suits travelers who value authenticity over commercialism, comfortable private transport, and personal interaction with guides. It’s especially good if you’re staying outside of Cusco, such as in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, since the tour starts from your accommodations rather than a bus station.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at Each Stop

Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park

We start the day at Ollantaytambo, often called one of the most impressive Inca sites. It’s a sprawling fortress with terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and a Water Temple with ceremonial fountains. The site’s grandeur and engineering are captivating, and local guides like Ferdinand or Pablo bring alive the significance of these structures.

Reviewers rave about their guides’ depth of knowledge: “Everything promised was delivered, on time. The guide was very knowledgeable and spoke very good clear English,” noted James.

Expect to spend about two hours here, giving you ample time to explore, question, and take photos without feeling rushed. Admission isn’t included, so plan ahead.

Moray — The Incan Agricultural Laboratory

Next, you’ll visit Moray, a unique circular terraced site. Many describe it as an “incredible agricultural experiment,” where different microclimates allowed Incas to test crop varieties. It’s a striking contrast to the terraced ruins and offers insight into Incan ingenuity.

We loved the way guides explained Moray as an “Inca laboratory,” giving context that makes photos more meaningful. It’s a quick 30-minute drive from Ollantaytambo, and again, admission is separate.

Salinas de Maras — The Salt Pools

No visit to the Sacred Valley is complete without seeing the Salt Mines of Maras. These salt pools have been used since pre-Inca times, and the sight of thousands of tiny, terraced pools shimmering in the sun is unforgettable.

Many reviews highlight the guided visit’s value: “The salt mines are not to be missed,” says one traveler. You’ll learn about traditional salt extraction methods, a process still active today. Spending around 45 minutes here allows enough time for photos and questions. Admission is not included.

Chinchero — Weaving and Mountain Views

The final stop is Chinchero, a charming town with traditional weaving centers and well-preserved Incan ruins. It offers panoramic mountain views and a glimpse into local life.

Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to see authentic textile techniques, often with guides explaining the significance of each pattern. If you’re interested, you can even opt to watch local weavers at work — a highlight for many. Plus, it’s free to explore.

Afterward, the guide will take you back to your hotel, making the return trip comfortable and relaxed.

Transportation and Overall Experience

The transportation provided is private and modern — many reviews mention a clean, comfortable vehicle and a courteous driver. This is a significant upgrade from bus tours, which tend to be crowded and rushed. The tour generally starts at 8:00 am, giving you a full day of exploration without feeling hurried.

The pacing is one of the most praised aspects. Guests often mention that guides are flexible, allowing them to spend more time at sites that interest them or skip parts if they prefer. The guides’ language skills are frequently praised, with many reviewers noting clear English instructions and storytelling.

Cost and Value

At $129 per person, this tour offers fantastic value, especially considering the private nature, expert guides, and the breadth of sites covered. Entrance fees aren’t included, but with the ability to move at your own pace, you can choose to visit sites that fit your budget and interests.

What Reviewers Say

• “We had an AMAZING day with our guide Ferdinand! Everything was absolutely perfect,” shared Houston_B.
• “Guide was very knowledgeable and spoke very good clear English,” added James_B.
• “The Salt Mines of Maras are not to be missed,” said another, emphasizing the natural beauty and cultural significance.
• “Our guide, Ferdinand, was fabulous,” praised Barb_P, reflecting the high level of service.

Many reviewers also appreciated the local guides’ storytelling skills, making the sites more meaningful.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Sacred Valley tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience. It’s perfect if you value expert local guides and want to avoid large groups. It suits those staying in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, rather than starting from Cusco, as the tour begins at your accommodation.

It’s also a good fit if you’re interested in authentic cultural sights, Inca ruins, and natural wonders without the hassle of navigating on your own. If you prefer a leisurely pace with opportunities for questions and photos, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Sacred Valley private tour from Urubamba or Ollantaytambo packs a lot into one day — stunning Inca ruins, natural salt pools, and a traditional weaving town — and does so with a personal touch. The guides’ expertise makes history engaging and accessible, and the private transport ensures comfort and flexibility.

It offers a great balance of value and quality, making it ideal for travelers who want an authentic, tailored experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If you’re after a rundown of the Sacred Valley’s highlights in a single day, this tour is hard to beat.

For those who enjoy learning about history from passionate guides, appreciate natural beauty, and value comfort, this experience will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of Inca civilization.

FAQ

• What is the starting time for the tour?
  The tour begins at 8:00 am, giving you a full day to explore.

• Are transportation and guide services included?
  Yes, the tour includes private transportation and a knowledgeable local guide.

• Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
  Admission to sites like Ollantaytambo, Moray, and the Salt Pools is not included and must be paid separately.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Most travelers of all ages can participate, but it’s best to consider the walking involved at sites like Ollantaytambo and Moray.

• Can I customize the itinerary?
  Since it’s a private tour, guides are usually flexible and can adapt to your interests.

• Are there lunch options during the tour?
  Lunch is not included, but there is time to eat at a local restaurant, often with great views.

• What is the tour duration?
  The total experience lasts about 9 to 10 hours, with roughly 5 hours of site visits.

• Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
  The information doesn’t specify; you may want to inquire directly with the provider.

• Can I book this tour from Cusco instead?
  Yes, but many reviews appreciate that it starts from Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, avoiding the need to transfer from Cusco.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and extra cash for entrance fees are recommended.

This detailed look at the Sacred Valley Full-Day Private Tour shows it’s a well-rounded, engaging way to connect with Incan history and culture at your own pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking an authentic adventure, this tour offers an excellent day out in Peru’s most iconic valley.