Cusco: Sacred Valley + Salineras and Moray with Andean Lunch

Discovering the Sacred Valley of the Incas: A Practical Guide to the Cusco Tour of Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo

A day in the Sacred Valley offers the perfect escape from Cusco’s bustling streets, immersing you in the landscape, history, and culture that make this region so compelling. For just $35 per person, a guided tour with XPLORA AMERICA takes you through some of the most iconic sites—Maras salt mines, Moray agricultural terraces, and Ollantaytambo fortress—along with a taste of local cuisine. Starting early from your Cusco hotel, the tour typically lasts around 12 hours, making it a full but rewarding day.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see the extraordinary salt flats of Maras, where salt has been harvested for centuries using traditional methods, and the insightful visit to Moray, which resembles an Inca botanical laboratory with its concentric terraces. The highlight for many is Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town and fortress where Spanish history and Inca architecture intertwine perfectly. Plus, the included Andean-style lunch serves up some of the best local flavors—simple, hearty, and authentic.

A key consideration is the limited time at each site, which means you’ll want to be ready for a busy schedule and some moderate walking. This tour is ideal for those who want a rundown of the Sacred Valley without the hassle of planning. It’s especially suited for travelers on a budget who appreciate cultural authenticity, scenic vistas, and a taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes it accessible for many travelers.
• Includes transportation and a bilingual guide for convenience and richer understanding.
• Focus on iconic sites like Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo offers a well-rounded Inca experience.
• A traditional Andean lunch adds flavor to the culture.
• Moderate physical activity is involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Visiting the Sacred Valley from Cusco is almost a must-do, especially if you’re keen to see where the Incas thrived and how they used the landscape for agriculture, salt extraction, and defense. This tour combines a handful of highlights with straightforward logistics, making it appealing whether you’re pressed for time or want a hassle-free way to explore.

For just $35, you get a well-structured itinerary that covers some of the most photogenic and historically significant spots in the region. The tour departs from Cusco early, usually with a pickup at your hotel. The first stop is the Raqchi viewpoint, which offers sweeping views of the Sacred Valley, setting the tone with its panoramic scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Two things in particular make this experience memorable. First, the visit to Maras salt mines reveals a still-operational tradition that dates back to Inca times, with salt crystals shimmering in terraced pools—a spectacle that’s both fascinating and photogenic. Second, Moray’s terraces are unlike anything else you’ll see in South America. They’re not just ruins but a living example of Inca ingenuity, used as a botanical laboratory to experiment with crops suited to different microclimates.

One aspect to consider is that while the tour covers significant sites, it’s not overly long—meaning you’ll need to keep pace with the guide and be prepared for some walking and standing. For those who love history, culture, and incredible scenery, this tour hits all the right notes.

Detailed Breakdown of the Sacred Valley Tour

Raqchi Viewpoint: Kickoff with Scenic Vistas

Your day begins with a comfortable ride from Cusco to the Raqchi viewpoint. Here, the expansive landscape of the Sacred Valley unfolds before your eyes—mountains, terraced fields, and small villages dotting the landscape. The view is instantly captivating and offers an excellent photo opportunity, especially for those wanting to get their bearings before heading into the sites.

This panoramic start sets the tone—reminding you of just how vast and fertile this valley is. It’s a reminder that the Inca civilization harnessed this landscape with remarkable skill.

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Maras Salt Mines: A Time-Honored Tradition

Next, your group heads to Maras, where salt has been mined since Inca times using a unique method: thousands of terraced evaporative pools. As you walk among the pools, you’ll notice salt crystals forming naturally, a process that visitors often describe as almost surreal. The salt from Maras is highly prized, noted for its purity and mineral content.

Many travelers comment on the visual impact and the history behind the salt extraction, which remains a family-run tradition. One review highlights the experience as “spectacular,” noting how the salt pools shimmer in the sun, creating a striking contrast against the mountains.

Moray: The Incas Agricultural Laboratory

The archaeological site of Moray is next, and it’s a highlight for many. The concentric terraces resemble an enormous, stepped amphitheater, with each level offering a different microclimate and soil composition. It’s believed the Incas used Moray to experiment with crops—a kind of ancient agricultural research station.

Walking through Moray, you’ll notice the intelligent engineering—the terraces have precise drainage, and the varying temperatures create perfect conditions for diverse plants. Travelers consistently mention the aesthetic beauty and the educational value of this site, with one saying, “It’s like stepping into a botanical lab that the Incas built just for experimentation.”

Lunch: Authentic Andean Flavors

After exploring Moray, it’s time to enjoy a local restaurant in Urubamba or nearby, where a buffet-style lunch offers traditional Peruvian dishes. Expect hearty, flavorful fare—perhaps aji de gallina (spicy chicken stew), quinoa salad, fresh corn, and, of course, plenty of fresh fruit.

Many reviewers mention the delicious food and the friendly atmosphere. It’s a great chance to relax and sample authentic flavors, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

Ollantaytambo: The Inca Fortress and Town

The final stop is Ollantaytambo, a true gem. This is one of the most well-preserved Inca towns, with its original stone streets, terraces, and main temple. The fortress here was a strategic military site and a royal estate, and it’s also famous for a lost Spanish attack. Walking among the massive stone blocks and fountains, you’ll sense the enduring legacy of Inca engineering.

The town itself feels alive with local markets, weaving shops, and residents who still follow traditional ways. Many travelers comment on the authenticity of the town, with one saying, “It’s like stepping back in time, yet still bustling with activity.”

Return to Cusco: Wrapping Up

By around 7:00 PM, your group begins the return journey. You’ll have time to reflect on the day’s sights and perhaps plan your next adventure in Cusco.

What To Expect and Practical Tips

• Transportation: Comfortable bus transport, with pickup at your hotel if within Cusco’s historic center.
• Guide: A bilingual guide will narrate the history and significance of each site, enhancing your understanding and appreciation.
• Physical Activity: Moderate walking involved at each site—wear sturdy shoes and prepare for some uphill or uneven terrain.
• Weather: Temperatures can vary; bring a hat, sunscreen, and rain gear if needed.
• Cost vs. Value: At $35, this tour offers a lot—transport, guide, visits, and lunch. It’s a cost-effective way to see major Sacred Valley highlights without the hassle of self-planning.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who want an affordable, guided introduction to some of the Sacred Valley’s most iconic sites. It’s ideal for those looking for a full-day cultural experience, eager to learn about Inca innovation and agriculture, and who appreciate a local, authentic meal. If you prefer a relaxed pace with guided insights and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour will fit well.

It’s less suitable for travelers seeking in-depth archaeological exploration or those wanting more free time at each site. But if your goal is to get a solid overview without breaking the bank, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Authentic Taste of the Sacred Valley

This tour strikes a nice balance between value, convenience, and cultural depth. For just $35, you’re transported from Cusco into the heart of Inca ingenuity, with highlights that will appeal to history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike. The inclusion of a traditional lunch makes it feel like a true culture, rather than just a sightseeing trip.

The stops at Maras and Moray give you a glimpse of ancient practices still alive today, while Ollantaytambo provides a lively, tangible connection to Inca urban planning and architecture. The views from the Raqchi viewpoint serve as a perfect way to start or end your day.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-organized, budget-friendly tour that captures the essence of the Sacred Valley, this experience offers a genuine, memorable introduction to Peru’s most famous landscape—without the fuss or expense of more elaborate private options.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Sacred Valley Tour Answered

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely yes, as it involves moderate walking and some standing at sites. However, young children or those with mobility issues should consider the physical demands.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, along with weather-appropriate clothing. A hat and sunscreen are recommended for sun protection.

Are meals included?
Yes, a typical buffet lunch at a local restaurant is part of the tour, giving you a taste of authentic Andean cuisine.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 7:00 PM.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations for a diverse group.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking in advance is advised to secure your spot, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
The tour price does not include the BTC Partial Tourist Ticket, so you’ll need to purchase that separately if you want to access additional sites.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a group tour, so individual customization isn’t available. However, it covers the main highlights efficiently.

What if I want more time at the sites?
You might consider a private tour or combining this with additional visits, but this will be outside the scope of the current package.

This Sacred Valley tour from Cusco offers an accessible, insightful, and delicious introduction to Peru’s cultural heart. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the land, history, and flavors—ideal for those seeking a straightforward but meaningful adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby