Complete Sacred Valley Tour Small group Pisac, Maras, Moray & Ollantaytambo

Experience the Sacred Valley in a Day: Small-Group Tour from Cusco

If you’re visiting Cusco and want to see the heart of Inca civilization without rushing, this Complete Sacred Valley Tour offers an excellent balance of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. For $79 per person, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring key sites like Pisac, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo. The tour is small-group, capped at just 8 travelers, which means you’ll get personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the opportunity to visit sites typically spread out over multiple days—Moray’s terraced circles and Maras salt pools—and the inclusion of local interactions, like buying crafts at Pisac Market. The tour also offers the chance to enjoy a traditional “Inca beer” and to tailor your day by either returning to Cusco or staying in Ollantaytambo for onward travel to Machu Picchu.

One potential consideration is that some entrance fees, like the Sacred Valley tourist ticket and salt mines, are not included and must be paid in cash. Also, with a full day of sightseeing, travelers should be prepared for some early starts and a fair amount of walking and driving at high altitude.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, culturally rich day with knowledgeable guides, especially those interested in Inca architecture, agriculture, and local traditions. It’s ideal for those who prefer small groups and a more intimate experience rather than large, hurried tours.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Small Group: Max 8 travelers for a personalized experience.
• Diverse Sites: Visit iconic Inca ruins, markets, terraced farms, and salt mines.
• Flexible Endings: Option to return to Cusco or stay in Ollantaytambo for further adventures.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of Inca history and local culture.
• Value for Money: For just $79, you get a full day of sightseeing, lunch, and transportation.
• Authentic Experiences: Interaction with local vendors and tasting traditional Inca drink.

A Closer Look at the Sacred Valley Tour

This tour is designed for travelers eager to see the highlights of the Sacred Valley in one day, but it’s also crafted to give a genuine glimpse into Inca life. The approximately 12-hour itinerary is packed without feeling rushed, thanks to efficient transportation and well-paced stops. From the moment we are picked up from our Cusco hotel, the journey begins with a sense of anticipation, knowing we’ll cover multiple incredible sites.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, which simplifies logistics, especially after a busy morning. Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle keeps the group comfortable despite the early start and long day. With only 8 people maximum, the experience remains intimate—your guide can answer questions comfortably, and you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

The Highlights

Parque Arqueológico Pisac

First stop is the Pisac archaeological site, where you’ll see impressive Inca stonework and expansive terraces. The site showcases the Inca’s agricultural ingenuity, with terraces carved into the hillside. Our guide explained how these terraces were used for farming and religious ceremonies, which gives you a sense of the Inca’s advanced engineering.

While the entrance fee isn’t included, many travelers find that the site is well worth the small extra expense for the chance to walk among ancient stones and imagine Inca life. We loved the detailed explanations and the opportunity to take photos of the vivid agricultural terraces and mountain vistas.

Pisac Market

Next, we meandered through the vibrant Pisac Market, a lively place where local artisans sell handmade crafts, textiles, and jewelry. It’s a great chance to interact with local vendors and pick up authentic souvenirs. The market’s lively atmosphere and colorful stalls make for a fun half-hour, and many travelers appreciated the chance to support local artisans directly.

Moray’s Terraces

The next stop is the fascinating Moray ruins, famous for its amphitheater-like terraces carved into the earth. These terraces are believed to have been used as an agricultural laboratory, allowing the Incas to experiment with different crops in microclimates. The bowl-shaped terraces are impressive and evoke a sense of wonder about Inca scientific ingenuity.

Travelers frequently comment on the awe-inspiring views and the striking symmetry of the terraces. It’s a place where you’ll want to linger and reflect on how the Incas mastered their environment.

Maras Salt Mines

Just a couple of miles away, the Salineras of Maras are a sight to behold. Over 3,000 salt pools glisten in the hillside, filled daily by a natural spring. The pools form a spectacular patchwork—perfect for photos and a reminder of the Inca’s resourcefulness. Walking among the pools, you can see the clay barriers and watch the salt harvesting process firsthand.

Many reviews praise the visual beauty of the salt pools, describing them as a “glistening patchwork” that’s hard to forget. The ticket is 20 soles, payable in cash, which is a small price for such a unique landscape.

Ollantaytambo Ruins

The final stop is the Ollantaytambo archaeological park, where you’ll marvel at Inca stonework and the famous Wiracocha rock formation. This site highlights the remarkable architecture and urban planning of the Incas. It’s a fitting end, as the site combines both military and ceremonial functions, giving insight into Inca society.

Many travelers have commented on their enthusiasm for Jimy’s guided tour of this site, describing him as extremely knowledgeable and making the history come alive.

The Tour’s Practical Aspects and Value

The $79 price is quite competitive, considering it includes transportation, a buffet lunch in Urubamba, and a small-group setting. The lunch provides a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine amidst beautiful surroundings.

While the admission tickets for sites like Pisac and Moray are not included, they are relatively inexpensive (around 70 soles for the sacred valley ticket and 20 soles for the salt mines), making the overall cost quite reasonable for such a comprehensive experience.

The small group size means you’ll have more opportunities for questions, photos, and personalized explanations. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Jimy, who made the day both educational and enjoyable.

The flexibility to either return to Cusco or stay in Ollantaytambo is a plus for travelers planning their onward journey to Machu Picchu. Staying overnight allows even more time to explore this charming town and its surroundings.

What You Should Know

• Expect an early start with pickup in Cusco.
• Be prepared for some walking and high-altitude conditions.
• Bring cash for tickets and souvenirs.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.
• The tour is best suited for those interested in Inca culture, photography, and local crafts.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This trip is perfect for travelers wanting an all-in-one day in the Sacred Valley with a knowledgeable guide, without sacrificing depth. It’s suited for those who appreciate cultural insights, scenic beauty, and hands-on interaction with local vendors. Because it’s small-group, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience over larger bus tours.

If you’ve already visited some sites or want a rundown in one day, this tour offers great value. It’s also excellent for travelers who want flexible options at the end—either heading back to Cusco or staying in Ollantaytambo for further adventures.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in Cusco if you select that option, making logistics easy.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, providing a full day of sightseeing and exploration.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets for sites like Pisac and Moray are not included; they are paid separately in cash.

Can I stay in Ollantaytambo after the tour?
Yes, the tour allows you to finish in Ollantaytambo, perfect if you’re continuing to Machu Picchu by train.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is provided in Urubamba, offering a restful break with traditional food.

Who are the guides?
Guides are professional, fluent in English and Spanish, and highly knowledgeable about Inca history and culture.

In Closing

For anyone eager to explore the Sacred Valley without the rush of a large group, this small-group tour marries convenience with depth. You’ll visit iconic sites, learn from passionate guides like Jimy, and enjoy scenic views and cultural moments that will stay with you. The value is clear: a full day of history, exploration, and local flavor for a very reasonable price.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want authentic experiences, personalized attention, and the flexibility to extend their stay in Ollantaytambo or hop onto the train to Machu Picchu. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply eager to connect with Inca culture, you’ll find this trip rewarding and well-organized.

Additional Information

• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind to those with flexible plans.
• The tour begins and ends at the Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, simplifying logistics.
• This experience is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with most participants able to participate comfortably.
• The tour emphasizes value, authentic experiences, and learning, making it a worthwhile addition to your Peruvian adventure.

Enjoy your journey into the heart of the Inca Empire—this Small-Group Sacred Valley Tour provides a well-rounded, memorable experience that balances comfort with cultural depth.