Chinchero, Moray, Maras & Picnic with Llamas and Alpacas

A close-up look at Cusco’s Sacred Valley with llamas, salt mines, and Inca terraces

This 6-hour tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, history, and authentic encounters in the Peruvian highlands. Priced at $95 per person, it covers some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley, including Moray, Maras, and Chinchero, with a delightful twist — walking with llamas and alpacas followed by a scenic picnic with organic, Andean flavors. The journey is guided, private, and capped at just ten travelers, making it intimate and engaging.

What we especially like about this experience is how it balances cultural insights with stunning vistas — you’ll see ancient agricultural terraces, explore salt pits still used since pre-Inca times, and enjoy peaceful mountain walks. Plus, the personalized guide, Reynaldo, gets high marks for his knowledge and friendliness. Another highlight is the opportunity to walk a llama or alpaca to the top of a mountain, with plenty of chances for great photos.

The one consideration to keep in mind is that admission fees are not included for Moray and Chinchero, so you’ll need to budget an additional $70 for the combined tickets. Also, if you’re looking for a very leisurely, relaxed pace with lots of free time, this tour is more structured and fast-moving, which might not suit everyone.

This experience suits travelers eager to combine nature, archaeology, and authentic highland culture — especially those who appreciate guided walks, beautiful scenery, and meaningful interactions with local animals and communities.

Key Points

• Highlights: Visit Moray’s impressive terraces, explore salt mines of Maras, walk with llamas and alpacas, and enjoy a picnic with views.
• Duration: Around 6 hours, including transportation and site visits.
• Cost: $95 per person, with additional fees for entrance tickets.
• Small group: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Guide: Knowledgeable and friendly, making the tour engaging and informative.
• Best for: Travelers interested in archaeology, scenic mountain walks, and cultural experiences in the Sacred Valley.

Discovering Cusco’s Sacred Valley: A detailed look at the tour

Setting the scene: Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Starting bright and early at 8:00am, we’re whisked away from Cusco’s bustling streets into the tranquil, high-altitude landscape of the Sacred Valley. The drive itself is part of the charm — we pass lush farm fields, snow-capped peaks, and quaint towns that give a real sense of the region’s agricultural vitality. The small group size (just 10 people max) means we can ask questions and get personal attention from our guide, Reynaldo.

First stop: Moray’s terraces

Our first destination is the agricultural laboratory of Moray, renowned for its circular terraces carved into the earth by the Incas. These terraces resemble a giant, ancient amphitheater, and each level has a different microclimate, likely used to experiment with crop cultivation. We loved how Reynaldo explained that these terraces might have served as a kind of botanical testing ground — a fascinating glimpse into Inca ingenuity.

The scenery here is astounding: towering snow-capped mountains frame the lush green terraces, and the air feels crisp and fresh. We were told that admission to Moray costs extra, but it’s well worth it for the chance to walk among these ancient amphitheaters and imagine how the Incas mastered their environment.

Maras salt mines: a salt of the earth experience

Next, we headed to Maras, where thousands of small salt pits cling to the hillside. These salt mines have been in operation since pre-Inca times, and today, over 3,000 pits are still used, filled daily with mineral-rich water. Watching the water evaporate into salt crystals is surprisingly mesmerizing, and it’s an authentic look at traditional salt extraction.

Reynaldo explained that the salt produced here is still harvested in a way that’s largely unchanged for centuries. It’s a striking visual, and you’ll be glad you took a moment to appreciate this living piece of history. The free admission makes this stop particularly appealing — a genuine, no-pressure peek into local industry.

Chinchero: walking with llamas and a scenic picnic

Our final stop is Chinchero, a charming town known for its colonial church and vibrant markets. Here, we had the unique opportunity to walk with llamas and alpacas, led by friendly guides. We loved the chance to choose a llama or alpaca, and then walk it up a mountain trail, snapping photos against a backdrop of sweeping valley views.

The highlight was reaching our lodge for a picnic lunch, featuring organic, Andean ingredients. The setting was stunning, with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, and the food was flavorful and fresh. After lunch, we headed back to Cusco in the afternoon, feeling satisfied with a day well spent.

What’s not included and what to budget for

While the tour’s price is attractive, keep in mind that admission tickets for Moray and Chinchero are not included, totaling around $70. The salt mines are free, but you’ll need to pay 10 soles (roughly $3) for entry to the salt pits. These costs are worth budgeting into your overall trip planning.

Authentic experiences and expert guidance

Reviewers praise Reynaldo’s knowledge and friendly manner, which enhances the experience. One wrote, “Our guide Reynaldo was amazing. He took time to answer our questions and made the afternoon fun.” His explanations help you understand the significance of each site, making the visit more meaningful.

The value of this tour

At $95, the tour offers a good value for a guided, small-group experience that combines cultural insights, stunning scenery, and day-long activities. We appreciated the private transportation, which kept the schedule smooth and comfortable, plus the included lunch, which featured local flavors.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced taste of archaeology, nature, and local culture without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking and outdoor exploration, as well as photography — the views and animal encounters provide plenty of photo ops.

The Sum Up: Is this tour right for you?

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized day in the Sacred Valley that combines Inca terraces, salt production, mountain walks, and llamas, this tour hits the mark. The small group setting and knowledgeable guide make it a friendly and engaging experience. The scenic beauty along with the chance to see traditional salt mining and walk with llamas offers a meaningful glimpse into rural Peruvian life.

However, if you’re a traveler who prefers plenty of free time or a more relaxed pace, you might find this tour a bit fast-moving. Also, be prepared for additional costs for site admissions, which are not included in the base price. Still, for those eager to see multiple highlights in one day with a personal touch, this tour provides excellent value and genuine memories.

This experience suits travelers who want to connect with local culture, enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, and explore Inca agricultural innovations. It’s both educational and fun, a perfect way to deepen your appreciation of Cusco’s surrounding landscapes.

FAQ

Are transportation and guide included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation and a guide, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including travel time, site visits, and lunch.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $95 per person, but keep in mind that additional fees for site admissions (around $70) are not included.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but walking with llamas and exploring the sites requires some mobility. The trip is generally family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended. The tour does not specify specific gear, but good footwear is essential.

Are the salt mines free to visit?
Yes, the salt mines of Maras are free to enter, but the other sites like Moray and Chinchero have admission fees.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a guided tour with a fixed itinerary, customization isn’t typically offered. However, the small group size allows for some flexibility in questions and interactions.

Is there a lunch included?
Yes, a scenic picnic with organic, Andean flavors is included, served at the lodge after the llama walk.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of authentic highland activities, scenic mountain walks, and guided insights makes it a well-rounded and memorable day in the Sacred Valley.