Cusco: Sacred Valley with Maras and Moray full day tour offers a chance to explore some of the most iconic Inca sites and landscapes at a comfortable pace. Priced at $43 per person, this tour lasts approximately 12 hours and includes visits to Chinchero, Moray, the salt mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq, with a hearty buffet lunch featuring authentic Andean dishes. Our guide, Christian, earned glowing praise for his engaging storytelling and attentiveness—qualities that really enhance the experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines rich archaeological sites with breathtaking scenery and local culture all in one day. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch adds a satisfying touch, giving you energy for all the walking and exploring. Plus, the punctual hotel pickup and the smooth round-trip transport make the day stress-free, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Cusco’s traffic or layout.

A possible consideration is the early start—pickup begins between 6 and 7 am—which might be challenging if you’re not an early riser. Also, entrance fees are not included, so you’ll want to budget an additional 70 soles for the main archaeological sites and 20 soles for the salt mines.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-rounded, accessible way to see the Sacred Valley’s highlights without the stress of organizing transportation or guides. Perfect for those interested in Inca history, stunning landscapes, and local culinary experiences.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering the Sacred Valley’s top archaeological sites and natural features.
Authentic Andean buffet lunch provides a taste of local cuisine.
Professional bilingual guides share insightful stories, making history come alive.
Early start ensures full day of exploration but requires an early wake-up.
Entrance fees are not included, so plan for extra costs.
Suitable for travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing, culture, and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Detailed Look

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a sprawling corridor of lush farmland, ancient ruins, and traditional villages that reveal the ingenuity of Inca engineering and the enduring spirit of Andean culture. This tour from Cusco takes you on a journey through some of its most famous sites, giving you a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s significance.

While in Urubamba, here are other experiences we've covered

Early Morning Pickup and Transportation

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center between 6 and 7 am. The drive to the valley is about an hour, allowing you to settle in comfortably as the cityscape gives way to stunning mountain vistas and terraced hillsides. The group style of the tour means you’ll be traveling in a comfortable vehicle with other visitors, which is often a more engaging way to meet like-minded travelers.

Chinchero and Textile Demonstrations

Our first stop is the archaeological site at Chinchero, a town renowned for its beautiful colonial church and pre-Inca terraces. But what makes it especially worthwhile is the textile interpretation center, where local artisans demonstrate traditional weaving techniques. This is a wonderful opportunity to see authentic handwoven fabrics and learn about the importance of textiles in Andean culture—not just as clothing, but as storytelling.

Our guide, Christian, adds depth here with stories about Inca and colonial history, making the visit more than just sightseeing. María, one traveler, noted that Christian was attentive and eager to answer questions, which helped make the experience more personal and engaging.

Moray: The Inca Laboratory

Next, we head to Moray, a site that resembles a giant amphitheater of concentric terraces. These circular experimental agricultural terraces are believed to have been used for domestication, acclimatization, and hybridization of plants. It’s a fascinating place to walk around, imagining the ancient Incas experimenting with crop varieties suited to different microclimates.

The site’s unique shape and terraced design make it a captivating stop, illustrating Inca ingenuity in agriculture. We loved the way Moray’s textured terraces contrast sharply against the surrounding landscape, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Salt Mines: A Thousand Years of Salt Production

Continuing our journey, we visit the salt mines—an operation dating back over 3,000 years. Here, more than 3000 shallow pools shimmer in the sun as workers still harvest salt using traditional methods. It’s a working site, not just a monument, giving you a glimpse into an ancient industry that’s persisted through centuries.

The salt mines are surprisingly quiet and photogenic, and the experience gives you a sense of how local communities have sustained themselves with this resource. Be prepared for the modest entrance fee of around 20 soles, which is well worth the visit for its authenticity and history.

While you're exploring Urubamba, here are other experiences we've looked into

Lunch at Urubamba: A Taste of the Andes

After a busy morning, we arrive at Urubamba, the valley’s capital, for a buffet lunch featuring typical Andean dishes. The meal is a highlight for many travelers, providing not only sustenance but also an authentic taste of local flavors. The settings are comfortable, and the variety of food ensures there’s something for all.

Ollantaytambo: The Inca Fortress

Post-lunch, a short 30-minute drive takes us to Ollantaytambo, a remarkable archaeological site that served as a fortress and royal estate. Our guide takes us on a one-hour guided walk through the imposing terraces, Baños de la Princesa, and stone platforms. The site’s impressive stonework and strategic location atop a ridge make it one of the most striking remnants of Inca architecture.

Maria’s review highlights that the guide answered questions attentively and provided enough time for photos and rest, which added to the overall enjoyment.

Pisaq: Terraces and Traditional Market

Our final stop is Pisaq, where the land’s terraces showcase ingenious irrigation and farming systems. Although we do not explore the vibrant market, the archaeological site offers sweeping views and insight into Inca agricultural planning. It’s a fitting place to reflect on the day’s journey before heading back to Cusco.

Return to Cusco

The drive back is relaxing, and we expect to arrive in Cusco around 7 pm. The early start and long day might be tiring, but the variety of sites makes it a worthwhile investment for those eager to understand the Inca civilization.

Practical Details and Value

Considering the $43 price, this tour offers exceptional value for a full day of guided exploration, transport, and a delicious meal. Entrance fees are extra—about 70 soles for the archaeological sites and 20 soles for the salt mines—so budget accordingly.

The early pickup might be a challenge for late risers, but it ensures you maximize your time in the valley. The group size tends to be manageable, and the guides’ bilingual abilities make the history accessible and engaging.

The tour’s focus on authentic sites and experiences—from traditional textile demonstrations to working salt mines—means you’ll walk away with a genuine sense of Andean culture. The delicious Andean buffet is an added bonus, providing a comforting and flavorful break amidst the exploration.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see the Sacred Valley’s highlights without the need to organize transport or guides themselves. It’s especially suited for those with an interest in Inca history and archaeology, as well as those who enjoy local cuisine and authentic cultural encounters. If you’re eager to see Moray’s terraces or the salt mines and want a well-rounded overview in a single day, this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins between 6 and 7 am, so prepare for an early start to maximize your day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, with return to Cusco around 7 pm.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance to sites like Moray, Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and the salt mines cost extra—around 70 soles plus 20 soles for the salt mines.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a buffet featuring typical Andean dishes is part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While it’s a full day and involves walking at several sites, it’s generally suitable for those in good health. However, it’s not recommended for wheelchairs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, your passport, and possibly a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making the stories and history accessible for most travelers.

Is it worth paying the extra for entrance tickets?
Absolutely—these sites are a significant part of the experience and provide context to the ruins you visit.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Yes, the group setting is friendly, and it’s a popular choice for solo visitors wanting a guided, social day.

Final Thoughts

This Sacred Valley tour from Cusco offers a well-paced, enriching look at some of the most remarkable Inca sites and landscapes. From Moray’s agricultural terraces to the salt mines, each stop provides a window into ancient ingenuity and local traditions. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch and the professional guidance make it an excellent value.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply eager to see the highlights without the hassle of DIY planning, this tour delivers a balanced, authentic experience. It’s designed for those who want to absorb Peru’s cultural essence comfortably and enjoyably, with plenty of time for photos, questions, and some well-earned rest.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines history, nature, and cuisine—and you’re okay with an early start—this tour is a fantastic way to make the most of your time in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.